This session saw the introduction and passage of HB 49, by Representative Johnson. The bill represents his efforts to continue protecting Alaskans from the abuse of eminent domain by protecting privately owned recreational structures. Once signed into law, this legislation will ensure that the government cannot seize your private recreational property to put in a park or other public recreational structure.
Rep. Johnson believes that eminent domain is an important right of the government. However, it should only be used for the most judicious of purposes, and every effort should be made to minimize its impact on the right of the individual to own private property.
With so little of Alaska’s land in the hands of private citizens, Rep. Johnson feels very strongly that the right to own private property is one of our most important rights. By prohibiting government seizure of privately owned recreational structures for recreational purposes, HB 49 strengthens that right and ensures the continued use of land in the greatest of ways – that of private ownership.
