Florida Governor Ron DeSantis took a strong stance against illegal occupation of homes by signing HB 621 into law. The new legislation provides homeowners with remedies to swiftly address squatters on their properties and increases penalties for those who participate in this type of criminal activity.
“We are ending the squatter scam in Florida,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “While other states side with squatters, we protect homeowners and punish criminals who seek to game the system.”
Attorney General Ashley Moody praised the new law, stating, “Florida is once again leading the nation, this time in protecting our state from squatters.”
Under HB 621, property owners can request authorities to immediately remove or evict illegal occupants if specific conditions are met, including trespassing, failure to leave the property after being ordered to do so, and not being a current or former tenant involved in a legal dispute.
The governor’s office emphasized that the new law will streamline the process for homeowners to regain possession of their homes, avoiding costly delays, litigation, and back rent payments.
Additionally, HB 621 introduces severe penalties for individuals engaged in illegal occupation and those who facilitate it. The law is set to go into effect on July 1, providing Florida residents with enhanced protections against squatters.
With the signing of HB 621, Florida is taking a significant step towards safeguarding homeowners’ rights and combating illegal occupation of properties.