Bucks County Sheriff Fred Harran and Bucks County Recorder of Deeds Dan McPhillips applauded the passage of House Bill 1406 at the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, according to the staff report from the County of Bucks.

The landmark bill aims to combat title and deed fraud by creating a new criminal offense for deed fraud while ensuring enhanced remedies for victims. The bill passed the House in a bipartisan fashion on June 24.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, especially our local Bucks County representatives, for their bipartisan support in passing House Bill 1406,” said Harran. “This legislation is a critical step forward in protecting our residents from the insidious crime of title and deed fraud.”

House Bill 1406 defines specific actions that constitute these forms of fraud and classifies such offenses as second-degree felonies. Additionally, it upgrades the grading of theft offenses involving real property titles or deeds regardless of property value.

“This legislation not only makes it easier to prosecute those who commit deed fraud, but it also provides crucial civil remedies for victims,” said McPhillips.

Learn more about how House Bill 1406 could strengthen protections for Bucks County homeowners and the broader impact of the anti-fraud legislation at the County of Bucks.

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