In a move to safeguard Missouri’s military and intelligence assets, Governor Mike Parson recently issued an executive order prohibiting the purchase of agricultural land near military facilities by foreign entities from countries designated as American adversaries. This action comes amidst growing concerns over national security and the acquisition of land, particularly near military bases, by Chinese companies throughout the United States.
Protecting Missouri’s Security Interests
Governor Parson’s executive order specifically blocks entities from China, Russia, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Venezuela from purchasing land within a 10-mile radius of military facilities in the state. The order aims to prevent potential security threats to Missouri and give its residents greater peace of mind. These precautions are deemed necessary to protect Missourians and the state’s security resources from foreign adversaries, especially China.
Several other states, including Arkansas and Florida, have already enacted similar measures due to the ongoing concerns over China’s actions and influence. In Missouri alone, Chinese entities currently own approximately 42,596 acres of farmland. Governor Parson’s executive order declares that no Missouri agricultural land shall be acquired or owned by citizens, residents, or businesses from foreign adversaries. It is important to note that this order does not impact existing landowners.
Missouri’s Military Facilities
Missouri is home to several major military facilities, including Rosecrans Air National Guard Base, Whiteman Air Force Base, and Fort Leonard Wood. These installations play a crucial role in national defense and require special attention to ensure their security and integrity.
To address the potential risks associated with foreign land ownership, any future foreign purchase of land within the designated radius of military facilities will require approval from the Missouri Department of Agriculture. This additional step aims to provide an extra layer of scrutiny and oversight to protect Missouri’s security interests.
Balancing Security and Economic Partnerships
While Governor Parson emphasizes the need to safeguard Missouri’s military and intelligence assets, he also recognizes the importance of maintaining strong business ties with allied countries such as Sweden, Germany, and Japan. Missouri intends to remain open for business to these allies, believing that the executive order adequately protects security interests without penalizing economic partners or individuals seeking a better life in the United States.
Foreign Ownership Regulations in Missouri
The issue of foreign land ownership in Missouri has been a subject of debate and legislation in recent years. Prior to 2013, foreign land ownership was largely banned in the state. However, the Republican legislature overrode a veto by then-Democratic Governor Jay Nixon, allowing foreign ownership of up to 1% of Missouri farmland. This change opened the door to foreign entities acquiring agricultural land within certain limits.
Support for Governor Parson’s Executive Order
Republican lawmakers in Missouri have expressed support for Governor Parson’s executive order and have indicated that they may introduce similar legislation in the upcoming session. The concerns surrounding foreign land ownership, particularly by Chinese entities, have sparked bipartisan attention and action throughout the country.
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