Pennsylvania House Bill HB961

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/24/23
• Refer: 4/24/23

Caption

In preliminary provisions, providing for county property contact information list; imposing duties on chief assessors; and providing for penalties.

Impact

If enacted, HB961 will significantly impact how counties manage property information and related communications within real estate. By requiring property owners to provide and keep contact details current, the bill seeks to facilitate better communication between property owners and local governments. This new repository of information is likely to enhance municipal management of property maintenance and code enforcement, thus potentially improving community standards and accountability.

Summary

House Bill 961 aims to amend Title 68 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes by establishing a county property contact information list. This legislative effort mandates that county recorders of deeds, referred to as chief assessors, maintain an updated list of contact information for property owners, ensuring that municipalities have a point of contact for property-related issues. It defines the responsibilities and penalties for property owners and various types of businesses regarding the accuracy and updating of their contact information.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB961 is generally positive among local governments and municipal associations, who view the bill as a necessary tool for improving communication and enforcement of property standards. Supporters argue that having direct contact information will allow municipalities to address violations more effectively and maintain property values. However, there are concerns related to privacy and the burden of compliance on property owners and businesses, particularly regarding penalties for failing to maintain accurate information.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the potential penalties for not updating contact information, which could reach up to $1,000 for individuals and businesses for false reporting or failure to update within a designated time frame. Critics may argue that this could impose unreasonable penalties on property owners, particularly those who may lack awareness or resources to comply. Furthermore, ensuring that the information is not used for commercial purposes adds another layer of concern regarding privacy and misuse of data.