Honorable Paul Bettencourt, Chair, Senate Committee on Local Government
FROM:
Jerry McGinty, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
SB987 by Buckingham (Relating to prohibitions on camping in a public place; creating a criminal offense.), As Introduced
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend the Penal Code to create a Class C misdemeanor offense of intentionally or knowingly camping in a public place without consent. The bill would prohibit a local entity from adopting or enforcing a policy under which the entity prohibits or discourages the enforcement of any public camping ban.
Based on information provided by the Comptroller of Public Accounts, the Office of the Attorney General, and the Office of Court Administration, no significant fiscal impact to the State is anticipated.
Local Government Impact
According to the Texas Municipal League, no fiscal implication to cities is anticipated.
A Class C misdemeanor is punishable by a fine of not more than $500. In addition to the fine, punishment can include up to 180 days of deferred disposition. Costs associated with enforcement and prosecution could likely be absorbed within existing resources. Revenue gain from fines imposed and collected is not anticipated to have a significant fiscal impact.
Source Agencies:
212 Office of Court Admin, 302 Office of the Attorney General, 304 Comptroller of Public Accounts