Bill > HB4467

This bill introduces several new legal provisions aimed at addressing unauthorized property occupation and related fraudulent activities in Texas. The legislation modifies the Penal Code and Property Code to create new criminal offenses and provide property owners with enhanced mechanisms to remove unauthorized occupants. Specifically, the bill establishes two new criminal offenses: first, making it a Class A misdemeanor to present false or fraudulent documents to gain unauthorized entry to a property, and second, creating a first-degree felony for knowingly listing, advertising, selling, renting, or leasing residential real property without legal title or authority. Additionally, the bill establishes a new chapter in the Property Code that allows property owners to request sheriff assistance in removing unauthorized occupants under specific conditions, such as the property not being publicly accessible, the owner having directed the occupant to leave, and the occupant not being a current tenant or family member. The process involves submitting a detailed complaint form under penalty of perjury, after which the sheriff can verify the claim and serve a notice to vacate. The bill also includes provisions protecting property owners from certain liability during removal and allowing wrongfully removed individuals to seek legal recourse. The new provisions will take effect on September 1, 2025, and apply only to offenses committed on or after that date.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4467