National Housing Agency v. Orton
William T. Orton sued federal housing agencies for personal injuries sustained from a fall at a dormitory in Orange, Texas, where he was employed as a guard. He alleged negligence by the defendants in failing to maintain safe, well-lit steps. The trial court found the Federal Public Housing Authority (FPHA) negligent and awarded Orton $9,500. On appeal, the defendants argued FPHA was not a suable corporate entity and that the United States Housing Authority (USHA) was a separate, non-liable entity. The appellate court affirmed the trial court's decision, ruling that FPHA and USHA were legally the same corporate agency, subject to tort suits, and that the operation of the dormitory was a corporate function. The court also rejected other appellant arguments regarding jurisdiction, compensation acts, court costs, and the damages award.