Lake Havasu City Homeowners Could See Faster Squatter Removal as SB 1426 Heads to Governor Hobbs

New Arizona squatter bill aims to speed up property recovery for homeowners

A bill designed to help Arizona homeowners remove squatters from their property has cleared the legislature and now sits on Governor Katie Hobbs desk. Senate Bill 1426 could change how Lake Havasu City residents and homeowners across the state reclaim occupied property.

The legislation creates a clearer legal pathway for homeowners to identify unauthorized occupants and regain possession of their property without prolonged court delays.

What SB 1426 changes

The bill defines who qualifies as an unauthorized occupant. It specifically excludes tenants, immediate family members, and anyone with a written agreement with the property owner.

For all other cases, SB 1426 allows courts to issue writs of restitution immediately after a judgment. Homeowners would not have to wait for extended court processing to take back their property.

The legislation also directs the Arizona Supreme Court to establish expedited procedures for resolving these cases. Existing protections under Arizona's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act remain in place.

Why lawmakers say it matters

Senator Wendy Rogers, the bill's sponsor, framed the legislation as a property rights issue.

"Private property rights are not a suggestion; they are a cornerstone of our freedoms," said Senator Rogers. "If someone breaks into your home, moves into your property, and refuses to leave, the law should stand with the homeowner, not the unlawful occupant."

Rogers said the bill has been "years in the making" and received support from law enforcement officials who deal with squatter situations daily.

"Arizonans shouldn't have to spend months fighting to reclaim property they already own. SB 1426 cuts through the red tape, closes loopholes that have been exploited for too long, and puts homeowners back where they belong—in control of their property," Rogers said.

What happens next

The bill now awaits a decision from Governor Hobbs. She can sign it into law, veto it, or allow it to become law without her signature.

Lake Havasu City homeowners face squatter risks like any Arizona community. The city's large number of vacation homes and seasonal properties can make it a target for unauthorized occupancy when owners are away.

If signed, SB 1426 would take effect according to the timeline set by the governor's office. Homeowners would gain access to faster court processes for removing unlawful occupants.

The bigger picture

This legislation arrives as the Arizona legislature wraps up its session with several bills heading to the governor's desk. Governor Hobbs has been selective in her recent veto activity, signing some bills while rejecting others on firearms tracking and election rules.

The squatter bill drew broad support in the Senate. Law enforcement groups involved in the legislative process reportedly backed the reforms, according to Rogers.

Lake Havasu City residents will be watching to see whether the governor signs the bill or sends it back to the legislature.