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SALT LAKE CITY — Panhandling is one step closer to being banned on the sides of Utah’s roads, but so are other activities.
In order to ban panhandling on the sides of roads, freeways, highways and shoulders, the proposed legislation must ban other types of behavior including honk-and-waves and firefighters’ Fill the Boot campaigns.
"In simple terms, this bill specifically prohibits pedestrian activities in a place not designed for pedestrians," HB101’s sponsor, Rep. Jim Nielson, R-Bountiful, explained on the House floor.
Neilson, who feels aggressive panhandling on freeway exits is unsafe and distracting, said the bill must ban all the behavior to avoid a court challenge over panhandling.
"We cannot discriminate between one unsafe behavior and another unsafe behavior based on content. By the way, those would be permissible if individuals stayed on the sidewalk," he said.
The House agreed, passing the bill and sending it to the Senate.
The bill also restricts aggressive panhandling within 10 feet of a bank entrance or ATM.
Supporters say it’s about time.
"When people undertake behavior that becomes intimidating, our communities suffer," Neilson said.
But some lawmakers are upset because of the impact the bill would have on the other activities.
Neilson pointed out that groups can apply for permits.
