House Bill 273 has passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. The legislation would empower municipalities across the Commonwealth to tackle neighborhood blight and foster safer, more vibrant communities. 

The bill would establish a Municipal Code Enforcement Grant Program and create a municipal neighborhood mitigation fund, providing critical financial support to municipalities in their effort to reclaim and restore blighted properties. 

Additionally, the bill would authorize counties to adopt property maintenance ordinances, ensuring consistent standards across communities. 

“Today’s milestone is a true win for neighborhoods across Pennsylvania,” said State Rep. Bob Merski, D-Erie. “House Bill 273 equips our communities with the resources they need to address blight head-on, creating environments that are safer and more energizing for families and businesses. Serving on city council allowed me to see firsthand how urban decay undermines not only property values but also community spirit. Rather than merely patching up crumbling infrastructure, my legislation would reignite community pride, encourage critical investments, and rebuild the social fabric that makes a neighborhood flourish."

The bill now heads to the state Senate for consideration.