MO HB1887

Redefines "blighted area" to require specific housing, maintenance, or building code violations affecting occupant or public safety in eight categories (roof, structural support, foundation, light/ventilation, fire protection, utilities, flooring, or exterior envelope) that remain uncured after two notices and cost over 50% of the property's assessed value to remedy.

Restricts eminent domain use to "public use" only, defined as public possession/enjoyment, public utilities/common carriers, or acquisition of abandoned or blighted property; prohibits condemnation solely for economic development benefits like increased tax base, tax revenues, employment, or general economic health.

Requires condemning authorities to individually evaluate each property parcel in a redevelopment area to determine whether it meets the statutory definition of blight before proceeding with condemnation.

Establishes a five-year window from redevelopment plan authorization for filing condemnation petitions; if no petition is filed within five years or if any parcel fails to meet the blighted definition, the authority to acquire the property expires and reauthorization is required for future acquisition.