Texas needs a positive definition of “public use” in its eminent domain legislation. Legislative changes in 2005, in response to Kelo, attempted to solve this problem, but they came up short. This analysis takes a look at three of the bills up for consideration this session.
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