Bill > HB4223

This bill introduces new legal provisions addressing unauthorized property occupation and related fraudulent activities in Texas. The bill modifies the Penal Code and Property Code to create stricter criminal penalties for individuals who fraudulently enter, advertise, sell, rent, or lease residential real property without legal authority. Specifically, it establishes two new criminal offenses: presenting false documents to enter property (a Class A misdemeanor) and fraudulently listing or selling property without legal title (a state jail felony). The bill also creates a new chapter in the Property Code that allows property owners to request sheriff assistance in removing unauthorized occupants under specific conditions, such as when the property was not open to the public and the occupant has been asked to leave. The removal process involves a detailed complaint form that the property owner must submit, with potential legal consequences for making false statements. The sheriff can serve an immediate vacate notice, verify identities of occupants, and even remain on the property to help the owner change locks and remove personal property. Importantly, the bill provides protections for property owners while also establishing potential legal recourse for individuals who are wrongfully removed. The new provisions aim to streamline the process of removing unauthorized occupants and deter fraudulent property-related activities.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4223