House Bill 101, providing farmers limited civil liability protections while opening their farms to the public for a fee, was signed into law. The move comes as many farmers in Pennsylvania are turning to agritourism to augment their income as they continue to raise traditional crops, helping them remain economically viable. Farm markets, pick-your-own produce, corn mazes, Petting zoos, hayrides and farm tours are the types of enterprises that fall under what would be called agritourism. They can make the difference between having a positive year on the ledger as opposed to ending up in the red, especially for small family farmers. The new law provides family farms the means to diversify by protecting agritourism business from frivolous lawsuits where no party is at fault for injuries or damages. It will also help farmers feel more at ease having school and educational groups tour and partner with state grant programs.
