By Scout Nelson
Governor Kristi Noem has taken a decisive step to safeguard South Dakota's agricultural heritage and security by signing HB 1231.
This pivotal legislation restricts the ownership of agricultural land by certain foreign governments and their affiliated entities, ensuring that South Dakota's vital ag land remains in the hands of those who prioritize American interests.
"South Dakota respects the Freedom to farm and ranch. That Freedom should not extend to our enemies," Governor Noem declared, emphasizing the importance of the new law in protecting South Dakota from potential foreign threats.
The law specifically targets six countries identified as adversaries—China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, and Venezuela—preventing them and any associated entities from owning agricultural land within the state.
The legislation introduces several key enhancements to South Dakota's defense against foreign exploitation of its agricultural resources.
It not only blocks these six nations and their entities from land ownership but also strengthens the enforcement of these restrictions.
Enhanced reporting requirements and the closure of existing loopholes in the legislation ensure that foreign ownership is thoroughly monitored and controlled. This includes addressing previous oversights regarding domestic companies and other entities with foreign ties.
Governor Noem highlighted the urgent need for such a law, pointing out the alarming increase in foreign ownership of American agricultural land, particularly by China, which has seen a rise of over 5,300% in the last decade.
This legislation is a critical step in preventing foreign adversaries from gaining control over America's food supply and, by extension, the country itself.
By enacting HB 1231, South Dakota sets a precedent in the fight to maintain the integrity of the nation's agricultural sector and ensure the security of its food supply against foreign threats.
Governor Noem's leadership in this area sends a clear message: South Dakota's agricultural land is off-limits to America's enemies, securing the state's and the nation's agricultural future.
Photo Credit -gettyimages-nobilior
Categories: South Dakota, Government & Policy