Erie County Times

The Senate Judiciary Committee today advanced Senate Bill 1236, a piece of legislation aimed at codifying Pennsylvania case law to provide more certainty for landlords, law enforcement, and homeowners encountering squatters. The bill's sponsor, Sen. Dan Laughlin (R-49), announced the development.

“The growing and pressing issue of squatters unlawfully taking over residential homes is a problem that is becoming increasingly prevalent in our communities,” said Laughlin. “Homeowners, who have invested their hard-earned money and emotions into their properties, often find themselves entangled in a lengthy, complicated and costly process to remove these unauthorized occupants. This situation not only causes financial strain but also significant emotional distress.”

Laughlin highlighted that in states like New York, any occupant who has been in possession of a premises for thirty consecutive days or longer is granted tenancy rights. This means that even if possession was not obtained legally from the owner, the occupant would be considered a tenant and formal eviction procedures would be necessary to remove them.

Under current Pennsylvania law, such squatters are considered trespassers once the landowner warns them they are not welcome and instructs them to vacate the property. If they remain without license or privilege, they commit the offense of defiant trespass.

SB 1236 seeks to address inconsistencies and lack of clarity in how different states handle squatter concerns by establishing clear guidelines within Pennsylvania. The bill aims to clarify the legal status of squatters and streamline the process for removing them from residential properties.

“By codifying existing Pennsylvania case law, Senate Bill 1236 aims to provide more certainty and clarity for homeowners, landlords and law enforcement officials when dealing with trespassers,” Laughlin stated. “This legislation is not just about removing trespassers; it is about restoring peace of mind to our citizens and ensuring their property rights are respected and upheld.”

For more information on this development or other state-related news, constituents can visit Sen. Laughlin’s website at www.senatorlaughlin.com or follow him on Facebook and Twitter @senatorlaughlin.

Contact: David Kozak

717-787-8927