Eugene City Council rejected a proposal Wednesday that would have banned drivers from giving money to panhandlers.
Under the proposed ordinance, motorists could have been fined up to $50 for handing items to pedestrians through their windows while in traffic, including while stopped at a red light.
Supporters argued this would keep pedestrians out of dangerous spots in the road. Some proponents described witnessing near-accidents or traffic disruptions as panhandlers attempted to navigate around traffic.
“Criminalizing or penalizing the most vulnerable among us is not acceptable,” said Councilor Matt Keating at Wednesday’s meeting. “But ensuring that the safety of all folks who use our roadways, our walkways, our bike lanes, are not impeded, and we keep those sidewalks clear, and we discourage distracted driving—all those are good things.”…