House tourism committee looks at reforms to short-term rentals
Would apply to rentals such as Airbnbs and Vrbos
Rep. Mary Jo Daley March 25, 2026 | 12:39 PM
HARRISBURG, March 25 – Ahead of a busy tourism season in Pennsylvania, with events from the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh to the World Cup in Philadelphia, the House Tourism, Recreation and Economic Development Committee met today to discuss reforms to how short-term rentals are regulated across Pennsylvania, based on legislation introduced by state Reps. Lindsay Powell, D-Allegheny, and Mary Jo Daley, D-Montgomery.
“One of the best parts about short-term rentals is the opportunity they provide,” said Powell. “They provide access to so many communities across our commonwealth, allowing each of us to visit areas across Pennsylvania comfortably and easily.
“The need for reform is especially personal to me and my district. Over the last two years, there have been two shootings, with one being fatal, at Airbnbs in my community. This legislation would ensure that a growing part of our economy is regulated both for the safety of guests and for the continuing development of our tourism industry. I am thankful to Chair Daley for hosting this hearing and supporting this legislation with me.”
Powell’s legislation, H.B. 2303, would establish countywide registries of short-term rental properties, require the designation of a 24/7 “person in charge” for each property, create distinct regulatory categories for homestay operators, vacation rental operators and corporate operators, and implement baseline safety standards across all properties with enhanced requirements for larger-scale operators.
"Considering this legislation in committee is a significant step toward creating a balanced, responsible future for our communities," said Daley, chair of the House Tourism, Recreation and Economic Development Committee. "By moving these rules forward, we are fulfilling our promise to protect the character of our neighborhoods while fostering a thriving tourism economy built around safety, accountability and fairness for everyone."
Speakers at the hearing included representatives from the Joint State Government Commission, short-term rental operators and industry trade associations.
House Bill 2303 will be considered by the committee at a later date. Full video of the hearing, including opening remarks from Powell, can be found here.