Lafayette Considers Ordinance to Criminalize Homelessness

Proposed law would allow fines or jail time for camping or squatting in public spaces.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 6:54pm

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A solitary park bench in a quiet, shadowy urban setting, bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight, representing the isolation and vulnerability of homelessness.A proposed ordinance in Lafayette aims to criminalize homelessness, raising concerns about how to balance public needs with compassion for the vulnerable.Lafayette Today

The Lafayette City Council is reviewing a proposed ordinance that could make it illegal to camp or sleep in certain public areas. If passed, the measure would allow authorities to issue fines up to $500 or jail time of up to a month for violations. Supporters say the goal is to address concerns about public safety and visibility of homelessness, while advocates warn the ordinance could push vulnerable people deeper into hardship.

Why it matters

Homelessness is a complex issue impacting communities across Louisiana, and this proposal highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing public concerns with compassion and finding long-term solutions. The conversation around the ordinance will be closely watched by many in Lafayette and the surrounding Acadiana region.

The details

The proposed ordinance would make camping or squatting on public property punishable by a $500 fine or up to a month in jail. The effort comes after some council members said they received complaints about Lafayette's homeless population. Supporters argue the measure is needed to deal with quality-of-life issues and safety concerns, and could encourage individuals to seek assistance through available services. However, homeless advocates warn the ordinance could create a cycle where people struggling to survive are pushed deeper into hardship instead of receiving help.

  • The Lafayette City Council is currently reviewing the proposed ordinance.

The players

Lafayette City Council

The governing body of Lafayette, Louisiana that is considering the proposed ordinance to criminalize homelessness.

Ben Broussard

A representative from Catholic Charities of Acadiana who warns the ordinance could push vulnerable people deeper into hardship.

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What they’re saying

“These are individual families who often face deep vulnerability and hardship who deserve to be treated with dignity and compassion and care. It is with our hope that we can take moment of public frustration and use it an opportunity create dialogue on meaningful solutions.”

— Ben Broussard, Catholic Charities of Acadiana

What’s next

The Lafayette City Council will continue reviewing the proposed ordinance and decide whether to move forward with a vote.

The takeaway

This proposed ordinance highlights the ongoing challenge of addressing homelessness in a compassionate way that balances public concerns. As the conversation continues, it will be important for Lafayette leaders to carefully consider the potential impacts and work with advocates to find solutions that support vulnerable individuals while also addressing community needs.