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Bill

HB 1175

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.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Missy Cerrato and 10 co-sponsors

HB 1175 limits Pennsylvania local governments' authority to enforce land use regulations on religious organizations and their properties.

Referred to Local Government
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1175

Legislative bill overview

HB 1175 amends Pennsylvania's Religious Freedom Protection Act by modifying definitions and adding new restrictions on how local governments can regulate land use when religious organizations are involved. The bill appears designed to limit zoning and land use regulations' application to religious institutions and their properties.

Why is this important

Religious organizations operate in communities across Pennsylvania and often face local zoning restrictions on activities like worship services, housing, schools, or community programs. This bill could significantly shift the balance of power between local municipalities' ability to enforce uniform land use rules and religious entities' operational flexibility, potentially affecting neighborhood planning, traffic, parking, and development standards.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. religious exemption: Municipalities may argue this undermines their authority to manage community development, while supporters contend religious freedom requires exemptions from secular regulations
  • Definition clarity: The bill's modifications to "definitions" are unspecified in this summary, making it unclear exactly which land use regulations would be limited or how broadly religious organizations would be protected
  • Equal application concerns: Questions about whether exempting religious organizations from land use rules creates unfair advantages for religious vs. non-religious entities operating similarly in the same areas

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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