The proposed bill aims to amend existing laws regarding the ownership of real property and agricultural land in Arkansas, specifically targeting foreign-party-controlled businesses. It prohibits such businesses from leasing or holding interests in land, particularly agricultural land located within a ten-mile radius of designated "critical infrastructure." The bill defines "critical infrastructure" as systems and assets whose incapacitation would significantly impact national security, public health, or safety, and includes various facilities such as military installations, utilities, and communication nodes. Additionally, the bill establishes that a prohibited foreign-party-controlled business must divest any land holdings within one year if found in violation of these regulations.

Key amendments include the insertion of definitions for "critical infrastructure" and the stipulation that prohibited foreign-party-controlled businesses cannot lease land. The timeframe for divestment has been reduced from two years to one year, and penalties for violations have been clarified, including potential felony charges for parties acting in concert with prohibited foreign entities. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance state control over land ownership and mitigate risks associated with foreign ownership of critical resources.

Statutes affected:
Old version HB1680 Original - 3-4-2025 04:32 PM: 18-11-110(a), 18-11-802, 2-3-102, 18-11-803, 18-11-804, 18-11-804(b), 18-11-804(e)
Old version HB1680 V2 - 3-31-2025 11:47 AM: 18-11-110(a), 18-11-802, 03-31-2025, 2-3-102, 18-11-803, 18-11-804, 18-11-804(b), 18-11-804(e)
HB 1680: 18-11-110(a), 18-11-802, 2-3-102, 18-11-803, 18-11-804, 18-11-804(b), 18-11-804(e)