Although private property rights are guaranteed by both the U.S. and Texas constitutions, they have been systematically scaled back over time. Since the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2005 Kelo decision, however, Texas has begun the march toward restoring those rights. Here are some next steps for Texas.
Local Government
Texas Gave Cities a Tool for More Housing Affordability. Some Are Throwing It Away.
Housing affordability is one of the Lone Star State’s – and greater Houston’s – most pressing challenges. Recent estimates suggest Texas’ statewide housing shortage exceeds 300,000 homes, applying upward pressure on rents and prices in ways that squeeze working households, young families, and seniors looking to downsize. The gap is especially severe for first-time homebuyers,...
August 7, 2026