TX HB4031

Creates a new criminal offense of "squatting" under Texas Penal Code Section 30.08, classified as a state jail felony, for knowingly occupying another person's property without effective consent from the owner or authorized occupant

Allows property owners, their agents, or authorized tenants to submit a sworn written complaint to the county sheriff requesting immediate removal of unauthorized occupants from residential property

Requires the sheriff to serve written notice of the complaint to the unauthorized occupant, who then has 3 days to provide evidence (such as a lease agreement or proof of rental payments) disputing the complainant's right to removal

Mandates that if the occupant fails to provide sufficient evidence within 3 days, the sheriff must immediately serve a notice to vacate, arrest the occupant for the squatting offense, and restore possession to the property owner or authorized tenant

Takes effect September 1, 2025