Bill > HF3567

This bill amends Minnesota Statutes, section 117.012, subdivision 3, to remove exemptions from eminent domain procedures for certain property takings by watershed districts or drainage authorities. Eminent domain is the government's power to take private property for public use, even if the owner does not wish to sell, provided just compensation is paid. Previously, laws related to drainage or town roads that provided their own specific procedures for taking property were exempt from the general eminent domain rules outlined in chapter 117. This bill now states that any property taking by a watershed district (under chapter 103D) or a drainage authority (under chapter 103E) is invalid unless the district or authority follows the procedures laid out in chapter 117. This change means these entities can no longer bypass the standard eminent domain process when acquiring property for their projects, and the new rule will take effect on August 1, 2026, applying to takings on or after that date.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/94/2026/0/HF/3567/