Legislation sponsored on March 25 by U.S. Rep. Brian Mast (R-FL) would defend the residences of United States active-duty military members from trespassers and squatters while they serve the nation.
The Service Member Residence Protection Act, H.R. 2334, would ensure active-duty military personnel do not face obstacles if they must evict individuals who illegally trespass or squat in the housing they own while they’re on a prolonged absence, relocation, or deployment.
“I can’t think of many things worse than finally coming home after a tour of duty, only to find a trespasser camped out. There’s plenty to worry about when you get home, evicting someone shouldn’t be on the list,” said Rep. Mast. “My bill defends service members, puts their interest first, and stops government protection for squatters invading their homes.”
If enacted, H.R. 2334 would amend the Servicemembers’ Civil Relief Act to add a provision that would free service members’ residences from squatters’ rights constraints. Varying by state, squatters’ rights generally allow trespassers to claim ownership of a property if it is open, unoccupied, and their stay is continuous, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Mast’s office.
As service members’ residences are already vulnerable to trespassers, the bill would provide housing security and financial protection from the legal barriers required to evict squatters, the summary says.
H.R. 2334 has been referred to the U.S. House Veterans’ Affairs Committee for consideration.