Bill > S3613

This bill criminalizes the unlawful occupancy of dwellings. It defines "dwelling" as a structure or part thereof intended for residential use, and "forcibly enters" as an entry involving physical force or manipulation of locks. The bill makes it a fourth-degree crime to forcibly enter an uninhabited or vacant dwelling without the owner's permission, with the intent to take up residence or provide residency to another. It also makes it a fourth-degree crime to take up residence in an uninhabited or vacant dwelling without the owner's permission, unless the person provides a valid written rental agreement. Additionally, the bill makes it a fourth-degree crime for a person to reenter a property after the owner has recovered possession of it through a court order, without the court's authority or the owner's permission.