TFB Strongly Supports State and National Security in Austin Testimony

Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) highlighted its strong support for state and national security and national defense and the efforts of state and national leaders to ensure that in testimony Wednesday in Austin to the House Select Committee on Securing Texas from Hostile Foreign Organizations.

TFB District 8 State Director Mickey Edwards provided TFB testimony to the select committee.

The select committee is charged with studying the threat posed by hostile foreign organizations and related entities on the Texas economy, security and values. The select committee is charged with evaluating the ways in which hostile foreign organizations acquire property, including real property, in Texas, as well as the attendant risks.

The select committee may recommend policy changes to mitigate the risks posed by ownership of Texas assets by hostile foreign organizations.

“The threat of foreign adversaries gaining control of agricultural land or land near critical resources is a real concern. The United States government must protect its citizens and land from foreign entities that may pose a threat. The State of Texas also has a vested interest in protecting our state’s land and resources from potential threats. Texas Farm Bureau opposes any foreign entity or persons receiving any tax credits, abatements, incentives or any other in-kind contributions that affect the taking of agricultural land in the U.S.,” Edwards said. “Our organization also supports legislation that would prevent foreign ownership of agricultural land, production units, processing plants, and or warehouses that would result in an unequal and unfair trade advantage. Simply put, we believe that foreign landowners should abide by the same rules as American citizens.”

Edwards said any new law relating to the foreign ownership of agricultural land should respect private property rights.

“We believe the legislature should find a solution that ensures a person purchasing land in Texas is not a risk to the security of the United States or Texas, while also maintaining the rights of a landowner to choose who they sell or transfer their land to. That’s why Texas Farm Bureau supported S.B. 711 by Senator Perry during the 88th session. Senator Perry’s bill created a reporting requirement that would help address potential security concerns,” Edwards said. “Certain countries are considered risks to our national security. Each year, the Director of National Security conducts an Annual Threat Assessment report on worldwide threats. Under Perry’s bill, if the buyer is from a country identified as a risk to our national security, they would be prohibited from buying or purchasing land in Texas unless they provide written notification to the seller. This allows the seller to make an informed decision and choose whether to continue with the transaction or terminate the deal.”

Edwards said as a seventh-generation Texan and landowner, he cares deeply about the land he is entrusted with. He said he wants the right safeguards that allow him to make informed decisions over the land that he stewards.

TFB strongly supports state and national security and national defense, and it supports the efforts of state and national leaders to ensure that.