Plain English Summary
This bill prohibits entities from adversarial foreign governments (as defined by federal arms regulations) from purchasing, leasing, or holding agricultural land or property within 50 miles of North Carolina military installations. Entities that owned such land before the law takes effect must register with the Secretary of State and cannot buy additional land. Those acquiring such land after the effective date must divest within one year, or face civil penalties and forced sale through court receivership.
Arguments in Favor
Supporters argue this protects North Carolina's agricultural productivity and national security by preventing potential adversarial nations from controlling farmland or strategically important land near military bases. They contend the bill uses existing federal definitions of adversarial nations and includes exemptions for legitimate investors who have cleared security reviews, while allowing existing foreign landowners to keep current holdings if they register.
Arguments Against
Opponents worry the law may discourage foreign investment, complicate real estate transactions, and create enforcement challenges for agents and title companies who must verify buyer status. They also raise concerns that the definition of "adversarial foreign party" through ownership thresholds (33-50%) could inadvertently affect legitimate businesses with foreign investors, and question whether state-level restrictions duplicate federal authority under CFIUS (Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States).
AI-generated analysis based on bill text. Always verify with official sources at ncleg.gov. This is not legal or political advice.
Sponsors
Primary Sponsor
Senator · District 1
Primary Sponsor
Senator · District 3
Primary Sponsor
Senator · District 48
Cosponsors (12)
Senator · District 31
Senator · District 46
Senator · District 33
Senator · District 45
Senator · District 25
Senator · District 2
Senator · District 12
Senator · District 43
Senator · District 4
Senator · District 11
Senator · District 44
Senator · District 47
Vote Breakdown (1 roll call)
Final Vote
On: Second Reading
Party Breakdown