Merski leads effort to fight blight, enhance transparency through passage of H.B. 858
Rep. Robert Merski June 3, 2025 | 5:01 PM
HARRISBURG, June 3 – State Rep. Bob Merski, D-Erie, is celebrating a transformative victory to fight property blight with the passage of H.B. 858 in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
This groundbreaking legislation aims to combat blighted and abandoned properties across the Commonwealth by establishing a comprehensive property registration list -- information that can subsequently be shared with municipal code enforcement to ensure all properties receive proper maintenance and care.
The bill, for which Merski served as a co-prime sponsor, would require counties to develop and maintain accurate property contact information lists. The bill would further reinforce accountability by imposing clear duties on chief assessors and establishing enforceable penalties for noncompliance. These measures are set to bolster transparency, ensure equitable property management, and improve communication between local government entities and the communities they serve.
“With the passage of H.B. 858, we've taken a bold step toward tackling property blight head-on by establishing a comprehensive property registration list that will directly support municipal code enforcement efforts,” Merski said. “During my time on city council, I witnessed firsthand the challenges that property neglect can wreak on our communities.
"This legislation mandates accurate property contact information and imposes clear duties and penalties. Ultimately, it fortifies transparency and accountability, leading to healthier, more vibrant communities."
This bill now heads to the state Senate for consideration.