HB 1893 Summary

• Creates the "Abandoned and Neglected Properties Rehabilitation Act" establishing a framework for municipalities to address abandoned and neglected properties that have not been legally occupied for 12 months and meet specific deterioration criteria.

• Authorizes municipalities to bring court actions to gain possession and control of abandoned properties, with owners having the right to defend by submitting rehabilitation plans and posting bonds equal to 125% of projected rehabilitation costs.

• Allows municipalities to designate qualified rehabilitation entities to manage properties, borrow funds for rehabilitation with court-approved liens, and eventually sell properties with proceeds distributed according to a priority system (governmental liens, rehabilitation loans, then owner).

• Permits owners to petition for reinstatement of control after one year if they meet conditions including paying all municipal liens, providing completion plans, and posting maintenance bonds.

• Establishes special tax sale procedures for abandoned properties on municipal lists, allowing municipalities to set bidder eligibility criteria and minimum bids lower than amounts owed to ensure properties are rehabilitated consistent with public interest.