What is the commonwealth alliance for property rights?

The Commonwealth Alliance for Property Rights is a dedicated group of legislators, citizens and organizations that support eminent domain reform to prevent decisions such as that made in Kelo v. City of New London, Conn., from happening in Virginia. Legislators are being asked to endorse the alliance’s core principles to affirm their support for eminent domain reform in Virginia. A list of legislators who have endorsed the core principles is being updated daily.

Who are the members?

The Commonwealth Alliance for Property Rights includes Sen. John Edwards, Del. Rob Bell, Sen. Ken Cuccinelli, Del. Johnny Joannou, the National Federation of Independent Businesses, the Virginia Property Rights Coalition, the Virginia Farm Bureau Federation, the Virginia Agribusiness Council, the Virginia Forest Products Association and the Woodpecker Road Area Property Rights Association.

Kelo v. City of New London, Conn

The Kelo case set a legal precedent by ruling that Connecticut’s constitution allows local governments and other condemning authorities to take private property for the purpose of developing that land and creating a higher tax base. In the year since that ruling, several states have enacted legislation to limit the powers of eminent domain in similar situations. However, the 2006 Virginia General Assembly discussions regarding reform were unable to conclude with a consensus. Through the core principles, the alliance hopes to protect landowners to prevent Kelo-like decisions from happening in Virginia.

Is there eminent domain abuse in Virginia?

Yes, there are many eminent domain abuses that have happened and continue to occur in the Commonwealth. Land has been taken for economic development and to broaden the tax base of communities.