Pa. Senate OKs bill to limit landowner's liability for hunting violations

HARRISBURG, Pa. — 

The Pennsylvania Senate on Monday approved legislation that would limit the liability of landowners who allow hunting on their property, according to the bill’s sponsor, state Sen. Richard Alloway II, R-Franklin/Adams/York.

Senate Bill 1403 would prevent landowners from being prosecuted for Game Code violations committed by hunters who are permitted to use the property, according to a news release from Alloway’s office.

Under current law, landowners who allow hunting on their property could be held responsible for violations by hunters, such as taking an animal out of season.

“We should be encouraging farmers and landowners to open their land to hunting and other recreational purposes instead of threatening them with legal consequences for the actions of others,” Alloway said in the release. 

Property owners could still be held responsible for violations if they receive a fee, payment or gratuity from the hunter, according to the release.

Senate Bill 1403 was sent to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for consideration.

Alloway is chairman of the Senate Game and Fisheries Committee.