Pippy: Senate Sends Eminent Domain Reform Bill to Governor
Protects property rights of Pennsylvania citizens in wake of controversial court ruling.

Harrisburg – The Senate has given final approval of eminent domain reform legislation co-sponsored by Sen. John Pippy (R-37) that will protect the rights of Pennsylvania homeowners, small businesses, farms, and churches from condemnation for private development.

The legislation now awaits the governor's signature, the senator said.

Senate Bill 881, the Property Rights Protection Act, prohibits the use of eminent domain for taking private property for commercial purposes without a finding of blight, as specifically defined by the bill, Pippy said. Another measure passed earlier this month by the Senate and heading to the governor, House Bill 2054, is designed to ensure fair compensation for property taken through eminent domain.

"Taking private property is one of the most serious steps government can take, and we need strong safeguards in place to protect property owners from abuse," said Pippy.

Pippy said the measure was introduced following last year's Supreme Court decision, Kelo v. City of New London, which ruled that governments can seize property to make room for private development projects that promise to boost the local economy. The ruling prompted lawmakers to update Pennsylvania's laws and provide greater protection to owners of private property from governmental authorities who seek to abuse the use of their eminent domain powers.

Senate Bill 881 continues to allow cities in Pennsylvania to retain flexibility in blighted areas, as well as the longstanding ability to condemn abandoned, dangerous, or severely tax-delinquent properties.

"The Supreme Court decision raised many concerns about property rights, but it also allowed states to craft their own approach to the issue, and that is why we are taking action," said Pippy. "This legislation strikes the right balance between allowing municipalities to remove blight, and protecting the property rights of citizens.

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CONTACT: Matt Campion (412) 262-2260

Pippy: Senate Sends Eminent Domain Reform Bill to Governor Protects property rights of Pennsylvania citizens in wake of controversial court ruling.

Pippy: Senate Sends Eminent Domain Reform Bill to Governor
Protects property rights of Pennsylvania citizens in wake of controversial court ruling.