Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1151

Introduced

4/4/25

Refer

4/4/25

Caption

Providing for the Adjacent Neighbors' Bill of Rights.

Impact

The legislation is set to transform how property developments are communicated to neighboring homeowners. By requiring developers to distribute information on homeowners' rights when applying for permits, the bill aims to diminish power imbalances between developers and residents, making it easier for homeowners to assert their rights. Additionally, the bill stipulates that the Department of Labor and Industry will oversee the pamphlet's creation, providing government-backed resources to the public, which would contribute to uniformity in how these rights are presented and understood across the state.

Summary

House Bill 1151, titled the Adjacent Neighbors' Bill of Rights, is a legislative proposal aimed at empowering homeowners adjacent to property developments. The bill mandates the establishment of a pamphlet detailing the rights and resources available to these homeowners, ensuring they have clear access to critical information regarding any developments occurring next to their properties. This initiative seeks to enhance transparency and communication between developers, the state, and affected neighbors, fostering a more informed environment for property development.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 1151 appears to be supportive among homeowner advocacy groups and those who value community rights and engagement in the development process. Advocates argue that the bill is a necessary step to protect homeowners from potential overreach by developers. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the potential bureaucratic burden that could slow down development processes as developers adjust to these new requirements.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between facilitating development and protecting homeowner rights. Critics may argue that additional requirements imposed on developers could result in hesitance to undertake new projects, or increase costs that ultimately affect housing affordability. Support for the bill hinges on the notion that protecting local homeowners is essential, while opponents may fear that strict oversight could lead to unintended consequences that stifle economic growth in the housing sector.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB693

Providing for the Adjacent Neighbors' Bill of Rights.

PA HB899

Providing for expanded neighborhood improvement zones.

PA SB369

Providing for property owner's bill of rights statement.

PA HB948

Providing for neighborhood infrastructure repair program and for eligibility for financial assistance under neighborhood infrastructure repair program; establishing the Municipal Neighborhood Infrastructure Grant Program; providing for duties of Department of Community and Economic Development; and making an appropriation.

PA SB1237

Further providing for definitions, for duties of facility owners, for duties of designers, for duties of excavators, for duties of project owners, for damage prevention committee, for compliance orders and for administrative penalties; providing for action for recovery of penalty or forfeiture; and further providing for expiration of act.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.