NEW YORK – A new piece of legislation passed in the New York State Budget clarifies the distinction between squatters and tenants , offering new options for homeowners dealing with squatters .
Bill aims to reinforce New York laws against squatters
A bill passed in the New York State Budget that aims to reinforce existing laws against squatters.
It was proposed by State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, a Democrat who represents Southern Brooklyn and Staten Island.
“I thought it was irresponsible to pass any housing policy without addressing this issue,” she says.
The legislation essentially clarifies a legal distinction between squatters and tenants .
“This will give homeowners their homes back, and give our District Attorney the ability to charge squatters with burglary,” she adds.
Spanton’s office says she introduced a more comprehensive bill in the Senate last month that adds squatting to the definition of criminal trespass. That bill is still being reviewed.