Idaho Eminent Domain Law May Get Revision

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Landowners dealing with eminent domain claims could soon be protected from the steep costs that can accompany those deals. The House Judiciary, Rules and Administration Committee voted unanimously Tuesday to introduce a measure presented by Hayden Republican Rep. Ed Morse. Morse's bill is designed to make sure landowners can recoup legal and other expenses incurred during the complex negotiations that take place with agencies.

He says landowners engaged in eminent domain talks often hire lawyers and property evaluation experts. In some cases, bills for those services can increase significantly especially if agencies repeatedly change plans on access roads or storm water drainage. The bill has early bipartisan support. Boise Democratic Rep. Grant Burgoyne says the bill is a good first step in protecting the interests of property owners.