The proposed bill seeks to strengthen the protection of military installations and state assets in Idaho by prohibiting foreign adversaries from acquiring or controlling specific types of land, such as agricultural land, forest land, water rights, mining claims, and mineral rights. It amends Section 55-103 of the Idaho Code to explicitly bar foreign governments and state-controlled enterprises from these acquisitions, while also introducing definitions for "foreign adversary" and conditions for foreign principals holding indirect interests. A new section, 55-115, is established to prevent foreign adversaries from controlling property within designated geographic areas and requires divestiture of any existing holdings within 180 days.

Key features of the bill include a requirement for foreign principals to register their ownership of agricultural land and mining claims, as well as the implementation of whistleblower protections to encourage reporting of violations. The legislation outlines a judicial foreclosure process for properties held in violation, ensuring proceeds are allocated to lienholders and whistleblowers. It also emphasizes the prioritization of claims for bona fide lienholders, whistleblowers, and restricted foreign entities, with the whistleblower enforcement provision taking effect 180 days post-enactment. The bill includes a severability clause and an emergency clause, making it effective on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 55-103