This bill seeks to amend the definitions related to "blighted property" and the conditions under which governmental agencies can exercise eminent domain in West Virginia. Specifically, it modifies the definition of "blighted property" by removing references to "age or obsolescence," "high density of population and overcrowding," and "deterioration of site or other improvements." The revised definition emphasizes that a property must be detrimental to public health, safety, or welfare due to factors such as abandonment, dilapidation, and tax delinquency. Additionally, the bill introduces a new provision that prohibits the taking of "unblighted" private property without the owner's consent when the primary purpose is economic development that would transfer ownership or control to another private entity.

Furthermore, the bill amends the eminent domain provisions to clarify that no unblighted property may be taken for economic development purposes without consent, thereby limiting the ability of municipalities and other authorities to acquire private property for redevelopment unless it is classified as blighted. The changes aim to protect property owners from potential overreach by governmental agencies and ensure that eminent domain is used primarily for public purposes rather than private economic gain. Overall, the bill reflects a legislative intent to safeguard private property rights while still allowing for necessary redevelopment in designated blighted areas.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-18-3, 54-1-2