(FORT WAYNE) - The Fort Wayne City Council has approved a new ordinance that makes it illegal to bring homeless individuals into the city under certain circumstances.
21Alive reports the measure, passed unanimously Monday, allows for a $2,500 fine for anyone who transports a "transient homeless individual" into Fort Wayne from another community without meeting specific exceptions.
City officials say the goal is to prevent outside groups or individuals from dropping people off in Fort Wayne to access local resources, which serve more than 2,000 homeless residents.
The penalty applies to the person transporting the individual, not the homeless person.
Officials say there is no evidence of large groups being bused into the city, but they have documented cases of individuals being dropped off, including by law enforcement agencies from other areas.
The ordinance includes several exceptions. Transport is allowed for jail booking, medical treatment, placement in verified housing or shelters, appointments with service providers, or court appearances.
Questions remain about how the ordinance would be enforced, particularly if another government agency is involved.
The measure now heads to Mayor Sharon Tucker for final approval.