Senator Steven Oroho

June 17, 2009   

Contact: Bill Murray / (609) 292-5199
Senator Steve Oroho

Much More Still Needs to Be Done to Ensure Equity and Fairness

Senator Steve Oroho, a member of the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement regarding an agreement reached this week on eminent domain reform:

“My colleague Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee Chairman Ron Rice, has worked long and hard to draft major reforms to the state’s eminent domain statute. His proposal will address many of the excessive measures taken by municipalities in the name of ‘economic development.’

“Following the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in ‘Kelo v. City of New London’ it became obvious that further protection was needed from those with disproportionate political influence. This bill does not adequately address abuses in certain situations.

“Failure to address these concerns could lead to problems with job creation, municipal redevelopment and smart growth. In fact the adoption of the proposed amendments to the eminent domain legislation may extend redevelopment of brownfields and other sites suitable for redevelopment.

“New Jersey has been ranked dead last in business climate for many years now. Adding layers of bureaucratic red tape could delay our recovery from the worst economic environment since the 1930′s. I will urge my colleagues to oppose amendments that exclude anyone from protection from eminent domain abuse.

“Furthermore, the adoption of the proposed amendments and fast-tracking the bill before summer recess, without a proper and thorough review, would be a disservice to all property owners.”

Much More Still Needs to Be Done to Ensure Equity and Fairness Senator Steve Oroho, a member of the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee, issued the following statement regarding an agreement reached this week on eminent domain reform: “My colleague Senate Community and Urban Affairs [...]