A Second Try for Eminent Domain Reform in California?

The California Alliance to Protect Private Property Rights has sent along this press release:

Efforts Underway to Place Eminent Domain Reform on 2008 Ballot

Reelection of Governor Schwarzenegger positive sign for legislative reforms

Sacramento, CA – With the failure of Proposition 90, the Protect Our Homes ballot measure, to gain voter approval, the Alliance announced today that efforts are underway to qualify another California ballot measure for the 2008 state election. 

"This election was a victory for special interest groups that benefit financially under a system that allows government vast powers to seize private property from unwilling sellers," said Jim Nielsen, Alliance chairman and former State Senator. "The outcome of Proposition 90 only demonstrated opposition to one solution and that millions of voters agree there is a need for greater private property rights protections in California."

Property rights advocates are pleased with the Governor's commitment to bring about legislative reforms next year. While state legislation signed by the Governor this year did provide some property protections, the legislation did not provide any Kelo provisions that would prohibit government’s ability to profit by seizing private property from unwilling sellers by giving it to another in order to generate more tax revenue.

"Homeowners throughout California look forward to working with Governor Schwarzenegger and the State Legislature to bring about true reforms," said Nielsen. "Today, we continue a national movement to provide homeowners greater protections."

The California Alliance to Protect Private Property Rights (the Alliance) is a statewide organization dedicated to exposing the abuses of eminent domain in California and the need for reform. The organization was founded by Yolo County farmers and taxpayer advocates fighting Yolo County's use of gambling profits to seize the 17,000 acre Conaway Ranch through eminent domain.

To learn more about the Alliance visit www.calpropertyrights.com.