Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB507

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/23
• Refer: 3/14/23

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

If enacted, SB 507 will significantly influence existing statutes related to landowner liability in Pennsylvania. By explicitly stating that landowners and associated volunteers have no obligation to maintain the safety of their premises or to warn visitors about risks, the law may lead to broader access to recreational areas. However, it might also create concerns about the adequacy of safety measures and the potential for increased accidents due to lack of oversight, which could ultimately deter some landowners from making their properties accessible.

Summary

Senate Bill 507 seeks to amend the Pennsylvania law that encourages landowners to allow public access to their land and water areas for recreational purposes by limiting their liability. The bill introduces new definitions to clarify the roles of 'volunteers' and 'volunteer organizations,' emphasizing that these entities will not incur liability for injuries that occur in relation to their recreational use of the land. This reform aims to promote recreational activities by assuring landowners that they will not be held responsible for accidents, which may encourage more landowners to open their properties for public enjoyment.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 507 appears to be mixed among stakeholders. Proponents, including recreational groups and advocates for public access, view the bill as a necessary step to enhance public enjoyment of land and parks without imposing heavy burdens on landowners. Conversely, there are apprehensions expressed by those who fear that reducing liability could result in negligence and safety issues, threatening the well-being of recreational users. This divide reflects a broader debate about balancing individual liberties with community safety.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB 507 include the potential implications for public safety standards and the responsibilities of landowners. Critics argue that by limiting liability for landowners, the bill might encourage them to neglect necessary safety measures. Additionally, the broader definition of who qualifies as a volunteer might cause disputes about the extent of liability protection offered, particularly for nonprofit organizations involved in land maintenance. These concerns highlight the delicate balance between encouraging public access to recreational spaces and ensuring user safety.