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Prohibiting Criminalization of Homelessness on Federal Lands: New Rights for Homeless Individuals

The "Housing not Handcuffs Act" aims to protect homeless individuals from penalties for performing basic life-sustaining activities on federal public lands. It grants them rights to be in public places, store possessions, and use vehicles, provided adequate alternative indoor space is not available. Citizens gain the ability to seek legal recourse if unfairly penalized.
Key points
Prohibits penalizing homeless individuals for life-sustaining activities (e.g., sleeping, eating) on federal lands if no adequate alternative shelter is available.
Grants rights to freely use public accommodations, store personal property, and occupy lawfully parked vehicles (cars, RVs) for life-sustaining purposes.
Allows individuals harmed by violations to bring civil actions in court, with potential for litigation costs and attorney's fees to be awarded.
Defines "adequate alternative indoor space" to include accessibility, no charge, accommodation for disabilities, pets, and family, and proper facilities.
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Status:
Introduced
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Additional Information
Housing not Handcuffs Act of 2025
Print number: HR 4182
Sponsor: Rep. Jayapal, Pramila [D-WA-7]
Process start date: 2025-06-26