SB 968
Clarifying registration and purchaser requirements for tax-abandoned land auctions
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed Senate
- Passed House of Delegates
- 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 and qualification criteria for bidders, including a history of compliance with code enforcement and failure to comply with raze or repair orders. The bill also outlines procedures for selling unsold land without further auctions if it remains unsold after a public auction or if a previous sale was not redeemed. Finally, it allows the Auditor to rescind purchases if a bidder is later found ineligible.
Key provisions
- Potential bidders must register in advance with the Auditor’s office and meet specific eligibility criteria.
- Bidders with a history of noncompliance with code enforcement or failure to comply with raze/repair orders are ineligible.
- Entities must demonstrate proper registration with the Secretary of State.
- The Auditor can rescind purchases if a bidder is found ineligible after the auction.
- Unsold land can be sold without further auction to adjacent landowners, municipalities, county commissions, the West Virginia Land Stewardship Corporation, or other willing buyers.
- A licensed attorney can be engaged to conduct title examinations, with costs potentially reimbursed by the purchaser.
- Potential buyers must demonstrate authorization to conduct business in West Virginia.
- The Auditor can promulgate rules to implement the provisions of the bill.
Who is affected
- Tax lien purchasers
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