A pair of Alabama lawmakers seek to prohibit the sale of U.S. agricultural land to any individual or entity tied to the governments of Iran, North Korea, China or Russia.
U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) and U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Monrovia) have introduced the Protecting America's Agricultural Land from Foreign Harm Act in each of the respective chambers.
Tuberville is joined by U.S. Sen. Jim Banks (R-Ind.) on the Senate side.
"For too long, we've sat by while foreign nations have been trying to take over our nation's agricultural industry," Tuberville said in a statement. "Our adversaries are always looking for any way to get their foot in the door and jeopardize our national security—including our agricultural assets. There's no reason why foreign adversaries should be allowed to buy American farmland. Not only is it dangerous for our farmers, but it's disastrous for our national security. It's past time to take action to protect our American farmers and consumers from threats to our food security. I'm proud to reintroduce this legislation with Senator Banks, and will continue fighting to protect America's farmland and put our farmers and producers first."
Strong, following up on his attempt last Congress, noted that over 40 million acres, with over 340,000 known to be owned by China.
"Chinese investment in U.S. farmland, much of which is in close proximity to sensitive national security sites, presents an enormous threat not only to our food, fiber, and fuel markets but also to our national security," Strong said of his 119th Congress effort. "As the CCP, Iran, Russia, and North Korea look to exploit weaknesses in our free and open society, it is our responsibility to ensure that the American people are protected against those who seek to undermine our national interest. This legislation is crucial to ensure our adversaries do not interfere with our food and fiber market by owning agricultural land. These protections are critical, both to ensure that every American is protected against foreign adversaries and to defend the interests of the millions of American families who make a living feeding our nation and world."
He added, "We can no longer turn a blind eye to the threat posed by a lack of transparency and effective monitoring. We must be able to effectively monitor who is growing, producing, and marketing our food safety and agriculture products. Lacking that ability is a clear threat to national security,"
Jeff Poor is the editor-in-chief of 1819 News and host of "The Jeff Poor Show," heard Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon on Mobile's FM Talk 106.5. To connect or comment, email jeff.poor@1819News.com or follow him on Twitter @jeff_poor.
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
