The bill amends existing Kansas law regarding the process of eminent domain, specifically focusing on the requirements for agencies intending to acquire private property. It mandates that at least 30 days prior to filing a petition, agencies must provide personal notice to property owners, including a good faith offer of compensation that cannot be reduced or revoked. If a subsequent offer is made that exceeds the initial offer, that amount will become the new minimum compensation. The bill also clarifies definitions related to "agency" and "public use," explicitly stating that recreational trails do not qualify as public use.

Additionally, the bill revises the conditions under which private property can be taken by eminent domain for private entities, prohibiting such actions unless specific criteria are met, such as the property being excess real property related to public projects or if the property owner has consented in writing. It also removes certain provisions regarding compensation and the necessity of legislative authorization for private economic development purposes. The bill repeals several sections of existing law, streamlining the eminent domain process while enhancing protections for property owners.

Statutes affected:
As introduced: 26-501a, 26-501b, 26-502, 26-507