Austin, Texas - Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) June 12 called on Gov. Perry to add eminent domain to the list of issues to take up if the Legislature is called back to Austin for a special session. TSCRA President Dave Scott, a rancher from Richmond, Texas, made the following statement:
"Of all the issues facing Texas ranchers today, perhaps none is discussed more than the urgent need for eminent domain reform.
"Members of Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association were hopeful during the 81st Legislative Session that important provisions would be added to Texas law that would have leveled the playing field for property owners. Despite a good effort by a group of legislators, that didn't happen.
"Texas is growing, mostly in urban areas. In 2010, Texas will take an annual census, and during the 2011 Legislative Session that census will be used to draw new state and federal legislative districts. More elected officials will be needed to represent growing cities, most likely at the expense of rural Texas. This is why we need to secure the rights of property owners now.
"Eminent domain reform is needed to preserve Texas natural resources and agriculture. Without strong protection, Texas will diminish its ability to thrive.
"Of even more concern, without eminent domain reform, Texans will continue to lose one of the most sacred rights we have-the right to own property.
"If Gov. Perry calls a special session, eminent domain should be a priority."
Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association is a 132-year-old trade organization and is the largest livestock association in Texas. TSCRA has more than 15,000 members who manage approximately 4 million head of cattle on 51.5 million acres of range and pasture land, primarily in Texas and Oklahoma. TSCRA provides law enforcement services, livestock inspection, legislative and regulatory advocacy and educational opportunities for its members and the industry.
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