SPRINGFIELD, Ore. (AP) - Springfield officials are set to decide on a proposal that would prohibit motorists from giving anything to panhandlers on public roadways.
The Register-Guard reports (https://bit.ly/1qiA4RX ) the City Council will vote Monday on the ordinance that would impose a $50 fine for transferring property while on a road or highway.
City officials have voiced support for the proposed ordinance, saying it addresses a public safety issue and will prevent dangerous situations on busy roads.
But others, including the American Civil Liberties Union, have expressed concern that the ordinance could interfere with panhandlers’ right to free speech.
If approved, the ordinance would create a new violation called “Unlawful Transfer on Vehicular Portion of the Right-of-Way.” It would be similar to a traffic ticket and would not result in an arrest.
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Information from: The Register-Guard, https://www.registerguard.com
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