SCS/SB 168 - This act modifies provisions relating to the removal of persons unlawfully occupying property with a residential dwelling through ex parte orders. Specifically, it applies such provisions to property containing a commercial vacant building or property exclusively consisting of vacant land. Additionally, hearings for the ex parte orders shall be held within twenty-four hours, rather than forty-eight hours, of the filing of the verified petition. Furthermore, this act includes procedures for verified petitions filed on evenings, holidays, or weekends.

A violation of an ex parte order for removal of persons unlawfully occupying property covered by this act shall be a class E felony, instead of class A misdemeanor. Additionally, this act provides that the offense of criminal mischief for unlawful detention, occupation, or trespass upon a residential dwelling, commercial vacant building, or vacant land shall be a class E felony, instead of class A misdemeanor.

This act is similar to the perfected HB 2896 (2024) and SS/HB 2062 (2024).

KATIE O'BRIEN

Statutes affected:
Introduced (1340S.01): 534.602, 534.604, 569.200
Committee (1340S.02): 534.602, 534.604, 569.200

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Senate Committee Minutes:
SENATE COMMITTEE MINUTES Bill No.: SB 168
Sponsor: Burger
Hearing Date: 2/11/2025


COMMITTEE: General Laws

CHAIRMAN: Trent

DATE REFERRED: 1/23/2025 DATE HEARING REQUESTED:



STAFF:
Bryce Beal
Victoria Hooker
Scott Svagera


WITNESSES GIVING INFORMATION:



WITNESSES FOR:
Angela Schulte - St. Louis Apartment Association


WITNESSES AGAINST: