The Elmira City Council passed the final version of a new law that includes possible jail time and fines for camping in the city.
According to WETM-TV, the law is aimed at removing homeless encampments around the city by introducing criminal penalties for the people living in campsites.
The law authorizes the Elmira Police Department, Code Enforcement and Sanitation Department to remove campsites and all personal property from the sites.
People found camping in the City of Elmira will face a fine between $350 and $500 and up to 90 days in jail for their first violation of the law.
A second violation within 18 months could result in fines between $750 and $1,000 and up to one year in jail.
The law passed in a 5-2 vote and takes effect immediately.
