Bill > SB779

This bill modifies procedures related to eminent domain, which is the government's power to take private property for public use, typically with just compensation. Specifically, it mandates that circuit court clerks must promptly disburse any awarded compensation and accrued interest within seven business days of an order in a condemnation proceeding or receiving the funds, whichever is later, unless the order states otherwise. The bill also requires that copies of the jury panel be made available to legal counsel at least ten business days before a trial, detailing each potential juror's name, age, address, occupation, employer, and freeholder status, with the panel size ranging from 30 to 75 individuals. Additionally, it clarifies that on the same day a certificate of take or deposit is recorded in land records, it must also be filed with the clerk, who will then assign a single case number for all related filings. Finally, the bill removes a $25,000 limit on relocation expenses for displaced businesses or farms and specifies that certain provisions related to certificates will apply to condemnation petitions filed or certificates recorded on or after July 1, 2026.