SOUTH BEND, Ind.-- Camping, or sleeping on the streets in the Hoosier state is officially against the law.
A new law, designed to force the homeless off the streets and out of parks, takes effect today, banning public land for camping or long-term shelter.
Governor Mike Braun put pen to paper on the bill earlier this year, saying his goal is to connect homeless Hoosiers to services, rather than finding shelter on the street.
"Just like we all deserve safe streets, homeless Hoosiers deserve a clear path to shelter, treatment, and health services," said Governor Mike Braun during the ceremonial signing in April.
The city of South Bend sees it as another tool to connect with the unhoused.
"We already have lots of outreach agencies that are going out and talking to people, even in this extreme heat; they're going out, delivering water," explains City of South Bend Homeless Outreach Coordinator. "So, we're seeing this as another tool and a resource for police to know about where to refer people to get assistance."
Patrolling police officers are now responsible for approaching violators of the street camping ban and connect or take them to resources or shelters within a five-mile distance.
South Bend Police Chief Scott Ruszkowksi says he has concerns about putting officers in a position to arrest someone who is refusing help.
"The law puts the burden on them, so we're trying to support them, make sure they have all the resources they need so they can make connections," Hetler assures.
The law also increases the need for more space for some of those shelter and health resources.
"We know there's still capacity, we're trying to build up more capacity, it's why the city is investing in things like the New Day Intake Center to expand our high access capacity, it's why we're continuing to fund Oaklawn's Crisis Center, hoping they'll soon be 24/7 to expand their care and coverage that they have for the community also," says Hetler. "It's why we're also committed to building more affordable, low-income housing."
It's too early to tell just how much the law will help homeless Hoosiers, but the city hopes it sheds a light on resources.
"So, we'll have to wait and see what kind of burden it has on law enforcement, but we're hoping this will help everyone know about the tools and resources that are available," Hetler explains.
ABC57 reached out to other local cities about how they will go about enforcing this law.
The city of Elkhart already has an existing ban on camping.
In Plymouth, Mayor Robert Listenberger says the law does not change how the city has historically addressed the problem.
He says when individuals are located in public spaces, their approach has always been to ask them to move in accordance with local policies and public safety considerations.
Penalties for violating the new law include up to sixty days in jail and a 500-dollar fine.