Overview

• The Texas House passed Senate Bill 17 in an 85-60 vote, allowing Governor Greg Abbott to unilaterally expand the list of countries barred from purchasing land in Texas.
• The bill initially targeted residents and entities from China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, as designated by U.S. national security agencies.
• Amendments tightened lease exemptions, limited to terms of one year or less, and preserved protections for lawful permanent residents.
• Proponents argue the bill addresses national security concerns, while critics warn of potential racial profiling, discrimination, and unchecked executive power.
• If enacted, the bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, applying only to new transactions and empowering the attorney general to investigate violations.