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PA SB386

PA SB386
Further prohibiting certain entities from acquiring an interest in agricultural land; providing for investigation by Attorney General and for responsibilities of purchaser and Attorney General; further providing for forfeiture of lands; providing for real estate auction; and further providing for definitions.


summary

Introduced
03/06/2025
In Committee
03/06/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary

Amending the act of April 6, 1980 (P.L.102, No.39), entitled "An act restricting the acquisition by certain aliens of an interest in agricultural lands," further prohibiting certain entities from acquiring an interest in agricultural land; providing for investigation by Attorney General and for responsibilities of purchaser and Attorney General; further providing for forfeiture of lands; providing for real estate auction; and further providing for definitions.

AI Summary

This bill amends the Agricultural Land Acquisition by Aliens Law to further restrict foreign entities and individuals from purchasing agricultural land in Pennsylvania. The legislation expands prohibitions to include entities from "countries of concern" (such as China, Russia, and North Korea), foreign political parties, and individuals domiciled in these countries who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents. The Attorney General is empowered to investigate potential violations, with the ability to issue subpoenas and request records. Title companies involved in real estate transactions must determine if a purchaser is prohibited from buying agricultural land, facing a $1,000 civil penalty for willful failure to do so. If agricultural land is acquired in violation of the law, it will be forfeited to the Commonwealth and sold through a real estate auction, with proceeds distributed to cover sale costs, reimburse investigation expenses, pay lienholders, and ultimately contribute to the General Fund. The bill defines key terms like "agricultural land" and "country of concern" and provides specific exemptions for land acquired through inheritance or held as security for debt. The act will take effect 60 days after passage, aimed at preventing foreign entities from acquiring significant agricultural properties in the state.

Committee Categories

Agriculture and Natural Resources

Sponsors (8)

Last Action

Referred to Agriculture & Rural Affairs (on 03/06/2025)

bill text


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