On Wednesday, January 23, Rep. DeWayne Burns (R-Cleburne) and Sen. Lois Kolkhorst (R-Brenham) along with leaders of Texas’ foremost private property rights organizations will announce details of highly anticipated legislation that will reform the eminent domain process used by for-profit corporations to take private property.
Rep. Burns and Sen. Kolkhorst are committed to creating a fair, transparent and accountable process for the thousands of Texas property owners who face the threat of forced condemnation every year, while ensuring Texas remains a global leader in energy production.
“Texas landowners provide immense benefits to our fellow Texans. Clean air, clean water, food, fiber, and wildlife are all dependent on the open spaces managed by those good people. This legislation is about treating them fairly, which is simply the right thing to do. Texas Wildlife Association (TWA) is very thankful to Senator Kolkhorst and Representative Burns for their leadership on this and proud to support their efforts” said TWA Board President J. David Anderson.
These bills will aid landowners in the process of private entities using government power to take land for profit. It will create public meetings for these private projects so that the landowner can fully understand why their land is being taken, the taking process and to answer any questions they may have. It will prohibit a private entity from offering less than fair market value and will require the private corporation to provide additional payment if the landowner is underpaid. Finally, these bills will require private entities to use easement forms that have certain minimum protections for landowners.
Texas Wildlife Association’s mission is to serve Texas wildlife and its habitat, while protecting property rights, hunting heritage, and the conservation efforts of those who value and steward wildlife resources. TWA is committed to work with its partners and all stakeholders to see this important legislation passed and into law.
