Oregon passed Measure 37, which requires local governments to pay landowners if land use restrictions reduce the value of land. To whit, the “public” must pay for “public benefits” if they want them, they cannot just take the benefits and make private landowners pay for them. What is amazing is that this is the lone exception, when common sense and basic liberties say it should be the rule. Oregon’s new law has stirred up a firestorm. It passed with 60% support and passed in all but one county of the state. Pr0ponents are already looking at helping other states follow suit. Smart growth advocates and some planners are stunned and are proclaiming this will kill land use planning and lower property values. Oughtta be a fun ride.