Indiana lawmakers considering property tax amnesty period

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) - Indiana legislators are considering creating an amnesty period for homeowners and businesses to pay overdue property taxes without the penalty fees and interest.

The bill approved 48-0 by the Indiana Senate on Monday would allow counties to waive penalties and interest if overdue taxes are paid by May 2020.

A state report shows that Indiana's 92 counties reported $345 million in delinquent property taxes and $175 million in late fees and interest owed in 2018. Northwestern Indiana's Lake County had the highest in both categories, with $96 million in overdue taxes and $102 million in penalty fees.

Supporters say many Lake County properties with delinquent taxes aren't attractive to purchasers at tax sales because of the large fees owed.

The proposal now goes to the House for consideration.