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Fix it or Else
The city of Cuero has a vacant building ordinance that requires property owners to maintain vacant buildings or else. And as with anything involving government, or else means that you will be fined, sent to jail, or have your property seized. Defenders of the ordinance make a number of arguments in favor of issuing threats…
Nothing More than a Slogan
Once again, Republicans are demonstrating that “property rights” is nothing more than a slogan to be used to attract votes. They are proposing legislation that will “crackdown” on corporate landlords through heavy taxation or similar penalties. The right to property means the freedom to produce, use, and trade material values, including housing. Imposing penalties on…
The Age of Cronyism
In recent years, individuals from across the political spectrum have condemned cronyism. Former Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, once remarked that she felt sad “for the American people, who have had their lives affected by the culture of cronyism and corruption that exists in Washington.” Current Speaker of the House, Paul Ryan, similarly denounced…
Tides Don’t Change Property Rights
Declaring access to beaches a “fundamental human right,” two legislators in Massachusetts have filed a bill that would change the boundary of private property along the ocean. The bill would mandate public access to any beach in Massachusetts from the high tide line to the water. Current law recognizes private property to the low tide…
Harvey’s Aftermath
This week, Harris County approved new development regulations intended to reduce flooding. New homes in unincorporated areas of the county will have to be built to higher standards, including elevations that may be 8 feet higher than previously required. The new regulations will increase building costs by thousands of dollars, and come at a time…
End the Piece Meal Defense of Property Rights
During the 2017 Texas legislative session, protecting property rights from violations by local governments was a recurring subject and the source of great controversy. Legislators introduced bills to rescind local ordinances pertaining to plastic bag bans, tree removal, short-term rentals, and more. Gov. Gregg Abbott called a special session largely for the explicit purpose of…