Maryland 2024 Regular Session

Maryland Senate Bill SB344

Introduced
1/15/24  
Refer
1/15/24  
Report Pass
3/11/24  
Engrossed
3/14/24  
Refer
3/15/24  
Report Pass
3/28/24  
Enrolled
4/1/24  
Chaptered
5/9/24  

Caption

Criminal and Civil Trespass - Professional Land Surveyors - Exception

Impact

If enacted, SB344 will significantly impact state laws concerning property rights and the legal standing of professionals in land surveying. By exempting professional land surveyors from trespass liability when performing their jobs, the bill provides a legal framework that encourages more efficient and effective land assessments. It is designed to reduce conflicts between property owners and land surveyors, ultimately contributing to smoother land development processes and compliance with legal surveying practices.

Summary

Senate Bill 344 is a legislative measure aimed at establishing exceptions to the laws regarding criminal and civil trespass specifically for professional land surveyors. The bill allows licensed land surveyors and their employees to enter private property to conduct surveying work without being subject to trespass liability under common law. This legislation seeks to clarify and protect the professional activities of land surveyors, ensuring they can carry out their duties without unnecessary legal barriers.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB344 appears largely supportive, especially among professional land surveyors and organizations representing them. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to facilitate necessary surveying activities, particularly given the complexities involved in property development and infrastructure projects. However, there might be concerns from property owners regarding the implications of such exemptions and whether their rights would be sufficiently protected.

Contention

Key points of contention may arise from discussions around property rights and the balance between professional conduct and private property ownership. Some stakeholders may question whether the bill adequately addresses potential scenarios where surveyors might infringe upon property owner's rights or fail to communicate intentions clearly. Although the bill aims to foster cooperation between land surveyors and property owners, the concerns over personal rights and legal protections could spark debate during discussions and voting processes.

Companion Bills

MD HB382

Crossfiled Criminal and Civil Trespass - Professional Land Surveyors - Exception

MD SB288

Carry Over Criminal and Civil Trespass - Professional Land Surveyors - Exception

Similar Bills

CA AB1522

Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists: licensees.

NC S677

Surveyors Right of Entry/Exped. Comm. Bldg

CA AB3126

Contractors’ State License Law: cash deposit in lieu of a bond.

CA AB3253

Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists: licensees: professional land surveyors: surveying practices: monuments and corner accessories.

DE HB117

An Act To Amend Title 24 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Professions And Occupations.

HI SB1468

Relating To Right Of Entry For Professional Surveyors.

HI HB1241

Relating To Right Of Entry For Professional Surveyors.

HI HB1241

Relating To Right Of Entry For Professional Surveyors.