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The Kelo Backlash Begins

The Kelo Backlash Begins

Lew Rockwell was right. In his article, "Where's the Kelo Calamity?" he asks: "Did the nightmare begin? Some local governments that had been waiting for a ruling took advantage of the situation and pushed ahead with plans for confiscating properties. But far more important is the flurry of legislative activity that it has spawned. Twenty-five states and hundreds of localities are working to enact laws against this type of takings. Property owners became concerned and pushed for legislation, which they are getting. Imagine that! But this is precisely how the system is supposed to work."

Now we see that Alabama has become the first state to curb eminent domain abuse after Kelo. According to the Institute for Justice, "Alabama legislation prohibits cities and counties from using eminent domain for private development or for enhancing tax revenue."

The IFJ also points out that Connecticut legislators have called for a moratorium on the use of eminent domain until their legislatures can revise property laws. Even the City of New London has agreed to allow Susette Kelo to stay in her property for now.

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