A Georgia lawmaker has introduced legislation to close a loophole in state squatter laws that allow long-term hotel guests to squat in extended-stay hotels illegally.
House Bill 183, The Innkeeper Reform Act, would redefine extended-stay hotel guests who refuse to leave after their reservation expires as trespassers rather than tenants.
“The current law has enabled bad actors to exploit hotel policies, turning extended-stay accommodations into de facto apartments and forcing business owners into lengthy and expensive eviction proceedings,” state Rep. Devan Seabaugh, R-Marietta, said in a statement. “We’ve seen too many cases where hotel owners and managers are left powerless against individuals who refuse to leave, costing businesses thousands in unpaid fees and legal expenses. This bill ensures that extended-stay hotels operate as intended—temporary lodging—not a loophole for squatting.”
Under Georgia law, traditional tenants are afforded eviction protections under the state’s landlord-tenant code. However, extended-stay hotels operate under innkeeper agreements meant to provide short-term housing.
Some guests claim tenant rights after staying beyond a certain period, forcing hoteliers to go through the formal eviction process rather than remove them as trespassers. The Innkeeper Reform Act would clearly define those who remain beyond their reservation or payment period as unauthorized occupants.
The change would give hotel owners the legal backing to remove them swiftly. Law enforcement would also be able to act immediately in such cases, preventing drawn-out eviction battles.
“This is not about targeting those in need—it’s about stopping abuse,” Seabaugh said. “We must ensure that businesses aren’t being taken advantage of financially under the guise of tenant protections. Georgia needs strong, clear policies that protect property owner rights and prevent abuse while keeping our economy strong – this bill does just that.
The legislation is supported among Georgia’s hospitality industry, which has long sought clarity on the issue,” Seabaugh added. “The Georgia Hotel & Lodging Association has voiced strong support for the measure, arguing that it will help prevent fraud and abuse while protecting hotel employees from confrontational incidents. Law enforcement officials have also backed the bill, saying that it will eliminate confusion when responding to disputes between hotels and overstaying guests.”
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