June 15, 2023

Black families across the US, particularly in the South, are fighting to reclaim land seized through eminent domain, seeking economic restitution and historical acknowledgment. Evidence shows eminent domain was often racially motivated and displaced 1 million people between 1949 and 1973—two-thirds of whom were Black. A national organization dedicated to helping Black families recover lost land has received about 700 claims to properties since 2021.

A new Urban Institute report reveals that strict zoning regulations in Connecticut contribute to racial and income disparities. It finds that single-family housing is the only type of development allowed on about 62 percent of state land. The findings add to a growing evidence base showing the link between zoning and segregation.

A new analysis found that middle-income home buyers face the most severe housing shortage of any other income bracket. They can only afford 23 percent of current market listings, yet five years ago, they were able to buy half of all available homes.

California lawmakers are considering a bill to cap security deposits at one month’s rent for most rental units. Currently, landlords can charge up to two months’ rent as a security deposit, placing a significant financial burden on many of California’s roughly 17 million renters already struggling to afford rent.