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Lawmakers hear sharp split over 'corner crossing' bill that would limit trespass claims
Summary
SB 1545 would shield people who step between contiguous public parcels at a shared corner from trespass and some negligence claims. Hunters and conservation groups urged the measure as a narrow clarity bill; ranchers, large landowners and some county officials urged more time or opposed it, citing mapping accuracy and enforcement concerns.
The Senate Committee on Judiciary heard extensive testimony for and against SB 1545, a bill that would create a narrow immunity for a person who steps on private property only at the precise corner where two public parcels meet.
Supporters included conservation and hunting organizations, local hunters and several county officials who said the bill simply codifies federal precedent (including guidance from the Tenth Circuit and the Unlawful Enclosures Act) and does not create new access rights or easements. Proponents emphasized the bill is limited to on-foot crossings at contiguous public-corner points and would not protect damaging or reckless conduct.
Opponents, including the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association and some large landowners, warned that phone mapping apps and inaccurate boundary data could cause inadvertent trespass, increase ATV use and trashing at vulnerable sites, and shift policing and repair costs to adjacent landowners. Several county officials asked for more time for stakeholder input in the short session.
Supporters urged clear, narrow statutory language and post-session outreach to landowners and recreational groups on where corner crossings are lawful. The committee closed the public hearing after hearing both sides and did not vote on the measure at this meeting.
