AUSTIN, Texas — On Saturday at the state Capitol, dozens of people protested two similar bills that would restrict some foreign land ownership in Texas.
House Bill 17 would restrict property ownership by people, companies and government entities from China, Russia, Iran and North Korea. U.S. citizens and green card holders would be exempt.
Supporters say HB 17 protects land and natural resources from hostile countries.
“It’s because of China’s position as a rogue nation that it’s important that they not control any of our food security, have access to conduct surveillance and reconnaissance of military installations or be in areas contiguous to critical infrastructure,” said Christopher Holden, senior analyst at the Center for Security Policy, on March 6 during a public hearing on the Senate’s similar version of the bill, Senate Bill 17.
SB 17 passed the Senate on March 19.
Opponents say both bills discriminate.
“Ultimately this fight, in my eyes, is about who gets to be American,” said Daniel Wang. “I think America is great and has been great and was made great by its promise that, you know, we welcome everyone who wants to come here and contribute.”
Elected officials, including Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-Austin), State Rep. Vikki Goodwin (D-Austin) and Austin City Council Member Mike Siegel of District 7, spoke against HB 17 and SB 17 at Saturday’s rally.
A public hearing for HB 17 will be held on Wednesday in the Texas House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans Affairs Committee. The meeting starts at 10:30 a.m.