The "Stop Squatters Act" amends existing West Virginia law to address issues related to squatting on residential and commercial properties. The bill redefines "squatter" as an unauthorized person occupying a property without a rental or lease agreement and clarifies that squatters are not entitled to the same eviction protections as lawful tenants. It establishes a process for property owners to request the immediate removal of squatters by law enforcement under specific conditions, such as the property not being open to the public and the owner having directed the unauthorized occupants to leave.

Additionally, the Act introduces penalties for unlawful occupation and damage to property, categorizing offenses based on the extent of damage caused. It also creates a civil cause of action for wrongful removal and outlines penalties for individuals who knowingly submit false complaints or engage in fraudulent property transactions. The law aims to streamline the removal process for property owners while ensuring that law enforcement actions are protected under certain immunities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 55-3D-1, 55-3D-2, 55-3D-3, 55-3D-4
Committee Substitute: 55-3C-1, 55-3D-1, 55-3D-2, 55-3D-3, 55-3D-4
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 55-3C-1, 55-3D-1, 55-3D-2, 55-3D-3, 55-3D-4
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 55-3C-1, 55-3C-2, 55-3C-3, 55-3C-5, 55-3C-6