Virginia House Bill HB414

Virginia 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/24
• Refer: 1/8/24
• Report Pass: 1/26/24
• Engrossed: 1/31/24
• Refer: 2/2/24
• Report Pass: 2/14/24

Caption

Land records; recording and indexing fees.

Impact

One significant aspect of HB 414 is its potential to streamline the process of recording and indexing transactions related to real estate, making it easier for both citizens and commercial entities to engage with land-related documentation. The revisions aim to not only ensure fair compensation for clerks’ services but also make these processes more accessible and user-friendly. Additionally, the bill proposes certain tax exemptions for specific types of conveyances which might affect the financial implications of transactions for certain entities, such as non-profit organizations and educational institutions.

Summary

House Bill 414 aims to revise existing statutes related to land records, specifically focusing on recording and indexing fees within the state of Virginia. The bill includes provisions that establish new guidelines for the fees that clerks of circuit courts can charge for various services related to land transactions, emphasizing the need to update these fees in light of current economic conditions and administrative expenses. By refining the fee structure, the bill seeks to enhance the efficiency and transparency of land record management in Virginia.

Contention

The discussion around HB 414 has been marked by debates on the adequacy of the proposed fee structure and the types of transactions that should be exempt from taxation. Some stakeholders have expressed concern that the amendments may impose a financial burden on individuals engaging in low-income or non-profit real estate transactions. Advocates for the bill, however, argue that these changes will ultimately benefit the public by creating a more efficient and transparent system, reducing administrative backlogs and enhancing public access to land records.