HB 1175 Pennsylvania House · 2025-2026 Regular Session

An Act amending the act of December 9, 2002 (P.L.1701, No.214), known as the Religious Freedom Protection Act, further providing for definitions; and providing for land use regulation limited.

HB 1175 amends Pennsylvania's Religious Freedom Protection Act to clarify that municipalities cannot restrict land use for religious organizations' charitable activities within existing facilities. It defines "charitable use" to include relief of poverty, education, advancement of religion, and disease prevention/treatment. The bill prohibits local governments from regulating these charitable uses related to religious practice unless the regulation is necessary to protect community health/safety/welfare and no less restrictive alternative exists. This directly affects religious organizations operating in Pennsylvania and local municipalities managing land use rules. The law takes effect 60 days after enactment.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Apr 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Apr 9, 2025 Last action Apr 9, 2025
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Total actions
1
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Committee
1
Apr 9, 2025
Committee
Referred to Local Government
lower
1 primary · 10 co-sponsors

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