What is Eminent Domain?

Eminent domain refers specifically to the government's power to take private property for public use, which is the definition reflected in the correct choice. This legal power enables the government to acquire land or property for various public purposes, such as building roads, schools, hospitals, or parks, after providing just compensation to the property owner. The principle inherent in eminent domain is that the welfare of the public can sometimes take precedence over individual property rights, ensuring that necessary infrastructure and services are developed for the benefit of the community.

In this context, the other options do not accurately define eminent domain. For instance, the power to legislate health laws pertains to public health policy authority rather than property rights. Similarly, the authority to impose taxes involves the government's fiscal powers and the ability to regulate commerce deals with interstate and international trade regulations. Neither of these aspects is related to the government's ability to acquire private property for public use, which is the essence of eminent domain.