What does eminent domain permit the government to do?

Eminent domain is a legal concept that allows the government to take private property for public use, provided that fair compensation is given to the property owner. This principle is grounded in the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which ensures that private property cannot be taken for public use without just compensation. This means when the government needs land for infrastructure projects, such as highways, schools, or parks, it has the authority to acquire it, guaranteeing that affected property owners receive adequate payment for their loss.

The focus on "public use" highlights that the property taken must serve a benefit for the public, such as enhancing community facilities or improving transportation networks, rather than for private interests. This delineation ensures that while government interests can supersede individual property rights, there is a recognized obligation to compensate for the property taken.

This understanding of eminent domain distinguishes it from other options. For instance, the idea that the government can regulate housing prices pertains to housing market controls rather than property acquisition through eminent domain. The transfer of property between private entities does not involve public use or compensation, and taking private property for any purpose contradicts the requirement of public benefit and just compensation.