Summary
Georgia lawmakers approved a bill that lets property owners sue local governments if they feel policies against outdoor sleeping and enforcement of immigration laws are not followed. The bill requires Governor Brian Kemp's signature to become law.
Key Facts
- Georgia lawmakers passed a bill on Friday allowing lawsuits against local governments.
- The bill targets policies on sleeping outside and cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
- If Governor Brian Kemp signs it, property owners can sue for lost property value or costs incurred.
- The bill focuses on policies like bans on public camping, loitering, and panhandling.
- It also addresses sanctuary policies, which are laws that limit local cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
- Representative Houston Gaines, who sponsored the bill, is a Republican from Athens.
- Gaines believes cities should enforce laws to prevent business owners and homeowners from spending money to clean up encampments.
