FL S0566

Clarifies that a transient occupant must be unable to produce government documentation showing the property address on record within the previous 12 months, rather than simply not using the address with any government agency.

Establishes that transient occupancy terminates when the occupant begins residing elsewhere, surrenders the key, or leaves when directed by law enforcement, the property owner, or a court, and that mere presence of personal belongings does not extend occupancy.

Requires the party entitled to possession to allow former transient occupants to recover personal belongings within 10 days of occupancy termination under reasonable conditions, with ability to impose additional conditions if the former occupant has a history of violence, drug/alcohol abuse, or misconduct.

Allows the property owner to presume abandonment of personal belongings if not recovered within a reasonable time, with provisions to extend or shorten the recovery period based on circumstances such as perishable items, poor condition of belongings, or significant impairment to dwelling use.

Authorizes former transient occupants to bring civil actions for damages or recovery of property if unreasonably denied access to belongings, with courts required to award prevailing parties reasonable attorney fees and costs.