A major U.S. state is moving forward with a sweeping ban on land and property purchases by certain foreign nationals and entities.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently signed Senate Bill 17 into law, prohibiting individuals and organizations from China, Russia, Iran and North Korea from acquiring real property in the Lone Star State. These countries are identified as threats in the 2025 Annual Threat Assessment of the U.S. Intelligence Community.

The bill’s definition of “real property” is broad, covering residential properties, commercial and industrial properties, agricultural land, mines, minerals, groundwater and water rights and standing timber.

It’s a serious measure: Under the law, violations are classified as state jail felonies and carry civil penalties of $250,000 or 50% of the property’s market value — whichever is greater. And the bill is set to take effect on Sept. 1, 2025.

“Gov. Abbott signed our bill to protect Texas from the influence of hostile foreign nations,” said State Rep. Cole Hefner, a co-author of the legislation in a statement. “This is about defending Texas — our sovereignty, our security, and our way of life.”