MN HF1537

Amends Minnesota Statutes 2008, section 117.025, subdivision 11, to modify the definition of "public use" and "public purpose" for eminent domain purposes.

Expands the definition of public use to include mitigation of harmful effects of foreclosures by taking possession of abandoned property in targeted neighborhoods or areas qualified for Housing and Economic Recovery Act funding.

Defines "abandoned property" as property that has not been maintained and either has been substantially unoccupied or unused for at least six months, or has unpaid taxes for at least one previous year.

Clarifies that public benefits of economic development, including increased tax base, tax revenues, employment, or general economic health, do not by themselves constitute a public use or public purpose.

Expires the abandoned property mitigation provision on December 31, 2013, with the effective date being the day following final enactment.