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HB 1086

An Act amending Title 16 (Counties) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in eminent domain and injury to property, further providing for restrictions as to certain property.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Milou Mackenzie and 7 co-sponsors

HB 1086 restricts Pennsylvania counties' eminent domain power by limiting which properties can be seized for public projects, affecting property rights and infrastructure planning.

Referred to Local Government
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1086

Legislative bill overview

HB 1086 amends Pennsylvania's eminent domain law by modifying restrictions on which types of property can be seized through eminent domain proceedings. The bill specifically addresses Title 16 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, which governs county powers and procedures. The exact nature of the restrictions being added or modified is not detailed in the bill summary provided.

Why is this important

Eminent domain—the government's power to take private property for public use—directly affects property rights and can significantly impact individuals, businesses, and communities. Changes to what property is protected from seizure have real consequences for landowners, developers, and local governments planning infrastructure projects. This type of legislation reflects ongoing debates about balancing public infrastructure needs against private property protections.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of protected property: Stakeholders will likely debate which categories of property (agricultural land, residential, commercial, etc.) should receive additional protections or remain vulnerable to seizure
  • Public use definition: The bill may affect how "public use" is interpreted, potentially narrowing or broadening what projects qualify as legitimate uses of eminent domain
  • Local government flexibility: Counties may resist restrictions that limit their ability to acquire property for infrastructure, economic development, or redevelopment projects

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

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