To amend the Defense Production Act of 1950 to prohibit certain foreign countries from purchasing or leasing property near sensitive sites, and for other purposes.
Impact
The implications of HB558 are significant, as it limits the property rights of foreign entities, particularly in contexts where their involvement could pose a risk to national security. By prohibiting leases or purchases near sensitive sites, the bill seeks to mitigate risks linked to intelligence gathering and foreign surveillance that could undermine U.S. governmental operations. The legislation empowers government committees to monitor violations under the new rules and mandates them to report such breaches to Congress promptly.
Summary
House Bill 558 aims to amend the Defense Production Act of 1950 to prohibit specific foreign nations from purchasing or leasing property within a designated radius of sensitive U.S. sites. This amendment identifies 'covered foreign countries' as China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, along with any entities controlled by these nations. The intent of this legislation is to bolster national security by preventing foreign entities from potentially compromising sensitive government or military operations through the acquisition of nearby properties.
Contention
Notably, there may be contention surrounding the definition of 'sensitive sites' and the enforcement of property prohibitions, with critics arguing that such regulations could stifle legitimate foreign investment and economic activities. Proponents argue for more stringent measures, citing the geopolitical climate and the potential risks associated with foreign influence near critical infrastructure. Any debate surrounding this bill will likely focus on balancing national security needs with economic growth and foreign relations.
To amend the Defense Production Act of 1950 to allow an Indian Tribe to request CFIUS review of certain transactions between the Indian Tribe and foreign persons, and for other purposes.
Protecting Personal Data from Foreign Adversaries Act This bill authorizes sanctions and other prohibitions relating to software that engages in user data theft on behalf of certain foreign countries or entities. The President may regulate or prohibit transactions using software that engages in the theft or unauthorized transmission of user data and provides access to such data to (1) a communist country, (2) the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), (3) a foreign adversary, or (4) a state sponsor of terrorism. The President may also impose visa- and property-blocking sanctions on developers and owners of software that makes unauthorized transmissions of user data to servers located in China that are accessible by China's government or the CCP. The Department of State shall report to Congress a determination regarding whether WeChat or TikTok fall within certain regulations and prohibitions, including those provided under this bill. (WeChat and TikTok are software programs developed by China-based companies.)
Protecting our Land Act This bill requires the President to direct federal agencies to promulgate rules and regulations to prohibit foreign adversaries or state sponsors of terrorism from purchasing real estate located in the United States.