“We don't solve the problem by putting people in county jail. We solve it by getting people into safe and stable housing and giving them the resources they need to stay there. That makes our communities safer,” Kinkead said.

Several politicians are currently supporting a bill to ensure that this does not happen and to protect people on the streets from tickets, fines and jail time for homelessness.

However, other lawmakers, including Representative Aaron Bernstine, believe there is a reason for the ruling.

“Police and government agencies have a duty to ensure the safety of their residents, and living on the streets is not safe for anyone. Almost all homeless people have untreated mental health issues. This bill would prevent local authorities from getting the homeless off the streets and getting them the help they need,” Bernstine said.

Others hope to solve the problem in the long term by providing more housing and not to further exacerbate people's criminal past.

“Instead of wasting time putting people in prison who can't afford to get out of prison, we should be spending our time and resources on expanding our housing stock, making it easier to build, and making it easier for people to escape homelessness and get into those homes,” said Rep. Lindsay Powell.

The text of the bill is still being drafted, but it is hoped to be introduced this summer as homelessness remains a current issue.

Download the FREE WPXI News App for breaking news.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook And Þjórsárden. | Watch WPXI NOW