California AB 897

Existing law establishes a summary proceeding, known as a forcible entry, forcible detainer, or unlawful detainer action, as specified, that a person in lawful possession of real property must follow in order to remove a person who unlawfully occupies that property. This bill, the Remove Illegal Squatters from Private Property Act, would make a person guilty of unlawful squatting when they enter upon the land or premises of another and reside on that land or premises for any period of time, knowingly acting without the knowledge or consent of the owner, rightful occupant, or an authorized representative of the owner. The bill would require a law enforcement agency that receives a complaint of a violation of these provisions to issue a citation and would provide a means for the person to show lawful entry on the land or premises. If court determines that the documentation showing lawful entry is improper or fraudulent, the bill would make the violation punishable by removal, specified fines, and as a misdemeanor. By increasing duties of local law enforcement and creating a crime, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that, with regard to certain mandates, no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason. With regard to any other mandates, this bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs so mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.