AMARILLO, Texas (KAMR/KCIT) — Two Texas laws signed in 2025 are changing how evictions and squatter cases are handled, giving property owners clearer timelines and allowing law enforcement to act faster in some situations.
In August, Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bills 38 and 1333 into law. The legislation focuses on protecting private property rights while keeping the court system involved in most eviction cases.
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Senate Bill 38 streamlines the eviction process by clarifying where eviction cases can be filed and setting consistent timelines for court proceedings. Under the law, courts must hold a trial in eviction cases within 21 days after a petition is filed, creating a more predictable process for landlords and tenants.
Senate Bill 1333 addresses squatter situations. The law allows sheriffs and constables to take quicker action when a property owner submits a sworn complaint stating someone has unlawfully taken possession of their property. It also increases criminal penalties for property damage related to criminal trespass and for engaging in real estate transactions involving property a person does not legally own…