Treasure Coast Sun

U.S. Congressman Brian Mast has introduced the Service Member Residence Protection Act, a bill aimed at shielding service members from squatters' rights laws and preventing costly legal disputes. The legislation addresses the unique housing challenges faced by military personnel due to frequent relocations and prolonged absences.

Service members often leave their homes vulnerable to illegal occupation by squatters during deployments. The proposed legislation seeks to alleviate the stress associated with evicting such individuals upon returning home.

"I can’t think of many things worse than finally coming home after a tour of duty, only to find a trespasser camped out," stated Rep. Brian Mast. "There’s plenty to worry about when you get home, evicting someone shouldn’t be on the list."

The bill proposes an amendment to the Servicemembers’ Civil Relief Act (SCRA), introducing a provision that exempts service members' residences from constraints imposed by squatters' rights. These rights vary by state but generally allow trespassers to claim ownership if a property is open, unoccupied, and continuously occupied by them. Legal intervention is typically required for eviction, which can be challenging or impossible during deployment.

By amending the SCRA, the bill aims to provide housing security and financial protection for military personnel against legal barriers involved in evicting squatters. It emphasizes defending military members' residences from unauthorized occupants while they are serving their country.