MN SF1659

Amends Minnesota Statutes section 117.025, subdivision 11 to redefine "public use" and "public purpose" for eminent domain purposes to include mitigation of harmful effects of abandoned property.

Defines abandoned property as improved property substantially unoccupied or unused for at least six months that meets three criteria: located in a city area designated by resolution as having disproportionate vacant residential buildings or mortgage foreclosures, qualifies under section 582.032 subdivision 7 criteria, and has unpaid taxes for at least one previous year.

Explicitly prohibits using economic development benefits such as increased tax base, tax revenues, employment, or general economic health as standalone justification for exercising eminent domain.

The abandoned property provision expires on December 31, 2015.

Becomes effective the day following final enactment.