Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HSB663

Introduced
2/6/24  
Introduced
2/6/24  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to interests in agricultural land acquired or held by foreign businesses, foreign governments, or nonresident aliens, or by agents, trustees, or fiduciaries thereof, by providing for registration and reporting requirements, providing for enforcement, and providing penalties.(See HF 2483.)

Impact

One of the significant impacts of HSB663 on state laws is the reinstatement of registration and reporting requirements for foreign entities, which were previously suspended. By implementing a clearer legal framework, the bill intends to solidify Iowa's policy regarding the ownership of agricultural assets by foreign nationals, aiming to safeguard local agricultural interests and prevent large-scale foreign acquisitions that may threaten the state's farming community. The update in penalties for noncompliance further emphasizes the state's intent to deter violations and enhance accountability among foreign stakeholders.

Summary

House Study Bill 663 addresses the increasing concerns regarding foreign ownership of agricultural land in Iowa. The bill mandates foreign businesses, governments, and nonresident aliens to register their interests in agricultural land. This registration must be completed with the Secretary of State within a specified timeframe after acquisition, enhancing transparency in foreign ownership in the state. The legislation aims to provide a structured reporting mechanism that applies to all foreign parties with interests exceeding a certain threshold of land ownership, ensuring that the state's agricultural resources are managed and monitored efficiently.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HSB663 stem from debates about the implications of restricting foreign ownership of agricultural land. Advocates argue that the bill protects local farmers and ensures sustainable agricultural practices in Iowa, thereby preserving local control over critical land resources. However, opponents raise concerns regarding the potential for the bill to stifle foreign investment in the agriculture sector, which could hinder economic growth and opportunities for collaboration between domestic and foreign enterprises. This ongoing dialogue highlights the need to balance protection for local interests with fostering a welcoming environment for international business.

Companion Bills

IA SSB3113

Related A bill for an act relating to interests in agricultural land acquired or held by foreign businesses, foreign governments, or nonresident aliens, or by agents, trustees, or fiduciaries thereof, by providing for registration and reporting requirements, providing for enforcement, and providing penalties.(See SF 2204.)

IA SF2204

Replaced by A bill for an act relating to interests in agricultural land acquired or held by foreign businesses, foreign governments, or nonresident aliens, or by agents, trustees, or fiduciaries thereof, by providing for registration and reporting requirements, providing for enforcement, and providing penalties. (Formerly SSB 3113.) Effective date: 07/01/2024.

IA HF2483

Replaced by A bill for an act relating to interests in agricultural land acquired or held by foreign businesses, foreign governments, or nonresident aliens, or by agents, trustees, or fiduciaries thereof, by providing for registration and reporting requirements, providing for enforcement, and providing penalties.(Formerly HSB 663.)

Previously Filed As

IA HF83

A bill for an act prohibiting foreign governments from acquiring or owning real property or agricultural land located in the state.

IA SB660

State government; creating the Oklahoma Foreign Agents Registration Act; prescribing requirements to register as a foreign agent; providing for enforcement. Effective date.

IA SB660

State government; creating the Oklahoma Foreign Agents Registration Act; prescribing requirements to register as a foreign agent; providing for enforcement. Effective date.

IA SB960

State government; creating the Oklahoma Foreign Agents Registration Act; prescribing requirements to register as a foreign agent; providing for enforcement. Effective date.

IA SB960

State government; creating the Oklahoma Foreign Agents Registration Act; prescribing requirements to register as a foreign agent; providing for enforcement. Effective date.

IA HB518

Relating to the ownership of agricultural land by nonresident aliens or foreign entities.

IA SB0256

Foreign agent registration, foreign terrorist organizations, and foreign adversaries.

IA HSB211

A bill for an act providing for the conversion of partnerships into other forms of domestic or foreign organizations, and providing for fees.(See HF 2536, HF 2776.)

IA HF2536

A bill for an act providing for the conversion of partnerships into other forms of domestic or foreign organizations, and providing for fees.(Formerly HSB 211; See HF 2776.)

IA HB163

Further prohibiting certain entities from acquiring an interest in agricultural land; providing for investigation by Attorney General and for responsibilities of purchaser and Attorney General; further providing for forfeiture of lands; providing for real estate auction; and further providing for definitions.

Similar Bills

HI HB884

Relating To Agricultural Lands.

HI HB884

Relating To Agricultural Lands.

HI HB845

Relating To Agricultural Lands.

HI SB1

Real Property; Agricultural Lands; HDOA; AG; Restrictions on Foreign Ownership; Appropriations

HI SB1

Relating To Agricultural Lands.

HI HB845

Relating To Agricultural Lands.

SC H3408

Foreign ownership of real estate

TN SB2233

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 66, Chapter 2, Part 3, relative to restrictions on land purchases.