MO HB222

Extends the period before unoccupied newly constructed residential property must be assessed as improved real property from the second year to the fourth year following completion of construction.

Allows assessors to determine occupancy through personal verification or when any two of four conditions are met: occupancy permit issued, deed transfer filed, utility service transfer verified, or address change registered with government office.

Requires assessors to use occupancy permits, building permits, warranty deeds, utility documents, and other official records to identify newly constructed properties, with utility companies mandated to provide monthly verification to assessors.

Permits owners to appeal assessments completed after the annual appeal deadline in the following year to the county board of equalization and pay taxes under protest without penalty.

Allows counties to elect adoption of these provisions, with participating counties authorized to deposit up to ten percent of newly constructed residential property tax collections into assessment funds for collection costs.