Austin, Texas — August 27
Governor Greg Abbott has signed a new law prohibiting individuals and entities tied to foreign adversaries and designated dangerous organizations from buying land in Texas.
Supporters say the measure protects state security and prevents hostile powers from accessing farmland and critical infrastructure. “Texas land must remain in the hands of Texans and trusted allies,” Abbott said at the signing.
Critics warn the law could fuel discrimination against immigrant communities, particularly those of Chinese, Iranian, Russian, and North Korean descent. Civil rights groups argue it may face constitutional challenges.
The move sparked discussion abroad. On Chinese social media, some users voiced support, noting that only wealthy elites can afford overseas property given China’s strict $50,000 annual foreign exchange limit. Others reacted with irony, suggesting the U.S. might as well revive exclusion-era policies.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1127087/
Texas now joins a growing list of states restricting foreign land ownership, reflecting mounting concerns over national security and foreign influence.
