Farm and Small Business Interests Unite to Change Eminent Domain Laws

Supporters of the plan to reform Missouri’s eminent domain laws descend on the Capitol for a huge rally. Among the biggest supporters of proposed changes are the Missouri Farm Bureau and the National Federation of Independent Business. Farm Bureau President Charlie Kruse says there are legitimate reasons to take land – but only if absolutely necessary and when all other options have been explored. NFIB-Missouri Director Brad Jones says small business land is often seized for bigger businesses, making the small businesses the victims of eminent domain takeovers. Supporters of the eminent domain limitations expect bills currently before the House and Senate to pass overwhelmingly, with Governor Matt Blunt then signing the changes into law. The blueprint for the legislation is the final report of the Missouri Eminent Domain Task Force, which was put together in response to anger over a U.S. Supreme Court ruling in a Connecticut land seizure.