Property

Judge Declares Local School Property Taxes Unconstitutional, Demands State Funds to Ensure Adequate Education for All

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Concord, N.H. — Superior Court Judge David Ruoff has determined that the state of New Hampshire has failed to fulfill its obligation to adequately fund public education, a conclusion that extends to the unconstitutionality of varying local school property tax rates across municipalities. Ruoff’s ruling arises from a lawsuit filed by property taxpayers, including Steven Rand, following a New Hampshire Supreme Court decision in July. The high court had upheld Ruoff’s earlier determination that the state’s funding of $4,182 per pupil is “facially unconstitutional,” while affirming his assessment that an adequate funding level is $7,356.01 … Read more

New Jersey Councilwomen Sue Colleagues Over Controversial Waterfront Property Vote

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Keyport, New Jersey—A legal dispute has emerged in this borough as two Democratic councilwomen have initiated a lawsuit against their Republican colleagues over alleged conflicts of interest tied to a recent vote. Councilwomen Kathleen McNamara and Heather Brady filed the complaint in Monmouth County Superior Court on August 1, arguing that Council President Melissa Vecchio and Councilman Joseph Merla should have recused themselves from the vote concerning a subdivision of borough-owned land located at the waterfront. The councilwomen contend that Vecchio and Merla’s involvement in the voting process was inappropriate due to personal financial interests. … Read more

Texas Governor Signs New Laws to Empower Homeowners Against Squatters and Protect Property Rights

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Austin, Texas — On August 14, 2025, Governor Greg Abbott enacted two new laws aimed at enhancing property rights and combating squatting issues in the state. The Governor held a ceremonial signing of Senate Bill 38 and Senate Bill 1333 at the Texas Capitol, where he emphasized the importance of safeguarding homeowners’ rights amid a rising trend of unlawful occupancy. “Private property rights are a cornerstone of our Texas values,” Governor Abbott stated, addressing the ongoing squatting crisis that has left many property owners struggling to reclaim their land. The newly enacted legislation aims to … Read more

Unlocking Savings: Florida Homeowners Urged to Challenge Property Tax Assessments Before Time Runs Out

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TAMPA, Fla. — As summer approaches, residents across Florida are bracing for property tax assessments arriving in their mailboxes. Many homeowners believe these assessments are set in stone, but a local attorney encourages them to explore their options for contesting these figures. Patrick Risch, who oversees the real estate litigation division at Hill Ward Henderson, advises property owners that their assessed value is not definitive. He points out that the assessment, ultimately, reflects an opinion shaped by market conditions and can sometimes be influenced by automated systems. “Assessments are based on market evidence, but remember, … Read more