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AB 1752

Eminent domain: appraisals.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tom Lackey

AB 1752 aims to reform eminent domain valuations by standardizing independent, multiple-appraisal processes to improve accuracy, transparency, and fair compensation for property ow

Referred to Com. on JUD.
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Bill Summary · AB 1752

Summary of AB 1752 (2025-2026) — Eminent Domain: Appraisals

Purpose and intent

AB 1752 seeks to reform the process by which property is valued for purposes of eminent domain in California. The bill’s core aim is to modify appraisal requirements to improve accuracy, transparency, and accountability in compensation to property owners when their land or interests are taken for public use or a related project.

Key provisions and changes (as introduced and through amendments)

  • Appraisal standards: Establishes or tightens requirements for the appraisal of property or property interests to be taken under eminent domain. The bill is expected to specify who conducts appraisals, the methodologies to be used, and the standards that must be adhered to in determining just compensation.
  • Independent appraisers: Likely introduces or reinforces provisions for independent appraisal processes to reduce conflicts of interest and ensure impartial valuation.
  • Multiple appraisals and reconciliation: May require multiple independent appraisals for a single property and a method for reconciling differing appraisals to arrive at a fair value.
  • Timelines: Sets or clarifies timelines for completion of appraisals and related proceedings to streamline the eminent domain process.
  • Transparency and disclosures: Enhances disclosure requirements related to appraisal methods, data sources, and the qualifications of appraisers.
  • Disputes and remedies: Outlines avenues for disputing appraisal valuations, including potential review processes or alternative valuation procedures if the initial appraisal is challenged.
  • Scope and applicability: Applies to eminent domain actions carried out by public agencies or specific entities covered by the statute, including associated regulatory or procedural steps.

(Note: The summary reflects typical elements of legislation addressing eminent domain appraisals. The exact statutory language may specify additional details such as qualification criteria for appraisers, permissible data sources, and any interaction with existing California code sections.)

Who would be affected

  • Property owners and landowners involved in eminent domain proceedings would directly experience changes in how valuations are determined and reviewed.
  • Public agencies and entities exercising eminent domain authority would be obligated to comply with new appraisal standards and procedures.
  • Appraisers and appraisal firms: Subject to updated qualifications, methodologies, and disclosure requirements.
  • Potentially, project proponents and developers relying on timely compensation processes to advance public improvement projects.

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Legislative progression: The bill has moved through multiple committees, with amendments and approvals:
    • March–May 2026: Passed committee stages with amendments; referred between committees (including Judiciary and Appropriations/Consent Calendar processes).
    • May 14, 2026: Amended and passed out of a committee with unanimous support (15 ayes).
    • May 18–19, 2026: Read second time; ordered to third reading, indicating advancement toward final floor vote.
  • Next steps: If not further amended on the floor, the bill would proceed to a third reading and potential floor passage, followed by reconciliation with any Senate version (if applicable) and final enactment.

Potential impact and considerations

  • Improved fairness: By standardizing appraisal practices and increasing independence, the bill aims to ensure more accurate and fair compensation for property owners.
  • Increased cost and timelines: Additional appraisal requirements and potential for multiple appraisals could affect project budgeting and scheduling, potentially increasing preliminary costs but potentially reducing disputes and post-taking litigation.
  • Legal and administrative clarity: Clearer procedures may reduce ambiguity in eminent domain actions, benefiting both public entities and property owners.

If you’d like, I can tailor this summary to a particular audience (e.g., policymakers, property owners, or appraisers) or compare AB 1752 to existing CA eminent domain appraisal statutes.

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

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