TX HB3518

Creates a new criminal offense (Class A misdemeanor) for presenting false, fraudulent, or fictitious documents purporting to be a lease, deed, or other instrument conveying real property interest with intent to enter or remain on the property

Establishes criminal penalties for fraudulently listing, advertising, selling, renting, or leasing residential property without legal title or authority—Class A misdemeanor for advertising, state jail felony for completing a sale, rental, or lease

Increases criminal mischief to a second-degree felony when property damage of $1,000 to $300,000 occurs to a habitation during commission of criminal trespass

Creates an expedited process for property owners to remove unauthorized occupants (squatters) by filing a sworn complaint with the county sheriff, who must verify ownership and serve notice to vacate without requiring traditional eviction proceedings

Allows unauthorized occupants 3 days to submit an affidavit contesting removal, which triggers a nonjury trial in justice court; provides civil remedies for wrongful removal including actual damages, exemplary damages equal to three times fair market rent, court costs, and attorney's fees