On February 17, 2026, North Dakota landowners gathered at the state capitol to protest proposed eminent domain legislation that would expand the powers of the government to seize private property for public use. The legislation, known as Senate Bill 1234, has sparked outrage among residents who fear their land could be taken away without fair compensation.Under current North Dakota law, eminent domain is primarily used for public infrastructure projects such as roads and utilities. However, Senate Bill 1234 would broaden the scope of eminent domain to include economic development projects, sparking concerns that private property could be seized for the benefit of corporations.Protesters gathered outside the capitol building, holding signs that read "Protect Property Rights" and "No to Corporate Greed." Many landowners spoke out against the legislation, arguing that it goes against the principles of private property rights enshrined in the state constitution.One landowner, Sarah Jensen, whose family has owned a farm in North Dakota for over a century, expressed her concerns about the proposed legislation. "My family has worked the land for generations, and now we're facing the threat of having it taken away for the benefit of a corporation. It's unjust and it's unconstitutional," she said.Supporters of the legislation argue that eminent domain is necessary to foster economic growth and development in North Dakota. They point to potential job creation and increased tax revenue as benefits of expanding the powers of eminent domain.Despite the protests, Senate Bill 1234 passed a preliminary vote in the state legislature, with a final vote expected in the coming weeks. Landowners have vowed to continue their fight against the legislation, with plans to take their concerns to the governor's office and seek legal action if necessary.The debate over eminent domain in North Dakota reflects a broader national conversation about the balance between private property rights and public interests. As the state continues to grapple with these issues, the voices of landowners will remain crucial in shaping the future of eminent domain legislation in North Dakota.