WASHINGTON, Aug. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A new report by
Pacific Legal Foundation reveals a significant rise in squatting
incidents — where individuals occupy property without legal claim
or the owner's consent — since 2019.
States can better protect property rights
by reforming laws to expedite the removal of squatters.
Locking Squatters Out: How States Can Protect Property
Owners highlights the difficulty property owners encounter
when attempting to remove squatters. Despite trespassing being a
criminal offense, most states handle squatter removal as a civil
landlord-tenant eviction dispute, making a long and costly process
for homeowners. Law enforcement agencies, wary of escalating
violence or getting embroiled in legal complications, frequently
advise property owners to file eviction cases rather than taking
immediate action to remove squatters.
"It is long overdue that we start treating squatters like what
they actually are — trespassers," said Mark
Miller, senior attorney at Pacific Legal Foundation.
"Squatters illegally take property that doesn't belong to them, and
some sell the owner's belongings, trash the property, or use it for
illicit activities. They shouldn't be given special legal
protections."
In response to the growing problem, several states are passing
legislation to recognize squatting as a criminal offense and make
it easier for property owners to remove trespassers. Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Nevada, Tennessee, Washington, and West
Virginia have passed such laws, while 11 other states have
introduced bills. However, most states have yet to address the
issues of squatting through legislation.
"Removing squatters is extremely difficult in most states," said
Kyle Sweetland, strategic research
manager at Pacific Legal Foundation. "But as states like
Georgia have shown, once the laws
are updated to recognize squatting as criminal activity, property
rights are better protected. Other states should follow
Georgia's lead."
The report also examines trends in squatting incidents,
state responses, the effects of legislative reforms, and ways
states can provide assistance.
Locking Squatters Out: How States Can Protect Property
Owners offers clear insights into the rise in squatting and
how states should combat it.
About Pacific Legal Foundation
Pacific Legal Foundation is a national nonprofit law firm that
defends Americans threatened by government overreach and abuse.
Since our founding in 1973, we challenge the government when it
violates individual liberty and constitutional rights. With active
cases in 34 states plus Washington,
D.C., PLF represents clients in state and federal courts,
with 18 wins of 20 cases litigated at the U.S. Supreme Court.
www.pacificlegal.org
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SOURCE Pacific Legal Foundation