Statewide Regulatory Takings Reform: Exporting Oregon's Measure 37 to Other States

Publication Date: April 2006

Publisher: Reason Foundation

Author(s): Leonard C. Gilroy

Research Area: Economics

Type: Report

Coverage: Oregon

Abstract:

Measure 37 represents a major advance for the national property rights movement by establishing a system that restores the rights of private landowners that had previously been taken away via regulatory action.

The national property rights movement has been galvanized in recent years by Measure 37's passage, as well as widespread popular disenchantment with the abuse of eminent domain highlighted by the U.S. Supreme Court's Kelo vs. New London decision. Public recognition of the need to protect the constitutional rights of private property owners has never been higher.

Citizens, activists, and elected officials across the nation can look to Measure 37 as a model for regulatory reform as they continue the push to protect private property rights from the expanding reach of government and prevent landowners from being forced to bear the hidden costs associated with government regulation.