The Protect Texas Land Act aims to regulate the holding or acquisition of real property interests by certain foreign individuals and entities in Texas. The bill amends Section 5.005 of the Property Code to clarify that aliens have the same property rights as U.S. citizens, except as specified in the new Subchapter H. This subchapter introduces definitions related to agricultural land and establishes reporting requirements for foreign individuals and organizations that hold or acquire interests in real property. It mandates that these entities report their holdings to the attorney general, with specific deadlines for reporting interests in agricultural land.

Additionally, the bill prohibits certain foreign individuals and organizations from acquiring interests in agricultural land, particularly those from countries subject to arms embargoes or designated as entities of concern under U.S. law. It also establishes an Agricultural Intelligence Office within the Texas Department of Agriculture to oversee compliance with these regulations and enforce the provisions of the new subchapter. Violations of these provisions can result in criminal charges classified as state jail felonies. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Property Code 5.005 (Property Code 5)