A bill that would create a permit system for public panhandlers in Mississippi has passed both chambers of the legislature and now awaits Gov. Tate Reeves’ signature.
House Bill 1197, the “Safe Solicitation Act,” was authored by Rep. Shanda Yates, I-Jackson, and passed its originating chamber in February by a vote of 81-30. It was overwhelmingly approved in the Senate 39-12 more than a month later.
According to Yates and other proponents of the bill, the measure would enhance public safety and give law enforcement recourse when solicitation disturbs the peace.
Sen. Joey Fillingane, R-Sumrall, chairman of the Senate Judiciary B Committee and one of the bill’s champions in his chamber, said giving law enforcement teeth when it comes to addressing unsafe or aggressive solicitation will be beneficial for everyone involved.
“We’re getting tons of complaints, especially from mayors but also from constituents all across the state, about the fact that over the years we’ve really done away with a lot of the penalty side of issues dealing with homeless, vagrancy, and panhandling,” Fillingane said. “Law enforcement really has very little that they can hold over the person’s head in terms of penalties or fines. That’s our fault, that’s not law enforcement’s fault.”
HB 1197, which is understood to target mostly those in the homeless population who depend on panhandling for income, outlines that those who wish to solicit in public spaces must obtain a solicitation permit from their local municipality. Municipalities or county governments can charge up to $25 as a permit fee, though it can also be offered for free.
The potential law also details the conditions under which panhandling can be carried out, establishing limitations including the following:
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