BILL NUMBER:  SB 555
  VETOED	DATE: 10/12/2009




To the Members of the California State Senate:

I am returning Senate Bill 555 without my signature.

This bill would revise current eminent domain law and would require a
public entity authorized to acquire property through eminent domain
to give the holder of the conservation easement notification, an
opportunity to participate in condemnation proceedings, and
compensation for the property.

While protecting the value of conservation easements is a noble
endeavor, this measure unintentionally provides opponents of
controversial infrastructure projects another tool to impede or
discourage vital public infrastructure planning and development in
energy, water, and transportation which are crucial for our state's
job growth and economic well-being.

For this reason, I am unable to sign this bill.

Sincerely,



Arnold Schwarzenegger