H.B. No. 2979 introduces a prohibition on the exercise of eminent domain by private entities for the development or operation of high-speed rail projects in Texas. The bill amends Section 112.002 of the Transportation Code, specifying that while railroad companies can exercise eminent domain, private entities are restricted from doing so for high-speed rail projects. Additionally, the bill establishes that any real property acquired for such projects must be used solely for that purpose, and if the project is canceled or the property becomes unnecessary within ten years, the original owners or their heirs have the right to repurchase the property at the original acquisition price.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 131.012 of the Transportation Code to clarify that interurban electric railway companies are also prohibited from exercising eminent domain for the purposes outlined in the bill. The new provisions regarding the disposition of real property acquired for high-speed rail projects will take effect on September 1, 2025, aligning with the overall implementation timeline of the act.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Transportation Code 112.002, Transportation Code 131.012 (Transportation Code 131, Transportation Code 112)