In a landmark decision, Maryland Governor Sarah Adams signed new eminent domain legislation into law on July 9, 2025, aimed at providing increased protections for property owners in the state. The legislation comes in response to growing concerns over the abuse of eminent domain powers by government entities and private developers.Under the new law, property owners will have greater rights and safeguards when faced with eminent domain actions. The legislation mandates that government entities must demonstrate a compelling public interest in acquiring private property through eminent domain, and must provide fair and just compensation to affected property owners. Additionally, property owners will now have the right to challenge eminent domain actions in court and seek legal recourse if they believe their rights have been violated.Governor Adams praised the new legislation as a step towards ensuring that eminent domain is used only as a last resort and in the public interest. She emphasized the importance of protecting property rights and preventing the unjust seizure of property for private gain.The signing of the new legislation comes after a series of high-profile eminent domain cases in Maryland, where property owners faced displacement and devaluation of their properties due to government projects and private development. Advocates for property rights have long called for reforms to Maryland's eminent domain laws to provide greater protections for property owners.The Maryland Eminent Domain Protection Act of 2025 has been hailed as a victory for property owners and advocates of property rights. It represents a significant step towards ensuring that eminent domain powers are used responsibly and in alignment with the principles of fairness and justice.The new legislation is expected to have far-reaching implications for future eminent domain actions in Maryland, providing property owners with the necessary safeguards to protect their homes and businesses from unjust seizure. With the signing of the Maryland Eminent Domain Protection Act of 2025, Governor Adams has taken a decisive stance in defense of property rights and the interests of Maryland residents.