Texas Democrats strongly support private property rights, which are protected by our Constitution. We oppose the use of eminent domain and takings to deprive any property owner of the possession, use, or the ability to control their property without just compensation. We believe eminent domain should only be permitted for obvious and compelling public need. We recognize that the condemnation deck is currently stacked against the individual property owner and that significant reforms are needed.

We oppose backdoor efforts by Rick Perry to keep the development of the Trans-Texas Corridor alive, if under another name. As proposed by the Governor, the TTC would have been little more than an attempt to transfer ownership of millions of acres of Texas land to a foreign corporation with close ties to him; a plan could have devastated many rural areas, property owners and communities. We support property rights protections that would prevent uncontrolled development along toll road corridors.