The House’s major state calendar for Monday features three bills on which the Foundation has been actively engaged this session — HB 2006 (eminent domain), HB 2807/SB 103 (Texas Youth Commission reform), and HB 3485 (career and technology education).
Property Rights
Housing Is Too Expensive. Blame Your Local Tree Ordinance.
Matthew Bernard wanted to build a home. He bought a small lot in Oakland, California, and began clearing several diseased and fallen trees that the local fire department had identified as hazards. The result was a $915,000 “mitigation fee” from the city of Oakland—nearly five times the value of the lot itself. Under Oakland’s tree ordinance,...
August 27, 2026