Author: Danielle Antosz

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently signed two new laws protecting commercial property owners from squatters.

These laws are part of the state’s broader effort to crack down on unauthorized occupancy and strengthen private property rights.

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Florida passed legislation to help homeowners deal with squatters last year. But the new measures extend similar protections to business owners, including those who operate hotels, motels, restaurants and retail storefronts.

“It’s a big win for the hotel industry, hospitality industry as a whole,” Gil Reyes, regional general manager for the Westin Sarasota, told Fox 13 News. “We are excited about this bill and what it does. It protects the hotels and innkeepers.”

How the new laws protect commercial property owners

Senate Bill 322 speeds up the process for removing squatters from commercial properties. It also gives law enforcement more authority to act quickly, allows owners to recover their spaces without long legal battles and safeguards against financial losses and property damage caused by squatters.

At the same time, Senate Bill 606 specifically targets the hospitality industry. It clarifies that guests can’t claim residency after overstaying their welcome at hotels or food establishments, helping prevent drawn-out disputes that previously tied the hands of business owners.

One recent case in Sarasota highlighted this challenge. A woman refused to leave the Westin Sarasota, despite causing disturbances in both the pool and dining area.

“She had a lot of erratic behavior …. We asked her to leave. She kept coming back,” the hotel manager said in Florida Cop Cam footage. But the situation escalated to the point where police were called in.

The new laws aim to make situations like that easier to resolve, without the need for weeks of legal wrangling or uncertainty.

Governor DeSantis framed the legislation as a defense of economic stability and property rights.

“You’re either paying or you’re not and if you’re not, it shouldn’t evolve into some major landlord-tenant dispute … I think this is something that will be really good for our economy. Property rights are really important. If you don’t have private property rights, you cannot have a free society,” he said at a press conference.

State Representative Peggy Gossett-Seidman, who helped push the issue forward, added, “They run under the radar, because we didn’t have the teeth in the statutes to try and remove them in all cases.”

Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt Hoffman agreed, noting the disruption caused by unauthorized occupants.

“Those folks are trying to make money, pay their employees, pay their rent. Many times we would come in there and find the facilities destroyed,” he said at the press conference. “Having that language in there that defines what ‘transient’ is makes it easier for my deputies to go out and get these folks out.”

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Is squatting a true issue?

While squatting has made headlines in states such as New York and California, its true scale remains unclear. According to an informal survey by the National Rental Home Council (NRHC), cities in Georgia, Florida and Texas have more squatters than any other metro areas.

The survey reported 1,200 squatters in Atlanta, 475 in Dallas-Fort Worth and around 125 in Orange County, Florida.

While there may be little documentation proving the exact number of occurrences, viral videos and high-profile incidents have played a big part in sparking a wave of legislation.

“Some people will make the argument that this is a very rare occurrence. But I think if it happens once or twice, it’s unacceptable,“ New York Democratic State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton once said. “Just seeing the cases that we’ve seen over the last couple of months in the news is reason enough to move forward with legislation.”

Florida joins a growing list of states taking legislative action. New York, Alabama and California have each proposed or passed bills to curb squatting, especially when it affects homeowners or small landlords. Still, some housing advocates worry the laws could be misapplied.

There’s the potential for new laws to be interpreted incorrectly and be applied to legal tenants who can’t make rent, which could actually worsen housing insecurity — which is a valid concern.

Even so, Florida’s new laws reflect mounting public pressure to act and the desire among lawmakers to respond swiftly.

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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Three people are facing multiple charges after Florida law enforcement officials busted a massive skimming operation in Hernando County, reports FOX 13.

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement (OALE) began an investigation after U.S. Customs and Border Protection confiscated a shipment of illegal skimming devices headed to the home of Yunior Juan Camacho in Spring Hill, Florida.

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The skimming devices — which fit over card-swiping devices at ATMs and cash registers — steal sensitive information, allowing fraudsters to clone cards and make unauthorized purchases.

Camacho and two other associates were reportedly taken into custody on multiple felony charges after OALE, Homeland Security and the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at Camacho’s home.

"This was a very large ring, and so we’re very proud to get this one busted up immediately," Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson told FOX 13.

‘This is going to help us get a much larger network’

Agents reportedly discovered a wide range of devices when they served the warrant on Camacho’s home, suggesting a sophisticated criminal network was in the works. According to authorities, the search uncovered:

• 354 suspected counterfeit payment cards
• Over 150 digital storage devices
• 17 illegal skimming devices
• Electronic components used in skimming schemes
• $47,350 in cash

Investigators also impounded a 2022 Ford F-350, which contained illegal fuel tanks believed to be part of a diesel fuel theft operation. In addition, officials found 17 gaffs — sharp instruments that are commonly associated with cockfighting — adding another potential layer of felony charges to the case.

All three suspects are now facing multiple felony counts for possession of skimming devices, possession of equipment used for animal fighting and trafficking in counterfeit goods.

"This is something that we have worked very hard on the last two years," said Commissioner Simpson. “And we’ve had many busts like this around the state, [but] not to this magnitude. Very proud of that. This is going to help us get a much larger network.”

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How to protect yourself from skimming devices

While skimming can happen anywhere, it’s most common at gas stations and standalone ATMs because they are less likely to be monitored or inspected.

Thankfully, there are several steps you can take to protect yourself from falling victim to skimming fraud:

• Take a close look at the card reader: If it appears loose, crooked or feels too thick, don’t use it. Tug on the reader and if it moves out of place, find another option.
• Check for hidden cameras: Criminals often place tiny cameras near keypads to obtain your PIN. Look for anything that looks out of place; pinhole cameras can be very small.
• Use tap-to-pay: When possible, use the tap-to-pay option. These replace physical card readers and can thwart would-be scammers.
• Run your debit card as a credit card: While not foolproof, it can help protect your PIN.
• Use well-lit or indoor readers: Avoid gas pumps or ATMs in dark or less-trafficked areas, as these are easier for criminals to tamper with.
• Cover the keypad when typing your PIN: Always fully cover the keypad when entering your PIN. This can block cameras from gaining access to your account.
• Check your accounts regularly: Keeping a close eye on transactions can help you spot and report fraudulent activity faster, improving your chances of recovering losses.

The FBI estimates that consumers and banks lose more than $1 billion every year to skimming. As fraudsters get more sophisticated, keeping a sharp eye and using tap-to-pay whenever possible can help protect your finances.

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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

When Jen Gressett’s 18-year marriage ended in 2018, she didn’t just need a new place to live — she needed a fresh start. But after selling her 3,000-square-foot home near Boulder, Colorado, she found that traditional housing options were simply out of reach financially.

So she got creative. Inspired by the tiny home trend she’d seen on social media, Gressett decided to build her own compact dream home from the ground up.

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Today, she lives in a 520-square-foot luxury tiny home on wheels parked in someone’s backyard. Her $725 monthly housing cost covers rent, utilities, internet and water — a far cry from the expense of her previous home. While downsizing was initially a daunting idea, it’s now what she says makes her feel more content than ever.

“When I lived in the bigger house, I’d constantly buy things that I never ended up using,” she told CNBC. “They took over drawers and spare closets. Our basement looked like a junkyard.”

How less space leads to less stress

Like many people considering a downsized lifestyle, Gressett was initially overwhelmed by the idea of getting rid of most of her belongings. Her biggest fear? Not having enough room.

But she quickly learned that much of what she owned wasn’t actually serving her.

“I had a walk-in closet full of clothes and shoes, but I realized I only wore about 30% of them,” she said.

She donated eight large trash bags full of items and felt immediate relief. Since then, she’s changed her mindset. If something doesn’t have a designated place in her home, she simply doesn’t buy it.

That shift also changed how — and where — she shops. Gressett used to rely heavily on Amazon. Now, she makes a conscious effort to buy locally, cutting down on packaging waste and supporting small businesses. She’s even shrunk her trash output dramatically: from wheeling out a dumpster-sized bin every week to managing with just a 13-gallon kitchen trash can and an equally small recycling bin.

Despite the limited space, her home still supports the lifestyle she loves. The kitchen is the largest part of the house and includes clever built-ins like pull-out cabinets and hidden compartments. It’s where she cooks homemade pasta with her kids and entertains friends — up to five at a time.

And cleaning? It now takes less than an hour.

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Want to go tiny? Here’s what to consider

Gressett’s lifestyle works for her — but that doesn’t mean a 520-square-foot home on wheels is right for everyone. Before downsizing consider:

• Your family size and lifestyle: If you have kids or live with a partner, think about how much private space you’ll need. Will everyone be able to work, sleep and unwind comfortably?
• Your hobbies and work setup: Are you a remote worker like Gressett, who uses her dining table as a desk? Or do you need a dedicated office space?
• Your storage needs: Downsizing requires a major purge. Ask yourself if you’re ready to part with items that may have sentimental value or long-term utility.
• Your budget and goals: Tiny homes can be cost-effective in the long run, but up-front costs (like Gressett’s $175,000 build) can be steep. If you’re renting a tiny home, factor in location and amenities.

Smaller homes generally mean lower utility bills, less maintenance and reduced consumption too. Gressett’s $725 monthly housing cost is drastically lower than the average rent in Boulder, which hovers around $2,300 — saving her more than $1,500 a month. Over time, those savings add up.

And it’s not just the rent. By limiting impulse shopping, she’s been able to cut back on unnecessary spending — boosting her savings and peace of mind at the same time. Downsizing is as much a mental shift as a physical one. For Gressett, it’s been a pathway to gratitude, simplicity and independence. Her advice to anyone curious about tiny living?

“Start by asking yourself where you spend most of your time, and focus on that first.”

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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

Imagine you’re a diligent parent who, haunted by your own student debt, maxes out a 529 college savings plan for your kids every year to afford a pricey private college.

Then life veers off script: Your kids picked more affordable in‑state schools, graduated early and even received help from a generous grandparent.

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Two decades later, the 529 still bulges — largely from investment gains. Cashing out for non‑education expenses would trigger ordinary income tax plus a 10 % penalty on the earnings portion, according to the IRS.

Now, you’re asking the same question many savers face: How much is too much to save for your kids’ college, and what are your options if you overshoot?

Here’s what you need to know about 529 plans and what to do with what’s left over.

What are 529 plans and how do they work?

A 529 plan is a tax‑advantaged investment account specifically for education costs. Anyone can open one and name a beneficiary (like a child, grandchild or even yourself). There are typically two types of 529 accounts:

• Savings and investment plan: You save money in a 529 investment account. Growth is tax-free if used for qualifying expenses. This is the most flexible plan, as it can be used for K-12, college and apprenticeships.
• Prepaid tuition plan: This plan locks in today’s tuition rates, usually for in-state, public colleges, and is less flexible.

There are several benefits of a 529 plan, including tax breaks and the ability to control investment options. You can also switch the beneficiaries of a 529 investment plan, too. For example, you can change it from yourself to your child, and then your niece or nephew, depending on how you plan to use the funds.

However, there are also a few drawbacks. If you pull the money for non-educational expenses, you’ll pay income tax plus a 10% penalty on the earnings. There is also some market risk. If the market crashes when your kids head to college, you could end up with less cash than expected.

And there’s a chance you won’t need all the funds. So, what happens if there is money left over? There are a few ways to use it.

First, you can save money and pull it out during your own retirement. Your income will be lower, so you’ll pay less income taxes. You will still pay the 10% penalty, but remember, that is only on growth. Other options include:

• A Roth IRA rollover: Under SECURE 2.0, up to $35,000 of a 529 (held at least 15 years) can migrate to the beneficiary’s Roth IRA, subject to annual IRA limits and income requirements.

• Other qualified training: Graduate school, trade programs, student‑loan repayment (up to $10,000 per lifetime) or even qualified international study count, too.

• Changing the beneficiary: Swap the account to cover college costs for another child in your family — a niece, nephew or even a grandchild down the line. Or, switch it to yourself and get that pottery certificate in Tuscany you’ve always dreamed of. (Just make sure it’s eligible first.)

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How to make the most of 529 plans — and avoid common mistakes

Consider using these strategies to hit the sweet spot — big enough to cover most costs, but small enough to sidestep penalties and wasted growth.

Set a realistic target

Estimate the cost of four years at your state university, then add a small cushion (maybe 20 %). Adjust annually as tuition data updates. If your child ends up choosing a pricier school, you can cash‑flow the gap, apply for aid or take out student loans. This will prevent over-saving and give you more flexibility to save more for retirement or finance other goals.

Coordinate with relatives early

Ask grandparents and other family members if they plan to pay directly or fund their own 529 plan. It can be tough to have these conversations, and people may not know yet how much — or if — they can contribute. However, starting the discussion early can help you balance savings.

Time your contributions

Front‑loading (saving more when your children are very young) can turbocharge growth and reduce the risk of overfunding if plans change. Revisit the goal each year and decide how much is right to contribute. By high school, for example, you might realize your child is likely to attend a trade school, so you may readjust your contributions.

Limit risk as you get closer to graduation

Consider reshuffling the portfolio during each year of high school to mitigate risk. That locks in gains and shields you from a late‑cycle crash. Much like moving to reduce risk as you get closer to retirement, this helps protect your funds before you need them.

Know your escape plan

Even with careful planning, you could end up oversaving. Make sure you have a plan now for where the funds will go. Leftover funds can be rolled to another relative, converted to an IRA for your kids, pay for your own training or used to bolster your retirement savings.

Aim for moderation when funding a 529; save enough to cover a solid in‑state education, keep other savings on track and stay flexible. That way, you won’t end up with a tax headache when those Ivy League dreams turn into a state school reality.

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Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.

A man in Warren, Michigan, now has to walk to work after a Memorial Day high-speed car chase ended in a crash that totaled his only vehicle.

The incident began as a routine traffic stop, when the driver of a Chrysler 300 was pulled over for a tinted window violation. At some point the driver took off and led police on a dangerous car chase before smashing into Rick James’ 1991 Jeep Wrangler and crashing into a nearby porch.

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“It was a loud crash — loud, big bang,” James told WXYZ Detroit. “I don’t have money to buy another one. It took me 10 years to put this one together.”

James said he did all the restoration work on his Jeep and it was his only mode of transportation. Now, he’s forced to walk to whevever he needs to be.

The driver of the Chrysler 300 — a 25-year-old man with no license who police believed to be intoxicated — fled when officers attempted to stop him near 9 Mile Road. Moments later, he crashed into James’ Jeep, which was parked on the road just outside of his home.

Public questions high-speed car chase tactics

James’ Jeep wasn’t the only local victim of a police chase that weekend. Just two days earlier, a separate pursuit in Warren ended in tragedy when a fleeing driver crashed into a car at 9 Mile Road and Van Dyke Avenue, killing 71-year-old Wendy Drew.

The back-to-back incidents have raised community concerns about the Warren Police Department’s pursuit tactics. However, police say their policies strike the right balance between enforcing the law and protecting public safety.

“The loss of Ms. Drew has reverberated throughout this department,” said Warren Police Commissioner Eric Hawkins during a press conference. “I privately expressed my condolences to this family and publicly let them know our thoughts and our prayers are with them.”

Still, Hawkins defended the department’s approach, noting that officers have discretion in initiating chases and that a supervisor monitors each pursuit. While Warren has seen more than 60 pursuits this year, officials say the number is trending downward and most have followed department policy.

“The message has to be clearly sent that this is not a police problem; this is a people problem,” said Hawkins. “People who have refused to comply with lawful orders.”

But residents like James are not convinced.

“I think their tactics are very wrong,” said James. “I think they can do much better.”

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Who is liable for damage caused by a police chase?

For innocent bystanders like James, the damage from a police chase is more than just a personal inconvenience — it’s a financial blow with murky legal options.

In Michigan, the law generally protects officers and police departments from liability for damage that occurs during high-speed pursuits, unless the offending officer’s actions rise to the level of gross negligence — which is a higher legal standard than ordinary carelessness. Gross negligence means the officer acted with reckless disregard for public safety.

In James’ case, because the suspect’s vehicle — not the police cruiser — hit his Jeep, the city is likely not liable for the damages. In most cases where police are not directly involved in the collision, victims must file claims with their own insurance provider. Even then, reimbursement can be tricky.

Callender Bowlin, a law firm that specializes in auto accidents, explains that if the at-fault driver is uninsured or lacks assets, you could be left relying on your own insurance coverage or facing out-of-pocket costs.

“In cases where the suspect directly causes damage to your vehicle during a pursuit, they are typically held liable,” the firm notes on its website. “However, this process is not always straightforward.”

Uninsured suspects or stolen vehicles can make collecting compensation difficult. In those cases, your best route may be through your uninsured motorist coverage — if that coverage is part of your auto insurance policy.

The Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority (MMRMA), which covers many local police departments, has historically paid out large settlements for the most serious accidents. However, the MMRMA also endorses shielding police officers from civil lawsuits tied to high-speed pursuits unless they were grossly negligent.

So, what can you do if your property is damaged during a police pursuit? Here are a few key steps to take:

1. File a police report immediately, documenting the incident.

2. Contact your insurance provider, even if you think the damage might not be covered.

3. Ask the police department for information about the pursuit and the suspect(s) for possible civil action.

4. Consider speaking with an attorney, especially if your damages are significant and your insurance denies the claim.

What to read next

• Financial aid only funds about 27% of US college expenses — but savvy parents are using this 3-minute move to cover 100% of those costs
• Here are the 6 levels of wealth for retirement-age Americans — are you near the top or bottom of the pyramid?
• Here are 5 ‘must have’ items that Americans (almost) always overpay for — and very quickly regret. How many are hurting you?
• How much cash do you plan to keep on hand after you retire? Here are 3 of the biggest reasons you’ll need a substantial stash of savings in retirement

Money doesn’t have to be complicated — sign up for the free Moneywise newsletter for actionable finance tips and news you can use. Join now.

This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.