Clearer Dam Warnings: PA Lawmakers Push for Waterway Safety

Strengthening Waterway Safety: Pennsylvania Lawmakers Push for Clearer Dam Markings

Pennsylvania’s waterways are a natural treasure, drawing thousands of boaters, kayakers, anglers, and families each year. But beneath the peaceful surface of many rivers lies a hidden hazard: run-of-the-river dams, often unmarked and capable of pulling even experienced paddlers into deadly hydraulic currents. In response to several heartbreaking tragedies, state lawmakers are advancing House Bill 961—bipartisan legislation designed to make these concealed dangers unmistakably clear.

At the helm of the effort is Representative Natalie Mihalek (R-40), the prime sponsor of House Bill 961, who introduced the legislation with strong bipartisan support. Among the co-sponsors is Representative Kristin Marcell (R-178), who has been a vocal advocate for improving waterway safety following tragedies in her own community. Additional Democratic and Republican members also signed on, underscoring the broad backing for strengthening dam-safety policies across the Commonwealth.

A Bill Born from Loss and Advocacy

House Bill 961 aims to modernize, clarify, and enforce safety requirements surrounding run-of-the-river dams. These structures, often low in height and spanning the width of a waterway, create dangerous hydraulic rollers at certain flows—powerful currents that can trap and submerge unsuspecting paddlers.

This legislation was shaped by personal tragedy.
Rep. Mihalek’s district team and advocates—including Claudia, the niece of Jon Gentile, a beloved Bethel Park High School teacher—helped craft the bill after Jon lost his life on the Delaware River. While kayaking with his father, an unmarked dam pulled him underwater. There were no buoys, no signs, and no warnings.

In Bucks County, Rep. Marcell’s district faces similar wounds. Ranger Alec Campbell tragically drowned after his kayak capsized in Tyler State Park. His body was later found near a dam—another stark reminder that many Pennsylvanians do not realize the power or location of these structures.

“These families lost loved ones to hazards most people never even know exist,” Marcell said in her legislative update. “We owe it to them to act.”

What House Bill 961 Would Change

HB 961 amends Title 30 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to strengthen safety requirements in several key areas:

• Annual Inventory of Dams
The Department of Environmental Protection must maintain and update a comprehensive list of run-of-the-river dams, including identification, location, size, and relevant specifications.

• Timely Notification and Compliance
Owners and permittees of dams must be notified of marking requirements and comply within six months. Newly discovered dams must also be added to the inventory promptly.

• Clear and Consistent Warning Markings
Dams must be marked above and below the structure with standardized signs and buoys designed by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. These markings will warn swimmers, paddlers, and boaters of the dangers ahead.

• Public Information Online
Within one year, the full list of dams and a statewide map must be posted on both DEP and Commission websites, ensuring residents can easily identify risk areas.

• Stricter Safety Deadlines
If signs or buoys are damaged, vandalized, or removed, owners must replace them within 15 days, unless unsafe conditions justify an extension.

• Stronger Penalties
HB 961 establishes first-degree summary offenses for failure to comply with dam-marking requirements, with each 15-day period of noncompliance counted as a separate violation.

A Bipartisan Push to Protect Pennsylvanians

The bill’s growing support reflects a shared commitment across party lines. With co-sponsors from both Republican and Democratic members—including Reps. Freeman, Curry, Burgos, James, Haddock, and Inglis—the legislation underscores a simple priority: saving lives.

“It’s about making sure no other family goes through what these families endured,” Marcell said. “This is commonsense public safety.”

House Bill 961 represents a meaningful step forward. For the families who’ve lost loved ones, it’s also a promise—one that their tragedies will lead to greater awareness, clearer warnings, and safer waterways for every Pennsylvanian.