MO SB839

Repeals and re-enacts section 523.262, RSMo, to modify eminent domain powers for utilities and other entities.

Restricts eminent domain power to governmental bodies with elected or appointed-by-elected governing bodies, and urban redevelopment corporations with pre-December 31, 2006 agreements, with exceptions for utilities, railroads, and common carriers as otherwise granted by law.

Prohibits private utility companies and common carriers from exercising eminent domain for electric transmission lines that originate and terminate in a single state other than Missouri while traversing specified third-classification counties without township government and with defined population ranges.

Requires entities acquiring property for power generation facilities after December 31, 2006, to either conduct a public meeting disclosed in newspapers or provide property owners with written notice of the condemning authority's identity and intended use at the time of initial offer.

Applies relocation assistance provisions from section 523.205 to displaced persons from condemnation unless the condemning entity is already subject to the federal Uniform Relocation Assistance Act.