The use of redemption contracts is not permitted on tax foreclosed residential property which has been vacant for at least 6 months in municipalities in Jackson County. The bill also bars the sale of tax foreclosed property to persons who owe delinquent property taxes on other property within the same county. Some procedures for sheriff's sales are specified. Violators of zoning ordinances are subject to increased fines and to imprisonment. Ten days in jail may be imposed for violations.
Current law limits jail time to willful violations.
The bill also modifies the Department of Health lead abatement program in accordance with federal requirements. The program is expanded to include day-care centers and other facilities visited regularly by children under 6 years old. If a child has been identified with a dangerous blood-lead level, the department or a licensed local representative may inspect a facility and, if the presence of a lead hazard is confirmed, notify parents or guardians and require the owner to eliminate the hazard. Children may not be denied attendance because of an elevated blood-lead level or suspected lead poisoning or because of any action required of the owner. Decisions by the department to restrict, revoke, suspend, or deny licenses may be appealed to the Administrative Hearing Commission.