Kentucky lawmakers advance bill to restrict foreign ownership of agricultural land

In a recent meeting of the House Standing Committee on Agriculture, Kentucky lawmakers engaged in a critical discussion regarding foreign ownership of agricultural land, emphasizing its implications for national security and food production. The meeting, held on February 26, 2025, highlighted the growing concerns among legislators about the potential risks associated with allowing foreign entities to acquire farmland in the state.

Representative Bivens opened the discussion by expressing strong opposition to foreign ownership of agricultural land, framing it as a matter of national security. He argued that if Kentucky farmers cannot purchase land in other countries, then foreign entities should not be allowed to buy agricultural land in the U.S. He underscored the importance of maintaining local control over food production, stating, "If we cannot produce our own food, it's a national security issue." Bivens urged his colleagues to support legislation aimed at restricting foreign ownership of agricultural land.

Representative McPherson echoed these sentiments, linking the issue to the presence of military installations in Kentucky, such as Fort Campbell and Fort Knox. He raised concerns about the potential for foreign adversaries to exploit agricultural land for espionage or other security threats. McPherson questioned the responsibility of banks in vetting foreign buyers, emphasizing the need for due diligence in financial transactions involving farmland.

The discussion also touched on the mechanics of land transactions, particularly the risks associated with quitclaim deeds, which could allow foreign nationals to acquire land without addressing existing mortgages. Representative Fiercen clarified that while banks cannot directly loan money to foreign adversaries, the scenario could arise where a farmer sells land to a foreign entity without settling their mortgage, creating complications for lenders.

Several representatives, including Hale and Don Worth, expressed their support for the proposed legislation, noting that similar provisions had been discussed in previous sessions without opposition. They highlighted the importance of safeguarding Kentucky's agricultural resources and ensuring that foreign ownership does not undermine local farmers' interests.

The committee's discussions reflect a broader concern about the implications of foreign investment in agriculture, particularly in a state where farming is a vital part of the economy. As lawmakers consider the proposed legislation, the focus remains on balancing economic interests with national security priorities.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the urgency of addressing foreign ownership of agricultural land in Kentucky. As the committee moves forward, the anticipated legislation aims to protect local farmers and ensure that the state's agricultural resources remain under domestic control. The outcome of this discussion could have lasting implications for the agricultural landscape in Kentucky and beyond.