Squatting is becoming the latest social ill to overwhelm American cities during the Biden era, and New Jersey’s municipalities aren’t immune.
Back in January, New Jersey state Senators Doug Steinhardt (R-23) and Michael Testa (R-1) introduced a bill which would outlaw the unlawful occupancy of a dwelling. The legislation was referred to the judiciary committee but has yet to move in the Democrat-controlled chamber.
“I am calling on the Legislature to take immediate action on this bill,” said Doug Steinhardt (R-23). “If someone breaks into a home and begins living there, the property owner should have every right to evict that individual without delay. We can no longer allow people to abuse the system, sometimes for years, and face no consequences.”
Squatting isn’t presently illegal in New Jersey. Consequently, the only present remedy available to property owners is eviction, a process which can take years and cost thousands of dollars as the eviction is litigated.
“Squatting has been an issue in New Jersey for some time, but now there are individuals boasting about how undocumented immigrants can ‘invade’ homes using loopholes in our laws,” added Testa. “By passing this bill, we can start holding the criminals who terrorize homeowners and neighborhoods across New Jersey accountable,” said Testa.
S-725 divides squatting into three subcategories, all of which would be fourth degree crimes: housebreaking, unlawful occupancy, and unlawful reentry. Additionally, it would create a 72 hour plenary eviction alternative to landlord tenant court.
“It can be extremely difficult, time-consuming, and expensive for a homeowner to get their property back when it’s occupied by squatters,” Steinhardt conrinued. “Our legislation would provide law enforcement with new tools to remove squatters quickly and prevent the long-term damage to homes and communities they often cause.”
