H.B. 876 Summary

• Directs the Department of Human Services to establish and operate residential campgrounds for homeless individuals on undeveloped government lands in industrial zones.

• Campgrounds must provide minimum amenities including designated campsites, secure storage, parking, public transportation access, cooking facilities, bathrooms, waste disposal, mailing addresses, supportive services, and an earnership volunteer program.

• Department must develop campgrounds following housing first principles and offer support services substantially equivalent to those in housing first programs, with admission allowed without qualification unless person poses danger to others.

• Adopts rules exempting public notice and hearing requirements, allowing eviction only if resident is a danger to others, and protecting residents' freedom to live in tents, temporary structures, or automobiles.

• Appropriates $1,000,000 for fiscal years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021, with annual legislative reporting required on number of campgrounds, residents, costs, services offered, and resident outcomes.