House Bill 1925 went into effect on September first of this year, creating a statewide camping ban for individuals experiencing homelessness. Public camping is now considered to be a class C misdemeanor in the state of Texas and is punishable by up to a $500 fine, and in some cases, may result in the arrest of those without housing. This statewide camping ban places limitations on local politicians and lawmakers to implement their own policies and procedures in regards to homelessness. Any city or entity that is found to be guilty of not implementing the statewide ban is at risk for losing state funding. 

The criminalization of homelessness has been proven to be the least effective approach to addressing the rising social issue. The implementation of this policy will needlessly push more homeless individuals into the criminal justice system. It will also lead to the displacement of unhoused people into rural areas, making it seemingly more difficult for them to access services. 

House Bill 1925 is not a fiscally sensible policy, nor does it provide a sustainable solution to eradicating homelessness. This policy is dehumanizing to individuals experiencing homelessness, and increases this populations vulnerability. Homelessness is not a crime, it is a complex social problem that results from inequity and lack of safety nets within society, and should treated as such. Sign this petition to let Governor Greg Abbott, author of HB 1925 Giovanni Capriglione, and other Texas legislatures that you disapprove with the nature of this policy and the implementation of it.