Texas Gov. Greg Abbott says he'll soon sign what he calls the nation's "toughest ban" on land purchases by citizens and entities tied to governments deemed hostile. The bill, Senate Bill 17, targets individuals from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea who are not living in the U.S., barring them from buying land anywhere in Texas.
The legislation passed the Texas House last week after nearly six hours of heated debate, becoming one of the most controversial proposals of the session. Republican supporters framed it as a national security measure. "This bill is carefully crafted to ensure the rights of Texans and lawful permanent residents are not infringed," said Rep. Cole Hefner (R-Mt. Pleasant), who laid out the measure on the House floor, per coverage from The Texan.
