The bill amends the Code of West Virginia by introducing a new article that prohibits foreign adversaries from owning or possessing real property in the state. Specifically, it bars the People's Republic of China and its citizens, who are not resident aliens or U.S. citizens, from acquiring any real estate or mineral interests in West Virginia. Additionally, it restricts foreign governments and entities identified as hostile to U.S. interests from owning property. The bill provides definitions for terms such as "control," "controlling interest," and "prohibited foreign party," and establishes a process for divestiture of property owned by these entities within six months of the bill's effective date.

To enforce these prohibitions, the bill outlines a judicial sale process for any illegally owned real estate, requiring the Attorney General to file civil actions against non-compliant entities. It also includes provisions for good faith protections, ensuring that prior violations do not invalidate property titles and that individuals not subject to the prohibitions are not obligated to investigate the status of others. The Governor is granted a tie-breaking vote in decisions regarding which foreign entities are deemed hostile, and the bill is set to take effect 90 days after passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 37-3A-1, 37-3A-2
Committee Substitute: 37-3A-1, 37-3A-2
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 37-3A-1, 37-3A-2
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 37-3A-1, 37-3A-2, 37-3A-3, 37-3A-4, 37-3A-5