Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Catholics in Kentucky are being encouraged to reach out to their state senators regarding two bills related to crime and gun violence that are currently making their way through the General Assembly. The Catholic Conference of Kentucky, which represents the state's bishops on matters of public policy, emphasized the importance of constituents making their voices heard.

The first bill, House Bill 5, also known as the "Safer Kentucky Act," has already been approved by the House and is awaiting action in the Senate. The bishops have expressed concerns about certain provisions of the bill, particularly the criminalization of homelessness. Jason Hall, executive director of the conference, stated, "Perhaps the biggest problem with HB 5 is that it criminalizes homelessness. A new crime, known as 'unlawful camping,' would be created. We are all aware of the increasing homelessness problem in our communities, but criminalizing those experiencing homelessness is not the answer."

Hall further explained that if House Bill 5 becomes law, the crime of unlawful camping would be enforceable even in counties without homeless shelters or available shelter beds. He emphasized the need for adequate resources to provide shelter before considering the use of law enforcement to arrest homeless individuals. Additionally, Hall raised concerns about the lighter penalties for criminal mischief imposed on those who have the financial means to pay restitution, stating, "There is enough disparity in our criminal justice system without actually writing into the law different penalties for people at different economic levels."

The second issue addressed by Hall is Senate Bill 13, also known as the Crisis Aversion and Rights Retention bill. This bill proposes temporarily removing firearms from individuals in crisis as a means of preventing self-inflicted harm and harm to others. Hall highlighted that studies have shown that such measures have reduced suicide rates in other states and expressed hope that similar provisions could help reduce instances of mass violence. He urged readers to contact their state senators and ask for their support and co-sponsorship of the bill.

To express their views on these issues, Catholics and concerned citizens are encouraged to call 800-372-7181 and leave a message for their state senator or visit the Kentucky Legislature website at https://legislature.ky.gov/ to email their senator.

The Catholic Conference of Kentucky is urging Catholics and the general public to take action and make their voices heard in order to influence the outcome of these bills related to crime and gun violence. By reaching out to their state senators, constituents can have a direct impact on the legislative process and shape the future of these important issues.