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HB1255

Regarding Real Property; And To Prohibit The Purchase Of Or Acquisition Of Title To Real Property By Certain Aliens Or Foreign Entities.

Introduced

Last Action (Jan. 25, 2023): WITHDRAWN BY AUTHOR

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AI-Generated Summary

House Bill 1255 amends Arkansas law to restrict the acquisition of real property by specific foreign governments and associated entities. The bill prohibits the purchase or acquisition of title to real property by the governments of the People's Republic of China, Iran, North Korea, or Russia. Furthermore, it applies these restrictions to companies headquartered in those nations, entities controlled by those governments, and companies owned or controlled by citizens of those nations. The legislation also explicitly prohibits individuals who are citizens of these four countries from purchasing or acquiring title to real property in Arkansas. These restrictions apply to all real property transactions occurring on or after the effective date of the act. The bill functions as a regulatory limitation on property ownership based on national origin and foreign affiliation.

Potential Impact Analysis

Who Might Benefit?

The primary beneficiaries are national security interests and state regulatory bodies, as the bill aims to limit the influence of specific foreign governments over domestic land holdings. Domestic citizens and entities that might compete with these foreign entities for real estate acquisitions may also see reduced competition in the property market.

Who Might Suffer?

The groups most directly and negatively impacted are individual citizens of the People's Republic of China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia who are currently residing in or looking to invest in Arkansas. Additionally, corporations, businesses, and foreign entities headquartered in or controlled by interests from these four nations would be prohibited from acquiring real estate, potentially limiting their investment and operational capabilities within the state.

Read Full Bill on arkleg.state.ar.us