Governor Chooses Failed, Addiction-First Homeless Policy
MADISON, Wis. — Governor Evers on Friday vetoed legislation that fought against the exploitation of homeless citizens by drug dealers. His veto perpetuates a failed approach to homelessness that allows drug addiction to continue to ruin lives and prevent recovery.
Senate Bill 610 authored by Sen. Rob Hutton (R-Brookfield) and Rep. Bob Donovan (R-Greenfield) enhances the criminal penalty for dealing drugs near a homeless shelter. Under the bill, if a person delivers or intends to deliver controlled substances on the premises of a homeless shelter or within 1,000 feet of it, the maximum penalty may be increased by five years.
Most people are familiar with drug-free school zones, but the same policy applies to a range of other locations that house families, children and vulnerable people including parks and alcohol and other drug treatment facilities. SB 610 simply extends that policy to homeless shelters.
“Many of our fellow citizens who are homeless are also struggling with addiction. They need to get on the path of sobriety, but drug dealers preying on them nearby only make their situation worse,” said Senator Hutton. “The Governor’s shameful veto will prolong a failed approach to homelessness and addiction that keeps people mired in the darkest period of their lives.”
“I’m disappointed in Governor Evers’ veto of SB 610,” said Representative Donovan. “Yet again, it proves how naive the Democrat Party is when it comes to dealing with critical urban issues.”
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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