SCS/SB 843 - This act makes technical changes throughout state law relating to the sale of delinquent property to satisfy delinquent property taxes. (Multiple sections) Current law requires a parcel located in certain counties to have unpaid taxes for a period of at least two years prior to the county satisfying such delinquent taxes through judicial foreclosure rather than through sale at auction. This act repeals such two year requirement. (Section 140.010 and 141.230) Current law provides for the appointment of county land bank directors by various agencies. This act provides that the appointment of such directors shall be appointed by the county executive pursuant to the county charter. (Section 140.982) This provision is substantially similar to SB 845 (2026). Current law requires a land bank agency to verify that a buyer is not the original owner or relative owner of the property. This act repeals such requirement. (Section 140.987) Current law allows a land bank agency to purchase a parcel of real property only for the purpose of adding to a parcel already owned by the land bank agency. This act repeals such provision. (Section 141.984) This act is identical to SB 1556 (2026) and HB 2898 (2026), and to provisions in CCS/HCS/SS/SCS/SB 973 (2026), SS/SCS/SB 1001 (2026), and SCS/HB 3000 (2026). JOSH NORBERG

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lincoln Hough

SB 843 modifies Missouri's land bank rules governing how cities manage vacant properties for urban revitalization and development purposes.

SCS Voted Do Pass S Local Government, Elections and Pensions Committee (5505S.02C)

Legislative bill overview

SB 843 modifies Missouri's land bank provisions, which govern how municipalities acquire, hold, and manage vacant or blighted properties. The bill adjusts the legal framework that allows local governments and nonprofit organizations to operate land banks as tools for urban revitalization and property rehabilitation. Specific amendments would alter operational procedures, authority distribution, or eligibility criteria for participating entities.

Why is this important

Land banks are increasingly used in distressed communities to address vacant property crises, reduce blight, and facilitate economic development. Modifications to these provisions directly affect local governments' capacity to tackle abandoned properties and can influence housing market dynamics in affected areas. Communities relying on land bank programs for revitalization projects could face procedural changes affecting timelines and program effectiveness.

Potential points of contention

Local control vs. state oversight: Changes may shift authority between municipalities and state government regarding land bank operations and property disposition

Property acquisition and disposition speed: Modifications could either streamline or complicate the process of acquiring tax-foreclosed properties and transferring them to developers or nonprofits

Funding and financial accountability: Alterations to revenue mechanisms, fee structures, or audit requirements could impact program sustainability and transparency