Florida Strengthens Property Rights Against Squatters with New Laws

New Anti-Squatting Laws in Florida

• 🏛️ Governor DeSantis has signed two new bills aimed at strengthening property owners' rights against squatters, expanding protections beyond private residences.
• 🎯 The new laws extend anti-squatting measures to commercial properties, hotels, and motels, addressing what was seen as a loophole in previous legislation.

Key Provisions of the New Bills

• ⚡ SB 322 allows commercial property owners to submit a form to a local sheriff for expedited removal of unlawful occupants.
• 🏨 SB 606 empowers police to remove or arrest individuals at hotels after a written notice for failing to check out and refusing to pay.
• ⚠️ Supporters believe these measures will streamline the eviction process and prevent exploitation, while some lawmakers expressed concern about potentially exacerbating homelessness.

Impact and Implementation

• 🗓️ Both bills are set to take effect on July 1st of the current year, positioning Florida as having some of the strongest anti-squatting laws.
• 💰 A separate provision, effective July 1st, 2026, will increase transparency on restaurant bills regarding credit card fees, service charges, and gratuities.

State Budget and Tax Measures

• 📊 Lawmakers have reached an agreement on the state budget, including a $2.2 billion reduction in spending.
• 📉 This reduction is achieved through measures like a $320 million cut in sales taxes and the removal of the business rent tax, rather than property tax reductions.
• 📚 Major budget allocations include approximately $16 billion for K-12 education, $6.5 billion for higher education, and $17.5 billion for healthcare.

Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday

• 🛍️ The annual disaster preparedness sales tax holiday is currently on hold pending the final budget passage.
• ⏳ It is expected to be rescheduled for later in the year, likely after Memorial Day weekend, with a secondary holiday around Labor Day.