This bill introduces new requirements for agencies intending to acquire private property through eminent domain in Kansas. Specifically, 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 later. If a subsequent offer is made before the petition is filed, that amount will become the minimum compensation. The bill also clarifies that private property cannot be taken for recreational trails and outlines the conditions under which property can be taken for public use, including provisions for municipalities and public utilities.

Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes related to eminent domain, including the definitions of "agency" and "public use," and repeals certain sections of current law. Notably, it removes the provision that allowed for the taking of property for private economic development purposes without stringent compensation requirements. The bill aims to enhance protections for property owners by ensuring fair compensation and limiting the circumstances under which their property can be taken.

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