In a decisive move to protect property rights, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, a Republican, has signed into law a groundbreaking piece of legislation aimed at eradicating squatters’ rights within the state. The new law, which garnered significant support from both the public and legislators, empowers law enforcement officials to act swiftly against individuals illegally occupying someone else’s property. With this action, Florida stands as a pioneer in directly confronting the challenges posed by squatting.
Governor DeSantis, speaking at a press conference in Orlando, emphasized the state’s commitment to upholding the sanctity of private property. “You are not going to be able to commandeer somebody’s private property and expect to get away with it. We are in the state of Florida ending the squatter scam once and for all,” DeSantis stated. This legislation, set to take effect on July 1, marks a significant shift in how squatting cases will be handled, moving away from the previous approach that often required property owners to engage in protracted legal battles to reclaim their rights.
Under the old system, squatters were often treated as tenants under the law, complicating the process for legal property owners to evict them. The newly signed law changes this dynamic, classifying squatters as criminals subject to immediate removal if they cannot produce legitimate authorization for their occupancy. This streamlined approach enables property owners to swiftly reclaim their properties without the burden of extensive legal proceedings.
The legislation also introduces stricter penalties for squatting-related offenses, including a second-degree felony charge for squatters causing damage to a home, a first-degree felony charge for fraudulent sales or leases of property, and a misdemeanor charge for presenting a fraudulent lease. These enhanced penalties aim to deter individuals from engaging in squatting and related fraudulent activities.
Senator Keith Perry, a Republican who sponsored the bill, underscored the necessity of this law, citing numerous egregious instances of squatting across the state. The bill’s unanimous support in the legislature reflects a broad consensus on the need to protect property owners from the exploitative practices of squatters.
The issue of squatting extends beyond residential properties, affecting Florida’s substantial boating community and other areas. Incidents of squatters occupying derelict boats and overtaking structures on islands known for drug use have underscored the widespread nature of this problem.
With the signing of this law, Florida takes a firm stance against squatting, setting a precedent for other states grappling with similar issues. The new regulations promise a more secure and just environment for property owners, affirming the state’s dedication to upholding the rule of law and the rights of its citizens.