Texas Enacts Law Barring Chinese, Russian Land Ownership

A new Texas law, effective September 1, 2025, bans individuals and entities from China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and other designated adversarial countries from purchasing or leasing property in the state, including residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural land. The legislation, known as Senate Bill 17, aims to protect national security and critical infrastructure from foreign influence, with penalties including fines over $250,000 and jail terms for violators. Texas Governor Greg Abbott, a Republican allied with President Donald Trump, has strongly supported the measure, calling it the toughest ban in America and emphasizing the exclusion of foreign terrorist organizations. While supporters argue the law addresses security threats, critics contend it fuels racism and anti-Asian sentiment, potentially increasing hostility towards Asian Americans. The law exempts permanent residents and allows students and work visa holders to buy one home for residence but prohibits additional investment properties. This move follows similar laws in other states and comes amid rising concerns about foreign real estate influence and related fraud, prompting additional legislation in Texas to combat property and deed fraud with felony charges and stricter ID verification.