Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB386

Introduced
3/6/25  

Caption

Further prohibiting certain entities from acquiring an interest in agricultural land; providing for investigation by Attorney General and for responsibilities of purchaser and Attorney General; further providing for forfeiture of lands; providing for real estate auction; and further providing for definitions.

Impact

The bill is anticipated to significantly impact local statutes governing land ownership and agricultural practices in Pennsylvania. By enhancing the regulatory framework concerning foreign ownership, it aims to ensure that agricultural land remains within the hands of U.S. citizens and residents, thus promoting domestic agricultural interests. The Attorney General is tasked with overseeing compliance, which includes investigating potential violations and enforcing forfeiture of lands that are improperly acquired. The introduction of civil penalties for title companies that neglect to verify the legal status of purchasers also underscores the bill's focus on accountability.

Summary

Senate Bill 386 seeks to amend existing legislation regarding the acquisition of agricultural land by foreign entities and individuals who are deemed non-residents of the United States. It expands the restrictions imposed on non-citizens and entities from specified 'countries of concern,' effectively prohibiting any such foreign interests from acquiring more than 100 acres of agricultural land except through inheritance or as collateral for debt. This modification aims to safeguard local agricultural land from foreign control and preserve its availability for American farmers and agricultural enterprises.

Sentiment

Opinions on SB 386 appear to be mixed among stakeholders. Proponents, including various agricultural advocates, view the bill positively, arguing that it protects local farms from foreign entities that might prioritize profit over community needs. They express concerns about national security and the integrity of the domestic food supply chain. Conversely, detractors argue that the bill may lead to unintended consequences, such as restricting market opportunities for agricultural investments and infringing on property rights. The balance between protecting local agriculture and utilizing foreign investment is at the core of the debate.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions surrounding SB 386 include the definition of 'countries of concern' and the potential economic ramifications for the agricultural sector. Critics highlight the risk of isolating Pennsylvania's agri-business from valuable foreign investments, which could provide capital and resources necessary for growth and modernization. Additionally, the effectiveness of the enforcement measures, particularly the role of the Attorney General in imposing penalties and investigating violations, raises concerns regarding logistical challenges and the potential burden on state resources.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

PA HB1995

Further prohibiting certain entities from acquiring an interest in agricultural land; providing for investigation by Attorney General and for responsibilities of purchaser and Attorney General; further providing for forfeiture of lands; providing for real estate auction; and further providing for definitions.

PA SB694

In fireworks, further providing for definitions, for sales locations and for Attorney General.

PA HB1716

In entities generally, further providing for requirements for names generally and providing for registration of name of domestic nonfiling association; in entity transactions, further providing for nature of transactions and for approval by limited liability company; in foreign associations, further providing for foreign registration statement; in general provisions, further providing for definitions; in corporate powers, duties and safeguards, further providing for certain specifically authorized debt terms; in officers, directors and shareholders, further providing for derivative action; in foreign business corporations, further providing for application of article; in general provisions, further providing for definitions; in corporate powers, duties and safeguards, further providing for certain specifically authorized debt terms; in officers, directors and members, further providing for derivative action; in general partnerships, further providing for contents of partnership agreement; in limited partnerships, further providing for contents of partnership agreement and for derivative action; and, in limited liability companies, further providing for contents of operating agreement and for derivative action.

PA HB1963

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in records, further providing for fees for copies.

PA HB2083

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in records, further providing for fees for copies.

PA SB195

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in zoning, further providing for ordinance provisions.

PA HB177

In Office of Attorney General, further providing for criminal prosecutions.

PA HB455

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; and, in relations with private affiliated entities, further providing for scope of chapter and for applicability, providing for expenditure of funds and further providing for status.

PA HB484

In ethics standards and financial disclosure, further providing for definitions, providing for gift ban and for gift ban exceptions and further providing for statement of financial interests.

PA SB1126

In general provisions, further providing for definitions; in subdivision and land development, further providing for grant of power and for contents of subdivision and land development ordinance; and, in zoning, further providing for ordinance provisions, providing for accessory dwelling units and further providing for zoning purposes.

Similar Bills

CA AB2106

Institutional purchasers: sale of California produce.

MS HB1055

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CA SB1308

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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.