HB484 Summary

• Amends Section 40-10-134 of the Alabama Code to require public auction sales of tax-forfeited lands beginning January 1, 2018, replacing the existing private sale option.

• Mandates the Land Commissioner contract with a nationally recognized auction company by December 31, 2017, and every fifth year thereafter to sell the state's tax lien interest on unredeemed properties.

• Requires the auction company to charge only a contingency fee with all expenses, including advertising costs, borne by the company.

• Mandates 30-day minimum publication of auction details on the Department of Revenue website, with property owner notification that bidders will receive only a tax lien interest, not clear title.

• Distributes auction proceeds equally among state, county, and municipality based on millage composition in the property assessment.