The Texas Senate has wasted no time addressing high-priority legislation in the 89th Legislative Session, with a major focus on restricting foreign ownership of land in the state. Senate Bill 17 (SB 17), known as “Stopping Foreign Adversaries’ Land Grabs,” aims to prevent entities from countries deemed threats to national security from purchasing private property in Texas.
Sponsored by Sen. Lois Kolkhorst (R-Brenham) and co-authored by Sen. Brent Hagenbuch (R-Denton), the bill seeks to safeguard Texas' key natural and economic resources. Similar legislation was proposed in the previous session but failed to pass. However, renewed concerns over foreign influence have propelled SB 17 forward with strong backing from Republican leadership.
What SB 17 Does
The bill specifically targets land purchases by foreign governments, companies, and individuals from nations classified as adversarial in federal security assessments. Currently, China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea are listed as such threats in the latest Annual Threat Assessment report.
While SB 17 restricts land ownership, it does not prevent foreign businesses from investing in Texas. Additionally, U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and dual citizens are unaffected. Exemptions exist for individuals fleeing oppressive regimes who seek to establish homesteads.
One key distinction from past proposals is how the bill defines control over real estate ownership. Unlike previous measures that relied on simple majority ownership, SB 17 sharpens its focus on entities with actual operational influence over property.
How It Would Be Enforced
If passed, the Texas Attorney General would have the authority to investigate potential violations and initiate the divestment process for restricted properties. The legislation also ensures real estate professionals, lenders, and title holders are not penalized for transactions that unknowingly violate the law.
Governor Greg Abbott and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick have signaled strong support for the bill, with Abbott previously stating, “We have a goal here, and that’s to prevent countries that are hostile to the interests of the United States from being able to buy up our farmland or other land that’s so important to us.”
Similar Efforts in the Texas House
SB 17 isn’t the only legislation targeting foreign land ownership this session. Rep. Jeff Leach (R-Plano) has introduced House Bill 2536, which prohibits land acquisitions by foreign adversaries. Rep. David Spiller (R-Jacksboro) has also put forward multiple bills, including HB 243, which would allow the state to use eminent domain to reclaim land owned by foreign entities if it is deemed critical to Texas’ infrastructure.
Looking Ahead
As the legislative session progresses, SB 17 will likely face debate over property rights, economic impact, and national security concerns. While supporters argue the bill is necessary to protect Texas resources from foreign influence, critics have previously raised concerns about potential overreach and unintended consequences.
