Austin – State Rep. Dianne White Delisi today joined the overwhelming support expressed by the Texas House for House Joint Resolution 19. This legislation, authored by Rep. Frank Corte, will allow Texas voters the chance to ensure that condemnation procedures are not abused to acquire property for economic development purposes. The bill was written in response the U.S. Supreme Court's Kelo v City of New London decision and Rep. Delisi was a coauthor of the bill.


"I was proud to sign onto this bill and pleased that it has left the House with unanimous support," Delisi said. "This is an issue that crosses party lines, political philosophies, and united us in the House. This legislation revolves around the very simple principle that it isn't a proper use of government power to take property from one person to give it to someone else just because you think you might collect more taxes."


Similar legislation is in progress in the Senate and Gov. Rick Perry has added this issue to the call for the special session.


"The U.S. Supreme Court decision came after our regular session ended and I believe this is an issue that shouldn't wait until the next regular session to resolve," Delisi said. "Texans care deeply about protecting private property rights and the Texas Legislature agrees with them."