Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation into law to increase penalties against squatters and empower law enforcement to take action against them. The new law, set to go into effect on July 1, aims to prevent property owners from having to undergo lengthy and costly court proceedings to remove squatters. HB 621, the bill that was passed with overwhelming support in the state legislature, works to expedite the process for removing squatters by allowing homeowners to file a complaint to law enforcement, who can then immediately remove them if certain criteria are met.
Under the new policy, law enforcement can quickly remove squatters if they are found to be unlawfully on the property, were told to leave but refused, and are not involved in a tenant dispute. This streamlined process aims to protect property owners and punish criminals attempting to exploit the system. In addition to the removal process, HB 621 also establishes harsh penalties for squatters, including making false statements to convey property rights a first-degree misdemeanor, trespassing on residential property with $1,000 in damages a second-degree felony, and knowingly advertising the sale or rent of residential property without legal authority a first-degree felony.
Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody praised the new law, stating that Florida is leading the nation in securing the state against squatters. DeSantis criticized Democrat-controlled states for siding with squatters and allowing them to stay in properties that they have no legal right to inhabit. The Governor highlighted the extensive judicial review process that squatters often exploit to remain on properties they do not own, emphasizing that these individuals should never have been on the property in the first place. The new law aims to protect Floridians from schemes that involve illegal immigrants taking over homes.
The signing of the legislation comes after reports of squatting incidents in Florida, including squatters invading the boating community. The law’s enforcement is crucial in preventing squatters from taking advantage of property owners and circumventing the legal system. DeSantis and other state officials have expressed their commitment to protecting property rights and ensuring that individuals who unlawfully inhabit properties face consequences for their actions. By cracking down on squatters and implementing stricter penalties, Florida is taking proactive measures to safeguard property owners and prevent fraudulent activities related to squatting. The new law will go into effect on July 1, marking a significant step in addressing the issue of squatters in the state.
