Foreign ownership of land in Texas has become an increasingly hot-button issue, especially as consumption grows. “In Texas, foreign ownership of ag land is at about 5.3 million acres or 3.41%, which is slightly higher than the national average of 3.1%,” according to the Texas Farm Bureau (2023). This trend has raised concerns among lawmakers, agricultural organizations, and local communities, as many are concerned about the potential impact that foreign ownership could have on food security, economic stability, and national security. Texas, with its vast and fertile land, remains a prime target for foreign investment, attracting buyers from countries like China, Canada, and the Netherlands. As the debate over foreign landownership intensifies, policymakers are considering stricter regulations and transparency measures to ensure that Texas remains safeguarded for future generations. House Bill 191 (2025) seeks to prevent certain foreign entities from purchasing real property here in Texas.
A Trio of New Transparency Laws: Examining the Open Government Reforms Instituted by SB 843, HB 103, & HB 3526
During the Regular Session, the 89th Texas Legislature passed three key measures to meaningfully improve fiscal transparency and cultivate a more informed decision-making environment. These well-intentioned measures include: • HB 103 (2025), relating to the creation and maintenance of a database of taxing unit bond, tax, and bond-related project information; providing a civil penalty; •...