Eminent Domain

Now <a href="http://www.billingsgazette.com//index.php?id=1&amp;display=rednews/2005/11/05/build/state/60-eminent-domain.inc">here</a> is one good idea.<br />n<br />n<blockquote>A Republican lawmaker wants to change the Montana Constitution to prohibit government from condemning private property for urban renewal or economic development projects. However, his efforts would leave untouched government's ability to seize private property for railroads, mines or smelter dumping grounds.<br />n<br />nRep. Rick Maedje, of Fortine, submitted to legislative lawyers Thursday his proposed change to the Montana Constitution. The move is the first step toward getting a proposed constitutional amendment placed on the ballot for voter approval or disapproval.<br />n<br />n"You don't lose private property rights by one cut," Maedje said. "It's by a thousand nicks of the blade."<br />n<br />nHis proposal prohibits all nonfederal government entities from seizing and buying private property for the following reasons:<br />n<br />n# To increase tax revenues.<br />n<br />n# For economic development.<br />n<br />n# For urban renewal projects.<br />n<br />n# To create or preserve natural areas, recreation areas or facilities.<br />n<br />n# To protect viewsheds.</blockquote><br />n<br />nI like the way it specifically states "nonfederal." Otherwise this is a good idea to enshrine in the state constitution. <br />n<br />nI've read in different places where in Montana this is not a problem, I've also read in some places where they claim it is a problem in Montana so I don't know but if it is in the constitution we don't have to worry about it as much, until the courts decide to ignore the constitution that is.<br />n<br />n<b>If it's a good idea, go ahead and do it. It's much easier to apologize than it is to get permission. Grace Murray Hopper</b>