Rumored Death of Property Rights is Greatly Exaggerated

Abstract

The Supreme Court's Kelo decision blew open, rather than closed, the debate on the use of eminent domain for economic development purposes. It touched a raw nerve for most people about the boundaries between property rights of individuals and the authority of government. Despite the fury that erupted following the decision, the Court's opinion preserves the opportunity for municipalities to contribute to the national discussion about the legal, policy, and personal aspects of eminent domain.