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SB 114

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLES 10, 22, AND 29 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO REAL PROPERTY ACQUISITION AND THE EXERCISE OF EMINENT DOMAIN.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Tim Dukes and 3 co-sponsors

Delaware bill modifying eminent domain laws and property acquisition procedures across three code titles, affecting government power to seize private land and owner compensation rights.

Introduced and Assigned to Elections & Government Affairs Committee in Senate
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 114

Legislative bill overview

SB 114 amends Delaware law governing how state and local governments can acquire private property through eminent domain and related real property procedures. The bill modifies provisions in three sections of Delaware Code (Titles 10, 22, and 29) that regulate property seizure, compensation, and government land acquisition powers.

Why is this important

Eminent domain rules directly affect property owners' rights and protections when governments claim private land for public projects like infrastructure, utilities, or development. Changes to these laws can shift the balance between government power to acquire necessary property and individual protections against unfair seizure or undercompensation.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "public use" definition – The bill may expand or clarify what projects qualify as public purposes, potentially affecting which property seizures are legally permitted
  • Compensation standards – Changes to how "just compensation" is calculated could increase government costs or reduce what property owners receive for seized land
  • Notice and due process requirements – Modifications to notification timelines or hearing procedures could accelerate acquisitions (favoring government efficiency) or weaken owner protections

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

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