HB 2356 Summary

• Amends trespass laws on private farmland, ranchland, and forestry property by increasing penalties: first offense ranges from $500-$1,500 fine; second offense increases to $1,500-$2,500 fine or 30-180 days jail time.

• Allows entry to retrieve lost domestic livestock or animals without owner permission, but requires the person to first notify the county sheriff who shall record the person's name, driver license number, and location before entering the property.

• Exempts peace officers, government employees, firefighters, emergency responders, utility workers, railroad employees, oil and gas operators, and valid easement holders from trespass provisions when performing official duties.

• Establishes affirmative defenses to trespass charges including express/implied permission to be on property and reasonable belief of permission backed by written authorization from the property owner.

• Increases penalties for willful trespass involving waste, theft, or damage: first offense $250-$500 or 30-180 days jail; second offense $700-$1,500 or 30-180 days jail, plus court-ordered restitution.