Eminent Domain Legislation Filed in House

A measure taking aim at the taking of private property has been filed in the House. The bill would require public bodies, not private developers, to approve the use of eminent domain. Private property could be seized only if determined to be blighted or of public use. Land never developed and farmland couldn’t be considered blighted. Another bill, already before the House, would tighten the definition of blight needed to trigger Tax Increment Financing. House Speaker Rod Jetton of Marble Hill says the House has planned a two-track approach to the issue. The eminent domain bill requires an explanation of why condemnation proceedings were needed. Compensation for property taken would be increased.