Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senators Katie Britt and Ted Cruz have introduced the Protecting Military Installations and Ranges Act, aimed at safeguarding Department of Defense (DOD) installations from foreign adversaries. The legislation restricts property purchases by foreign entities acting on behalf of Russia, China, Iran, or North Korea.

Senator Britt stated, "The Chinese Communist Party and adversaries around the globe are constantly looking for opportunities to undermine the United States, including making investments here in America." She emphasized the importance of this act for Alabama due to its numerous military installations.

Senator Cruz added, "Foreign adversaries are exploiting loopholes to acquire land near our military bases and training routes, jeopardizing the safety of our troops and the integrity of our operations." He urged the Senate to pass the legislation swiftly.

The act proposes expanding the jurisdiction of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) to include real estate investments within 100 miles of a military installation or 50 miles of specific military areas by entities linked to China, Russia, Iran, or North Korea. It also restricts final determinations by DOD and DOT on projects under CFIUS review until completion.

Co-sponsors include Senators Rick Scott, Ted Budd, Tommy Tuberville, Markwayne Mullin, and Tom Cotton.

Additionally, Senator Britt has introduced another bill with Senator Cotton called the Not One More Inch or Acre Act. This legislation aims to prevent any purchase of U.S. real estate by China's government or affiliated entities and mandates divestment if deemed a national security risk.