SE Grand Rapids News

State Representative Gina Johnsen has successfully advanced her legislation through the House, aiming to prohibit foreign adversaries from acquiring or owning farmland in Michigan. This legislative move is part of a broader initiative to reduce foreign influence within the state.

Johnsen emphasized the symbolic importance of farmland in Michigan, stating, “There is something intrinsically American about driving through rural Michigan surrounded by farmland as far as the eye can see.” She expressed concerns over foreign ownership, particularly by nations like China and Iran, suggesting that such ownership could undermine national security and American self-reliance. “Allowing our enemies to scoop up our farmland exposes our national security to its core,” she added.

The proposed legislation, known as House Bill 4233, specifically targets countries deemed as foreign concerns. These include China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela, Syria, and other entities significantly controlled by these nations. The bill mandates that any foreign principal currently owning farmland must divest their interests within two years of the law's enactment. Additionally, it requires all foreign-owned land to be registered with the Secretary of State.

The legislative package also includes measures to prevent foreign entities from accessing sensitive information via government devices and restricts educational institutions from accepting grants tied to anti-American agendas. Furthermore, it aims to protect public economic incentives from being awarded to concerning foreign entities and ensures healthcare records are maintained within the U.S. or Canada for safeguarding personal health information.

Other provisions focus on enhancing security around military bases and critical infrastructure by preventing concerning entities from purchasing nearby land.