Montgomery, AL – On Monday, Governor Kay Ivey took a decisive step towards bolstering homeowners’ rights with the signing of House Bill 182, sponsored by Rep. Craig Lipscomb. The new legislation aims to provide stronger protections for property owners against squatters who unlawfully occupy their residences.
Acknowledging the significance of one’s home as their sanctuary, Governor Ivey emphasized the necessity for proactive measures amidst a concerning national trend of illegal property occupations. She stated, “It has been said that a person’s home is their castle, yet after a national rise in illegal occupations of homeowner’s private property, it is apparent that more must be done to halt criminals from commandeering people’s homes.”
The essence of the new law lies in its multifaceted approach. Firstly, it imposes penalties for the falsification of real estate documents, a crucial deterrent against fraudulent activities that facilitate squatting. Secondly, the legislation establishes a streamlined process, overseen by local law enforcement agencies, for the swift removal of individuals unlawfully dwelling in residential properties without authorization.
In her remarks, Governor Ivey underscored Alabama’s staunch commitment to upholding private property rights as paramount. She affirmed, “In Alabama, private property rights are paramount. This new law puts would-be squatters on notice that any attempt to hijack and take over someone’s home will be met with swift action by law enforcement.”
Furthermore, Governor Ivey emphasized the imperative of ensuring swift justice for offenders, asserting that the most suitable residence for illegal squatters is behind bars. She reiterated the obligation of state government to remain vigilant in safeguarding the rights of all Alabama homeowners.
Effective June 1, 2024, the anti-squatting law heralds a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to fortify homeowners’ rights and preserve the sanctity of private property in Alabama. Governor Ivey’s decisive action reflects a commitment to proactive governance aimed at addressing pressing societal concerns and safeguarding the interests of citizens.
