HAGERSTOWN, Md. (DC News Now) -- Courts have ruled that local governments may impose outdoor sleeping bans.

Hagerstown passed a bill that outlaws sleeping outdoors, and it went into effect on Friday. Violators can be fined $500 or jailed for 60 days.

Community activist and retired teacher Andy Smith believes political forces outside the city are behind the new ordinance.

"I'm concerned the emergence of this ordinance is almost in line with what's coming out of the White House," Smith said.

Hagerstown City police chief, Paul Kifer, a 33-year veteran of the force, gave his thoughts on the ban,

"I know a lot of people are up in arms and feel like we are trying to criminalize homelessness. But that's not what this is," he said.

Smith has dealt with Chief Kifer on neighborhood issues and

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