Homeless Community and Advocates Speak Against Safer Kentucky Act
In the wake of a recently approved law, several advocates and members of the homeless community have voiced their grievance against the Safer Kentucky Act, formerly known as House Bill 5, which will take effect in July. The Act includes regulations that many deem draconian, with many stating that it criminalizes homelessness and lacks humanistic consideration.
The Provisions of the New Act
The Safer Kentucky Act lays down some tough rules for the homeless community. One of these is a prohibition on sleeping in public areas like under bridges, on sidewalks, in parks, and even in vehicles parked in lots. The Act also stipulates that those found guilty of unlawful camping could face penalties ranging from fines up to $250 to imprisonment. State initiatives providing permanent housing to homeless individuals also have to include a substance abuse and mental health treatment program. Another contentious point is the allowance for private property owners to use physical or deadly force against homeless individuals, if they believe the latter poses a threat to them or their property.
Community Voices
“The treatment meted out to the homeless under this law is cruel and inhumane,” says homeless advocate Dewayne Conner, the Board Chairman of Room in the Inn. He believes that the new regulations violate the Constitution’s Eighth Amendment that guards against excessive penalties.
Kris York, a former homeless individual who co-founded the Do Not Forget Me Ministries, agrees with Conner. He empathizes with the homeless and understands what they need. “Criminalizing homelessness and incarceration doesn’t help solve the problem. What we need are rehabilitation and support systems.” York asserts.
Individuals who have been in the throes of homelessness also share similar views. Robi Jonez, who is currently homeless and has a service dog, perceives the regulation as hypocritical and harsh. Jonez especially struggles to find a shelter that would accommodate him and his service dog, on top of the challenges he already faces.
A Plea for Assistance
Despite the rigorous rules outlined in the Safer Kentucky Act, those like York believe in combating homelessness through education, service, and providing resources rather than punishment. “Get out there and make a difference in the community and help people. That’s what making a difference is,” York says.
This sentiment is echoed by Jonez, who states, “I just don’t understand why you would pass this law where you have the right to harm us? We’re not harming you. We’re just trying to lay our heads down for the night.”
In Bowling Green, local resources and organizations such as Hope House, Hotel Inc., Do Not Forget Me Ministries, and Room in the Inn provide much-needed aid to the local homeless population, offering them food, showers, and assistance with job applications, among other things.
Despite the existence of these assistance programs, many believe that more needs to be done to educate the public, provide help, and alleviate the hardships endured by Kentucky’s homeless population.
