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SB 2142

AN ACT RELATING TO STATE AFFAIRS AND GOVERNMENT -- EMINENT DOMAIN

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matt LaMountain and 1 co-sponsor

Rhode Island eminent domain bill modifying property seizure authority and procedures, referred to Senate Judiciary for review in January 2026.

03/27/2026 Placed on Senate Calendar (03/31/2026)
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Bill Summary · SB 2142

Legislative bill overview

SB 2142 is an eminent domain bill introduced in Rhode Island's Senate that modifies state law regarding the government's power to seize private property for public use. The bill was referred to the Senate Judiciary Committee on January 16, 2026, but the specific provisions have not yet been publicly detailed in available legislative summaries.

Why is this important

Eminent domain affects fundamental property rights and can significantly impact homeowners, businesses, and communities when government agencies acquire land for projects like infrastructure, development, or public facilities. Any changes to eminent domain procedures, compensation standards, or use definitions can shift the balance between private property protections and government authority to pursue public projects.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "public use" definition – Whether the bill expands or restricts what qualifies as legitimate public purpose for taking private property (a longstanding constitutional debate)
  • Compensation and valuation standards – Whether property owners receive fair market value, and if the bill changes how compensation is calculated or disputed
  • Due process protections – The extent of notice, hearing rights, and appeal mechanisms available to property owners facing seizure

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

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