Federal Government Updates the Uniform Act for First Time in 20 Years

July 16, 2024
BarronAdler

The federal government recently updated the regulations in the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (Uniform Act) for the first time in two decades. The changes are significant in aiming to assist those displaced by federally-funded projects, ultimately modernizing the language and making the process more equitable for affected individuals. Learn more about these changes to the Uniform Act and its history below.

Updates to the Uniform Act include:

  • Updated Language: The language around who qualifies for relocation assistance has been revised to include those required to move temporarily and tenants displaced as a result of voluntary acquisitions.
  • Increased Compensation to Account for Inflation: The new regulations adjust benefit limits to better reflect current economic conditions, ensuring fairer valuations for displaced individuals.
  • Expanded Reimbursement Eligibility: The updates now allow for the reimbursement of apartment application fees and other administrative costs, reducing the financial burden on impacted individuals.
  • Clearer Relocation Qualifications: New dwellings must be in the same neighborhood or at least nearby with similar housing costs to ensure displaced individuals can maintain their standard of living and sense of community.
  • Simplified Administrative Processes: The introduction of digital tools aims to streamline administrative processes, making it easier for displaced individuals to navigate the system.
  • Expanded Utility Coverage: The updated regulations now cover a broader range of utilities, providing more comprehensive support for those affected by federally-funded projects.

Photo courtesy of Tada Images – stock.adobe.com

Deep Dive: Understanding the Uniform Act

The Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act, also known as the “Uniform Act,” was established by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) in 1970. Its primary purpose is to provide protections and financial assistance to individuals and businesses displaced by federally-funded projects. The Federal Highway Administration’s Office of Real Estate Services oversees these regulations to ensure that displaced residents and businesses have access to decent, safe, sanitary, and financially-equitable replacement options when the federal government exercises eminent domain.

Prior to these regulations, the Fifth Amendment in the U.S. Constitution only protected landowners via the Takings Clause, which allows the federal government to take private property for public use if landowners receive “just compensation” in return. However, individuals didn’t have the legal right to be compensated for their moving expenses. 

A Significant Step Forward

The recent updates to the Uniform Act mark a significant step forward in ensuring fair and equitable treatment for individuals and businesses displaced by federally-funded projects. It is crucial to stay informed about available protections, so these changes will provide more comprehensive support and clearer guidelines to displaced individuals moving forward.

If you are being displaced or needing relocation assistance due to a State or Federal government project, contact an experienced attorney at Barron, Adler, Clough & Oddo, PLLC to ensure you’re receiving the support and compensation you deserve during the relocation process.

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