In burglary and other criminal intrusion, providing for the offense of institutional trespass.
Impact
If passed, HB2352 will significantly impact Pennsylvania's criminal laws by establishing a new felony offense that carries serious legal consequences. It creates a structured definition of institutional buildings and outlines specific malicious actions, such as damaging property or causing disturbance, that would constitute an offense. This legislative move aims to deter criminal activities in sensitive institutional settings by establishing clearer legal frameworks for prosecution.
Summary
House Bill 2352 seeks to amend Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes by establishing a new offense known as institutional trespass. This bill specifically targets individuals who enter or remain on institutional properties without permission with the intent to cause harm, damage, or disruption. The locations classified under this bill include places of worship, educational facilities, government buildings, and other significant community services. The intent is to enhance security measures around these institutions to protect them from threats or disruptive behaviors.
Sentiment
The sentiment regarding HB2352 appears to be predominantly supportive among lawmakers and public safety advocates, who argue that it provides necessary protections for vulnerable institutions. However, there may be concerns raised by civil liberties groups regarding the potential for overreach in law enforcement, especially regarding the definition of 'trespass' and how it may affect innocent individuals unintentionally caught on institutional properties.
Contention
Notable points of contention might arise from how the bill defines institutional trespass and the associated penalties. Critics may argue that categorizing certain actions as felonious could lead to disproportionate legal repercussions, particularly if context surrounding an individual's intentions is not adequately considered. Additionally, the enforcement of such laws could lead to conflicts in community relations, especially with marginalized groups who may frequently interact with institutional settings.
In burglary and other criminal intrusion, further providing for the offense of criminal trespass; and, in offenses against the family, further providing for the offense of endangering welfare of children.
In arson, criminal mischief and other property destruction, further providing for the offense of criminal mischief; in burglary and other criminal intrusion, providing for removal of trespassers from real property; in particular rights and immunities, providing for an offense and civil action relating to trespass on real property; and imposing penalties.
In arson, criminal mischief and other property destruction, further providing for the offense of criminal mischief; in burglary and other criminal intrusion, providing for removal of trespassers from real property; in particular rights and immunities, providing for an offense and civil action relating to trespass on real property; and imposing penalties.