Texas governor signs bill banning Chinese citizens from buying property in the state
A bill to restrict property ownership in Texas by Chinese citizens became law, more than two years after it was first introduced, setting up what could be a prolonged legal and political battle as critics plan to file a suit challenging its constitutionality.
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Governor Greg Abbott, a Republican, announced on Saturday that he had signed the bill, which also targets nationals from
Iran
North Korea and
Russia , into law.
Abbott expressed support for the bill in February, writing on social media that the legislation 'would prohibit hostile foreign entities from purchasing land in Texas, and that 'we must get this to my desk this session'.
The bill restricts individuals, companies, and government entities from China and the other named countries from purchasing property in the state, exempting US green card holders and citizens. It takes effect on September 1.
The initiative allows those who hold valid US visas to purchase property, but only if the property is used as a primary residence. That means nationals from the four countries would not be able to purchase investment properties.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott. Photo: The Dallas Morning News/TNS
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