MO HB745

Redefines "blighted area" from a broad category based on conditions like defective street layout, unsafe conditions, or economic liability to a narrow definition requiring a structure with specific documented code violations (roof, foundation, utilities, etc.) that remain uncured after two notices and cost more than 50% of the building's taxable value to repair

Restricts eminent domain to "public use" defined only as: possession/occupation by the general public or public agencies, public utilities or common carriers, or acquisition of abandoned or blighted property

Prohibits using economic development benefits alone (increased tax base, tax revenues, employment, general economic health) as justification for eminent domain

Requires condemning authorities to find that each individual parcel meets the statutory definition of blight before condemnation, and mandates filing condemnation petitions within 5 years of redevelopment plan authorization

Eliminates the ability to renew blight determinations for successive 5-year periods; if the 5-year deadline passes or any parcel fails to meet the blight definition, acquisition authority expires and requires full reauthorization