SE Grand Rapids News

State Representative Gina Johnsen, a Republican from Portland, testified before the House Government Operations Committee to advocate for House Bill 4233. The bill aims to prevent foreign adversaries from purchasing farmland in Michigan. There has been an increase in foreign nationals acquiring significant portions of agricultural land in the state.

Johnsen expressed concerns about the influence of foreign entities like the Chinese Communist Party over economic resources such as food production and employment. She stated, “This bill is a critical step in safeguarding Michigan’s agricultural lands from foreign entities that could threaten the best interests of our state, our farmers, or our national security.”

The proposed legislation seeks to prohibit foreign principals, including governments and political parties from countries considered adversarial, from buying state land. These countries include China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela, and Syria. As per the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), at least 35.2 million acres of U.S. farmland were owned by foreign investors in 2019.

Additionally, any foreign principal already owning farmland in Michigan would be required to register with the Secretary of State.

Johnsen emphasized that her proposal is not intended to create barriers or promote anti-foreign sentiment but to protect Michigan's resources. She remarked, “We must protect Michigan’s resources and ensure that our agricultural lands remain in the hands of those who are invested in the wellbeing of our state and the nation.”

House Bill 4233 is part of a broader initiative by House Republicans aimed at reducing foreign influence within Michigan. Other measures include blocking certain apps on government devices to prevent data collection by foreign entities and ensuring public economic incentives are not given to these entities.

Further proposals focus on prohibiting agreements with concerning countries and mandating healthcare providers use electronic health record technology stored physically within the United States or Canada.