Pennsylvania House Bill HB629

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/20/25
• Refer: 2/20/25

Caption

Amending the act of February 2, 1966 (1965 P.L.1860, No.586), entitled "An act encouraging landowners to make land and water areas available to the public for recreational purposes by limiting liability in connection therewith, and repealing certain acts," further providing for definitions, for duty to keep premises safe and warning and for assurance of safe premises and duty of care and responsibility and liability.

Impact

The bill is intended to foster increased public access to recreational spaces by reducing the potential legal risks associated with land ownership. By doing so, it hopes to encourage landowners to open their properties to the public. Such legislative changes represent a shift in how recreational lands are managed, granting more assurance to landowners that they will not face legal repercussions for accidents or injuries occurring on their property during recreational use.

Summary

House Bill 629 aims to amend existing legislation from 1966 that encourages landowners to make their land and water areas available for public recreational use by limiting their liability. The bill introduces clarifications in definitions and outlines the responsibilities and protections of landowners, volunteers, and nonprofit organizations involved in the maintenance of such areas. Importantly, the bill states that landowners, volunteers, or volunteer organizations are not required to keep premises safe or to warn recreational users about dangerous conditions unless specified under certain conditions in the legislation.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 629 appears to be supportive among lawmakers who favor increasing recreational access and easing the regulatory burdens on landowners. However, there may be criticisms regarding the extent of liability limitations, where opponents could argue that the bill potentially undermines safety standards by allowing landowners to evade responsibility for unsafe conditions. This reflects broader themes in legislative discussions about balancing access and safety.

Contention

Notable points of contention related to HB 629 may arise particularly from the wording regarding the limits on liability. Critics might express concerns that the bill could result in negligence and an unsafe environment for users if landowners are less incentivized to maintain safe premises. The debate will likely center on whether the bill effectively protects the public while also ensuring that landowners feel secure in their legal responsibilities.