WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 1098

An Act amending Title 26 (Eminent Domain) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, in procedure to condemn, providing for advance notice to condemnee; in just compensation and measure of damages, further providing for measure of damages, for contiguous tracts and unity of use, for limited reimbursement of appraisal, attorney and engineering fees and for delay compensation; and, in special damages for displacement, further providing for moving and related expenses of displaced persons.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lynda Culver and 8 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania bill expands property owner protections in eminent domain cases by requiring advance notice, increasing compensation for professional fees, and enhancing relocation assistance for displaced persons.

Referred to State Government
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1098

Legislative bill overview

SB 1098 amends Pennsylvania's eminent domain laws to strengthen protections for property owners whose land is condemned by the government. The bill requires advance notice to affected property owners, expands compensation for appraisal and legal fees, clarifies damages calculations for contiguous properties, and increases moving assistance for displaced persons.

Why is this important

Eminent domain—the government's power to take private property for public use—directly affects individual property rights and financial security. These changes could significantly increase the cost of government projects requiring land acquisition while potentially providing fairer compensation to affected property owners. The bill addresses long-standing complaints that property owners bear substantial uncompensated costs when fighting condemnation or relocating.

Potential points of contention

  • Project cost impact: Expanded compensation requirements and attorney fee reimbursement could substantially increase expenses for infrastructure projects, potentially affecting tax rates or project feasibility
  • "Just compensation" definition disputes: Clarifying how damages are calculated for contiguous properties may create litigation over what constitutes fair market value and unity of use determinations
  • Implementation complexity: New notice requirements and fee reimbursement procedures could delay projects and create administrative burden on government agencies conducting land acquisitions

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

Sign in to ask a question.