Bill > HB10

This bill creates a new legal process in Kentucky for property owners to quickly remove unauthorized occupants (squatters) from their real property. The bill allows a property owner to request a law enforcement officer to immediately remove a person who is unlawfully occupying their property, provided several specific conditions are met, such as the occupant never being a tenant, not having a prior agreement to be on the property, and not being an immediate family member of the owner. The property owner must complete a detailed petition form verifying their ownership and the circumstances of the unauthorized occupation. Law enforcement officers who assist in removing such occupants will be granted immunity from criminal and civil liability. The bill also defines "squatter" in state law and expands criminal mischief statutes to specifically include damage caused by squatters, making such actions punishable as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the amount of property damage. Importantly, the law provides a mechanism for an improperly removed person to bring a civil action if they believe they were wrongfully evicted, which can result in restoration of property possession and potential monetary damages. The bill aims to provide property owners with a more streamlined legal process to regain control of their property from unauthorized occupants while also protecting the rights of those who might be mistakenly removed.

Justice

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/25RS/hb10.html