Straining

Soaring Tort System Costs Projected to Reach $900 Billion by 2030, Straining U.S. Households

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WASHINGTON — The financial repercussions of tort lawsuits in the United States are vast and increasing, burdening households across the nation. Recent studies by the U.S. Chamber’s Institute for Legal Reform (ILR) highlight a marked rise in both costs and compensation linked to the U.S. tort system. In 2022 alone, these expenses amounted to approximately $529 billion, representing 2.1 percent of the U.S. GDP, or roughly $4,207 per American household. This upward trend in tort system costs has been persistent, with the average annual growth rate hitting 7.1% since 2016. The situation appears even more … Read more

Pittsburgh Faces Legal Challenge Over School Tax Revenue Diversion, Straining City and Educational Budgets

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Pittsburgh, PA—A legal debate involving the diversion of Pittsburgh Public Schools (PPS) tax revenue has been described as a persistent obstacle by local officials aiming to foster growth and enhance educational opportunities in the city. The controversy centers on funds being funneled away from the school district to the city, a practice that some argue has impeded progress and collaboration between city and education leaders. In a recent development, a lawsuit has been filed by a resident of Mt. Oliver Borough and PPS against the City of Pittsburgh and Pennsylvania’s Department of Education. The lawsuit … Read more

Scottsdale Enacts Tweaked Housing Laws Amid State Pushback, Straining Local Control Over Residential Development

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Scottsdale, Ariz. — Scottsdale City Council passed new ordinances on Monday adhering to Arizona’s state housing mandates, albeit with modifications to curtail their impact. The state legislation, enacted earlier this year, mandates a portion of commercial and mixed-use buildings to incorporate housing and allows greater freedom for the creation of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) such as casitas on residential properties. These changes, designed as a response to the growing housing crisis in Arizona, aim to increase housing supply by facilitating the transformation of commercial spaces and the expansion of residential properties. However, implementation has been … Read more