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TYLER, Texas (KETK) — Certain foreign nationals and entities will now be prohibited from buying or acquiring real estate in Texas after Gov. Abbott signed Senate Bill 17 into law over the weekend. Nations included in the ban like China, Russia and North Korea, have been deemed as a security threat by U.S. intelligence assessments or by the governor.

According to the bill, foreign governments, companies, or individuals from those countries will not be able to purchase real estate in Texas, including residential, commercial, agricultural or mineral-rich properties.

Those exempted from the law include U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents or organizations controlled by lawful permanent residents. The governor will also be able to add other countries or organizations as threats, with input from public safety and security officials.

“Gov. Abbott signed our bill to protect Texas from the influence of hostile foreign nations. SB 17 enacts the strongest ban in the country, preventing the sale of Texas land and property to entities and individuals tied to China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia. This is about defending Texas — our sovereignty, our security, and our way of life. I was proud to carry this bill in the House and to work alongside Senator Lois Kolkhorst to get it done.”

Statement released by co-author State Rep. Cole Hefner

Those caught violating the new law could face a state jail felony and civil penalties of up to $250,000 or 50% of the property’s market value or the interest in real property, whichever is greater.

“To combat the CCP strategy of unrestricted warfare, Texas must be willing to fight this battle on many fronts,” Hefner said in a statement in March. “I am grateful to Speaker Burrows for his recognition of this critical issue and to my House colleagues who have stepped forward to file effective legislation that will combat this significant threat.”