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June 27, 2006
Executive Order: Protecting the Property Rights of the American People
President Bush's Executive Order makes a forceful statement against eminent domain abuse, but since it only addresses the "taking of private property by the Federal Government," it probably has no bearing in Bruce Ratner's Brooklyn high-rise and arena plans, which will be a "taking of private property" by NY State.
However, the order raises a couple of important points:
WHITE HOUSE POSITION REVERSAL
This solidifies the 180-degree position reversal for the White House. Before the Kelo case was heard by the US Supreme Court, the White House planned to submit a friend of the court brief on behalf of the City of New London. The Oval Office agreed to keep silent on the issue after being petitioned by conservative groups.
EMINENT DOMAIN ABUSE STILL AN ISSUE
A year after the Kelo decision outraged individuals and groups across the political spectrum, the issue has shown no signs of going away any time soon.
The House passed an eminent domain reform bill and the Senate continues to receive pressure to pass their own. NYC Mayor Bloomberg has stepped up his campaign to lobby the US Senate to pass on the bill which would eliminate federal funds for projects that use eminent domain to transfer property to a private party. Though most commentators and editorial boards support reigning in or restricting the power of eminent domain, there are still some editorial boards who continue to support the status quo.
Posted by lumi at June 27, 2006 6:42 AM