Debate begins in S.C. General Assembly on legislation to protect private property owners from eminent domain abuses

According to The State:

The state's public colleges, utilities and the S.C. Ports Authority would lose much or all of their ability to condemn private property for public benefit under a House bill set to be debated this week.

The measure, sponsored by Rep. Tracy Edge, R-Horry, is aimed at protecting property owners from having their property seized for private development. The push comes in the wake of a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that raised the issue last year.

But as written, the legislation would go much further. Local governments' ability to control growth and development, for example, also would be tested, as the bill would require compensation in some zoning cases.