Weakening Eminent Domain Could Undermine Redevelopment

"Using eminent domain for private projects has long been a divisive issue, but never more so since the Supreme Court upheld the right of officials in New London, Conn., to condemn homes and businesses to increase the tax base of one of the state's poorest cities.

That decision, coupled with reports of abuses...has prompted a onslaught of legislation, both federal and state...

But around the country, developers and city officials say weakening or destroying the power to condemn property will seriously undermine efforts to rehabilitate decaying cities and might even hinder the rebuilding of New Orleans...

...for many politicians, defending eminent domain was as perilous as endorsing gay marriage."