Public Use Doctrine

The Public Use Doctrine is a legal principle that allows government entities to take private property for public use, provided they offer fair compensation to the owner. This is often used for infrastructure projects like roads or schools. The idea is that individual property rights can be set aside for the broader benefit of the community. However, the term "public use" has evolved, leading to debates about what qualifies, especially in cases where private properties are taken for commercial development. The doctrine aims to balance individual rights with the needs of the public good.