Eminent Domain Report

The regulations implementing the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (the Uniform Act or Act) have not been amended since 2005. In 2019, the U.S. Department of Transportation promulgated proposed regulations. After extensive comment, the final rule was passed and circulated on May 3, 2024. It went into effect on June 3, 2024. This article summarizes some of the major changes to the Uniform Act. … 

The regulations in 49 CFR Part 24 implementing 42 USC Ch. 61, generally known as the “Uniform Act,” are being updated for the first time since 2005. New regulations are set to take effect on June 3, 2024 (the “Rule”). We will be discussing specific aspects of the new Rule in future posts. Please contact us with any specific questions in the meantime. 

In general, the new Rule provides that caps on certain benefits, limits on waiver valuations and conflict of interest have increased. Cost of living adjustment will be allowed to increase maximum waiver and benefit levels over time ...

A recent Federal Circuit case, Haggart v. United States, No. 21-1660 (June 22, 2022) determined that under the Uniform Relocation Act, like other fee-shifting statutes, attorneys’ fees are not recoverable if the lawyer is one of the litigants.

Background

This case originally started as a rails-to-trails class action case out of Washington State.  A husband and wife were part of the class that alleged their property was taken.  This proceeding was brought in order to recover compensation for the taking of property by a federal agency.  The Uniform Relocation Act comes into play ...

Providing listeners a convenient and concise medium to access timely reports on important land use topics, Nossaman’s recent podcast offerings make a great addition to your professional playlist.

First, check out Nossaman’s own Digging Into Land Use Law podcast, which covers the development of all things in, on or above the ground. Recently, I recorded the episode “Valuation and Damages: Assessing COVID-19’s Economic Impact.” Changes in how businesses operate, restrictions on property use and reduced revenues brought on by mandated closures due to COVID-19 have had ...