A bill that would partially repeal Pennsylvania’s “squatters’ rights” will reach the governor’s desk after a brief impasse.
Under a law that will soon come into force, squatters could be charged with trespass if they fail to leave despite being ordered to do so by the owner.
Republican Sen. Dan Laughlin of Erie, the bill’s lead sponsor, said doing so would allow them to protect their homes and investments quickly and effectively without unnecessary red tape.
“This escalation strikes at the heart of justice and fairness” and could pose a security threat, he said.
Laughlin said one such incident in his district involved fires started by squatters that burned down two homes and damaged two more.
“This is just one example of the personal and emotional challenges faced by countless families and individuals who find their homes and investments at risk,” he said.
“Under the current legal framework, too many property owners are suffering and at risk from a system that does not fully protect their rights or their homes.”
The Senate passed it unanimously. invoice The bill passed the House of Representatives on June 12 and followed suit Tuesday, but some lawmakers said it doesn’t go far enough to protect homeowners.
Rep. Donna Schuelen, a Republican from Gilbertville, said on the floor that she planned to vote for the bill, even though it does not include an amendment that would give law enforcement the power to evict squatters on the spot.
“This issue seems to be infuriating reasonable people across the state, and as legislators, I feel it is our duty to continue working on common sense solutions that prioritize homeowners’ rights over criminals,” she said.
