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TX HB414
Bill
Status
11/12/2024
Primary Sponsor
Terri Leo-Wilson
Click for details
AI Summary
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Creates new Class A misdemeanor offense for knowingly presenting false, fraudulent, or fictitious documents (such as fake leases or deeds) to enter or remain on real property
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Establishes first-degree felony offense for knowingly listing, advertising, selling, renting, or leasing residential property without legal title or authority to do so
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Allows property owners or their agents to request immediate sheriff removal of unauthorized dwelling occupants by filing a sworn complaint, bypassing traditional eviction court proceedings
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Increases criminal mischief penalties to second-degree felony for $1,000-$300,000 in damage to a habitation when committed during criminal trespass
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Provides liability protections for sheriffs and property owners during removal process, while allowing wrongfully removed persons to sue for actual damages, triple fair market rent, court costs, and attorney's fees
Legislative Description
Relating to the unauthorized entry, occupancy, sale, rental, lease, advertisement for sale, rental, or lease, or conveyance of real property, including the removal of certain unauthorized occupants of a dwelling; creating criminal offenses; increasing a criminal penalty; authorizing a fee.
Property Interests
Last Action
Referred to Trade, Workforce & Economic Development
2/28/2025