WASHINGTON, D.C –  Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ) will join his colleagues to defend personal property rights in a press conference tomorrow on Capitol Hill.   Later in the day, the House of Representatives will consider H.R. 4128 – the Private Property Rights Protection Act – legislation regarding Eminent Domain and private property in the wake of the Supreme Court’s recent decision in Kelo v. City of New London. 

The Takings Clause of the Fifth Amendment clearly states “nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation,” yet the Supreme Court handed down a ruling that allows the desire of local government to increase its tax base trump the rights of private property owners.  In response, Smith and other House Republicans are taking stand and defending personal property rights.

WHO: Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ) will join:
              Conference Chairman Deborah Pryce (R-OH)

              Chief Deputy Whip Eric Cantor (R-VA)

              Rep. Henry Bonilla (R-TX) - Chief Sponsor

              Rep. John Carter (R-TX)                                   
              Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-NJ)
              Rep. Bob Beauprez (R-CO)
              Rep. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN)
              Rep. Kevin Brady (R-TX)
              Rep. Jim Gibbons (R-NV)
              Rep. Phil Gingrey (R-GA)
              Rep. Tom  Price (R-GA)
              Rep. Pete Sessions (R-TX)
              Rep. Michael Sodrel (R-IN)

WHEN: Thursday, November 3, 2005

                 12:00 p.m.

WHERE: House Radio TV Gallery