Proposed Senate Bill 487 has caused division on the Eastern Shore

EASTERN SHORE, Md. – Controversy is building around Senate House Bill 487 in Maryland. The bill would allow the homeless to sleep and eat on public property. This typically happens with the use of tent encampments.

If this bill becomes law, those encampments will no longer be a punishable offense. Police officers are against this proposed legislation. Talbot County Sheriff Joe Gamble told WMDT that the bill would inhibit the way officers can enforce the law.

“The homeless situation is serious here on the eastern shore. However, I don’t think we should put up tents in parking lots, sidewalks, or even schools to house the homeless. I don’t think this is the answer.”

The legislation has been submitted, but requires a vote to be enacted.