Texas Senate Bill SB1333

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/18/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 3/31/25
• Voted on by Senate: 4/15/25

Caption

Relating to the unauthorized entry, occupancy, sale, rental, lease, advertisement for sale, rental, or lease, or conveyance of real property, including the removal of certain unauthorized occupants of a dwelling; creating criminal offenses; increasing a criminal penalty; authorizing a fee.

Impact

The bill will impact existing state laws related to property rights and landlord-tenant relationships. By allowing property owners to summon law enforcement to remove unauthorized occupants more efficiently, it addresses growing concerns about squatting and unauthorized use of properties. The introduction of new criminal offenses and penalties serves to discourage fraudulent activities related to real estate transactions and elevated trespassing incidents, thereby enhancing overall property security for owners.

Summary

SB1333 introduces significant changes to the management of unauthorized entry, occupancy, and control of real property in Texas. It includes provisions for increasing criminal penalties for unauthorized occupancy and establishes a clearer procedure for property owners to remove unauthorized occupants. This legislation aims to simplify the process for homeowners and landlords when dealing with unlawful entries, while ensuring that law enforcement has the authority to enact swift removals of these occupants.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1333 appears to be generally supportive among property owners and those advocating for stronger property rights. Proponents argue that the bill provides necessary tools for landlords to protect their investments and maintain control over their properties, which is particularly relevant in a growing housing market. However, there may be reservations from civil rights groups and tenant advocates who view the bill as potentially favoring property owners excessively, possibly undermining tenant rights and protections against wrongful eviction procedures.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise concerning the bill's provisions allowing swift removal of occupants deemed unauthorized. Critics of the bill fear that this process could lead to abuses, where individuals may be wrongfully ousted from their residences without sufficient safeguards against false accusations. The requirement for property owners to follow a structured complaint process before removal is an attempt to mitigate these concerns, yet critics worry that the true effectiveness of this measure remains untested in practice.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Penal Code

• Chapter 32. Fraud
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• Chapter 28. Arson, Criminal Mischief, And Other Property Damage Or Destruction
  • Section: New Section
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