Who can exercise the power of eminent domain?

The power of eminent domain is primarily exercised by the government and its agencies. This legal authority allows the government to take private property for public use, provided that the property owner is compensated fairly. The rationale behind this power is that it enables the government to acquire land necessary for public projects, such as highways, schools, or parks, which serve the greater good of the community.

While private corporations and non-profits may sometimes act in partnership with government entities or can be granted the ability to exercise eminent domain under specific circumstances, the initial and primary authority lies with the government. This ensures that decisions regarding the taking of property are made with public interest in mind, adhering to legal protocols and protections designed to safeguard property owners. Therefore, the government is correctly identified as the entity that can exercise the power of eminent domain.