Bill > H0356

This bill aims to protect military installations and state assets by restricting property ownership and land acquisitions by foreign principals from countries deemed adversarial to U.S. national security. Specifically, the bill prohibits foreign adversaries from purchasing or holding controlling interests in agricultural land, forest land, water rights, mining claims, and mineral rights in Idaho. Foreign principals from these countries must sell or divest such properties within 180 days of the act's effective date, with exceptions for certain acquisitions through inheritance or debt collection. The bill introduces a detailed registration requirement for foreign principals owning such properties, mandating they register with state departments within 60 days of acquisition. Notably, the bill includes a whistleblower provision that allows individuals to report violations and potentially receive 30% of the proceeds from any resulting property sale. The legislation defines key terms like "foreign adversary" and "foreign principal" and applies to specific geographic areas, with a particular focus on protecting land near military installations. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the act is found invalid, the remaining provisions will still stand.

Government Affairs

State Affairs Committee (House)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0356/