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Pennsylvania State Senate
09/01/2024 01:54 AM
Pennsylvania State Senate
https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?SPick=20230&chamber=S&cosponId=43005
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Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2023 - 2024 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted: July 24, 2024 05:41 PM
From: Senator Jimmy Dillon
To: All Senate members
Subject: Empowering Municipalities to Manage Absent Property Owners
 
Soon, I will be introducing legislation to empower municipalities to better manage and resolve serious code violations and public nuisances pertaining to properties within their jurisdiction.  This legislation is designed to equip local governments with the tools they need to address issues caused by negligent property owners, particularly absentee landlords operating from outside Pennsylvania.

Blighted properties present a significant challenge for our communities. According to the Housing Alliance of Pennsylvania, such properties threaten public health, diminish individual wealth, and destabilize local economies. The most pressing issue often involves absentee landlords who neglect their responsibilities, leaving local authorities powerless to intervene until it's too late.
 
Currently, local law enforcement lacks the authority to address public safety hazards and property deterioration without the property owner's cooperation. Many absentee landlords remain unaware of the conditions on their properties, exacerbating the problem.
My proposed legislation will allow municipalities to:
  • Issue fines to absentee property owners who fail to address safety concerns.
  • Authorize law enforcement to remove unauthorized encampments on public and private property when owners do not respond to public safety issues.
This legislation will establish a clear process for notifying property owners of serious public nuisances, ensuring they take necessary actions to protect the community. By holding absentee landlords accountable, we can significantly reduce the harm caused by neglected properties.
 
I urge you to join me in co-sponsoring this vital legislation to protect our communities and enhance the effectiveness of our local governments.