West Montgomery Times

Apr. 02, 2024

HARRISBURG – Rep. Donna Scheuren (R-Montgomery) today introduced the Homeowner Protection and Squatter Eviction Act, aimed at enhancing property owners' rights and safeguards against squatters.

Scheuren's proposed legislation seeks to address the issue of squatting, defined as the unlawful occupation of a property without the owner's consent. The bill includes provisions that would empower law enforcement to promptly remove squatters upon the homeowner's affirmation of ownership, with penalties for false claims. Additionally, it proposes harsher consequences for squatters causing significant property damage, allowing for civil action by property owners, and mandates cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in cases involving illegal immigrants.

In a statement, Rep. Scheuren highlighted the urgency of the matter, citing recent high-profile squatting incidents nationwide that have raised concerns among constituents. She emphasized the need for stronger legal protections for homeowners, referencing specific cases such as the one in Philadelphia where a homeowner resorted to paying squatters to vacate the premises and a tragic incident in New York involving the murder of a woman by squatters.

"This legislation does just that, protecting the rights of lawful property owners, instead of the criminals who are breaking the law," Scheuren remarked.

The Representative is currently seeking co-sponsors for the Homeowner Protection and Squatter Eviction Act, which aims to provide a more robust framework for addressing squatting issues and ensuring the security of property owners.

For more information on the proposal, individuals can visit RepScheuren.com or connect with Representative Donna Scheuren on Facebook at Facebook.com/RepScheuren.

Contact:

Joe Szymanski

Media Contact

jszymanski@pahousegop.com