State bill would ban Chinese government from buying real property in Alabama
Montgomery, AL — There's a move to ban the Chinese government, Chinese entities, and non-resident citizens of China from buying real property in Alabama. State House Majority Leader Scott Stadthagen introduced House Bill 379 this week.
The bill cleared the Urban and Rural Development committee by a unanimous vote. One member asking could North Korea be added to the ban.
"We've done our homework and our due diligence. So far we have not heard any blowback. I think everything seems favorable," remarked Stadthagen.
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"Fourteen other states have signed this into law and it has not interfered with any recruitment of businesses," said Representative Stadthagen.
He said it's critical the state legislature take action now.
"The key points of this bill are national security, the citizens of this state and our military businesses," explained Stadthagen.
Stadthagen claims $6 billion in property was purchased in the U.S. by outside parties last year.
The bill would not affect any current land ownership. It would only be moving forward.
Next step for the bill is to find a companion sponsor in the senate.