Missouri Task Force on Eminent Domain
In June 2005, Governor Matt Blunt created by Executive Order the Missouri Task Force on Eminent Domain. The Task Force shall evaluate and make initial recommendations to the governor by October 1, 2005 on the following topics:
- Study the use of eminent domain, especially when the proposed public use of the property being acquired by eminent domain is not directly owned or primarily used by the general public.
- Analyze current state and federal laws governing eminent domain and recommending any changes that would enhance the effectiveness of these laws.
- Develop a definition of "public use" that allows state and local governments to use eminent domain when there is a clear and direct public purpose while at the same time ensuring that individual property rights are preserved.
- Develop criteria to be applied by state and local governments when the use of eminent domain is being proposed.
- Recommend specific eminent domain legislation for possible consideration by the Missouri General Assembly.