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Bill

H 4974

Chinese Land Ownership Prohibition

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Don Chapman and 14 co-sponsors

South Carolina bill prohibits Chinese nationals and entities from owning agricultural land and real property, citing national security concerns while facing potential constitutional and federal authority challenges.

Member(s) request name added as sponsor: Martin, Chapman, Gagnon, Sanders, Vaughan, Pedalino, Willis, Crawford, Erickson, Hartnett
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Bill Summary · H 4974

Legislative bill overview

H 4974 prohibits Chinese nationals and entities from purchasing or owning agricultural land, real property, and certain other assets in South Carolina. The bill appears designed to restrict foreign land acquisition by Chinese interests, a concern raised in multiple states regarding national security and agricultural independence.

Why is this important

Land ownership restrictions affect property markets, foreign investment, and agricultural sector dynamics. Such policies touch on national security concerns, international trade relations, and property rights—areas where federal and state authority may overlap or conflict. The bill's passage or failure could influence similar legislation across other states.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional questions: Restrictions on property ownership based on national origin may face legal challenges under the Equal Protection Clause and dormant Commerce Clause; courts have previously struck down similar state-level restrictions
  • Federal authority conflict: Foreign investment in land is primarily regulated at the federal level; state-level restrictions may contradict federal trade policy and international agreements
  • Economic impact: Limiting foreign investment could affect property values, agricultural financing, and economic development in rural areas where Chinese entities may hold interests
  • Definition and enforcement: Determining what constitutes "Chinese" ownership (individuals, corporations, shell companies) and enforcing compliance presents practical and legal challenges
  • Reciprocal concerns: May trigger retaliatory restrictions on American investments or agricultural exports to China

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

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