This bill amends various sections of Minnesota Statutes concerning the taxation and distribution of excess proceeds from the sale of tax-forfeited property. It mandates that counties notify interested parties about potential excess proceeds and establishes a public auction process for these properties. New definitions, such as "interested party" and "minimum bid," are introduced, along with procedures for repurchasing properties before public sale, distributing auction proceeds, and claiming surplus proceeds. The bill also stipulates that iron-bearing stockpiles, minerals, and mineral interests will be sold to the state for a nominal fee, allowing interested parties to claim any excess value.
Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of the commissioner of revenue and county auditors in the repurchase process, requiring applications for repurchase to be submitted before the sale date. It mandates that county auditors provide receipts for payments made during repurchase and certify the completion of purchases to the commissioner of revenue. The bill appropriates $1,537,000 from the general fund to the commissioner of natural resources for fiscal year 2025, with the same amount set as a base for future years. The new provisions regarding notifications will take effect the day after final enactment, while changes related to forfeitures will apply to those occurring after December 31, 2023.
Statutes affected: Introduction: 281.23, 282.01, 282.08
1st Engrossment: 281.23, 282.08, 282.241
2nd Engrossment: 281.23, 282.01, 282.241, 282.301