Which power of government allows for the taking of private property for public use?

The power of government that allows for the taking of private property for public use is known as eminent domain. This legal principle enables the government to acquire land or property for projects deemed beneficial to the public, such as transportation infrastructures, schools, or parks. Landowners are typically compensated at fair market value for their property in these situations, as mandated by the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which protects property owners from being deprived of their property without just compensation.

In contrast, police power refers to the capacity of the state to regulate behavior and enforce order within its territory for the betterment of health, safety, morals, and the general welfare of the public. Taxation is the ability of governments to impose financial charges on citizens and businesses to fund public services and infrastructure. Escheat is the process by which property reverts to the state when an individual dies without a will or legal heirs. Each of these concepts serves different purposes within government powers, making eminent domain the specific authority related to the taking of private property for public use.