RI Gov. to Speak on Historic Homeless Bill Today

New law bucks national trend toward criminalizing homelessness

Providence, RI -- Today, Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Chafee will join advocates to celebrate the nations first Homeless Bill of Rights at 1:30 in front of the State House.  The new law stands in stark contrast to the trend toward criminalizing homelessness in communities across the country.

The Rhode Island law is a counterpoint to a disturbing national trend.  A recent report by the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty, Criminalizing Crisis, found that, despite a lack of affordable housing and shelter space, cities across the country are essentially making it illegal to be homeless with laws that outlaw life-sustaining acts, such as eating and sleeping, in public spaces.

"Rather than addressing the root causes of homelessness, many cities are instead passing laws that violate homeless persons civil rights and make it harder for them to secure employment, shelter, and benefits," said Heather Maria Johnson, civil rights attorney at the Law Center.  "Rhode Island's Homeless Bill of Rights stands in complete contrast to this trend.  We're encouraged to see Rhode Island become the first state in the country to take this proactive step to protect homeless persons rights."

To read the full press release, click here.