The proposed bill, known as the Stop Squatters Act, aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new article that provides property owners with a limited alternative remedy to remove unauthorized individuals from residential and commercial properties. Under this act, property owners or their authorized agents can request the immediate removal of unlawful occupants by law enforcement, provided specific conditions are met, such as the property not being open to the public and the unauthorized individuals not being current or former tenants or immediate family members. The law enforcement agency is required to conduct preliminary fact-finding before serving a notice to vacate, and property owners who submit false complaints may be held liable for damages.

Additionally, the bill establishes criminal offenses and penalties for unlawful occupancy and intentional property damage. Individuals who unlawfully occupy a property and cause damages under $1,000 will face misdemeanor charges, while those causing damages exceeding $1,000 will be charged with a felony. The act also criminalizes the presentation of false documents related to real property and the fraudulent sale or lease of properties without legal authority, with corresponding penalties for each offense. Overall, the Stop Squatters Act seeks to enhance property rights and provide legal recourse for property owners facing unauthorized occupancy.

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