Governor Parson signs bill expanding property rights protections
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Saturday night, during the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association’s annual Steak Fry Dinner, Governor Mike Parson signed House Bill (HB) 2005 into law. HB 2005 expands protections under the law for Missouri’s farm and ranch families in certain eminent domain proceedings.
“We are happy to join the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, farmers, and ranchers from across the state to sign this long-awaited legislation into law,” Governor Parson said. “As a farmer myself, I understand the importance of strong property rights and that no farmer wants to be forced from the family farm by the government or anyone else. That’s why we are signing HB 2005. This legislation provides fair protections for our farm families, tightens the use of eminent domain, and ensures the interests of Missouri farmers are always considered and balanced with the public good.” HB 2005 contains several provisions that modify state statute as it relates to the use of eminent domain by certain electrical utilities:
“This bill is about the farmers and ranchers from across our great state that travel to Jefferson City and beat the halls of the Capitol weekly,” said State Senator Jason Bean. “These farm families have made their case for years and with the expected approval of more electric transmission projects, the time for property rights reform was absolutely now. We appreciate the leadership of Missouri’s Ag groups who helped pursue a fair negotiating position. Missourians shouldn’t have to spend their hard earned money on legal fees trying to get a fair price for their land; their livelihood, which simply isn’t for sale.” “We embrace economic development, especially when it comes to improving our electrical grid,” said State Representative Mike Haffner, “But we will not do it on the backs of Missouri farmers, ranchers, and the Missouri agricultural industry.” “Keeping the farm in the family is important to me, Governor Parson, and the entire agriculture community,” said Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn. “It is important to protect all opportunities for the next generation to return to farms and ranches across Missouri.” For more information on HB 2005, visit House.mo.gov or click here. |