• U.S. states are passing laws to restrict foreign land ownership, often targeting China, citing national security concerns.
  • Critics argue these measures may violate constitutional rights and unfairly target specific groups.
  • Growing debate highlights tensions between property rights, security risks, and geopolitical dynamics.

The Dupree Report – Multiple U.S. states are considering legislation to restrict foreign land ownership, particularly by Chinese citizens, citing national security concerns. By 2024, more than two-thirds of states had enacted or debated laws targeting foreign entities, with some explicitly mentioning China. This legislative trend highlights rising tensions between the U.S. and China as well as broader debates over property ownership and constitutional rights.

Growing Concerns Over Foreign Land Ownership

Amid escalating geopolitical tensions, several states have introduced measures aimed at limiting foreign land purchases. According to Politico, 27 states have either passed or introduced legislation restricting foreign ownership of land, with many specifically citing China. While no comprehensive list of these states has been provided, public records reveal significant legislative activity across the nation.

For example, in May 2023, Texas lawmakers passed Senate Bill 17, which bans individuals or entities tied to the governments of China, North Korea, Russia, and Iran from purchasing land in the state. Republican State Representative Cole Hefner defended the bill, stating, “We cannot, we will not, allow oppressive regimes who actively seek to do harm to seize control of critical infrastructure for our food supply.”

Florida, Texas, and Other States Take Action

Florida enacted legislation in 2023 prohibiting citizens from China and six other countries—including Russia, Iran, and North Korea—from owning agricultural land or property near military installations. Similar measures have already been adopted in South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Indiana, Virginia, Utah, and Iowa.

Meanwhile, in Arkansas, Republican senators introduced the “Not One More Inch or Acre Act” in January 2023. This bill seeks to prohibit Chinese citizens or individuals acting on behalf of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from purchasing public or private real estate.

Critics argue that these measures may violate constitutional rights. Advocacy group Asian Texans for Justice said Texas’ bill revives “a shameful chapter in American history—when Asian immigrants were banned from owning land.” Despite these concerns, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has signaled his support for the bill, which is expected to become law.

National Security Cited as Key Justification

Supporters of these laws point to national security risks, particularly regarding land purchases near military bases. Recent reports have highlighted cases where Chinese entities acquired properties close to sensitive U.S. military installations. Lawmakers argue that such purchases could enable espionage or disrupt critical infrastructure.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2023 data indicates that Chinese investors own approximately 383,935 acres of land in the United States—equivalent to twice the size of New York City. While this represents a small percentage of total foreign-owned land, the proximity of some properties to strategic facilities has raised alarms.

In Arizona, Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs recently vetoed a bill restricting foreign ownership of land near military bases. The proposed legislation would have barred entities with a 30% or greater stake from purchasing land in such areas. Governor Hobbs cited concerns over the bill’s scope and its potential economic impact while reaffirming the need for comprehensive solutions.

Calls for Balanced Policies

Experts and former officials have called for a more nuanced approach to foreign land ownership. Michael McFaul, former U.S. ambassador to Russia, warned against policies that broadly target Chinese citizens. “Not every Chinese citizen is an agent of the Communist Party of China,” McFaul argued. He urged lawmakers to craft policies that reduce CCP influence without treating all Chinese nationals as adversaries.

As states debate these measures, others are considering similar legislation. Ohio, Michigan, and Georgia have introduced bills addressing foreign land ownership. The outcomes of these initiatives could set broader legal and constitutional precedents.

What’s Next?

The continued push for restrictions on foreign land ownership raises critical questions about property rights, national security, and economic impacts. As more states pass legislation, courts may weigh in on whether these laws align with constitutional principles. Public discourse over these measures underscores the growing intersection of domestic policy and global tensions.

What do you think about these new laws? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know how this issue affects your community.

Follow The Dupree Report On WhatsApp

Freedom-Loving Beachwear by Red Beach Nation - Save 10% With Code RVM10