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Bill

HB 1019

Land banks; authorize counties and municipalities to create to convert certain property to productive use.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Earle Banks

Mississippi bill would empower counties and cities to establish land banks for acquiring and redeveloping abandoned or blighted properties into productive community uses.

Died In Committee
#countyaffairs #municipalities
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Bill Summary · HB 1019

Legislative bill overview

HB 1019 would authorize Mississippi counties and municipalities to establish land banks—entities designed to acquire, manage, and redevelop abandoned, tax-delinquent, or blighted properties. Land banks would have the legal authority to take control of such properties and convert them into productive uses, such as affordable housing, green spaces, or economic development projects.

Why is this important

Blighted properties drain municipal resources, reduce property values in surrounding areas, and create public safety hazards. Land banks are a proven tool used in dozens of states to revitalize distressed neighborhoods, increase tax revenue, and address housing shortages by removing barriers to property acquisition and development. For Mississippi communities struggling with abandoned properties, this could unlock economic development opportunities.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights concerns: Some may oppose granting government entities broad authority to acquire private property, even if tax-delinquent, without sufficient due process protections
  • Funding mechanism unclear: The bill's success depends on how land banks would be funded and sustained; unclear revenue sources could limit practical effectiveness
  • Implementation burden: Counties and municipalities may lack capacity or funding to establish and operate land bank programs, potentially creating unfunded mandates

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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