The
Virginia Property Rights Amendment is the first question on the ballot which
restores the original conception of eminent domain. It is a response to the Kelo
v. New London decision by the Supreme Court and is designed to protect Virginia
property owners. A bipartisan majority passed this measure in the House by
83-17, and in the Senate by 23-17. I voted for and support this
amendment.
The
Virginia Property Rights Amendment would expand the rights of Virginians when
private property is taken for public use. For example, when a business is
relocated to make room for a transportation project, any lost profits would be
considered in compensating the business owner in addition to the value of land
and buildings. The amendment also prevents, for example, localities from
acquiring private property if the purpose is primarily related to rezoning to
generate more tax revenue for the locality.
For
more information about the Property Rights Amendment, I would like to direct you
to an information sheet written by my colleague, Senator Mark Obenshain
who was the chief patron of this measure in the Senate. This public
document provides a good overview of eminent domain, the purpose for the
amendment, as well as some answers to common questions. I've provided a link
below:
http://www.markobenshain.com/documents/SJ3_answers.pdf.
I
would also like to direct you to a site developed by another colleague, Delegate
Rob Bell, who was the chief patron of this measure in the House of Delegates.
I've provided a link here: http://www.vapropertyrightspetition.org/faqs.
Ballot Question Two: Reconvened Session
Amendment
When
the Constitution of Virginia was adopted, the General Assembly was expected to
have thirty-day sessions, but now our sessions alternate between 45 and 60 days,
which means that sometimes the reconvened session falls during Passover.
The
Reconvened Session Amendment would allow the General Assembly to delay the start
of the veto session for up to one week to avoid the possibility of scheduling
the session over a religious holiday. It passed the House and Senate with
a vote of 98-0 and 39-0, respectively.
Additional
information about each amendment may also be found on
the Virginia State Board of Elections website.