Bill > HB1086

This bill modifies Pennsylvania's eminent domain law by expanding protections for religious property. Specifically, the bill amends Section 16302 of Title 16 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to prohibit the taking or appropriation of land through eminent domain if the property is used for a cemetery, burying ground, or place of public worship. The key change is the explicit addition of language that extends this protection to land not currently used for these purposes but owned by a religious institution. This means that even if a religious organization owns vacant land that is not currently being used for worship or burial purposes, that land cannot be seized through eminent domain. The purpose of this amendment appears to be providing broader property rights and protections for religious institutions by preventing government entities from acquiring their land without significant justification. The bill will take effect 60 days after its enactment, giving local governments and religious institutions time to understand and implement the new restrictions.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1086