The bill H.646, introduced by Representative Satcowitz, aims to empower municipalities in Vermont to impose an annual fee on properties deemed uninhabitable. This fee will be assessed based on the greater of one percent of the property's appraised value or $5,000, and it will be due on the same date as property taxes. The bill outlines that the fee applies only to properties that have been officially classified as uninhabitable by designated municipal officials and that have not been maintained or repaired within 30 days of this determination. Additionally, property owners who subsequently repair or maintain their uninhabitable properties may request an abatement of a portion of the fee.

To facilitate the implementation of this bill, the Commissioner of Public Safety, in consultation with the Commissioner of Health, is tasked with publishing guidance and model rules for municipal determinations of habitability by November 15, 2026. The bill also amends existing laws to clarify the roles of municipal officials in determining habitability and establishes a framework for municipalities to adopt rules governing this process. Key provisions include criteria for determining habitability, notice requirements to property owners, and an administrative appeals process. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 20-2736, 24-2291, 24-1535