Study Says Eminent Domain Used for Narrow Reasons

A survey of the use of eminent domain by researchers at the University of North Carolina has found that the power has been mostly used for specific purposes, such as sewage, water, and roads, rather than “broad” uses, such as economic development. The researchers, who surveyed county officials in North Carolina regarding the use of eminent domain over the last five years, found 99 uses of the governmental power. Eminent domain was used for a “narrow” purpose in 92 of the 99 cases.