Bill > SB0015

This bill changes how counties and local government units (cities and towns) can acquire additional land for highways and thoroughfares. Previously, these units could require property owners to dedicate extra land as part of the subdivision plat approval process. Now, the bill mandates that counties and local units must use eminent domain (a legal process where the government can acquire private property for public use with compensation) to expand highways or thoroughfares, rather than requiring free land dedication during the subdivision plat review. Additionally, the bill prohibits these government units from charging any extra fees to subdivision applicants when they are required to use eminent domain to acquire the necessary land. These changes take effect on July 1, 2025, and apply to both county highways and existing thoroughfares, essentially shifting the financial burden of land acquisition from private property owners to local government entities.

Government Affairs

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/senate/15/details