Governor Greg Abbott has signed three bills into law aimed at protecting Texas from perceived threats posed by foreign adversaries, including Russia, Iran, and China. The legislation includes House Bill 128, Senate Bill 17, and Senate Bill 1349.
“It is very simple. Hostile foreign adversaries like China, Russian, Iran, and North Korea, as well as foreign terrorist organizations like Tren de Aragua, must not be allowed to own land in Texas,” said Governor Abbott. “They should not be allowed access to our critical infrastructure, and they may not be allowed to exploit our border. Stiff, criminal penalties will be inflicted on those who violate these laws.”
House Bill 128 prohibits local government entities from entering sister-city agreements with governments identified as foreign adversaries while encouraging such partnerships with U.S. allies.
Senate Bill 17 restricts certain countries, individuals, and organizations—including designated transnational criminal organizations—from acquiring real property within the state.
Senate Bill 1349 establishes a new criminal offense related to transnational repression and requires specialized training for law enforcement officers on this issue.
Governor Abbott was joined at the signing ceremony by Senator Bryan Hughes, Senator Lois Kolkhorst, Representative Cole Hefner, Representative Janie Lopez, Representative Angelia Orr, along with other members of the Texas Senate and House of Representatives.
Additional photos from the event are expected to be made available soon.
