What is eminent domain?

Eminent domain refers to the right of the government to take private property for public use, provided that just compensation is paid to the owner. This legal principle is rooted in the belief that the needs of the community can sometimes supersede individual property rights, especially when the land is being appropriated for purposes such as building infrastructure, schools, or parks that benefit the public.

This concept is governed by both the U.S. Constitution and state laws, which outline the requirement for fair compensation to ensure property owners are not unduly harmed by the loss of their property. Eminent domain highlights the balance between private property rights and the public good, illustrating the government's power to facilitate development and progress while still respecting individual ownership rights through appropriate compensation.