Homelessness & Social Services
Homelessness & Social Services
Oppose HB 1380
House Bill 1380 addresses the regulation of public property use, particularly concerning individuals experiencing homelessness. The bill mandates that local laws regulating activities such as sitting, lying, sleeping, or keeping warm and dry outdoors on public property must be objectively reasonable regarding time, place, and manner. It also establishes a private cause of action, allowing individuals to seek injunctive or declaratory relief if they believe such regulations are unreasonable.
The Downtown Spokane Partnership (DSP) opposes HB 1380, which fails to address homelessness with comprehensive solutions. Spokane is overwhelmed as the primary social service provider for the region, yet lacks the resources and authority to meet the growing needs of our unhoused neighbors while ensuring public safety.
We urge the state to prioritize getting people the help they need by:
✔️ Expanding behavioral health funding and services.
✔️ Utilizing involuntary treatment for individuals in crisis.
✔️ Requiring participation in treatment-focused diversion programs.