For some Gary residents, July 1 could bring new hurdles to keeping food assistance. For people experiencing homelessness, it could mean the possibility of fines or jail time for camping or sleeping on public property. And for city leaders trying to tackle blight, it could open a new pathway for selling vacant lots.
The changes stem from three new laws: a statewide camping ban, new restrictions on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Medicaid, and a property measure written specifically for Gary. Together, they are among dozens of state laws taking effect this summer that will affect residents, local governments and public assistance programs across Indiana.
The homelessness law
Senate Bill 285, signed by Gov. Mike Braun after a 28-22 Senate vote, makes it illegal to camp, sleep, or set up long-term shelter on state or locally owned government property unless that land has been designated for such use.
Under the law, police officers who encounter someone camping illegally must first determine whether they are “gravely disabled.” The law expands that definition to include some unsheltered people living outdoors in dangerous weather who have refused transportation to an available shelter or treatment provider. If an officer determines emergency detention is not necessary, the person must first receive a warning and information about available services. Anyone still camping within 300 feet of the location 48 hours later could face a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine…