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House passes bill granting limited civil-immunity to landowners who allow emergency access
Summary
House Bill 1053, sponsored by Representatives Morrow and Weinberg, was adopted; the bill provides limited immunity from civil liability for landowners who permit entry and exit across private property during emergencies to aid first responders and evacuations.
House Bill 10 53, carried by Representatives Morrow and Weinberg with Senators Marchman and Bazely listed in the title, was passed by the House on Feb. 4.
Representative Morrow described the bill as "land owner immunity for emergency access to property," saying it makes it easier for first responders to reach people during emergencies without landowners fearing lawsuits. "It facilitates better evacuation routes for those caught in an emergency," Morrow said.
Representative Weinberg, a co-sponsor on the floor, urged an aye vote. Assistant Minority Leader Winter also spoke in support, calling it important to private-property owners and emergency management and saying he was a "resounding yes." The clerk announced, "The ayes have it. House Bill 10 53 is passed."
The bill provides limited civil-liability protections for property owners who allow emergency access; floor discussion focused on balancing property rights with public-safety needs. No appropriation or implementation timetable was specified in the floor discussion.
