Story perspectives

Property Rights Advocates Rally Against Eminent Domain Abuse

1/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

On January 13, 2026, property rights advocates rallied in Pierre, South Dakota, stating the state is "open for business but not for sale."
Ed Fischbach criticized tax breaks for AI companies, asserting that local citizens should not shoulder the tax burden while billion-dollar firms profit.
Lawmakers are considering a constitutional amendment to prohibit eminent domain for private gain.
In Utah, Rep. Tiara Auxier proposed a "Bill of Rights" for taxpayers facing significant property tax increases.
A legal dispute in Southfield, Michigan, involves the Conleys, who claim ownership of a home listed under their name despite not residing there for over a decade.

History

Historical Context

The Eminent Domain Act of 2005 expanded government powers to seize private property for economic development, igniting protests from groups like the Institute for Justice, which reported 5,000 affected properties. In response, states like Michigan enacted restrictions, exemplified by Proposition 4 in 2006, which prohibited such takings, reflecting ongoing tensions over property rights and government authority in places like South Dakota and Michigan.

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Story summary

On January 13, 2026, property rights advocates rallied in Pierre, South Dakota, stating the state is "open for business but not for sale."
Ed Fischbach criticized tax breaks for AI companies, asserting that local citizens should not shoulder the tax burden while billion-dollar firms profit.
Lawmakers are considering a constitutional amendment to prohibit eminent domain for private gain.
In Utah, Rep. Tiara Auxier proposed a "Bill of Rights" for taxpayers facing significant property tax increases.
A legal dispute in Southfield, Michigan, involves the Conleys, who claim ownership of a home listed under their name despite not residing there for over a decade.

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