Bill > SB5057

This bill amends existing Washington state law regarding land ownership by non-resident aliens, specifically focusing on restrictions for entities associated with the government of the People's Republic of China. Starting August 1, 2025, the bill prohibits nonresident aliens, foreign businesses, agents, trustees, or fiduciaries associated with the Chinese government from acquiring any direct or indirect interest in agricultural, forest, or mineral lands. Additionally, the bill prevents corporations, partnerships, or other business entities from acquiring land if more than 20 percent of their stock or beneficial interest is held by such Chinese-associated entities. The bill includes some exceptions, such as land acquired through inheritance, as security for debts, through legal processes, or by citizens of countries with existing land ownership treaties. The prohibition also does not apply to agricultural land associated with food processing facilities. The overall intent appears to be limiting foreign, specifically Chinese, ownership of strategic land types in Washington state, while maintaining some flexibility for existing legal mechanisms of land transfer.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5057&Year=2025&Initiative=false