LINCOLN, NE—On the anniversary of 9/11, Governor Jim Pillen stood alongside state senators at Husker Harvest Days in Grand Island to introduce a series of legislative measures geared towards bolstering Nebraska’s defenses against international threats. These laws, primarily focusing on land ownership, are designed to shore up state security and maintain the safety and integrity of both the economic and agricultural sectors that are vital to Nebraska.
During this significant date, the governor impressively unveiled three specific bills. Collectively, these pieces of legislation aim to provide a robust response to potential foreign encroachments that could disrupt local economies and compromise security.
Governor Pillen underscored the importance of these measures, emphasizing the need for meticulous scrutiny over who buys land in Nebraska and their intentions. “It’s crucial for our state’s safety that we closely monitor and control these transactions, especially around vital military and agricultural resources,” he stated, linking the security of the state directly to its agricultural foundations.
Senator Barry DeKay took the lead on one of the key bills, the Foreign-Owned Real Estate National Security Act (LB1301), which revises outdated provisions dating back to 1889. This bill notably tightens the requisites for foreign entities, particularly those from countries identified by the U.S. government as adversaries, such as China, Russia, and North Korea, among others.
Reacting to the new legislation, Senator DeKay said, “It is critical that lands vital for our agriculture and infrastructure are not controlled by foreign powers hostile to our nation.” He acknowledged the bipartisan effort involved in pushing this legislative update forward.
LB1301 also minimizes exemptions previously available to foreign interests, requiring them to secure national security agreements before proceeding with land acquisition. Set to be enforced from January 1, 2025, it empowers the state’s Attorney General and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture to oversee and enforce this act.
In line with similar concerns, Senator Brian Hardin presented LB1120, already in force, which mandates any real estate purchaser near military bases to declare any affiliations with foreign adversaries. This legislation covers counties that are strategic due to their proximity to military operations and infrastructure.
Senator Hardin commented on the strategic significance of Nebraska, pointing out, “The state hosts numerous national defense assets which must be protected from potential adversaries.”
Furthermore, Senator Eliot Bostar introduced LB1300, which establishes the Committee on Pacific Conflict. This new body is tasked with identifying risks to state and national security, delivering annual reports, and ensuring that companies from certain hostile nations are barred from state procurement processes.
“Given the escalating tensions in the Pacific region, proactive measures like LB1300 ensure Nebraska remains vigilant and prepared,” Senator Bostar remarked. He lauded Nebraska’s proactive stance as a model for both other states and potentially the federal government, noting similar initiatives subsequently taken up by Arizona and Oklahoma.
Closing the event, Governor Pillen ceremonially signed the three bills, thanking the legislative sponsors for their diligent efforts to fortify Nebraska against hidden threats. “We are taking charge to prevent adversaries from gaining a foothold in our lands quietly; these measures will shield our residents from unseen dangers,” he concluded.
Thus, these legislative actions mark a significant step in enhancing Nebraska’s security framework, ensuring the state remains a safe and secure place for its citizens.