The authors of the U.S. Constitution believed that property rights are an aspect of our freedom. The freedom to use land, our most precious resource, for the necessities of life; to be fairly compensated for it; and to fight for our right to keep it.However, this freedom is at stake. Coloradoís state and local governments can take more than 90% of the value of private property before the owner has any recourse ó a number that should both shock and disappoint all Coloradans. Amendment 74 is the protection we need.As Secretary of the Interior, I saw the critical role property owners play in our economic and environmental successes. When people own land, they value it for today and the future. However, activists are working to destroy the rights of farmers, families, and businesses with friendly governments standing by their side.Amendment 74 is a straightforward ballot measure. It brings balance between property rights and regulations, while leaving a history of judicial decisions in place. However, it changes one important factor: the extent of an ownerís loss. It does not take power and responsibility away from town councils, county commissioners and other Colorado regulators, but it allows owners to push back on actions that damage their propertyís value. It creates a much-needed check on the system at a time we need it most.While opponents of Amendment 74 are using scare tactics and saying it will cost governments too much money, their claims are misleading. The fact is, costs would only occur after an individual party meets all the requirements to prevail in court and strict guidelines remain in place.Ultimately, Amendment 74 provides the necessary protection Colorado property owners deserve. Vote YES on 74 and keep Colorado a place for property owners to proudly call home.Gale NortonFormer U.S. Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton served from 2001-2006.
