The Wire

The Queensland Parliament today began debating legislation that would make it a criminal offence to yell, swear, argue, be drunk, beg and even vomit in a public place. Those likely to be affected by the proposed legislation include people without a home or income – most are young, or Indigenous, or have a mental illness of some kind. Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson welcomes the proposed laws as strengthening the police’s ability to deal with people in public spaces. But the Summary Offences Bill was severely criticised by the Scrutiny of Legislation Committee late last year, and is under fire again from advocates for those likely to be affected.