By Andi Anderson
Michigan lawmakers are considering a bill that would restrict the purchase of farmland by Chinese entities. The bill, introduced by Reps. Tom Kunse and Matt Hall, would prohibit "certain foreign ownership of certain real estate."
Supporters of the proposal cite concerns about food and national security. They argue that China could use its ownership of farmland to gain control of the food supply or to spy on the United States.
Opponents of the bill argue that it is unnecessary and could harm the state's economy. They say that foreign investment in farmland is beneficial to the state and that there is no evidence that China is using its ownership of farmland for nefarious purposes.
The bill is pending in the House Government Operations Committee. It is unclear whether it will pass or be signed into law.
The bill has sparked a debate about the role of foreign investment in the U.S. food supply. Some people worry that foreign companies are buying up too much American farmland and that this could pose a threat to national security. Others argue that foreign investment is beneficial to the economy and that it helps to keep food prices down. The debate is likely to continue as more and more foreign companies invest in U.S. farmland.
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Categories: Michigan, Government & Policy