Task Force tries to modify eminent domain law
"When you're just living happily in your home or happily operating your business in a profitable, legal manner, when something comes along and threatens your ability to maintain that ownership of that property, everyone takes an interest," said task force member Chuck Gross.
The July ruling expanded eminent domain, making it legal for government to demand the sale of private property for more than public works. It also allows the government to take over small businesses and give them to a larger retailer with the aim of boosting economic growth.
Mueller that he and his family have lived in his house for about six years. He says he'd be willing to give it up if it was important."...as long as the individual is getting a fair market value for their property. But it's obviously on an individual situation. I don't think it should simply be, 'we're gonna come over and we can take your property if need be,'" said Mueller.
The task force will present preliminary findings that might modify eminent domain in Missouri on October 1. The governor could or could not urge the legislature to adopt the task force recommendations.