Committee wrapping up eminent domain legislation: WIS-TV10, Columbia SC, 3/7/07

A committee is putting the final touches on legislation that would change how [South Carolina] state and local governments can take property from landowners.

Only a handful of state agencies like school districts, the Transportation Department and the Ports Authority would be allowed to take land without state approval, under the proposals, which are expected to be finished by the end of the month.

Local governments would have to have permission from a city or county council before using the power of eminent domain.

A committee of lawmakers and appointees from the governor have been hearing testimony about the bills this session after 86 percent of voters passed a constitutional amendment in November limiting the ability of governments to take land.

---

WIS-TV10, Columbia SC: http://www.wistv.com