The proposed legislation, General Assembly Raised Bill No. 5367, aims to streamline the process for property owners to remove unauthorized individuals from residential properties. Effective October 1, 2026, the bill defines "unauthorized person" as someone who enters or remains on a property without the owner's consent. It establishes a procedure whereby property owners or their authorized agents can request the immediate removal of such individuals by the local police department, provided certain conditions are met. These conditions include the property not being open to the public at the time of entry, the unauthorized person not being a tenant or immediate family member, and the absence of any pending litigation regarding the property.

To initiate the removal process, the property owner or agent must submit a signed affidavit along with valid identification or proof of authority to act on behalf of the owner. The affidavit must certify various details, including the unauthorized person's unlawful presence and the owner's ownership of the property. Upon verification, the police department is required to serve a notice to vacate to the unauthorized person and may take further action, including arrest for trespassing if necessary. Additionally, the bill allows individuals to pursue civil action for wrongful removal, enabling them to recover damages and legal costs if they are wrongfully evicted.