Image Credit: TN General Assembly
The Tennessee Conservative [By Olivia Lupia] –
HB0444/SB0480, known as the Tennessee Property Rights Protection Act, passed the full House on Thursday, March 20, in an 81-11 vote.
The Act, sponsored by Rep. Bud Hulsey (R-Kingsport-District 2), deletes the current definition of a “blighted area” and instead specifically defines “blighted property” for the purposes of condemnation by housing authorities to ensure whole areas cannot be blindly taken by authorities under the guise of a “blighted area”.
The legislation further clarifies that housing authorities may acquire real property without using eminent domain and authorizes such authorities to pay more than fair market value for properties that are not blighted but are in a blighted area.
For more information about the bill, watch Rep. Hulsey’s interview with The Tennessee Conservative here.
During Thursday’s House Floor Session, Rep. Hulsey introduced his bill and fielded some clarifying questions, reassuring members that the bill is not erasing eminent domain, but is seeking to protect Tennesseans from agency overreach through improper property confiscation.
Rep. Monty Fritts (R-Kingston-District 22) spoke in support of the bill stating, “One of the things our founders wrote the most about was the importance of private property ownership, something that they had been punished greatly by the evil British. And so, I just want to thank you. Today, I’m supporting your bill, standing up for private property ownership is a very much Tennessee theme.”
There was no further discussion on the bill, moving the body to a vote. While several Democrats did join Republicans voting in favor of the legislation, all 11 “No” votes came from Democrat Representatives.
The legislation unanimously passed the Senate earlier this month after being carried by Senator Janice Bowling (R-Tullahoma-District 16).
As both chambers have passed the bill, it will be properly enrolled, meaning it will be prepared and presented in the exact form passed by both houses and in a format suitable for approval by the Governor and two Speakers. Governor Lee will then officially sign the Act into Tennessee law.
Olivia Lupia is a political refugee from Colorado who now calls Tennessee home. A proud follower of Christ, she views all political happenings through a Biblical lens and aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to educate and equip others. Olivia is an outspoken conservative who has run for local office, managed campaigns, and been highly involved with state & local GOPs, state legislatures, and other grassroots organizations and movements. Olivia can be reached at olivia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.
