Republicans are warning that two bills that passed a House committee Monday in Olympia could severely limit how cities address homeless encampments near schools and parks.
Speaking Tuesday during a joint House-Senate Republican leadership media availability, House Republican Floor Leader April Connors of Kennewick, says the Democrat-sponsored bills would prevent cities from moving homeless encampments unless shelter space is available.
“The camping bill itself would make jurisdictions have to have a shelter bed available… Otherwise, they would not be able to move them… So, you know, we’re talking about kids’ soccer fields, we’re talking about public schools.”
Connors says Republican amendments to keep encampments away from schools and parks were rejected.
“At least let’s not let them do this anywhere close to a school or on school grounds or in a city park where our kids are playing… and the Democrats completely voted that down.”
Connors says the bills also raise concerns about public safety and potential legal risks for cities if shelter space is disputed.
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