TX HB4299

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

Allows property owners, their agents, or authorized tenants to request that the county sheriff immediately remove unauthorized occupants from residential real property

Requires complainants to submit a written complaint under oath stating they are entitled to possession, someone is occupying without consent, the occupant was directed to leave but refused, and they are requesting sheriff removal

Gives unauthorized occupants 3 days after receiving notice to provide evidence (such as a lease agreement or proof of rental payments) to the sheriff disputing the complainant's right to removal

If no sufficient evidence is provided within 3 days, the sheriff must immediately serve a notice to vacate, arrest the occupant for the squatting offense, and put the owner or authorized person in possession of the dwelling

Takes effect September 1, 2025