HB352 Summary

• Authorizes Class 3 municipalities to file expedited quiet title and foreclosure actions in circuit court for abandoned tax sale properties acquired from the State Land Commissioner.

• Establishes exclusive procedures for the quiet title action, including requirements that municipalities record notice of intent in probate court, erect a 4x6 foot sign on the property for 30 days, and make good faith efforts to identify and locate interested parties.

• Requires municipalities to send hearing notices to identified interested parties at least 30 days before the hearing via both certified and regular mail, with circuit court hearing scheduled within 90 days.

• Circuit court judgment vests fee simple title absolutely in the municipality and extinguishes all liens, redemption rights, and existing interests except easements, deed restrictions, and environmental law restrictions.

• Allows parties 42 days to appeal to the Court of Civil Appeals, with appellants required to post a bond equal to the redemption amount; appeals do not reverse judgment based on merely technical noncompliance.