State Rep. Bob Merski (D-Erie) is celebrating the House passage of H.B. 858, a bill designed to combat blight and boost property accountability across Pennsylvania.

The bill would require counties to create and maintain comprehensive property contact lists to help municipal code enforcement ensure properties are properly maintained.

Merski, a co-prime sponsor, said the bill also imposes duties on chief assessors and penalties for noncompliance to increase transparency and improve communication between governments and communities.

“Blight hurts neighborhoods,” Merski said. “This bill ensures properties are cared for and communities are strengthened.”

H.B. 858 now moves to the Senate for consideration.