The bill amends the General Property Tax Act of 1893, specifically sections 78g and 78q, to enhance the procedures for property forfeiture and redemption due to unpaid taxes. A significant change is the introduction of a $175 fee for properties forfeited to the county treasurer, which will be allocated for the administration of the foreclosure process. The bill also clarifies the timeline for property owners to redeem their properties, allowing redemption up to 29 days after a foreclosure judgment, and mandates that the county treasurer issue a redemption certificate upon payment.

Additionally, the bill establishes a payment reduction program for properties with unpaid taxes, enabling reductions under specific conditions, such as tax exemptions. It outlines the participation process for local governments, requiring written notice for inclusion in the program. The bill further allows for the creation of delinquent property tax installment payment plans for financially distressed individuals and introduces tax foreclosure avoidance agreements that county treasurers can enter into for up to five years, contingent on certain conditions. These amendments aim to provide greater support for property owners while ensuring effective tax collection by local governments.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 211.78