Bill H.72, introduced by Representative Satcowitz, aims to enhance municipal authority regarding the regulation of public nuisances related to the accumulation of rubbish, scrap, junk, or abandoned vehicles. The bill allows municipalities to adopt ordinances that extend the enforcement authority over these nuisances, thereby enabling local governments to address properties that pose a threat to public health and safety. Key provisions include the establishment of a new definition for "unauthorized salvage yard," which refers to any outdoor storage or processing of junk without proper certification, and the ability for municipalities to impose civil penalties for violations, with fines reaching up to $800. Additionally, the bill outlines that unpaid civil penalties will create a lien on the property, similar to tax assessments.

The bill also introduces several amendments to existing laws, including the addition of grants for soil testing and cleanup for foreclosed properties, and the ability for municipalities to regulate salvage yards more strictly than state laws if they choose. It specifies that municipalities can determine what constitutes a public nuisance and mandates that property owners be notified before penalties are imposed. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-6618, 24-2201, 24-2241, 24-2246, 24-2282, 24-2291