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On Election Day, Nov. 3, Texans will cast their ballots on constitutional amendments ranging from allowing public beach access to protecting residential property owners from appraisals based on potential use rather than current use.

All of the proposed constitutional amendments are important, but I ask that you pay particular attention to Proposition 11, as it significantly affects the rights of private property owners.

Proposition 11 amends the Texas Constitution to strengthen the protection of private property ownership, and ensures that private property cannot be taken from one individual and given to another for economic development purposes.

If Proposition 11 is passed, our Texas Constitution will clearly provide that when government uses its current power of eminent domain, it will be limited to truly public uses and not to benefit private individuals. Furthermore, the process for the Texas Legislature to grant new eminent domain authority will be limited. Also under Proposition 11, land cannot be taken for the primary purpose of enhancing tax revenues.

The state’s population is growing, and more people translates into more infrastructure. As we build new highways and utility lines, it is important to consider the needs, rights and priorities of private property owners throughout the eminent domain process. The right to own and use private property has long been believed to be a cornerstone for economic prosperity. Our founders guaranteed it in the constitution and listed “property” in the same category, and with the same prominence, as “life” and “liberty.”

To learn more about the constitutional amendments, visit:

www.TexasAgriculture.gov and click on “Most Popular Links.” And on Nov. 3, don’t forget to GO TEXAN and GO VOTE to make your voice heard.