Eminent Domain – Agricultural and Conservation Easements – Prohibited Taking

This bill prohibits Maryland state and local governments from seizing privately owned land protected by permanent agricultural or conservation easements through eminent domain. It directly affects landowners who have voluntarily placed their property under such easements to preserve farmland or natural areas. The key provision (Section 12-101(b)(2)) explicitly bans government takings of these easement-protected properties, while allowing exceptions for highway projects and Baltimore City procedures. The law takes effect October 1, 2025.