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. Key updates include the introduction of a $175 fee for properties forfeited to the county treasurer, which will support the administration of the foreclosure process. The bill clarifies the timeline for property owners, allowing them to redeem their property up to 29 days after a foreclosure judgment. Additionally, it establishes a payment reduction program for properties with unpaid taxes, offering potential reductions under specific conditions. The deadline for certain provisions related to unpaid property taxes has been extended to July 1, 2030, ensuring that local governments can still collect necessary revenues while providing support to property owners.

Moreover, the bill outlines the creation of delinquent property tax installment payment plans for financially distressed individuals, enabling them to avoid foreclosure if they adhere to the plan. It specifies that properties in local governments that provide written notice of participation will be included in the program, while those that do not will be excluded. The bill also introduces a tax foreclosure avoidance agreement that county treasurers can enter into for up to five years, provided certain conditions are met, and removes the previous deadline of June 30, 2026, for these agreements. This flexibility aims to assist those genuinely in need while ensuring that the county's financial obligations are not compromised.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 211.78