The Alabama House concurred with Senate changes and awarded final passage on Thursday to a bill by State Representative Craig Lipscomb, R – Gadsden, that helps shield owners in the state from squatters who illegally take residence in homes and property.
“Large cities and metropolitan areas across the county have recently experienced an epidemic of squatters who seek to live rent free in properties they do not own and to which they have no legal rights or access,” Lipscomb said. “This legislation provides Alabama property owners with a strong measure of protection that helps inoculate them from this epidemic and ensures they do not fall victim to this unfortunate national trend.”
House Bill 182 increases the penalties for individuals who illegally enter a residence they do not own and creates a new transgression for entering a property and causing $1,000 or more in damage.
The crimes would be classified as a Class C felony, which is punishable in Alabama by one to ten years on imprisonment.
Similarly, the legislation increases the punishment for presenting a falsified document that purports to be a binding lease, deed or other instrument authorizing ownership or occupancy.
The crime would be classified as a Class A misdemeanor punishable in Alabama by up to one year in jail and fines of up to $6,000.
Lipscomb’s legislation is currently being transmitted to Gov. Kay Ivey’s office for consideration and signature.
