HB878 concerning eminent domain passed the House J-II committee this afternoon.
In a proposed committee substitute, the bill provides for a constitutional amendment that prohibits the government taking private property except for a public use (most restrictive) with three exceptions:
1. The property itself is blighted
2. For cartways
3. If the property will be used in the future for public use (like a later phase of a highway)
Just compensation would have to be paid for the property and a jury trial can be requested by the property owner.
The amendment would be voted on the next statewide election or primary election.
The bill goes to the House floor and must pass before Thurs. At midnight to be eligible for crossover to the Senate. It then has to get through the Senate.
