Bill > HB1175

This bill amends the Religious Freedom Protection Act by expanding the definition of "charitable use" and adding new protections for religious land use. The bill broadens the definition of charitable use to explicitly include relief of poverty, advancement of education (including postsecondary education), advancement of religion, and prevention and treatment of disease or injury. Additionally, the bill introduces a new section that limits how municipalities can regulate land use for religious charitable purposes. Under this provision, a municipality cannot impose land use regulations that restrict charitable uses related to religious worship within existing buildings and facilities, unless the regulation is absolutely necessary to protect a compelling governmental interest in community health, safety, or welfare, and no less restrictive means are available to achieve those protections. The bill provides a legal defense mechanism for individuals who believe their religious land use rights have been violated, allowing them to challenge such regulations in judicial or administrative proceedings. The legislation will take effect 60 days after its passage, aiming to provide greater protection for religious institutions' ability to conduct charitable activities on their properties.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1175