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HB 1622

Adds provisions relating to just compensation for condemned agricultural and horticultural property

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bruce Sassmann

HB 1622 modifies Missouri eminent domain law to establish compensation standards for agricultural and horticultural properties condemned by government agencies.

Referred: Emerging Issues(H)
#agriculture #civilprocedure #eminentdomainandcondemnation
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Bill Summary · HB 1622

Legislative bill overview

HB 1622 proposes to modify Missouri's eminent domain laws specifically for agricultural and horticultural properties. The bill adds provisions governing "just compensation" when the government condemns (seizes) farmland or horticultural operations. While the bill is in early legislative stages, it appears designed to ensure fair market value assessments for agricultural properties taken through eminent domain.

Why is this important

Eminent domain disputes directly affect farmers and agricultural businesses whose land may be needed for infrastructure projects, utility corridors, or public development. Fair valuation is critical since agricultural land value can be complex—involving soil quality, water rights, crop potential, and ongoing business disruption—and fair compensation determines whether affected agricultural operations can recover or relocate successfully.

Potential points of contention

  • Valuation methodology: Disagreement over whether "just compensation" should include loss of business goodwill, crop losses, relocation costs, or only fair market value of land itself
  • Agricultural operation disruption: Whether compensation accounts for multi-year income losses, severance damages to remaining property, or only the condemned parcel's value
  • Balancing property rights vs. public interest: Tension between ensuring farmers receive adequate compensation and avoiding costs so high that necessary public infrastructure becomes prohibitively expensive

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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