John Larson: “I rise today sharing the concerns of my colleagues about the dangerous expansion of the eminent domain power and the…”

“I rise today sharing the concerns of my colleagues about the dangerous expansion of the eminent domain power and the Supreme Court's decision in Kelo v. City of New London. I firmly believe there need to be safeguards against the excessive and unfair use of the government's eminent domain power. Governors and State legislators across the country, including those in my home State of Connecticut, are currently grappling with this important issue. As a former State legislator, I understand that these issues are best reviewed and addressed at the local level. The Federal approach is overly broad and although well intentioned, falls short of protecting the communities it purports to protect. Let me make my position clear, private property is one of the most fundamental rights our founding fathers safeguarded in the Constitution. Property rights deserve the utmost protection from governmental intrusion. As a lifelong resident of Connecticut, I am saddened by the Supreme Court's decision in the Kelo case and like many in Connecticut and across the country, feel vulnerable to the potential abuse of eminent domain authority. However, I do not feel this bill brings justice to communities or comprehensively secures property rights from the misuse of the local and State government taking authority.…”