On February 16, 2026, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed a bill into law that will limit the powers of eminent domain in the state. The new law, known as the Private Property Protection Act, aims to protect landowners from having their property taken by the government for private development projects.Under the Private Property Protection Act, government entities in New Mexico will now be required to demonstrate a legitimate public purpose for acquiring private property through eminent domain. This purpose must be closely related to the health, safety, or general welfare of the public. The law also prohibits the use of eminent domain for economic development projects that primarily benefit private entities.Governor Lujan Grisham emphasized the importance of protecting property rights for all New Mexicans in her remarks at the bill signing ceremony. She stated, "Eminent domain is a powerful tool that should be used judiciously and with the utmost respect for the rights of property owners. This law ensures that private property rights are upheld and that eminent domain is only used when truly necessary for the public good."The new law has garnered support from various advocacy groups, including the New Mexico Property Rights Coalition and the American Civil Liberties Union. These groups have long been advocating for stricter limitations on eminent domain powers in the state.However, some critics argue that the Private Property Protection Act could hinder important public infrastructure projects that rely on eminent domain for land acquisition. They express concerns that the new law may slow down the development of roads, schools, and other essential public facilities.Despite the mixed reactions to the law, Governor Lujan Grisham remains confident that it strikes the right balance between protecting property rights and allowing for necessary government actions. She stated, "This law promotes transparency, accountability, and fairness in the use of eminent domain. It is a significant step forward in ensuring that the rights of property owners are respected in New Mexico."Overall, the Private Property Protection Act represents a significant reform of eminent domain laws in New Mexico, bringing greater protections and accountability for property owners in the state.