Applaud Passage Of Eminent Domain Bill By Legislature: Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, 5/29/07

The Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association [TSCRA] applauds the Texas Legislature and especially thanks Senator Kyle Janek (R-Houston) and Representative Beverly Woolley (R-Houston) for passing H.B. 2006 relating to the use of eminent domain by governmental entities.

“H.B. 2006 helps level the playing field for landowners who are condemned and ensures that they are justly compensated for the damage done to their property,” said Jon Means, TSCRA President. “We’re confident that Governor Perry, who strongly supports private property rights, will sign this bill when it reaches his desk.”

H.B. 2006 resulted from lengthy negotiations between legislators and stakeholders and an interim study by the Legislature. The bill defines “public use” in a way that is intended to prevent condemnation for economic development purposes, which was the subject of much controversy after the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Kelo v. City of New London. It also requires a condemning authority to make a bona fide offer to the landowner prior to condemnation and share all appraisal reports.

“TSCRA is hopeful that this legislation will encourage condemnors to make fair offers to landowners, which will ultimately reduce litigation and costs to the taxpayers of Texas,” said Jon Means.

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Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association: http://www.cattlenetwork.com