CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Religious leaders and faith organizations across West Virginia are urging state senators to reject House Bill 5319, a measure that would establish penalties for people who violate a proposed camping ban related to homelessness.
In a statement to lawmakers, the coalition cited scripture: “The commandment we have from him is this: those who love God must love their brothers and sisters also.” 1 John 4:20–21.
The statement says, “Many followers of Christ across the state denounce HB 5319. Echoing the WV Council of Churches, we ask that legislators consider instead, ‘that the practice of the Christian faith calls us to minister to the homeless and others in economic distress through a variety of ministries including feeding, clothing, and housing programs.’”
The West Virginia House of Delegates passed the bill on March 3. Under the proposal, a first violation of the camping ban would result in a written warning. A second violation would carry a misdemeanor charge and a $200 fine. A third violation could lead to a fine of up to $500 and/or up to 30 days in jail.
Faith leaders argue the bill would criminalize homelessness and make it harder for people to find stable housing.
“Churches and congregations who serve the homeless understand that criminalizing homelessness and a human being’s fundamental need to sleep will not end homelessness,” the statement reads.
The coalition instead called for housing and services for people experiencing homelessness and concluded, “We ask that WV state senators roundly reject consideration of HB 5319, a bill that is antithetical to the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.”
The statement was issued by the West Virginia Council of Churches and signed by numerous denominations, faith organizations, and clergy members across the state.
