Bill > HB243

This bill provides the Texas Attorney General with the authority to acquire, through eminent domain, real property owned by non-U.S. citizens, foreign businesses, or foreign governments if certain conditions are met. Specifically, the Attorney General can initiate a court proceeding to obtain an order allowing eminent domain if they have reason to believe the property is either being used in violation of state or federal law, or poses a risk to the state's critical infrastructure, which is broadly defined to include sectors like energy, transportation, communications, health care, and defense. The bill defines key terms such as "alien" (non-U.S. citizen), "foreign" (created outside the U.S.), and provides a detailed list of what constitutes critical infrastructure. If the court finds the Attorney General's claim valid, they can proceed with eminent domain proceedings, and any property acquired through this process will be owned by the state and managed by the General Land Office. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and requires the Attorney General to adopt implementation rules as soon as practicable after the effective date.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB243