Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania House Bill HB384

Introduced

1/28/25

Refer

1/28/25

Caption

In burglary and other criminal intrusion, further providing for the offense of criminal trespass.

Impact

The amendments proposed in HB 384 are significant as they extend the legal framework governing criminal trespass to consider the psychological aspect of gambling behaviors. By incorporating assessments for gambling disorders into the legal outcome for such offenses, the bill aims to address and mitigate the issue of gambling addiction directly within the criminal justice system. This could potentially lead to a change in how similar offenses are handled, focusing on rehabilitation rather than solely punitive measures.

Summary

House Bill 384 seeks to amend Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to redefine the offense of criminal trespass, particularly in the context of gambling regulations. The bill introduces a provision that mandates evaluation for gambling disorder for individuals convicted of trespassing on licensed gaming facilities or video gaming areas if their names appear on a self-exclusion list. This evaluation aims to identify those with gambling disorders and determine the need for counseling or treatment as part of their judicial process.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 384 appears to be supportive among those who advocate for the treatment of gambling addiction and the need for responsible gaming practices. Stakeholders, including mental health advocates and some lawmakers, may view the bill as a proactive step towards addressing gambling issues by offering treatment options instead of just penal consequences. Conversely, there could be concerns about the implications of expanding the legal definitions of criminal offenses related to potentially stigmatizing individuals with gambling disorders.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise from debates surrounding the balance between enforcement of the law and the individual's right to privacy concerning their gambling habits. Critics might argue that the mandatory evaluations could lead to unnecessary intrusion into personal matters, while supporters may contend that this is a necessary step to support those struggling with gambling addiction. The effectiveness and appropriateness of incorporating mental health evaluations into criminal proceedings may spur further discussion among legislators and advocates alike.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA SB916

In burglary and other criminal intrusion, further providing for the offense of burglary; and, in juvenile matters, further providing for definitions.

PA HB530

In arson, criminal mischief and other property destruction, further providing for the offense of criminal mischief; in burglary and other criminal intrusion, providing for removal of trespassers from real property; in particular rights and immunities, providing for an offense and civil action relating to trespass on real property; and imposing penalties.

PA HB2239

In burglary and other criminal intrusion, further providing for the offense of unlawful use of unmanned aircraft.

PA HB1926

In burglary and other criminal intrusion, further providing for the offense of unlawful use of unmanned aircraft.

PA HB2203

In burglary and other criminal intrusion, further providing for burglary; in robbery, further providing for robbery; and, in juvenile matters, further providing for definitions, for inspection of court files and records, for conduct of hearings and for transfer to criminal proceedings.

PA SB683

In burglary and other criminal intrusion, providing for offenses relating to critical infrastructure facilities; and imposing penalties.

PA HB252

Modify offenses of burglary, breaking and entering, and trespass

PA HB2205

criminal damage; trespassing; critical facilities

PA HB326

In criminal homicide, repealing provisions relating to the offense of drug delivery resulting in death; in assault, providing for the offense of drug delivery resulting in death or serious bodily injury; in arson, criminal mischief and other property destruction, further providing for additional fine for arson committed for profit; in wiretapping and electronic surveillance, further providing for definitions; in limitation of time, further providing for no limitation applicable and for other offenses; and, in sentencing, further providing for sentences for second and subsequent offenses.

PA HB1909

In assault, further providing for the offenses of simple assault, of recklessly endangering another person, of terroristic threats, of harassment and of stalking; in kidnapping, further providing for the offenses of unlawful restraint, of false imprisonment and of criminal coercion; in sexual offenses, further providing for the offense of indecent assault; and, in riot, disorderly conduct and related offenses, further providing for the offense of disorderly conduct.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.