Austin, Texas — On August 14, 2025, Governor Greg Abbott enacted two new laws aimed at enhancing property rights and combating squatting issues in the state. The Governor held a ceremonial signing of Senate Bill 38 and Senate Bill 1333 at the Texas Capitol, where he emphasized the importance of safeguarding homeowners’ rights amid a rising trend of unlawful occupancy.
“Private property rights are a cornerstone of our Texas values,” Governor Abbott stated, addressing the ongoing squatting crisis that has left many property owners struggling to reclaim their land. The newly enacted legislation aims to provide more efficient processes for eviction and support homeowners facing these challenges.
Attending the event were key figures including House Speaker Dustin Burrows, Senators Bryan Hughes and Paul Bettencourt, and Representatives Angie Chen Button and Jeff Leach. They were joined by prominent business leaders, such as Glenn Hamer, CEO and President of the Texas Association of Business, and Greg Sindelar, CEO of the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
Senate Bill 38, authored by Bettencourt and Chen Button, seeks to streamline the eviction process by defining venue requirements and establishing clearer timelines for legal proceedings. Notably, the new law stipulates that any trial related to eviction must occur within 21 days of a petition being filed.
Senate Bill 1333, introduced by Hughes and Leach, enhances the authority of sheriffs and constables to act swiftly when property owners report unlawful squatting. This legislation also increases penalties for criminal mischief related to trespassing and addresses unauthorized real estate transactions involving properties not legally owned.
The Governor’s office aims for these new laws to provide a rapid and efficient means for homeowners to regain control of their properties, ensuring that their rights are upheld in a landscape where property disputes have become increasingly common.
As these measures take effect, stakeholders from various sectors, including law enforcement and the property management industry, will be closely monitoring their impact on squatting trends in Texas.
The legislation has sparked discussion about the balance between property rights and the challenges posed by unlawful occupants, raising questions about the effectiveness of such laws in addressing a growing concern.
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