Texas targets foreign land buys with nation’s ‘strongest bill’ against China, others

Texas lawmakers are making a bold move to protect the Lone Star State from hostile foreign powers by introducing Senate Bill 17 (SB17), which they claim is the strongest legislative effort to block these entities from purchasing land in Texas. Championed by Republican state Rep. Cole Hefner and state Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, SB17 aims to prevent governments and entities linked to countries like China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia from gaining a foothold on Texas soil.

In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, Rep. Hefner described SB17 as “model legislation” designed to address national security threats posed by foreign land purchases. He emphasized that the bill is not about race or nationality, but rather about actions and affiliations. Hefner stated, “If you’re acting on behalf of a hostile foreign adversary, we’re going to take that land back.”

The impetus for SB17 stems from real-world events, including a case in 2021 where a retired Chinese general acquired over 140,000 acres near Laughlin Air Force Base. Hefner highlighted concerns about foreign actors attempting to purchase land near critical infrastructure like food processing plants, underscoring the vulnerabilities that exist and the need for proactive measures.

Under SB17, entities and individuals affiliated with governments identified as national security threats by the U.S. Director of National Intelligence are prohibited from purchasing real estate if it poses risks to public health or safety. The bill grants the state attorney general the authority to investigate, block, and potentially reverse land deals deemed problematic through court-ordered receivership.

The scope of “real property” covered by SB17 includes various types of land and resources, with exemptions for U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and personal homesteads. Hefner emphasized that the bill can apply to anyone proven to be acting as an agent of a foreign adversary, regardless of their nationality. The attorney general is empowered to conduct investigations and appoint receivers to manage or sell properties acquired in violation of the law.

Pushing back against accusations of xenophobia, Hefner reiterated that SB17 is solely focused on protecting Texans and Americans from foreign espionage and influence. He emphasized that national security should transcend partisan lines, stating, “This is about keeping our citizens safe. It’s not about Republican or Democrat, it’s not liberal or conservative. It is just taking care of our people.”

SB17 is scheduled to go into effect on September 1, with Hefner expressing hope that the legislation will inspire similar efforts nationwide. He underscored the importance of securing the homeland and emphasized that safeguarding citizens should be the government’s top priority.

As Texas lawmakers charge ahead with SB17, their goal is clear: to fortify the state against hostile foreign powers and ensure the safety and security of its residents. The passage of this legislation marks a significant step towards protecting Texas from potential threats and setting a precedent for other states to follow suit.