The Texas eminent domain law also needs to address diminished access. In many cases, the government takes away access to property without compensating the owner. They then turn around and often sell the owner access to their own property. The Texas government should be paying property owners for diminished access, not the other way around.

While many eminent domain bills have been introduced in the Texas Legislature, the comprehensive reform bills Texas Farm Bureau supports are SB 18 by Sen. Craig Estes and HB 1483 by Rep. Jim Pitts. Both of these bills address the "three pillars" of eminent domain reform: a good faith offer by the taking entity; compensation, including diminished access; and a clear definition of public use.

What can you do to help? Contact your State Senator and Representative and encourage them to support SB 18 and HB 1483. Gene Hall