Governor Greg Abbott has signed three bills aimed at limiting the influence of foreign adversaries in Texas. The legislation targets countries such as Russia, Iran, China, and North Korea, as well as foreign terrorist organizations.
“It is very simple. Hostile foreign adversaries like China, Russian, Iran, and North Korea, as well as foreign terrorist organizations like Tren de Aragua, must not be allowed to own land in Texas,” said Governor Abbott. “They should not be allowed access to our critical infrastructure, and they may not be allowed to exploit our border. Stiff, criminal penalties will be inflicted on those who violate these laws.”
The bill signing ceremony included the presence of several lawmakers: Senator Bryan Hughes, Senator Lois Kolkhorst, Representative Cole Hefner, Representative Janie Lopez, Representative Angelia Orr, and other members of the Texas Legislature.
House Bill 128 prevents governmental entities in Texas from entering into sister-city agreements with countries considered foreign adversaries but encourages such agreements with U.S. allies.
Senate Bill 17 bans certain countries and individuals—including those associated with transnational criminal organizations—from purchasing real estate in Texas.
Senate Bill 1349 establishes a new criminal offense related to transnational repression and mandates training for law enforcement officers on this issue.
Photos from the event are expected to be released soon.
