State Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, are celebrating the passage of a bill aimed at protecting small businesses and construction equipment renters across Pennsylvania.

House Bill 1319, which passed with bipartisan support, would modernize the state’s Mechanics’ Lien Law by updating the definition of “materials” to include rented machinery and specialized equipment. Under current law, lien protections have been unclear for suppliers of rented items like cranes, scaffolding, and backhoes, leaving them vulnerable when contractors fail to pay.

“This reform levels the playing field for every small business that puts rented equipment to work on job sites across Pennsylvania,” said Harkins. “We’re making sure companies aren’t left holding the bag when payments fall through.”

Merski added, “Too many Erie businesses have been left in limbo because the law treated rented heavy equipment like an afterthought.

With H.B. 1319, we close that loophole and give contractors and suppliers the clarity they deserve.”

The bill passed the Pennsylvania House and now heads to the Senate for further consideration.