MS HB617

Municipal governing authorities may waive liens for cleanup costs and penalties on properties previously deemed a public menace due to code violations, if collection through ordinary legal process would likely be ineffectual and the waiver would benefit redevelopment efforts

Only new or prospective property owners may apply for lien waivers; the previous owner responsible for the code violations is prohibited from applying

Applicants must submit redevelopment plans, a property appraisal, and purchase documentation showing the price does not exceed appraised value; cleanup work must have occurred at least one year prior to the application

Waivers are conditional: demolition projects must be completed within 12 months, redevelopment within 18 months, and vacant land maintenance must continue for 12 months before the lien release is finalized

Property owners who sell without municipal approval before meeting conditions must pay the original lien amount plus 8% interest and a $1,500 penalty