SB829 Summary

• Increases minimum fine for trespassing on private agricultural land from $500 to $1,500 and maximum fine from $1,500 to $2,500 for first offense.

• Increases penalties for second or subsequent trespass convictions from minimum $1,500/$2,500 to minimum $2,500/maximum $5,000, with possible jail time of 30 days to 6 months.

• Maintains existing exemptions for peace officers, government employees, emergency personnel, utility workers, oil and gas operations, and railroad employees performing job duties.

• Provides affirmative defenses to trespass charges when defendant had express or implied permission, or held written permission from property owner while on adjoining land.

• Effective date: November 1, 2011.