TRENTON, NJ — Assemblyman Michael Torrissi Jr. has introduced Bill A731 in response to a growing national issue of squatters unlawfully occupying homes.
This legislation aims to criminalize squatting, which is currently not recognized as a criminal act, forcing property owners to undergo legal processes for eviction.
Bill A731 emerges as a countermeasure to the increasing cases where families return from vacations or trips to find their homes occupied by squatters, and incidents where squatters take residence during property transactions. Torrissi emphasizes the need for urgent action to protect homeowner rights and to halt these invasions of privacy.
“Squatters have been exploiting legal gaps, causing distress to homeowners,” stated Torrissi. “Bill A731 is a step forward in ensuring such acts are met with legal consequences.” The proposed bill intends to simplify the eviction process by introducing three new criminal offenses related to unlawful property occupancy, making squatting a crime of the fourth degree.
Torrissi highlights the legislation’s dual purpose: to empower law enforcement in dealing with squatting incidents and to provide homeowners with a more direct route to reclaim their properties. “This bill will equip police with necessary tools to address squatting, benefiting communities and homeowners alike,” he added.