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SB 1706

Foreign ownership of land; prohibiting foreign principals from renting, leasing, or having a controlling interest in data centers. Effective date.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Warren Hamilton

Oklahoma bill prohibits foreign nationals from owning, leasing, or controlling data centers to protect critical digital infrastructure from foreign control.

Second Reading referred to Judiciary
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1706

Legislative bill overview

SB 1706 prohibits foreign principals from renting, leasing, or holding controlling interests in data centers within Oklahoma. The bill treats data center ownership similarly to agricultural land restrictions already present in many states, creating a new category of restricted foreign investment.

Why is this important

Data centers house critical digital infrastructure supporting everything from financial systems to government operations. This reflects growing national concerns about foreign control of strategic infrastructure, though the practical scope and enforceability depend heavily on how "data center" and "controlling interest" are defined in the bill's text.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's effectiveness hinges on precise definitions of what constitutes a "data center" and what percentage ownership triggers "controlling interest"—currently undefined in available text
  • Economic impact: Restrictions may limit foreign investment capital for data center expansion, potentially slowing infrastructure development in Oklahoma or raising operational costs
  • Enforcement challenges: Determining beneficial ownership through corporate structures and shell entities is administratively complex; similar laws in other states have faced compliance difficulties
  • Interstate commerce concerns: May face constitutional questions if it discriminates against out-of-state businesses or creates unequal treatment compared to other state restrictions

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

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