"We are disappointed by the veto of House Bill 2006, which we believe to be the most significant legislation recognizing and protecting Texans' most fundamental property rights in decades.

"The Supreme Court's 2005 Kelo decision gave government wide latitude in the exercise of eminent domain to take people's property. As a result, Texas property owners were depending on the state to strengthen property rights protections to prevent Kelo-style takings from occurring in Texas.

"Unfortunately, this veto exposes property owners from Freeport to El Paso to the very real threat of eminent domain.

"Although the public outcry against Kelo was overwhelming, many government entities that are in the business of taking private property from its citizens celebrated the Kelo decision for making their job easier. They are celebrating again today.

"We look forward to working with the Governor and all parties through the interim and into next session on moving Texas to the front of the line when it comes to protecting our Constitutional right to private property. In the meantime, we hope that Texans will stand up to government attempts to seize their property in the name of economic development."

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