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HB 5522

Relating to the unauthorized occupancy of real property and a credit against the ad valorem taxes imposed on the real property; creating a criminal offense.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Mike Schofield

Texas bill criminalizes unauthorized property occupancy and creates ad valorem tax credits for affected property owners to offset financial losses from squatting.

Referred to Ways & Means
#comptrollerofpublicaccounts(v2608) #civilremedies&liabilities(i0065) #courts--civilprocedure(i0135) #crimes--againstproperty(i0175) #propertyinterests--landlord&tenant(i0610) #propertyinterests--realproperty(i0595) #taxation--property-miscellaneous(i0797)
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Bill Summary · HB 5522

Legislative bill overview

HB 5522 creates a new criminal offense for unauthorized occupancy of real property in Texas and establishes a tax credit mechanism tied to properties affected by such occupancy. The bill allows property owners to claim an ad valorem tax credit against their property tax liability when their real property is subject to unauthorized occupation.

Why is this important

Unauthorized occupancy (squatting) has become an increasingly visible issue in Texas urban areas, affecting property owners' use and enjoyment of their assets. The dual approach—criminalizing the offense while providing tax relief to victims—attempts to address both the enforcement and financial burden sides of the problem, though the tax credit's scope and value remain undefined at this stage.

Potential points of contention

  • Tax credit ambiguity: The bill references a tax credit but doesn't specify the credit amount, calculation method, or whether it's limited by time period or occupancy duration, creating implementation uncertainty
  • Criminal enforcement burden: Establishing a new criminal offense requires clear definitional boundaries between unauthorized occupancy and legitimate tenant disputes, adverse possession claims, or other property access scenarios
  • Property owner verification: The bill doesn't detail how property owners prove unauthorized occupancy or claim the tax credit, potentially creating administrative bottlenecks or disputes with tax assessors

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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