Recently, there has been growing attention in New York and across the United States regarding the controversy surrounding “squatter’s rights,” which has prompted a proposal by Republican legislators in New York State to amend laws so that squatters are not treated as tenants. Brian Kavanagh, Chairman of the Housing Committee of the New York State Senate, expressed to the media his commitment to understanding and taking action to clarify this issue.
Senator Kavanagh of New York State attended a town hall meeting in Lower Manhattan where he addressed questions regarding “squatter’s rights.” He stated in an interview with The Epoch Times, “Squatters are not considered tenants under current laws, and we are working to clarify and take action on this issue. According to existing laws, individuals who unlawfully enter properties can be removed.”
“We have seen reports that are causing confusion, and we will use legal means to take action and clarify,” Kavanagh added.
Kavanagh noted that there have been disputes related to this issue over the years, and that the state legislature will attempt to enact legislation so that when squatters appear in court, judges can clearly state to them, “Under current laws, you do not have the right to enter.” This aims to alleviate landlords’ confusion about their property rights and ensure that such disputes are handled properly.
“The current laws in New York State do not grant individuals who enter properties without permission such rights,” Kavanagh emphasized. “Some disputes labeled as squatter issues are actually problems between tenants and landlords, which do not fall under squatter rights but rather tenant rights. Eviction with the court’s approval is the only way to remove a tenant; property owners cannot expel tenants by changing locks or disposing of their belongings.”
Regarding how to differentiate between squatters and tenants in court, Kavanagh stated, “We are contemplating ways to expedite the resolution of this issue.”
“We are a nation governed by the rule of law, so some procedures (legislation) will be necessary. However, those who trespass in homes do not have tenant rights, and we will clarify this matter. I sympathize with property owners who do not have the right to stay on their own premises; they should have that right,” Kavanagh concluded.
Kavanagh further assured, “We will ensure that the laws are clear, and believe that the current laws align with the interests of property owners. We will also take action to address this issue.”