Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB1786

Introduced
8/10/25  

Caption

In disposition of abandoned and unclaimed property, further providing for certificate of finder registration and for notice and publication of lists of property subject to custody and control of the Commonwealth under this article.

Impact

By implementing these changes, HB 1786 impacts existing regulations governing abandoned properties. The bill has the potential to improve the efficiency of property management under Commonwealth control, allowing for clearer guidance on how finders can register their claims and how properties should be reported. This could lead to a more systematic handling of unclaimed assets and potentially enhance revenue for the Commonwealth through the proper disposition of these properties.

Summary

House Bill 1786 addresses the disposition of abandoned and unclaimed property in the Commonwealth. It introduces enhancements to the registration process for finders—individuals who claim to have found abandoned property—and outlines procedures for public notice and publication of lists pertaining to such properties. The intent of the bill is to streamline the process by which unclaimed property is managed, facilitating the rightful return of property to its owners while also ensuring that the Commonwealth can effectively control properties that remain unclaimed.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1786 appears to be generally supportive, particularly among legislators and stakeholders focused on property management and Commonwealth efficiency. Supporters of the bill emphasize the need for a clearer framework to prevent confusion and ensure that abandoned properties are dealt with appropriately. However, there may be some reservations about how the changes could affect individuals who find property and the administrative burden on the Commonwealth, though these concerns are not prominently raised in available discussions.

Contention

One notable point of contention involves how the bill outlines the responsibilities of finders and the requirements for property registration. While proponents view this as a necessary regulatory update, critics may advocate for additional protections to ensure that finders are treated fairly and that there are no burdensome requirements interfering with their ability to claim found property. The balance between efficient property management and fair treatment of citizen finders may lead to discussions during legislative reviews.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB1201

In disposition of abandoned and unclaimed property, further providing for report of property subject to custody and control of the Commonwealth under this article, for certificate of finder registration, for notice and publication of lists of property subject to custody and control of the Commonwealth under this article and for penalties.

PA HB484

In disposition of abandoned and unclaimed property, further providing for certificate of finder registration, for notice and publication of lists of property subject to custody and control of the Commonwealth under this article, for income accruing after payment or delivery, for deposit of funds, for determination of claims, for penalties and for interdepartmental cooperation and providing for annual report.

PA SB844

In disposition of abandoned and unclaimed property, further providing for claim for property paid or delivered.

PA HB1189

In disposition of abandoned and unclaimed property, further providing for claim for property paid or delivered.

PA HB488

In disposition of abandoned and unclaimed property, further providing for claim for property paid or delivered.

PA HB841

In disposition of Commonwealth surplus land, further providing for annual property survey.

PA SB243

In disposition of Commonwealth surplus land, further providing for limited definitions, for annual property survey, for property disposition and for conditions upon conveyances; and making an editorial change.

PA HB2141

In oil and gas wells, further providing for Oil and Gas Lease Fund; and, in general budget implementation, further providing for Federal and Commonwealth use of forest land.

PA HB104

Uniform Disposition of Unclaimed Property; allow finders to contract and locate State Treasurer property, account for digital assets

PA SB1080

In special funds, further providing for disposition of Budget Stabilization Reserve Fund.

Similar Bills

PA SB222

Providing for grant oversight.

PA HB330

Providing for improper payments; providing for participation in Do-Not-Pay Initiative; and imposing a penalty.

PA HB2052

Providing for internal auditing; and imposing duties on the Auditor General.

PA HB703

A Joint Resolution proposing integrated amendments to the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, providing for the election and qualifications of the Secretary of the Commonwealth.

PA SB189

Providing for the use of a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer identifier in all Commonwealth agency or entity blanks, forms, documents and applications; and imposing penalties.

PA HB2430

Establishing the Office of Transformation and Opportunity and the Commonwealth Housing Ombudsman.

PA HB1966

In bases of jurisdiction and interstate and international procedure, further providing for assistance to tribunals and litigants outside this Commonwealth with respect to service and for issuance of subpoena; in commencement of proceedings, further providing for authority of officers of another state to arrest in this Commonwealth; and, in detainers and extradition, further providing for definitions, for duty of Governor with respect to fugitives from justice and for presigned waiver of extradition.

PA SB881

In bases of jurisdiction and interstate and international procedure, further providing for assistance to tribunals and litigants outside this Commonwealth with respect to service and for issuance of subpoena; in commencement of proceedings, further providing for authority of officers of another state to arrest in this Commonwealth; and, in detainers and extradition, further providing for definitions, for duty of Governor with respect to fugitives from justice and for presigned waiver of extradition.