The proposed bill introduces the "Stop Squatters Act" to the Code of West Virginia, establishing a framework for property owners to remove unauthorized occupants from residential and commercial properties. It allows property owners or their authorized agents to request immediate removal by law enforcement under specific conditions, such as the property not being open to the public and the unauthorized occupants not being tenants or family members. The law enforcement agency is required to conduct preliminary fact-finding before serving a notice to vacate, and property owners may be liable for damages if they submit a false complaint.

Additionally, the bill outlines criminal offenses related to unlawful occupancy and property damage, categorizing them into misdemeanors and felonies with corresponding penalties. It establishes penalties for intentionally damaging property, presenting false documents related to real property, and fraudulently advertising properties without legal authority. The penalties range from fines and jail time for misdemeanors to significant prison sentences for felonies, thereby reinforcing property rights and deterring unlawful actions in real estate transactions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 55-3D-1, 55-3D-2, 55-3D-3, 55-3D-4