SB 285: Housing matters.

Official summary

Abstract published by the legislature (via Open States). Text as published by the legislature; reproduced verbatim.

Requires the Indiana housing and community development authority (authority) to establish eligibility criteria for a potential recipient to be included in the authority's application for funding under the federal continuum of care program (program). Requires a recipient of program funding to submit an annual report to the authority. Defines "gravely disabled" for purposes of involuntary commitment. Prohibits an individual from camping, sleeping, or using for long term shelter land owned by the state or a political subdivision, unless the land has been authorized for that use by law. Requires a law enforcement officer who discovers a person unlawfully using land owned by the state or a political subdivision for unlawful camping, sleeping, or long term shelter to determine if there are reasonable grounds for an emergency detention of the person, and, if reasonable grounds exist, to proceed under the emergency detention procedure and not the criminal law. Provides that, if there are not grounds for emergency detention and certain elements are met, a person who knowingly or intentionally uses land owned by the state or a political subdivision for unauthorized camping, sleeping, or long term shelter commits a Class C misdemeanor. Creates a defense to the crime if: (1) no beds are available in a shelter or treatment facility located within five miles; or (2) less than six months have passed since the person was released from a facility to which the person was involuntarily committed. Prohibits a political subdivision from adopting or enforcing any policy that prohibits or discourages the enforcement of any order or ordinance prohibiting public camping, sleeping, or other obstruction of a sidewalk. Requires: (1) each local law enforcement agency to provide to the state police department the number of arrests made for violations of the prohibition of street camping; and (2) the state police department to provide this information to the authority. Specifies that the bill does not prohibit a policy, program, or order of a political subdivision that encourages a diversion program or encourages or requires providing housing or shelter in lieu of a citation or arrest. Makes technical corrections.

Sponsors

Sponsors by party (alphabetical): Republican 6

“Support” is shown only as formal sponsorship recorded by the legislature. Roll-call votes are available on the official bill page.

Recent official actions

1. March 5, 2026Signed by the Governor
2. March 5, 2026Public Law 138
3. February 27, 2026Signed by the Speaker
4. February 27, 2026Signed by the President Pro Tempore
5. February 27, 2026Signed by the President of the Senate
6. February 26, 2026Senate concurred with House amendments; Roll Call 303: yeas 28, nays 22
7. February 25, 2026Motion to concur filed
8. February 25, 2026Returned to the Senate with amendments
9. February 24, 2026Third reading: passed; Roll Call 359: yeas 53, nays 44
10. February 23, 2026Second reading: amended, ordered engrossed
11. February 23, 2026Amendment #1 (Pierce M) failed; Roll Call 333: yeas 31, nays 62
12. February 23, 2026Amendment #5 (Gore) failed; voice vote

Showing 12 most recent of 34 actions. Full history