House Bill 5958 would amend Michigan’s penal code to create a new misdemeanor offense for defecating in a public place other than a sanitary facility. The bill defines “public place” to include public streets, sidewalks, parks, and areas open to the general public in publicly owned or operated buildings or public places of business. A standard violation would be punishable by up to 60 days in jail, a fine of up to $250, or both.
The bill also creates an enhanced penalty when the conduct occurs while the individual is present at or near a gathering of 10 or more people. In that circumstance, the offense would carry up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, or both. The act would take effect 90 days after enactment.
HB5958 would add a new section to the Michigan penal code and expand the list of punishable public-order offenses under state law. It would give law enforcement and prosecutors a specific misdemeanor charge for public defecation, with higher penalties tied to conduct near larger gatherings. The bill would affect individuals in public spaces, as well as public facilities and businesses open to the public, by making such conduct explicitly criminal under Michigan law.
No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of legislative debate or formal support/opposition in the available materials. Based on the text alone, the bill appears to be a straightforward public-nuisance measure focused on sanitation and public decency, with no indicated amendments or controversy in the record provided.
The main policy issue embedded in the bill is the scope of criminalization and the higher penalty for conduct occurring near a gathering of 10 or more people. Potential points of contention could include whether the conduct should be handled as a criminal offense at all, whether the penalty levels are proportionate, and how broadly “public place” should be interpreted. However, no specific objections or supporters are identified in the available discussion or voting history.