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Bill

HB 1400

RELATING TO THE HAWAIIAN HOMES COMMISSION ACT.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Diamond Garcia and 3 co-sponsors

House Bill 1400 exempts disabled veterans from penalties when redeeming tax-delinquent properties, easing their financial burden and supporting property ownership.

Referred to JHA, referral sheet 4
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Bill Summary · HB 1400

Summary of House Bill 1400

Bill Number: HB 1400
Title: Relating to the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act
Status: Referred to JHA, referral sheet 4
Introduced: February 04, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Commission Members, HHCA, Native Hawaiians, Regulations

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1400 aims to amend existing laws regarding the redemption of tax-delinquent parcels in Arkansas. The primary intent of the bill is to provide financial relief to disabled veterans by exempting them from certain penalties associated with the redemption process of tax-delinquent properties they own.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important changes to the Arkansas Code, specifically § 26-37-302, which governs the redemption of tax-delinquent parcels:

  1. Redemption Requirements:

    • To redeem a tax-delinquent parcel, the redeemer must pay:
      • All delinquent taxes.
      • A 10% simple interest for each year of delinquency.
      • A 10% penalty for each year of delinquency (with exceptions for disabled veterans).
      • Any costs incurred by the county and the Commissioner of State Lands.
  2. Exemption for Disabled Veterans:

    • The bill defines a "disabled veteran" in accordance with § 26-3-306(a)(1)(A)(i).
    • Disabled veterans are exempt from the 10% penalty when redeeming a tax-delinquent parcel they own, provided they:
      • Submit a qualifying letter to the Commissioner of State Lands.
      • Meet all other requirements for redemption as outlined in § 26-37-310.

Affected Parties

  • Disabled Veterans: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are disabled veterans who own tax-delinquent parcels. The exemption from penalties aims to alleviate financial burdens during the redemption process.
  • County Collectors and the Commissioner of State Lands: These entities will need to adjust their processes to accommodate the new exemption provisions for disabled veterans.

Procedural Aspects and Timeline

  • Introduced: February 04, 2025
  • Key Legislative Actions:
    • February 20, 2025: The bill was amended and reported correctly engrossed.
    • March 05, 2025: Passed the House and was transmitted to the Senate.
    • March 10, 2025: Passed the Senate and returned to the House.
    • March 12, 2025: Notification that HB 1400 is now Act 259.

Conclusion

House Bill 1400 represents a significant step towards supporting disabled veterans in Arkansas by easing the financial penalties associated with tax-delinquent property redemption. The amendments made to the existing law reflect a commitment to assist those who have served in the military, ensuring they have a fair opportunity to retain ownership of their properties without incurring excessive penalties.

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

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