Senate Passes Controversial Eminent Domain Reform

Today the House received SJR 42 by Duncan after its passage in the Senate.  This resolution proposes a constitutional amendment to read:  "public use" does not include the acquisition of a private property interest for the primary purpose of economic development when the acquired property interest is transferred to the benefit of a private person or entity.

Opponents are concerned that this resolution allows "public use" for the secondary purpose of economic development.

More Eminent Domain Reform Advances

Today SJR 42 by Duncan was placed on the Senate intent calendar after it was reported favorably as substituted by the Senate State Affairs Committee yesterday. This resolution proposes amending the Texas Constitution to read: "public use" does not include the acquisition of a private property interest for the primary purpose of economic development when the acquired property interest is transferred to the benefit of a private person or entity.

Senate State Affairs Hearing Thursday, April 23rd

The Senate State Affairs Committee has scheduled SB 18 by Estes and SJR 42 by Committee Chairman Duncan for public hearing Thursday, April 23rd at 1 pm in the Senate Chamber at the Capitol.

SB 18 is similar to last session's comprehensive eminent domain reform bill, HB 2006, which was vetoed by Governor Perry because it would require compensation for diminished access and thus would be too expensive for the state. TLC registered for this bill at its March 30th public hearing. TLC also registered for HB 1483, SB 18's companion in the House, at its March 25th public hearing.

SJR 42 proposes amending the Texas Constitution to read: "public use" does not include the acquisition of a private property interest for the primary purpose of economic development when the acquired property interest is transferred to the benefit of a private person or entity.