Bill > SB195

This bill creates new legal provisions to address unauthorized occupancy of dwellings and fraudulent property transactions in Pennsylvania, establishing three key criminal offenses. First, unlawful possession of a dwelling becomes a third-degree felony, which occurs when someone knowingly enters or remains in a dwelling, occupied building, or unoccupied building with intent to commit a crime, or causes $1,000 or more in property damage. Second, the bill expands perjury provisions to include knowingly presenting false documents like lease agreements or deeds with intent to improperly occupy a property. Third, fraudulent sale or lease of residential real property becomes a second-degree felony when someone lists or advertises property for sale or rent without legal title or authority to do so. The bill also creates a new procedure for property owners to quickly remove unauthorized occupants, allowing them to file a sworn affidavit with local law enforcement requesting removal of individuals who are not tenants, have no lease, and are not immediate family members. The process includes specific notice requirements, protections for law enforcement against liability, and potential civil penalties for wrongful removal. The new law aims to provide property owners with clearer legal mechanisms to address squatters and prevent fraudulent property transactions, while also establishing criminal penalties for such actions.