Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1995

Introduced
2/23/24  

Caption

Further prohibiting certain entities from acquiring an interest in agricultural land; providing for investigation by Attorney General and for responsibilities of purchaser and Attorney General; further providing for forfeiture of lands; providing for real estate auction; and further providing for definitions.

Impact

The enactment of HB 1995 would significantly influence state laws concerning land ownership, particularly agricultural land. By restricting who can acquire agricultural land, the bill aims to ensure that such properties remain within the control of local farmers and community residents. This measure could potentially change how agricultural lands are traded, impacting real estate markets and local economies. The Attorney General's involvement underscores the potential seriousness of violations, which may deter illegal acquisitions and promote adherence to the law.

Summary

House Bill 1995 aims to prevent certain entities from acquiring interests in agricultural land to protect local farming and agricultural practices. The bill outlines responsibilities for the purchaser and the Attorney General, including provisions for investigations into potential violations. Additionally, the bill establishes forfeiture processes for lands acquired inappropriately, reinforcing the state's commitment to regulating land ownership and maintaining agricultural integrity. As such, it seeks to mitigate potential risks posed by outside entities that may not have vested interests in the community.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 1995 appears to be cautiously positive among agricultural communities and farming advocates, who view the bill as a protective measure. However, there are concerns among real estate investors and business entities who may feel the constraints of the bill could limit legitimate opportunities in land transactions. The discourse indicates a balance between safeguarding local agricultural interests and enabling economic growth within the real estate sphere.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 1995 are likely to revolve around the degree of regulation imposed on land acquisitions and the implications for broader economic activities. Critics may argue that such regulations could infringe on property rights and commercial freedoms, while proponents will insist on the necessity of protecting local interests in agriculture. This tension illustrates the complex dynamics between local agricultural needs and wider economic strategies, which could be a pivotal theme as the bill progresses through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB386

Further prohibiting certain entities from acquiring an interest in agricultural land; providing for investigation by Attorney General and for responsibilities of purchaser and Attorney General; further providing for forfeiture of lands; providing for real estate auction; and further providing for definitions.

PA HB163

Further prohibiting certain entities from acquiring an interest in agricultural land; providing for investigation by Attorney General and for responsibilities of purchaser and Attorney General; further providing for forfeiture of lands; providing for real estate auction; and further providing for definitions.

PA SB694

In fireworks, further providing for definitions, for sales locations and for Attorney General.

PA HB1716

In entities generally, further providing for requirements for names generally and providing for registration of name of domestic nonfiling association; in entity transactions, further providing for nature of transactions and for approval by limited liability company; in foreign associations, further providing for foreign registration statement; in general provisions, further providing for definitions; in corporate powers, duties and safeguards, further providing for certain specifically authorized debt terms; in officers, directors and shareholders, further providing for derivative action; in foreign business corporations, further providing for application of article; in general provisions, further providing for definitions; in corporate powers, duties and safeguards, further providing for certain specifically authorized debt terms; in officers, directors and members, further providing for derivative action; in general partnerships, further providing for contents of partnership agreement; in limited partnerships, further providing for contents of partnership agreement and for derivative action; and, in limited liability companies, further providing for contents of operating agreement and for derivative action.

PA HB1963

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in records, further providing for fees for copies.

PA HB2083

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in records, further providing for fees for copies.

PA SB195

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in zoning, further providing for ordinance provisions.

PA HB177

In Office of Attorney General, further providing for criminal prosecutions.

PA HB1655

In fantasy contests, further providing for definitions and for general and specific powers of board; in general provisions relating to gaming, further providing for definitions; in fingerprinting, further providing for submission of fingerprints and photographs; in general provisions relating to video gaming, further providing for definitions; and, in administration, further providing for powers of board.

PA HB455

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in relations with private affiliated entities, further providing for scope of chapter and for applicability, providing for expenditure of funds and further providing for status.

Similar Bills

CA AB2106

Institutional purchasers: sale of California produce.

MS HB1055

Regulatory Sandbox Agricultural Innovation Pilot Program; establish.

CA SB1308

Public educational institutions: purchase of nondomestic agricultural food products.

CA AB778

Institutional purchasers: purchase of California-grown agricultural food products.

CA AB1025

Institutional purchasers: purchase of domestic agricultural food products.

CA AB822

Institutional purchasers: sale of California produce.

HI HB1584

Relating To Agriculture.

HI SB2363

Relating To Agriculture.