Maryland is facing a challenge that strikes at the very heart of what we hold dear — our homes, our neighborhoods and our sense of security. During the 2025 legislative session, I introduced H.B. 202, a bill designed to address the growing problem of squatting. This legislation is a common-sense solution to protect property owners, hold criminals accountable and restore faith in the rule of law.

These are tough times for many families, and life doesn’t always offer easy answers. But there’s one principle we can all agree on: no one has the right to unlawfully occupy someone else’s property. Unfortunately, squatting has become a growing epidemic, in some cases fueled by criminal networks that prey on innocent people with fake leases and counterfeit documents.

I understand that not everyone caught in this situation is a villain. Some people are victims themselves, duped into believing they had a legitimate lease. Sympathy for their plight doesn’t mean turning a blind eye to the rights of property owners. My bill takes a balanced approach: It imposes stronger penalties on those who create fraudulent documents while ensuring those who are unlawfully occupying property face consequences as well.

This issue isn’t theoretical — it’s personal. It affects everyday Marylanders in ways that are heartbreaking and infuriating.

A family in my community recently shared their story with me. They put their home up for sale after moving out of state, believing they’d found a buyer, only to have the deal fall through because a squatter had taken over the property. Now living out of state, the family didn’t even realize what had happened until it was too late. The financial loss was devastating, jeopardizing their plans and their future.

Another neighbor reached out to my office after noticing squatters had moved in next door. Almost overnight, the neighborhood changed — there were safety concerns, noise disturbances and even fire hazards. She no longer felt safe in her own home.

And then there’s the case of a local property owner whose tenant passed away, only to have the tenant’s son — a man she didn’t even know — refuse to leave. By the time she could finally evict him, the damage to her property was a staggering $40,000.

These are not isolated incidents. They are a growing trend, and the impact is felt not just in financial terms but in the erosion of trust and security in our communities.

Unfortunately, this isn’t just a Maryland problem — it’s a national crisis. Across the country, we’re seeing the rise of social media tutorials teaching people how to squat “successfully.” Some even provide fake documents to help scammers deceive others. This is more than troubling; it’s outrageous.

In America, we believe in justice and fairness. And when squatters and fraudsters exploit the system, property owners are left to pay the price. That’s not justice — that’s chaos.

My anti-squatters bill is built on a straightforward principle: We must protect the rights of property owners while holding criminals accountable. Here’s how the bill works:

Cracking down on fraudsters

Those who create fake leases and counterfeit documents will face increased penalties. These individuals are the ringleaders, and they must be stopped.

Deterring criminal behavior

With clear penalties, including fines and jail time, this legislation will serve as a deterrent to anyone contemplating unlawful occupancy of another person’s home. But this isn’t just about punishment; it’s about fairness. The bill also recognizes the plight of those tricked into this situation and ensures they’re treated with compassion while being relocated lawfully.

Let me be clear: This isn’t just about property — it’s about principles. The sanctity of homeownership is a cornerstone of the American dream. When that foundation is shaken, it affects us all.

If we don’t act, the abuse of the legal system will continue. Property owners will remain vulnerable, and the rule of law will erode further. However, with H.B. 202, we have a chance to take a stand.

Together, we can protect Maryland families, restore order to our communities, and send a clear message: In this state, we respect the law, we value fairness and we stand with those who do the right thing. So let’s get to work. Let’s pass H.B. 202 and ensure a brighter, safer future for Maryland. After all, as Americans, we don’t back down from a challenge — we rise to meet it.

Del. Ryan Nawrocki (ryan.nawrocki@house.state.md.us) is a Republican representing District 7A in Baltimore County.