Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senators Katie Britt, Tom Cotton, and Kevin Cramer have reintroduced the Not One More Inch or Acre Act. This legislation aims to prevent Chinese individuals or businesses from owning land in the United States. The bill addresses concerns about the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) acquiring large areas of farmland, including properties close to military installations.

Senator Britt stated, "One acre of American farmland owned by the Chinese Communist Party is one acre too many. The CCP’s strategic acquisition of farmland, particularly near our military installations, isn’t just a national security risk; it is a threat to our economic and food security." She emphasized that the act provides necessary authority to safeguard American interests and protect agriculture from foreign adversaries.

Senator Cotton added, "For decades, the Chinese Communist Party has been gobbling up American farmland and real estate. At best, this submits American land and resources to China’s best interests, not America’s—at worst, these purchases serve as outposts for Chinese espionage campaigns against American businesses and military bases."

The proposed legislation would bar the People's Republic of China and any associated individuals or entities from purchasing U.S. real estate. It also mandates selling any property deemed a national security risk by the president if owned or influenced by the CCP. Furthermore, it establishes penalties for foreign investors who do not comply with reporting requirements set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.