Bill > HB530

This bill modifies Pennsylvania law to strengthen property owners' rights and provide clearer procedures for addressing trespassing. The bill makes several key changes: First, it revises the criminal mischief statute to create more detailed grading of offenses based on the amount of pecuniary damage, including establishing a new first-degree felony for unlawful entry with damages over $1,000. Second, it introduces a new procedure for law enforcement to remove trespassers from real property, requiring property owners to submit a detailed signed affidavit explaining why the occupant should be removed. The bill also mandates that law enforcement provide the potential trespasser an opportunity to prove lawful occupancy and requires immigration authorities to be notified if an illegal alien is found trespassing. Additionally, the bill creates a new civil cause of action for property owners, allowing them to sue trespassers and potentially recover treble damages and attorney fees if they can prove the trespasser knowingly entered or remained on their property without permission. The legislation aims to provide property owners with more robust legal tools to protect their properties and remove unauthorized occupants, while also establishing clear protocols for law enforcement to handle such situations. The bill will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=530