State-forfeited tax lands; limit state agency, municipality, county, or other political subdivision of the state from intervening to quitclaim land after certain period of publication.
The bill mandates that the Secretary of State establish a reserve price for state-forfeited tax lands to be sold in online auctions. This aims to ensure that such lands are not sold for less than their assessed value, thereby protecting the interests of the state and potential buyers. Additionally, the amendments to other sections of the code are meant to create a cohesive framework governing the sale and administration of state-forfeited lands, which can have a significant impact on how these properties are managed and sold moving forward.
House Bill 1160 seeks to amend several sections of the Mississippi Code of 1972, specifically focusing on state-forfeited tax lands. One of the key provisions of the bill is the prohibition of any state agency, county, municipality, or political subdivision from intervening to quitclaim any state-forfeited tax land after a period of fourteen business days from the date of the first notice of publication of an online auction. This change is intended to streamline the auction process and reduce the opportunities for governmental intervention that could disrupt the sale of these lands.
Notable points of contention surrounding HB1160 include concerns from local governments and advocacy groups regarding the implications of restricting their ability to intervene in the sale of tax delinquent lands. Critics argue that this could lead to potential disenfranchisement of local entities trying to reclaim properties for community use. Proponents, however, argue that this change will simplify processes and eliminate bureaucratic delays, making land sales more efficient and equitable for new buyers.
Overall, House Bill 1160 represents a notable shift in how Mississippi handles state-forfeited tax lands. By instituting a more regimented auction and sales process, the bill aims to enhance revenue generation from these properties while addressing some of the inefficiencies currently present in the system. The proposed changes signal a significant restructuring of existing laws that govern the management of real property within the state.