HOUSTON (AP) - The Texas Supreme Court says the state cannot
take over private beachfront land when erosion from storms n
changes the property line.

The court ruled Friday on an issue that has surfaced after each
hurricane washes some of the Texas Gulf Coast back into the water.

When that happened, private property owners have found their houses
were on public beach and were subject to condemnation by the state.

The six judges who formed the majority opinion drew from laws
and deals dating back to the 19th century, when Texas was a
republic. The judges say Texas relinquished its rights to
Galveston's West Beach properties when it became a state and
recognized beachfront deals forged by the republic.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)