Martine Fiske

I strongly support for HB 1091. This legislation represents a pragmatic and compassionate shift in how municipalities address the complex issue of homelessness. By allowing for nonmonetary penalties in lieu of fines for those sleeping or camping outdoors, this bill moves our state away from a cycle of debt and toward meaningful solutions for both the individual and the community. The current practice of imposing financial penalties on individuals who are forced to sleep outdoors due to financial hardship is fundamentally counterproductive. When an individual is already experiencing a housing crisis, a fine—which can reach up to $1,000 creates an insurmountable barrier to stability. These fines can lead to bench warrants or criminal records for failure to pay, making it even harder for the individual to secure future employment or housing. HB 1091 recognizes that you cannot fine a person out of poverty. By offering a nonmonetary option, the state ensures that the legal system does not inadvertently deepen the very homelessness it seeks to manage. The core strength of HB 1091 is its encouragement of rehabilitative justice. Instead of collecting a fee that the town may never see, municipalities can direct individuals toward actions that actually address the root causes of their situation. Nonmonetary penalties can include mandatory engagement with drug treatment programs, mental health counseling, or human services. Individuals may perform community service, allowing them to contribute to the town in a visible way while maintaining their dignity and sense of agency. This bill is not just an act of compassion; it is an act of fiscal and social responsibility for our towns and cities. By addressing underlying issues like substance use disorder or lack of social support, we reduce the likelihood of repeat violations. Police and court resources are better spent on public safety rather than processing small-claim fines from indigent populations. Directing people to services rather than a jail cell or a collections agency creates a more sustainable path toward cleared public spaces and a healthier community overall. HB 1091 provides our local governments with the flexibility they need to handle homelessness with a focus on long-term results rather than short-term punishment. I respectfully urge the committee to recommend a vote of Ought to Pass on this important measure.