In November 2006 voters in Arizona will address Proposition 207, sponsored by sponsored by Arizona HOPE. Proposition 207 would limit the use of eminent domain (taking someone's property) to situations where the property taken is put to a public use, such as use of land by the general public or by public agencies, use of land for utilities, acquisition of property to eliminate a direct threat to the public health or safety caused by the condition of the property, and the acquisition of abandoned property. A person's property could not be seized for the purpose of economic development. When a person's primary residence is taken by the government, the person must be provided a comparable replacement dwelling that is decent, safe and sanitary. Proposition 207 also provides that a property owner is entitled to compensation if the value of the property is reduced by the enactment of a land use law. Click on "Read more" to see a synopsis of the pros and cons and find more information about this ballot measure.
Poll: Will you vote in favor of Proposition 207?
1) Yes, this plan will help protect citizens' property rights.
2) No, this plan will create problems when any laws are passed that someone claims reduces the value of their property.
Advocates of Proposition 207 say that this measure prevents the government from taking private property for third-party private development merely to increase tax revenue, and ensures just compensation for property owners in public use takings and when governmental regulation devalues property.
Opponents to Proposition 207 say that this measure would limit the ability of the state, counties, cities and towns to implement land use regulations that might have the impact of reducing property values. Large landowners and corporations could demand huge payouts from state and local taxpayers just by claiming a law has harmed the value of their property or business - no matter how important the law may be or how far-fetched the claim.
Read the exact language of Proposition 207, as well as officially posted arguments for and against.
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