Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1479

Introduced
2/21/23  
Refer
2/21/23  
Report Pass
3/1/23  
Refer
3/7/23  
Report Pass
3/15/23  
Engrossed
3/16/23  
Refer
3/16/23  
Report Pass
3/30/23  

Caption

To Prohibit The Purchase Of Or Acquisition Of Title To Agricultural Land By A Governmental Entity Of The People's Republic Of China Or Certain Entities Connected With The People's Republic Of China.

Impact

The passage of HB 1479 would significantly impact Arkansas's property laws by expressly restricting foreign ownership in the agricultural sector, particularly targeting entities connected to the Chinese government. This amendment aligns with similar legislative measures being considered or enacted in other states, signaling a proactive approach to safeguarding local agricultural interests against foreign acquisition. The bill mandates that any transfers of agricultural land violating this prohibition are subject to immediate divestiture, a move aimed at enforcing compliance and protecting local land ownership rights.

Summary

House Bill 1479 seeks to prohibit the purchase or acquisition of agricultural land in Arkansas by governmental entities from the People's Republic of China and certain affiliated entities. The bill amends existing laws to specifically restrict foreign ownership of agricultural properties, reflecting a growing concern among Arkansas lawmakers regarding foreign influence in domestic agricultural sectors. This legislation is part of a broader national conversation on the implications of foreign investment in American land and assets.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1479 has been largely supportive among constituents and lawmakers who fear potential threats posed by foreign ownership of essential resources. Proponents argue that this legislation is crucial for national security and agricultural integrity. However, there are concerns raised by critics who caution that such restrictive measures could alienate potential investors and misunderstand the complex global economic dynamics. They argue the bill may propagate xenophobia rather than genuinely protect local interests.

Contention

Key points of contention within the discussions around HB 1479 include the implications of restricting foreign investment and the potential economic repercussions for the state. Critics have highlighted the risk of retaliatory measures from foreign governments, which could affect Arkansas's trade relations and economic growth. Furthermore, the bill raises questions about enforcing such prohibitions and whether they could infringe on property rights, leading to challenges regarding the implementation and legality of divestitures ordered by the Attorney General.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HR1014

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Prohibit The Use Of A Computer Or Software Manufactured, Assembled, Or Developed By A Covered Foreign Entity In Digital Asset Mining.

AR SR12

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Prohibit The Use Of A Computer Or Software Manufactured, Assembled, Or Developed By A Covered Foreign Entity In Digital Asset Mining.

AR SB78

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB63

An Act For The Department Of Agriculture Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB76

An Act For The Department Of Agriculture Reappropriation.

AR HR1009

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business.

AR SR5

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business.

AR SR15

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Require A Digital Asset Mining Business To Provide Notification Before Purchasing Land Or A Building Or Beginning Construction Of A Digital Asset Mining Facility.

AR HR1016

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Require A Digital Asset Mining Business To Provide Notification Before Purchasing Land Or A Building Or Beginning Construction Of A Digital Asset Mining Facility.

AR SCR2

To Condemn The Islamic Republic Of Iran's Unprecedented Drone And Missile Attack On The State Of Israel.

Similar Bills

CA AB2106

Institutional purchasers: sale of California produce.

MS HB1055

Regulatory Sandbox Agricultural Innovation Pilot Program; establish.

CA SB1308

Public educational institutions: purchase of nondomestic agricultural food products.

CA AB778

Institutional purchasers: purchase of California-grown agricultural food products.

CA AB1025

Institutional purchasers: purchase of domestic agricultural food products.

CA AB822

Institutional purchasers: sale of California produce.

HI HB1584

Relating To Agriculture.

HI SB2363

Relating To Agriculture.