Mandated homeless shelters draw criticism

OLYMPIA — Senate Bill 5107 would require counties with populations exceeding 50,000 to establish emergency housing and homeless shelters.

The bill sponsored by Sen. Phil Fortunato, R-Auburn would also require mental health, employment and police resources.

The law would also force these shelters to ban possession or use of alcohol and unprescribed drugs on the premises and to have a police presence during operating hours.

At a Feb. 3 hearing, more than 400 people signed in as opposed to the bill, telling the Senate Housing and Local Government Committee it would cost too much and place unneces...