The bill amends 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 acquiring interests in public or private land, as well as agricultural land located within a ten-mile radius of designated "critical infrastructure." The bill defines "critical infrastructure" to include various essential facilities and services, such as military installations, utilities, and communication technology nodes. Additionally, it establishes that a prohibited foreign-party-controlled business must divest any land holdings within one year if found in violation of these provisions.

The legislation also modifies the timeframe for divestiture from two years to one year for prohibited foreign parties that are no longer resident aliens. It includes penalties for violations, classifying the unlawful ownership of agricultural land by a prohibited foreign party as a felony, punishable by imprisonment or fines. The bill aims to enhance national security and protect vital resources by restricting foreign ownership and control over significant land assets in Arkansas.

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)
Act 811: 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)