Story perspectives

Governor Set to Sign Bill Criminalizing Public Sleeping, Mandating Rehab

6/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Governor is expected to sign House Bill 211, criminalizing sleeping on streets and sidewalks statewide.
The bill forces anyone arrested for public sleeping to receive drug-rehab, alcohol-abuse counseling, and mental-health services.
State Rep. Debbie Virgilio authored the measure, classifying public sleeping as a misdemeanor.
Kenner Police Chief pledged enforcement, while Grace at the Green Light, led by Sarah Parks, denounced the law as discriminatory.

1 of 1

Story summary

Governor is expected to sign House Bill 211, criminalizing sleeping on streets and sidewalks statewide.
The bill forces anyone arrested for public sleeping to receive drug-rehab, alcohol-abuse counseling, and mental-health services.
State Rep. Debbie Virgilio authored the measure, classifying public sleeping as a misdemeanor.
Kenner Police Chief pledged enforcement, while Grace at the Green Light, led by Sarah Parks, denounced the law as discriminatory.