Congressman Aderholt Takes Action To Protect Private Property
Congressman Aderholt Takes Action To Protect Private Property
"The Constitution makes it clear that citizens have the right to own private property, and I will fight to protect that right," said Congressman Aderholt.
WASHINGTON, DC, July 1, 2005 -- Congressman Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) today announced that H.R. 3135, the "Private Property Rights Protection Act," was introduced on June 30, 2005. Congressman Aderholt is an original cosponsor of this legislation that would prevent federal funding from being used in any project that involves the condemnation of private property for the private use of others. After the recent Supreme Court ruling that puts property rights in jeopardy, Congressman Aderholt supports this Congressional solution and continues to seek other measures to restore Constitutional balance to our government.
"The Fifth Amendment has been misinterpreted to put the hard working, tax paying citizens at a disadvantage. Owning private property, with security, is a right granted in our Constitution and a part of the American dream. Thankfully, the Constitution gives Congress the power to restore this right to the people," said Congressman Aderholt.
On June 23, 2005, the Supreme Court issued a 5-4 decision in Kelo v. City of New London in which it held that "economic development" can be a "public use" under the Fifth Amendment's Takings Clause justifying the government's taking of private property to create of a more lucrative tax base.
"The courts have continued to push the limits of their authority. It is imperative that we restore proper Constitutional balance, and I am seeking to do just that."
"It is necessary that Congress act to protect our churches, homes, farms, and other private property. The recent Supreme Court ruling puts non-profit, tax-exempt property owners, like houses of worship and other religious institutions, in a very vulnerable situation. That is unacceptable," added the congressman.
H.R. 3135, the "Private Property Rights Protection Act," has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
http://aderholt.house.gov/HoR/AL04/Newsroom/News+Releases/2005/Eminent+Domain+%2807-01-05%29.htm