HB 5526
Clarifying Purchaser Requirements for Tax Abandoned Land Auctions by the Auditor
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill clarifies the requirements for individuals and entities purchasing tax abandoned land at auctions held by the West Virginia Auditor. It establishes stricter registration criteria for potential bidders, including a review of past payment history, code compliance, and legal proceedings related to properties. The bill also outlines procedures for selling unsold land without further auctions, prioritizing adjacent landowners, municipalities, and the West Virginia Land Stewardship Corporation. Finally, it provides a mechanism for the Auditor to rescind purchases if a bidder is later found ineligible.
Key provisions
- Establishes stricter registration requirements for potential bidders, including review of past auction payments and code compliance.
- Prohibits bidding on behalf of ineligible individuals or entities.
- Allows the Auditor to deregister or refuse registration to bidders with a history of noncompliance.
- Outlines a process for selling unsold tax-foreclosed land without further auctions.
- Prioritizes adjacent landowners, municipalities, and the West Virginia Land Stewardship Corporation in land sales.
- Requires domestic and foreign entities to register with the Secretary of State.
- Provides a mechanism for the Auditor to rescind purchases if a bidder is later found ineligible.
- Authorizes the Auditor to promulgate rules regarding auction procedures and eligibility.
Who is affected
- Tax lien purchasers
- West Virginia Auditor’s office
- County governments
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