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Bill

HB 1148

An Act amending the act of October 17, 2008 (P.L.1645, No.132), known as the Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act, further providing for definitions and for the offense of home improvement fraud.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tim Brennan and 21 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania bill strengthens home improvement fraud enforcement by updating legal definitions and offense provisions to better protect consumers from contractor deception.

Referred to Judiciary
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1148

Legislative bill overview

HB 1148 amends Pennsylvania's Home Improvement Consumer Protection Act by updating definitions and strengthening penalties related to home improvement fraud. The bill targets deceptive practices in the home improvement industry, a sector historically vulnerable to consumer exploitation.

Why is this important

Home improvement fraud costs Pennsylvania consumers millions annually through unlicensed contractors, incomplete work, and financial scams. Strengthening legal definitions and offense provisions provides clearer enforcement tools for prosecutors and regulators while potentially deterring fraudulent operators. This directly affects homeowners' ability to pursue legal remedies when victimized.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition expansion scope: Clarifying what constitutes "home improvement" and "fraud" could inadvertently broaden or narrow enforcement in ways affecting legitimate contractors differently than intended
  • Penalty severity: Enhanced offense classifications may face pushback from contractor associations concerned about disproportionate consequences for minor violations versus major fraud
  • Small contractor impact: Updated compliance requirements could create compliance burdens for small, independent contractors operating with limited administrative resources

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

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