Commentary: Louisiana’s new anti-homelessness law punishes people already living a sentence

A new Louisiana law creates the crime of unauthorized camping, which could punish the homeless with fines they can't pay or unpaid labor.

By: Andrea Hagan

Outlets: Louisiana Illuminator

Published: September 2, 2026

Words: 827

Last Updated: 5 hours, 30 minutes ago

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Throughout my life, I have seen my share of homeless people. Some of my own relatives have been homeless, and it saddens me to see men, women and children without shelter.

On June 9, Act 788 went into effect in Louisiana. It creates a new crime, unauthorized camping, defined as intentionally using a tent, shelter or bedding overnight in a public space not designated for camping. …

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