Texas has taken some steps since Kelo in moving toward protecting its citizens from eminent domain abuse. The Legislature banned takings for economic development purposes in 2005, but left a big loophole allowing these to continue in the case of loosely-defined blight conditions.
Criminal Justice
Safer Communities Through Second Chances: The Case for Federal Expungement
When criminal records follow people forever, families struggle, employers lose workers, and communities lose productive citizens. Federal law offers almost no path to redemption, even though second chances strengthen public safety and the economy. Key Points The federal expungement system is effectively nonexistent. Permanent criminal records for non-violent federal offenses undermine work opportunities, family stability,...
September 15, 2026