The bill, H.B. No. 2979, introduces significant amendments to the Transportation Code regarding the exercise of eminent domain and the management of property acquired for high-speed rail projects. It specifically prohibits private entities from exercising eminent domain for the development or operation of high-speed rail projects. Additionally, it establishes that any real property acquired for such projects can only be used for that purpose, with provisions for the original property owners or their heirs to have the opportunity to repurchase the property if the project is canceled or if the property is not utilized within a specified timeframe.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing provisions related to electric railway companies, stating that interurban electric railway companies are also barred from exercising eminent domain for the purposes outlined in the bill. The new regulations will take effect on September 1, 2025, and apply to real property acquired on or after that date. This legislation aims to protect property rights and ensure that land acquired for high-speed rail projects is used solely for that intended purpose.

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