SB343 Summary

• Prohibits state and local government entities from condemning property if the primary use is for private gain, private benefit, private enterprise, increasing jobs, increasing tax revenue, or economic development.

• Exempts public utilities and entities providing telephone, gas, electricity, water, sewer, or similar utility services from the prohibition on condemnation for private purposes.

• Allows continued use of eminent domain for streets, roadways, government buildings, and park and recreation facilities.

• Requires entities to define "just compensation" and take only the minimum portion of private property necessary for public use before initiating condemnation procedures.

• Mandates that condemned property not used for its original purpose be first offered to the original owner at the purchase price (minus taxes paid) within 90 days; unsold property must then be sold at public auction with legal notice.