Squatters should have no right to take over the homes of those who defend our country.

During a House Veterans Affairs Subcommittee hearing, I asked witnesses from the Department of Defense if they see squatters occupying service members' homes as something that would negatively impact troop readiness, and ultimately, national security. Unfortunately, not one witness could answer or would offer support for our troops who face this legal nightmare.

As an Army veteran who has faced the difficult transition home after deployment, I can’t imagine anything more infuriating than returning home from service to find a trespasser living in my home. Sadly, this is a reality for many. That’s why I introduced the Service Member Residence Protection Act.

My bill amends the Servicemembers’ Civil Relief Act (SCRA) to cut through red tape and give servicemembers the power to evict squatters quickly. This would override conflicting state laws so our service members can focus on their mission, not legal battles at home.

I was shocked and disappointed to hear the Department of Defense didn’t have a clue as to the risk this issue causes to our military readiness and national security. If our service members are put under financial distress or have to face lengthy court proceedings just to remove a stranger from their home, they can’t focus on the mission at hand: defending the homeland. 

States like Florida have already taken action to end squatter protections but I won’t stop until this bill is signed into law and our service members across the country are supported with the resources they need. 

Watch the full interaction here: