Which clause ensures that the government compensates before taking private property?

The Takings Clause is a provision found in the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution that explicitly requires the government to provide compensation to property owners when it seizes private property for public use. This clause reflects the principle of eminent domain, which allows governments to take private property for the sake of public benefit, but it must be done fairly by offering monetary compensation to the affected property owner.

This is a crucial aspect of property rights and government powers, ensuring that individuals are not deprived of their property without just and fair treatment. The clause serves as a protection against arbitrary government action and promotes a balance between the needs of the public and the rights of individuals.

In contrast, the other choices focus on different legal principles. Procedural due process pertains to the fairness of the legal proceedings and processes that a government must follow before a person can be deprived of their rights. Substantive due process deals with certain fundamental rights that the government cannot infringe upon, ensuring that laws are fair and reasonable. Unlimited liability relates to the financial responsibilities of business owners, which is not connected to property rights or government compensation for property taking. Thus, the Takings Clause is the only correct answer, specifically ensuring compensation for private property taken for public use.