Representative Morris Applauds Passage of New "Eminent Domain" Legislation
State Rep. Bruce Morris
June 2, 2007

The House of Representatives joined the Senate Saturday afternoon when they passed sweeping legislation that revises the state's "Eminent Domain" policy. The bill, SB 167, provides new steps in the process of taking land from individuals under Eminent Domain. Representative Bruce Morris (D-Norwalk), a strong supporter of the bill, applauded the vote.

The bill also allows the individual to be compensated for his land based on the average of two independent appraisals and requires compensation under municipal development to equal 125 percent of that value.

"I know from a first-hand account a constituent that lost her home under eminent domain action and was paid pennies on the dollar of the value of her home – today she is a renter," Rep. Morris said. "This bill will protect Connecticut citizens from that type of action by compensating them at 125 percent of the average of two independent appraisals in addition to relocation fees."

Within the bill are built a number of provisions that give the property-holder more means of protection. These new standards include a public hearing, a two-thirds vote from the town legislative body for approval of seizure, an opportunity for the property owner to buy back the taken land if it is not being developed for it's original intention, and a 10-year deadline for completing the taking.

"This bill also protects property owners by prohibiting the initiation of an eminent domain action if the reason behind is primarily to grow the tax base of a municipality," Rep. Morris said. "It also requires the public use outweigh any private benefit."

The vote passed through the Senate Thursday night 33-3 before winning approval in the House today 132-7. The bill now awaits a signature from Governor Rell to become law.

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