Bill > SB0219

This bill amends Indiana's criminal trespass law to expand the circumstances under which a person can be charged with criminal trespass. The bill specifically broadens the definition of trespassing to include situations where entry is denied by a law enforcement officer acting on behalf of a property owner or the owner's agent, in addition to being denied entry by the property owner or their agent directly. The legislation covers various scenarios of unauthorized property entry, including entering agricultural operations, scientific research facilities, vacant properties, polling places, and locked or restricted areas without permission. The bill maintains criminal trespass as a Class A misdemeanor but introduces enhanced penalties, such as elevating the offense to a Level 6 felony for trespassing on certain types of properties (like scientific research facilities, public utilities, or school properties) or if the person has a prior unrelated conviction. Additionally, the bill provides specific guidelines for how property owners can communicate denial of entry, including personal communication, posted notices, court orders, and even the use of purple marks on trees or posts to indicate property boundaries. The legislation also includes several exceptions for emergency personnel, railroad employees, and other authorized individuals, ensuring that the law does not unduly restrict necessary access to properties.

Justice

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/senate/219/details