FALL RIVER, Mass. (WPRI) — Officials in Fall River passed an ordinance Tuesday night that would allow police to fine those experiencing homelessness.

The ordinance means people could be ticketed for residing in a public space even if there is no room for them to stay in shelters.

Over the past few weeks, there has been an ongoing debate at city council meetings about the unauthorized camping ordinance.

Some of those experiencing homelessness, including veterans, shared their stories about how they have struggled to keep up with the increasing cost of rent, leading them to live out of their cars or find a shelter to stay in.

This all comes after a recent Supreme Court ruling which makes it easier for communities across the country to crack down on homelessness.

Some city council members say they have had numerous people come before them expressing concerns over the homeless encampments in the city, worries about the needles on the ground and potential fire hazards.

Bristol Council Sheriff Paul Heroux and Mayor Paul Coogan strongly oppose the move.

“The problem with that is when you have somebody who was previously homeless, now you add to that criminal record, that makes their situation a lot worse,” Heroux said. “So it’s not just more inmates, you’re also making people, who are down out of luck and homeless, a little worse off by adding that criminal record.”

“Everybody wants people in housing, in a secure, safe place, but as we head into the winter, we do not have enough beds in the city right now,” Coogan said.

The ordinance now heads to the mayor’s desk to be signed.

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