by Pennsylvania lawmakers are taking a strong stance against the rising theft of trail cameras.
A proposed 2025 bill could make stealing or tampering with trail cameras a punishable offense, including jail time, fines, and revoked hunting privileges.
What Happened
The Pennsylvania House panel has advanced House Bill 800, which aims to criminalize the theft and interference of trail cameras and other wildlife recording equipment.
The bill was introduced in response to a surge in trail camera thefts across the state, particularly from private lands where hunters use them to monitor wildlife activity.
Key Details
- Offense Classification: Summary offense of the first degree.
- Penalties: ActionPenaltyTheft of trail camera$1,000–$1,500 fineUp to 3 months in jail1-year suspension of hunting rights
- Applies to: Trail cameras and similar recording devices used legally for wildlife observation.
House Bill 800 was introduced by Rep. Joe Emrick (R) and is part of a broader effort to protect property rights and discourage trespassing and criminal behavior on private land.
Reactions or Statements
Rep. David Maloney Sr. (R) voiced strong support for the bill, citing a troubling rise in theft incidents.
“More and more hunters are now using trail cameras. Unfortunately, there has also been an increase in the number of cameras stolen,” Maloney said.
He added that offenders are often involved in other illegal activities.
“They’re usually trying to hide some activity or they’re on private property — they’ve never had permission, they refuse to get permission.”
Investigation or What’s Next
House Bill 800 is currently advancing through the state legislature. If passed, it will become part of Pennsylvania’s official game and wildlife laws.
Lawmakers hope the bill will serve as a deterrent and offer more protection for outdoor enthusiasts who invest in trail cameras.
FAQs
Q: What is a trail camera?
A: A trail camera is a motion-activated camera used by hunters and wildlife watchers to monitor animal activity in specific areas.
Q: What happens if I move or touch someone else’s trail camera?
A: Under House Bill 800, tampering with a trail camera—even without stealing it—could result in fines and loss of hunting privileges.
Q: Is this law only for hunters?
A: No. It applies to anyone using recording equipment legally for wildlife observation.
Q: When could this bill become law?
A: If it continues to gain legislative support, the law could be enacted later in 2025.
Q: What other states have addressed trail camera issues?
A: Kansas recently debated a trail camera ban on public lands, but the move sparked controversy among hunters and wildlife photographers.
Summary / Final Takeaway
With trail camera theft on the rise, Pennsylvania lawmakers are pushing forward House Bill 800 to create specific legal consequences.
The bill reflects a growing concern over property rights, hunting ethics, and the misuse of outdoor surveillance tools.
If passed, offenders could face jail time, heavy fines, and a loss of hunting privileges.
