New Strict Rules For Bums In Larimer County

I am a big supporter of giving a homeless dude a a few quarters to help him get drunk or buy a hooker, but I have to admit it has gotten kind of out of control in Fort Collins. I was walking through Old Town the other night, and I had to have been hit up at least twenty times in a couple hours. Now, there are some new stricter rules on panhandling in Laramer County. 

Don't get me wrong, Larimer County isn't making it illegal to panhandle, just who, when, and where you can do it.

Under Larimer County’s new ordinance, panhandling is prohibited:
• On medians, along public roads, sidewalks where pedestrians might be impeded, public buses, parking lots or garages and anywhere else that the transaction cannot be completed in a legal parking space
• Within 100 feet of schools, automatic teller machines or bus stops.
• When directed at occupants of vehicles, or people exiting them.
• In a public road, bike lane, street gutter or parking space.
• Within the exterior patio area of a food or drinking establishment.
• From 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise.

The ordinance takes effect in 30 days and is punishable by fines up to $1,000.

I realize there are some people that have no choice, but I have always believed that if you wanted to work bad enough someone would hire you. Maybe it's time to shave the beard, hit the laundromat, and turn in an application or two to Taco Bell and Wal-Mart.

[Coloradoan]