ATLANTA — A bill that would give property owners more rights who are dealing with squatters has reached its final hurdles after Gov. Kemp signed the act into law on Wednesday.
The Squatter Reform Act would give property owners more rights to evict those who have illegally taken possession of a home. For years, many have said squatters have had more rights than those who actually own the property.
"It's very frustrating for people that are having this happen. I mean, we have had laws on the book like a lot of other states have had," Gov. Kemp said. "The problem is the squatters have figured out ways to circumvent the law, either because local appointed judges are not moving the process along, which has been a problem in our state."
11Alive has previously spoken to some homeowners who have shared their own personal struggles with squatters.
Hampton Oaks Homeowners Association President Mel Keyton previously said squatters had plagued his community, and at one point, 18 homes had been taken over illegally.
“What’s happening is the people get companies to buy the property for them, and when they can’t afford it, they move out, so then the squatters move in,” Keyton said.
Recently, a Cobb County property owner's home was overtaken by squatters after he passed away. The home, which is listed for $600,000, belonged to Brittany Peterson's father-in-law, Michael.
"About a week ago, a man showed up at the home with a U-Haul," Brittany said. "He broke into the back door and changed the lock," Brittany.
Kemp told news reporters on Wednesday after signing the act that it would increase penalties for squatters and help speed up the time frame to help get the individuals out of the house.
"But, giving the property owners the ability to go after the squatters who work here -- going after their pocketbook just like these homeowners are getting hit, so I'm excited to have signed that bill earlier," Gov. Kemp said.
The latest bill signing comes after a busy week of the governor signing bills related to education, tax cuts and healthcare. The governor also signed a set of bills supporting military families and spouses alongside the squatters bill on Wednesday.
According to the bill's text, it will "become effective upon its approval by the Governor or upon its becoming law without such approval."