Senate Bill 35: Eminent Domain Statutory Revisions

• Removes "or benefit" language from eminent domain provisions in G.S. 40A-3, replacing it with "use" only for private condemnors, local public condemnors, and other public condemnors.

• Expands the list of facilities that private condemnors may acquire through eminent domain to include communication facilities and facilities related to the distribution of natural gas.

• Specifies that natural gas pipelines may be condemned with a maximum width of 100 feet.

• Adds a new provision allowing private condemnors, local public condemnors, and other public condemnors to exercise eminent domain for the connection of customers to existing utilities or services.

• Effective date is when the bill becomes law and applies to all takings occurring on or after that date.