HB4311 Summary

• Creates a new expedited civil procedure in the Code of Civil Procedure to allow property owners to remove "unauthorized persons" (squatters) from vacant or uninhabited residential premises without prior agreements or consent.

• Defines unauthorized persons as occupants without current or prior written/oral agreement with the owner, excluding relatives, those from whom rent was accepted, or those previously given permission to occupy.

• Requires property owners to file a verified motion with the court, which must be heard within one court day, with service to defendants at least 24 hours before the hearing.

• Mandates sheriffs enforce removal orders within 24 hours of receipt by removing occupants from the premises and ordering them to stay away or face arrest for criminal trespass.

• Allows defendants to appear and contest their classification as unauthorized persons at the hearing; establishes penalties including sanctions, contempt charges, and perjury prosecution for false statements in verified motions.