
BRISTOL, Tenn. (WCYB) — A new law took effect Friday, making camping on Tennessee public property a felony. That is leaving some to question how it will impact the homeless population, especially along the state line.
The law creates a Class C misdemeanor if a person camps on or near a state roadway, and makes it a felony to camp on public property, like in parks.
Bristol is in a unique position, being on the state lines of Tennessee and Virginia.
It's also experiencing an increase in homelessness.
Beth Rhinehart, President of the Bristol Chamber, told News 5, work is already underway to combat the growing issue.
"The goal is to look at what is being done right now, what is not being done, who is doing the work, and where are the gaps that we can identify."
She says entities are working together to bring a day center to the area, as a place for people to seek refuge.
With this new law in Tennessee, News 5 asked Southwest Virginia Delegate Will Wampler, if there's a concern homelessness will grow in Virginia.
"I'm not familiar with the particulars of the new law, but we have not seen any legislation that is moving through on homelessness in Virginia in the last legislative session."
Officials say the homeless numbers have increased all across the country -- not just in our area.
"I think it's something that has been growing, COVID probably had something to do with that, the lack of housing is often an issue as well."
Rhinehart says Bristol is seeing more transient people, meaning they are moving at all times, and not necessarily looking to "camp."
She says it's too early to predict if Virginia will see more homeless individuals camping.
"We need to find out where are the housing opportunities to get people back on their feet, provide them the services they need. I don't know if that will play out here locally or not -- we do have that uniqueness right on the state line that brings us lots of opportunities, sometimes challenges."