Prohibits foreign ownership of agricultural land in Missouri
One significant aspect of SJR52 is the requirement for the Missouri Department of Agriculture to conduct an audit within twelve months of the effective date to assess the current state of foreign ownership of agricultural land. This audit will be made public, thus increasing transparency about agricultural land ownership in Missouri. Furthermore, the resolution mandates that foreign entities divest their interests in agricultural land within one year following the audit deadline. This timeline indicates a proactive approach by the state to reclaim agricultural land for domestic stakeholders.
Senate Joint Resolution No. 52 (SJR52) proposes an amendment to the Missouri Constitution aimed at prohibiting foreign entities from owning agricultural land in the state. If passed, the amendment will prevent any alien or foreign business from acquiring agricultural land through various means such as purchase or inheritance after the effective date of January 1, 2025. This change aims to safeguard local agricultural assets from foreign acquisitions, reflecting a growing sentiment of preserving domestic agriculture for local farmers and residents.
The bill has sparked debate within Missouri's legislature. Proponents argue that it is essential to ensure that agricultural land is owned by U.S. citizens, thereby enhancing food security and supporting local economies. They believe that foreign ownership poses risks to both economic sovereignty and local agricultural practices. On the contrary, opponents raise concerns about the potential negative consequences of such a blanket prohibition, questioning whether it might hinder investments in the agricultural sector and lead to unintended consequences for the state's economy.