Texas cities believe that SB 18 will allow them to conduct eminent domain business as usual. That is correct. SB 18 does nothing to stop Kelo-style takings in Texas.
Property Rights
Michael Petrick v. City of Austin
Date Filed: July 27, 2026 Original Court: Western District of Texas, Austin Division Case Status: Active Litigation Case Summary: In August 2025, Michael Petrick purchased a home on a 0.28-acre lot in Austin, Texas, in preparation for the birth of his first child. The property contained three overgrown trees. One tree was splitting and posed...
July 27, 2026