I stumbled across this article in my Google Reader this morning before heading out...
"Real estate agents want oil spill compensation" - Jul 21 12:55 PM US/Eastern By LARRY MARGASAK Associated Press Writer [Yes, I'm aware this article is on Breitbart, which is underfire right now. But the article is from AP Wire, so let's stay on topic!]
I'm going to admit, my first reaction was, "What? No Way? Talk about trying to game the system..." And that's probably more of a reaction I generally have... As I thought about it, the Oil Spill Disaster has most likely significantly affected Real Estate by driving down house values and scaring off potential buyers. But should the Real Estate community be compensated?
A couple of weeks ago, beach front home owners were asking for compensation due to lack of rental income. The argument against it was: if a hurricane was coming, and your renters didn't show up, would you expect compensation from the weather?
Then again, it could be argued that Gulf Coast Fishermen wouldn't be fishing in Hurricanes.
It seems one could make a compelling argument for almost anyone who operates a business should be compensated. From the guy who pushes the ice cream cart to the major hotel chains.
So, if you have a compelling argument, I'd like to hear. I'm kind of stuck in the mindframe of "Where do you draw the line..." $20 billion sounds like a lot of money, but I guarantee it will go fast, and likely large parts will go to undeserving parties.
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