Statewide anti-squatting bills supported by Shreveport City Council

The council unanimously approved a resolution Monday that supports three bills filed at the Louisiana Capitol.

House Bill 262 by Representative Tammy Phelps would change the term “squatter” to “adverse possessor.” House Bill 512, introduced by Representative Phelps, would establish the crime of criminal blighting.

Senate Bill 189, introduced by Senator Sam Jenkins, would establish the Louisiana Land Bank Authority, enabling local authorities to acquire and manage properties and issue bonds for financing purposes.

The council’s resolution stated that Phelps and Jenkins both represent the inner city of Shreveport and asked the Louisiana legislature to pass their bills in order to address the city’s ongoing issues with squatters.