As the problem of homelessness and panhandlers gets worse in downtown Indianapolis, City-County Councilor Republican leader Mike Mcquillen is introducing an ordinance he says can help address the issue and can withstand a constitutional challenge.
Under what’s called the “Sit & Lie” ordinance it would be illegal to sit or sleep on public streets and sidewalks within the Mile Square between 6 a.m. and midnight. There would be some exemptions such as sitting or lying down due to a medical emergency, participating in a parade or festival, or demonstrating in part of a constitutional protest.
McQuillen says the proposal is necessary to deal with the growing problems associated with homelessness and panhandling. He also says the proposal is modeled after one crafted in Oklahoma City which withstood a constitutional challenge. McQuillen says the proposal will be formally introduced later this month and he is seeking input from all interested parties and stakeholders.
You can hear McQuillen in the Leon-Tailored Audio above. It runs about 10 minutes.
