This is a great step to enhance protection of property rights in the light of the Kelo v. New London decision. We cannot allow Judges, including those on the Supreme Court, to amend our Bill of Rights by judicial decree, and allow governments to act as commissars. It is wrong for any Government to take a person’s home not for a road, not for a school, not for a legitimate public use, but simply because they think they can generate more tax revenue from the property by transferring it to another private concern to re-develop that taken property. It is contrary to what I believe is a fair and just society. The ownership of a home or business is the very definition of the American dream and means individuals own property, not government authorities or their favored interest.
Va. Senate begins process to strengthen private-property rights
By Rosalind S. Helderman
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
The Democratic-led state Senate handed a victory to tea party activists and other conservatives in Virginia on Tuesday by agreeing to start the process of adding new protections for private property to the state constitution.
On a 35 to 5 vote, the Senate agreed that the state’s constitution should include a prohibition against government seizing of property through eminent domain to spur economic development or job creation.
If the constitutional amendment were adopted, the government would be able to seize land only for public uses – such as roads and school buildings – and it would be required to fully compensate land owners. Several years and additional debate will be needed before the language could be added to the constitution.
To change the document, an amendment must pass the General Assembly twice, with an election in between. Then, it must be approved by voters through referendum. Tuesday’s passage was only the first time such a measure has emerged from the General Assembly.
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