Rep. Gill Pushes Bill to Ban China from Buying US Farmland

Representative Brandon Gill has introduced a bill to block foreign adversaries like China from buying American farmland. The legislation aims to protect national security and rural economies. It comes amid growing alarm over foreign ownership trends.

Gill a Texas Republican filed the proposal in the House this week. He argues China’s land grabs near military bases pose a clear threat. The bill targets nations labeled as adversaries under federal guidelines.

Concerns stem from reports of Chinese firms snapping up acres since 2010. Lawmakers fear espionage or food supply control could follow such purchases. Gill’s measure would bar sales to state-linked buyers from hostile countries.

The USDA tracked a rise in foreign-held farmland to 40 million acres by 2023. China owns a fraction but its proximity to bases fuels unease. Critics say the bill defends farmers from losing ground to global rivals.

Supporters highlight cases like a Chinese firm’s buy near a North Dakota airbase. Intelligence officials warned of surveillance risks in that deal. Gill’s push aligns with broader efforts to curb Beijing’s influence.

Opponents argue it could chill legitimate investment and trade ties. They note most foreign buyers are allies like Canada not adversaries. Debate over the bill’s scope is already heating up in Congress.

Similar state laws have passed in places like Texas and Florida recently. Gill’s federal approach seeks uniformity to close loopholes. He’s rallied GOP colleagues around safeguarding rural heartlands.

The legislation faces a tough road with Democratic control of the Senate. Its fate may hinge on bipartisan fears of China’s ambitions. If passed it could redraw rules for who owns America’s breadbasket.