Mississippi House Bill HB984

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/16/23
• Refer: 1/16/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

"Liberty for Our Agricultural Land Act"; enact to prohibit the companies owned by the People's Republic of China owning more than 100 acres of real estate.

Impact

The implications of HB984 are significant for state laws governing land ownership and foreign investment. The bill would amend existing regulations in the Mississippi Code to nullify any property transfers exceeding the stipulated acreage to PRC or CCP-affiliated entities. This not only preserves local agricultural lands but also reinforces state sovereignty over land use by limiting foreign control, aimed primarily at safeguarding the agricultural sector against potential exploitation by foreign governments.

Summary

House Bill 984, known as the 'Liberty for Our Agricultural Land Act', aims to restrict the ownership and control of agricultural land in Mississippi by companies affiliated with the People's Republic of China (PRC) or the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Under this act, such entities would be prohibited from owning, leasing, or exercising control over more than 100 acres of real estate in the state. This legislative measure reflects a growing concern over foreign influence and ownership in key sectors such as agriculture, particularly regarding nations seen as potential adversaries.

Contention

However, the enactment of HB984 is likely to stir contentious debate, especially regarding the balance between economic opportunity and national security. Proponents of the bill argue that it is a critical step towards protecting local farmers and resources from hostile foreign interests. Conversely, opponents may label the bill as overly restrictive, potentially discouraging legitimate foreign investments and partnerships that could benefit the state’s economy. Critics might argue that such legislation could lead to trade tensions or retaliations from the Chinese government, complicating Mississippi's agricultural export markets.