In Houston, Texas, the sound of construction activity ringing out from a house on the 6300 block of Costa Mesa brings relief to long-time resident Jethro Cooper.
The residence in southwest Houston had remained vacant for years, becoming a magnet for teenagers after school, squatters, and ultimately, a site of fire damage, becoming an eyesore for the community.
Expressing gratitude for the efforts to draw attention to the issues surrounding the property, Cooper acknowledged involvement, stating, “Now, since you brought it to their attention, they’re doing something about it.”
However, Cooper recognizes that addressing one house’s repair needs is just a small step in tackling the larger problem of neglected or squatter-occupied homes that blight neighborhoods.
“We need help,” he emphasized, citing stalled efforts to have the house demolished and the temporary relief provided by driving out squatters and other undesirable occupants.
State Senator Paul Bettencourt, representing Houston, has taken up the cause, spearheading an initiative in the Texas Senate aimed at reforming the state’s squatter laws.
Currently, squatter situations in Texas are typically treated as civil matters, making it difficult to remove squatters without undergoing the cumbersome eviction process. Additionally, stringent property rights laws in Texas contribute to the challenge of demolishing abandoned or dilapidated homes.
Bettencourt has acknowledged widespread reports of such issues across the state, including those highlighted by over the past year.
“We’re going to put this all together and fix it,” Bettencourt vowed.
To this end, a hearing is scheduled in Austin on Wednesday, with the intention of passing bills in the next legislative session to facilitate the removal of squatters by enhancing criminal penalties and empowering law enforcement with more effective tools.
Riana Sherman, one of the victims of squatting previously profiled by , expressed support for potential legislative changes, emphasizing the need to assist those affected by such situations.
The Texas Legislature is slated to reconvene in January, and updates on the progress of any reforms to the state’s squatter laws will be provided.
