Georgia squatters have been put on high alert as a new bill sweeping through the state legislature aims to crack down on unauthorized residents. Rep. Devan Seabaugh (R-Dist. 34) from Marietta introduced House Bill 1079 to address what he describes as rampant squatting issues plaguing the state. "If you’re squatting in Georgia, now is the time to leave," Seabaugh declared, signaling a hardline approach to the issue.
The proposed legislation, which cleared the State House of Representatives with unanimous support, is now navigating its way to the State Senate, a report by WSB-TV detailed. Current laws treat squatters similarly to regular tenants in eviction proceedings, but under the new bill, these individuals would have just three days to produce a valid lease or other proof of residency. Without it, they face eviction and potential misdemeanor charges for trespassing.
One homeowner, Ronan McCabe, shared his personal squatting nightmare with FOX 5 Atlanta. After U.S. Marshals arrested a squatter on unrelated charges at his Tucker property, McCabe sold the home. Nevertheless, he expressed solidarity with others trapped in similar predicaments, hoping the bill will resolve these issues expeditiously. "Emotionally, it’s frustrating, it’s scary," McCabe told the station, describing the toll such situations take on homeowners.
Adding to the bill's repercussions, any person found guilty of creating or utilizing forged documents to claim residency could face a more serious felony charge. "We’re going to treat them like criminals," Seabaugh said, as per his relentless stance on the matter. The legislation, dubbed the Georgia Squatter Reform Act, now awaits further consideration by the State Senate's Rules Committee before potentially reaching a full vote on the floor. Meanwhile, reports of companies like "1 Time Payment Homes" advertising access to squatter properties on social media hint at the depth of the issue this bill seeks to eradicate.
