New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

New Jersey Assembly Bill A3772

Introduced
2/22/24  
Refer
2/22/24  
Refer
6/24/24  
Report Pass
6/24/24  
Engrossed
6/28/24  
Enrolled
6/28/24  
Chaptered
7/10/24  

Caption

Revises process for property tax lien holder to foreclose right to redeem a property tax lien; allows property owner to protect remaining equity.

Impact

The changes brought about by A3772 will have noteworthy implications for state laws governing property tax lien foreclosures. By allowing property owners to demand a judicial sale before final judgments are entered, the bill aims to enhance consumer protections and transparency in foreclosure actions. Furthermore, it aims to reduce instances where property owners lose their homes without a fair opportunity to reclaim their equity. As such, the law aims to strike a balance between facilitating efficient tax collection by municipalities and protecting the rights of individual property owners.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3772 introduces significant revisions to the process by which property tax lien holders can foreclose on the right to redeem a property tax lien. The bill provides specific amendments to existing laws, tailoring the foreclosure procedures in such a way that municipalities and holders of tax sale certificates can take action more efficiently. The goal is to improve the efficiency of tax collections while ensuring that property owners are made aware of their rights during the foreclosure process. Key amendments include the right for property owners or their heirs to request a judicial sale, which is intended to preserve any remaining equity in the property before it is forfeited completely.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding A3772 has been largely positive, particularly among advocacy groups focused on property rights and consumer protection. Proponents believe that the revisions offer much-needed clarity and support for property owners, especially those who may be struggling financially and at risk of losing their homes. However, there are concerns voiced by some financial entities and investors about the potential for increased costs and delays in the foreclosure process as a result of these added protections.

Contention

Some points of contention emerged during discussions of the bill, particularly regarding how these new measures might affect the willingness of third-party investors to engage in purchasing tax liens. Critics of the bill argue that while protecting property owners is paramount, a more stringent process could deter investment in property tax liens, ultimately leading to negative consequences for municipalities that rely on these revenues. The balance between protecting property owners' rights and ensuring an attractive environment for investors remains a critical discussion point in the legislative process surrounding A3772.

Companion Bills

NJ S2334

Same As Revises process for property tax lien holder to foreclose right to redeem a property tax lien; allows property owner to protect remaining equity.

NJ S4142

Carry Over Revises process for property tax lien holder to foreclose right to redeem a property tax lien; allows property owner to protect remaining equity.

Similar Bills

NJ S2334

Revises process for property tax lien holder to foreclose right to redeem a property tax lien; allows property owner to protect remaining equity.

NJ A3135

Creates "Community Wealth Preservation Program"; expands access for certain buyers to purchase property from sheriff's sales.

CT SB01339

An Act Concerning The Assignment Of Certain Liens.

NJ A3306

Concerns expedited process for foreclosing vacant and abandoned residential properties in uncontested actions.

GA SB107

Specialized Land Transactions; protections of homeowners in community associations; provide

CT SB01316

An Act Reducing Interest Due On Certain Delinquent Municipal Property Taxes.

MD HB59

Property Tax – Tax Sales – Revisions

MD SB192

Property Tax - Tax Sales - Revisions