continue Illegal occupations surge nationwideState Rep. Craig Lipscomb introduced a bill in the Alabama Legislature that would prevent squatters from taking over homes and private property. On Thursday, both the Alabama House and Senate approved the bill, which now needs to be signed into law by Gov. Kay Ivey.

“Our county's larger cities and metropolitan areas have recently seen a surge in squatters attempting to live rent-free on property they do not own and to which they have no legal title or access,” said Sen. Lipscomb (R-Gadsden).

“This legislation provides strong protections for Alabama property owners to protect them from this epidemic and ensure they do not fall victim to this unfortunate national trend.”

RELATED: Alabama House passes bill to protect homeowners from squatters

The bill increases penalties for individuals who unlawfully enter homes they do not own and creates a new offense for those who break into a structure and cause damages of more than $1,000.

According to HB 182, the crime is classified as a Class C felony, which carries a penalty of one to 10 years in prison in Alabama.

The bill also increases penalties for falsely presenting a binding lease, deed, or other instrument granting ownership or occupancy rights. Violation of the law can be a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $6,000.

Austin Shipley is a staff writer for Yellow Hammer News.