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Bill

HR 87

A Resolution directing the Joint State Government Commission to conduct a study reviewing the risk to critical infrastructure from foreign purchases of critical infrastructure assets and adjacent land in this Commonwealth.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jake Banta and 7 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania commission to study foreign ownership risks to critical infrastructure and adjacent land, potentially informing future protective regulations.

Referred to Agriculture & Rural Affairs
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Bill Summary · HR 87

Legislative bill overview

HR 87 directs Pennsylvania's Joint State Government Commission to conduct a comprehensive study examining risks posed by foreign ownership of critical infrastructure assets and adjacent land within the state. The study would evaluate vulnerabilities and inform potential policy responses to foreign acquisitions of strategically important facilities and properties.

Why is this important

Critical infrastructure—including power plants, water treatment facilities, telecommunications networks, and transportation hubs—is essential to public safety and economic function. Foreign ownership of these assets or surrounding land could theoretically create security vulnerabilities, espionage risks, or leverage points during international conflicts. This study would provide a factual foundation for determining whether Pennsylvania needs protective regulations.

Potential points of contention

  • Protectionism vs. Free Markets: Critics may argue the study reflects economic protectionism and could discourage legitimate foreign investment in Pennsylvania's economy
  • Definitional Challenges: Determining what qualifies as "critical infrastructure" and what distance of "adjacent land" matters is complex and could be interpreted broadly or narrowly
  • Cost and Practicality: The study's scope could be resource-intensive; determining actual security risk versus theoretical concern may prove difficult without classified intelligence access

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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