Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1953

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/5/24
• Refer: 2/6/24

Caption

Agricultural land; prohibiting leasing of agricultural land by certain persons; requiring certain affidavit as attachment to lease; providing exceptions. Effective date.

Impact

The legislation establishes new requirements for anyone seeking to lease agricultural land in the state. From the effective date of this bill, all leases must include an affidavit confirming the lessor's compliance with citizenship requirements, as well as affirmation that no funding sources are being utilized in violation of both state and federal laws. If a lease is found noncompliant, it will be rendered null and void, returning the rights to the land back to the lessor. This provision effectively centralizes authority over agricultural land leasing, impacting farmers' operational rights.

Summary

Senate Bill 1953 aims to prohibit leasing of agricultural land by certain non-citizens in Oklahoma. Specifically, the bill forbids aliens or any individuals who are not U.S. citizens from leasing agricultural lands either directly or indirectly through business entities or trusts. However, there are exceptions, particularly for business entities that engage in regulated interstate commerce under federal law, allowing some leeway for compliance with broader economic activities. The bill also necessitates additional documentation to ensure adherence to its provisions.

Contention

There are potential points of contention regarding this bill, particularly around issues of legality and fairness. The prohibition against leasing agricultural land by non-citizens may not only affect individual growers but could also raise questions about local economic impacts and agricultural productivity. Residents and stakeholders may express concern over who qualifies as a 'bona fide resident' and how these requirements might be enforced. The measure could be seen as an attempt to further restrict agricultural practices in Oklahoma and may face opposition from those advocating for immigrant rights and agricultural diversity.