IN SB0466

Tax sale certificate purchasers may enter vacant or abandoned properties they hold certificates for to abate nuisances, comply with unsafe building laws, or address ordinance violations, even before the redemption period expires or a tax deed is received

Purchasers at foreclosure sales must record the deed with the county recorder within 60 days, with potential civil penalties for non-compliance deposited into the county general fund for abandoned property purposes

When a mortgagor surrenders property in writing during bankruptcy proceedings or directly to a mortgagee, the mortgagee becomes responsible 30 days later for abating nuisances, complying with local ordinances, and addressing unsafe building conditions

Mortgagees are personally and jointly/severally liable for abatement expenses on surrendered properties and must record their interest or the quitclaim deed within 60 days of receiving the property

Mortgagees who fail to meet their responsibilities may face additional civil penalties determined by the local legislative body, and the definition of "owner" in unsafe building and nuisance statutes is expanded to include responsible mortgagees