News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
State Senator Paul Bailey wants to expand an existing law that prohibits camping on state property.
Bailey said the proposed bill would give local governments the authority to remove any person camping on public property. Bailey said his camping legislation originated from the homeless situation in Cookeville.
“I know Cookeville has seen an increase in the number of these encampments that have been popping up throughout the county and especially along some of our interstate highways,” Bailey said.
Bailey said if passed, a city or county could legally remove encampments from highways, entrance or exit ramps and city or county owned land.
“The Highway Patrol as well as the Sheriff’s Office has had to do some removal work as far as some of the camps,” Bailey said. “This would extend this to Putnam County, Cookeville or any other city.”
When asked about the law possibly targeting those that are less fortunate, Bailey said homeless people have non-profit or church assistance available to relocate them to a better suited place.
A safety aspect is also involved in the law. Bailey said people camping near a roadway presents dangers to them and motorists. Bailey said the bill has passed the House of Representatives and will be discussed in Judiciary Committee Wednesday.
