Bill > HB2290

This bill establishes new legal definitions and limitations on eminent domain in Oklahoma, providing clearer guidelines for how government entities can acquire private property. The bill defines three key terms: "abandoned property" (which includes unoccupied properties or those with unpaid taxes for two years), "blighted property" (structures with unresolved code violations that threaten public safety), and "public use" (which now explicitly includes public infrastructure, utility operations, property remediation, and abandoned property acquisition). The legislation strictly limits eminent domain, prohibiting its use solely for economic development purposes like increasing tax revenue or employment. Local governmental bodies cannot expand eminent domain powers without specific statutory authorization, and any property condemned must be for a genuine public use with just compensation. The bill also adds a requirement that if condemned property is not ultimately used for its intended public purpose, it must first be offered back to the original property owner at the original purchase price. Importantly, the bill provides judicial review of condemnation actions and includes provisions to protect property owners' rights, with an effective date of November 1, 2025. The legislation amends existing statutes to align with these new restrictions and definitions, reflecting a more restrictive approach to government property seizure.

Justice

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb2290&Session=2600