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Bill

HB 98

Landowner Liability Amendments

2025 General Session Introduced by Brady Brammer

Utah HB 98 modifies landowner liability protections, adjusting legal responsibilities for property owners regarding injuries occurring on their land.

Governor Signed
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 98

Legislative bill overview

HB 98 amends Utah's landowner liability laws to modify the legal protections and responsibilities that property owners have regarding injuries that occur on their land. The bill recently passed both chambers and was signed by the Governor on March 12, 2025. The specific amendments alter how landowners can be held liable for accidents involving trespassers, recreational users, and other visitors to their property.

Why is this important

Landowner liability laws directly affect property owners' insurance costs, willingness to allow public recreational access, and the ability of injured parties to seek compensation. These amendments could influence whether Utahns can freely access lands for hiking, hunting, or other outdoor activities, and determine how much protection property owners have from lawsuits. The changes may also impact rural landowners differently than urban property holders.

Potential points of contention

  • Balance between property rights and public access: Strengthening landowner protections may discourage property owners from allowing recreational access while potentially limiting public outdoor opportunities
  • Impact on injury victims: Expanded liability shields could make it harder for people injured on private property to recover damages, shifting costs to injured parties or their insurance
  • Agricultural and rural implications: Rural landowners may benefit significantly from expanded protections, creating disparate effects across different property types and regions

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

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