Ohio Moves to Ban Property Ownership by China and Russia

Ohio Moves to Ban Property Ownership by China and Russia.

Ohio lawmakers recently proposed legislation to limit property ownership by foreign entities from China, Russia, and other countries identified as adversaries by the U.S. government.

This effort is part of a broader national push, with similar proposals appearing in 37 states to protect local communities from potential security threats.

Reasons Behind Ohio’s Property Ownership Restrictions

Rep. Angie King (R-Celina), a sponsor of Ohio’s House Bill 1, expressed concerns over security vulnerabilities, stating that federal efforts alone aren’t enough to address growing cybersecurity and espionage threats.

The proposed law focuses specifically on areas within 25 miles of critical infrastructure like military bases, railroads, water plants, and communication systems.

Ohio officials are increasingly concerned about the risks posed by foreign espionage, particularly from countries such as China and Russia, following high-profile cybersecurity incidents nationwide.

Economic Concerns and Individual Impacts

Despite the emphasis on security, there are concerns about potential negative economic impacts. Gov. Mike DeWine previously vetoed similar legislation, expressing worry about discouraging beneficial economic investments and hurting job opportunities in Ohio.

Possible impacts include:

Difficulty for international athletes looking to buy homes.
Uncertainty for foreign companies considering investments in Ohio.
Potential unfairness for residents facing barriers to U.S. citizenship.

The Ohio Legislative Service Commission noted that, given Ohio’s extensive infrastructure network, this bill could broadly impact property ownership statewide.

Differences Between House and Senate Versions

House Bill 1: Allows existing foreign property owners to maintain their current properties.
Senate Bill 88: Requires foreign property owners to sell their properties within two years.

Enforcement and Compliance

County auditors would initiate investigations if suspicious transactions are reported, with enforcement responsibilities assigned to county sheriffs. Those buying property would need to submit statements verifying they comply with the proposed law.

Who Supports the Proposed Restrictions?

Groups like State Armor Action and the America First Policy Institute advocate for these restrictions, emphasizing the need for state-level action against foreign influence. Harrison Siders from State Armor Action highlighted the importance of local responses to complement federal security efforts.

Potential Effects on Ohio Businesses and Employment

Chinese businesses operating in Ohio, such as Capchem, Fuyao Glass, and Triangle Tire USA, which collectively employ hundreds, could face uncertainty under stricter proposals, particularly the Senate bill.

JobsOhio, the state’s economic development organization, highlighted that national security is always a key factor in their investment considerations.

Balancing Economic Growth with Security

With more than 1,300 international companies employing approximately 323,000 residents in Ohio, industry representatives urge careful consideration of the law’s language.

Kelsey Johnson from the Global Business Alliance stressed that laws should specifically target genuine threats without unintentionally discouraging friendly foreign investment.

Public Opinion and Legislative Next Steps

Advocates argue security is a fundamental priority. Rep. Roy Klopfenstein summarized the sentiment by saying, “Without security, we really have nothing.”

Ohio residents and businesses now await the outcome as the legislature moves forward with discussions.

Related Facts

In 2023, Ohio enacted a law specifically banning foreign adversaries from acquiring farmland in the state.
Several other states, including Texas and Florida, have successfully implemented similar restrictions aimed at reducing foreign influence on critical infrastructure.
Nationally, the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) regularly reviews foreign transactions involving real estate near sensitive locations for national security implications.

Ohio Moves to Ban Property Ownership by China and Russia