A bill that would allow homeowners to sue for losses due to homelessness is heading to the state Senate.
House Bill 295, sponsored by Athens Republican Representative Houston Gaines, passed the state House on Wednesday. The bill would allow property owners to sue over expenses resulting from homelessness.
"To put it simply, if a local government refuses to do its job, we're going to hit that local government in the pocketbook and put the money back in the hands of the property owners," Gaines said.
In a Facebook post, Gaines said he was proud to author HB 295 as he continued to hold “liberal jurisdictions’ feet to the fire.”
Behaviors targeted include illegal camping, loitering, and shoplifting.
Opponents, including Democratic Representative Karla Drenner opposed the bill saying, it exceeded local control while not providing any viable solution for homelessness.
“…Accountability without resources is punishment,” according to Drenner.
Claims must be brought forward within two years of the event. Property owners could also sue if local governments fail to enforce state laws relating to public safety and immigration.
