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HB 1680

Various elections matters.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Gaskill and 2 co-sponsors

Act 811 restricts foreign businesses from owning or leasing land near critical infrastructure in Arkansas, enhancing national security and protecting local interests.

Public Law 241
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1680

Summary of House Bill 1680 (Act 811)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1680, now known as Act 811, aims to regulate foreign ownership of land in Arkansas. The primary intent of the bill is to prevent foreign-party-controlled businesses from leasing or holding interests in real property or agricultural land, particularly in proximity to critical infrastructure. This legislation seeks to enhance national security and protect local interests by restricting foreign influence over essential land resources.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant changes to existing laws regarding land ownership:

  1. Definitions:

    • Controlling Interest: Defined as an ownership interest of 50% or more.
    • Critical Infrastructure: Includes military installations, emergency services, utilities, and other vital assets whose incapacitation could impact national security or public safety.
    • Prohibited Foreign Party: Defined in accordance with existing regulations, primarily targeting entities from countries subject to specific U.S. regulations.

  2. Restrictions on Foreign Ownership:

    • Prohibited foreign-party-controlled businesses are barred from acquiring any interest in public or private land in Arkansas.
    • These businesses cannot lease land or hold interests in agricultural land located within a ten-mile radius of critical infrastructure.

  3. Divestment Requirements:

    • Entities found in violation of these restrictions must divest their interests in the land within one year.
    • If divestment does not occur, the Attorney General is authorized to initiate legal proceedings to enforce the sale of the land through judicial foreclosure.

  4. Enforcement:

    • The Attorney General will record actions taken against violations in local land records to ensure transparency and compliance.

Affected Parties

The legislation primarily affects:
- Foreign Entities: Businesses controlled by foreign parties that seek to acquire or lease land in Arkansas.
- Local Landowners: Individuals and businesses that may be impacted by the restrictions on foreign ownership and leasing.
- Agricultural Sector: Farmers and agricultural businesses operating near critical infrastructure may face limitations on land leasing and ownership.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: March 4, 2025
  • Passed by House: April 3, 2025
  • Passed by Senate: April 14, 2025
  • Enrolled and Transmitted to Governor: April 15, 2025
  • Notification of Act 811: April 17, 2025

Conclusion

House Bill 1680 (Act 811) represents a significant legislative effort to regulate foreign ownership of land in Arkansas, particularly concerning critical infrastructure. By establishing clear definitions and restrictions, the bill aims to safeguard local interests and enhance national security.

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

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