The bill amends section 163.01 of the Revised Code to explicitly prohibit the use of eminent domain for the purpose of creating recreational trails. It introduces new legal language stating that "public use" does not include any taking of property for use as a trail for hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, ski touring, canoeing, or other nonmotorized forms of recreational travel. This change aims to protect private property rights by ensuring that land cannot be appropriated for recreational purposes under the guise of public use.

Additionally, the bill clarifies the definition of "public use" by specifying that it does not encompass takings for private commercial enterprises or solely for increasing public revenue, with certain exceptions. The bill also establishes a presumption of public use for various essential facilities and services, such as utility facilities, roads, and public schools. Overall, the legislation seeks to limit the scope of eminent domain in relation to recreational trails while reinforcing the definitions and conditions under which property can be appropriated.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 163.01