AUSTIN – Texas Governor Greg Abbott on Thursday, August 14, held a ceremonial signing for Senate Bill 1333, a new law designed to speed up the process of removing squatters from private property.

Surrounded by state lawmakers, property owners, and law enforcement officials, Abbott called the measure “a critical step in restoring the rights of Texas property owners” during remarks at the Texas Capitol.

SB 1333 allows property owners to file an affidavit with local law enforcement if they believe someone is unlawfully occupying their property. Under the law, officers can order the alleged squatter to leave immediately, bypassing the lengthy civil eviction process.

The legislation was authored by Sen. Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston) and Rep. Valoree Swanson (R-Spring) and received broad Republican support. Abbott officially signed it into law on June 20, but the ceremonial event was held Thursday to highlight its upcoming rollout.

SB 1333 will take effect statewide on September 1, 2025. Supporters say the law will help curb property crimes and give faster relief to landowners. Critics have warned it could be misused against tenants in legitimate disputes.

Photo credit: Senator Bryan Hughes