Streamlining of tax deed purchases approved

The procedure for purchasing tax deeds will be streamlined under a bill passed by the Legislature March 1.

LB370, introduced by Lexington Sen. John Wightman, eliminates the ability of county treasurers to issue tax deeds without a public sale. The ability to begin foreclosure of the tax certificate to gain ownership is not affected.

The bill clarifies the notification process to ensure property owners have enough time and information to address past-due taxes. Before a tax deed can be purchased, the county government must:
• provide notification to the property owner on the status of his or her property and the procedure to rectify the situation;
• deliver notification in-person either by county sheriff or an authorized process server; and
• allow property owners an additional 45 days to pay a past-due tax bill.

Senators passed the bill on a 48-1 vote.