China and U.S. Farmland
What to know: China’s purchase of American farmland—much of it near military bases—has caused some concern in state legislatures, as well as calls for a federal fix to the issue.
The TPPF take: Ownership of U.S. land by interests tied to the Chinese Communist Party poses a very real national security risk.
“The landscape of American real estate purchases by Chinese nationals or businesses has undergone significant shifts in recent years,” says TPPF’s Chuck DeVore. “Initially driven by a desire to offshore savings away from the reach of the CCP and provide a home base for children attending prestigious universities, such investments have now expanded into the realm of farmland acquisitions, ringing national security alarm bells.”
For more on China and land purchases, click here.
Raking It In
What to know: City of Austin officials are some of the highest paid public servants in the state.
The TPPF take: Public officials are getting rich from their time serving the community.
“No one should get rich from public service. And yet, a small number of elites are reaping a windfall at taxpayer expense,” says TPPF’s James Quintero. “We need commonsense public sector compensation reform next session to protect taxpayers and stop the abuse.”
For more on superintendents’ salaries, click here.
Convention of States
What to know: Congressman Chip Roy has renewed his call for an Article V Convention of States, which could help deal with Washington’s overreach.
The TPPF take: A Convention of States could also help rein in federal spending.
“When two-thirds of the states apply for a convention, proposals can be submitted to amend the Constitution,” says TPPF’s John Bonura. “By nature, government power will creep down any avenue not restricted by the people. Federal power, like a river left to its own devices, can swell beyond its banks and become destructive. Fortunately, it can also be dammed up to serve the needs of the people.”
For more on a Convention of States, click here.