Eminent Domain Bill Still Pending in Legislature

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — A bill that would improve landowners' bargaining position in condemnation actions is going down to the wire in the Wyoming Legislature.

The Legislature is set to adjourn on Wednesday. The House and Senate hadn't reached agreement on the final language of the eminent domain bill on Tuesday evening.

The Senate on Tuesday voted not to concur with House amendments to the bill.

It would require the state or private entities such as energy companies that use the power of eminent domain to condemn private property to pay a landowner's legal fees if the courts find they didn't offer a fair price for the land.

Supporters say it offers landowners necessary protection. Opponents including some in Wyoming's energy industry say it threatens to run up costs and drag out projects.