Updates to the Homeless Bill of Rights (H 5665)

Over a decade ago, Rhode Island codified the first-in-the-nation Homeless Bill of Rights and recognized the dignity and civil rights of those who are unhoused. We strongly supported legislation which includes a number of updates to this important statute, including a strengthening of the remedies available for violations of the law, clarifying that police may not enter encampment tents without a warrant, and requiring sufficient notice and relocation options before an encampment could be shut down. Unfortunately, this legislation died in committee.