Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs recently vetoed a bipartisan bill aimed at addressing the issue of squatting in the state, despite the legislation receiving widespread support across party lines. The bill, known as SB 1129, was designed to empower homeowners to swiftly remove squatters from their properties with the aid of law enforcement, based on an owner’s affidavit.
Governor Hobbs, explaining her decision to veto the bill, expressed concerns that the proposed measures failed to adequately consider the legal rights of tenants and might inadvertently affect victims of domestic violence. She emphasized that the bill did not sufficiently leverage existing legal mechanisms or respect the due process rights of lawful tenants.
The vetoed bill was part of a series of legislative efforts spearheaded by State Senator Wendy Rogers, who criticized Hobbs’ decision as part of a broader pattern of vetoes. Rogers argued that the bill was crucial for protecting homeowners from criminals who illegally occupy homes that do not belong to them. She highlighted that while current trespassing laws exist, they often do not suffice to address the complexities and immediate needs posed by squatting scenarios.
This legislation was seen as a response to a rising wave of squatting cases that have left many homeowners feeling vulnerable and violated, particularly as they face significant damages and financial burdens restoring their properties after such incidents. Other states, like Florida and Georgia, have already implemented similar laws strengthening homeowners’ rights against squatters.
In her remarks, Governor Hobbs also vetoed other bills on the same day, including legislation related to election procedures and public safety. This included a bill that sought to prevent non-resident college students in Arizona from voting in local elections and another that would allow candidates for federal office to send observers to watch the ballot-counting process.
This spate of vetoes continues Governor Hobbs’ record from last year, where she set a new state record for the number of bills rejected in a single legislative session. Her actions reflect a cautious approach to legislation that might have broader implications on civil liberties and social justice, consistent with her administration’s priorities and concerns about potential unintended consequences of new laws.