Alabama Senate Bill SB14

Alabama 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Agricultural land ownership, restricted to U.S. citizens and resident aliens with limited exceptions, civil penalty for registration violation

Impact

If passed, SB14 will amend existing laws regarding property ownership, establishing more stringent regulations aimed at maintaining control of agricultural resources domestically. The bill includes provisions for civil penalties, imposing fines of up to $2,000 for entities that fail to comply with registration requirements. Furthermore, any property acquired in violation of this law could ultimately be declared escheated to the state, implying that the state would take possession of and sell the land, redirecting the proceeds towards court costs and potentially compensating the original owner.

Summary

Senate Bill 14 (SB14) proposes to impose restrictions on the ownership of agricultural land in Alabama, limiting it solely to United States citizens and resident aliens. The bill aims to prevent nonresident aliens, foreign businesses, and foreign governments from acquiring agricultural property, thereby addressing concerns about foreign investment in American farmland. However, there are exceptions for inherited land and scenarios where agricultural land is acquired through legal processes such as foreclosure. This legislation is designed as a response to rising apprehensions about foreign entities investing in essential sectors of the economy, particularly agriculture.

Contention

The bill has sparked debates among various stakeholders, including agricultural advocates, real estate professionals, and civil rights organizations. Proponents of the bill argue that it is critical to safeguard American agricultural interests from foreign influence and preserve local farming traditions. On the other hand, opponents contest that such restrictions could limit investment opportunities and pose difficulties for certain industries that rely on international business dealings. Concerns also include potential adverse effects on the state's economy and agricultural productivity, with critics suggesting that these measures might lead to unintended consequences for local farmers and economies.