S.B. No. 291 amends Section 21.0111(a) of the Property Code to enhance the disclosure requirements for entities with eminent domain authority when acquiring real property. The bill mandates that these entities must disclose any appraisal reports related to the property owner’s property, which were produced or acquired in the ten years prior to the offer, at the time the offer is made. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions that hold entities liable for reasonable attorney's fees incurred by the property owner if the entity fails to comply with these disclosure requirements.

The changes enacted by this bill will only apply to acquisitions of real property connected to initial offers made on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025. Any acquisitions related to offers made before this date will continue to be governed by the existing law prior to the enactment of this bill. This legislation aims to ensure transparency and fairness in the eminent domain process by providing property owners with access to relevant appraisal information.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Property Code 21.0111 (Property Code 21)
Senate Committee Report: Property Code 21.0111 (Property Code 21)
Engrossed: Property Code 21.0111 (Property Code 21)
House Committee Report: Property Code 21.0111 (Property Code 21)