State Rep., Lou Schmitt To Introduce Bill To Protect Cemeteries From Eminent Domain

Following public outcry over the Blair County Commissioners wanting to use eminent domain to acquire land behind the Alto-Reste Cemetery to build a new prison, Republican State Representative Lou Schmitt plans on introducing legislation that would prevent government agencies from using eminent domain to acquire cemetery property.  Schmitt plans on introducing what he is calling his “Hallowed Ground Bill” in a few days.  The bill would prevent government agencies from obtaining unused parts of land owned and operated by cemeteries.  In a prepared statement Schmitt said “Blair County encompasses more than 525 square miles.  Surely there are far better areas to develop a new prison that doesn’t encroach on those resting in hallowed ground.”