Texas’ GOP-led Senate passed a statewide ban on homeless encampments throughout the state that would also bar the use of public parks to provide a temporary shelter for homeless people. The ban appears to be directed at the state capitol, Austin. Under the measure, people can’t camp in a public area unless they are authorized to do so. Authorized camping is for recreational purposes or if the property was approved for sheltering people who are homeless. Those who violate the law will face a misdemeanor charge punishable by a fine of up to $500, according to the legislation. The House approved the measure earlier in May, but the Senate passed the bill with two amendments and sent the final draft of the bill back to the House. The bill directs police to advise campers where they can legally stay and would tell counties and cities to direct campers towards diversion programs, said …