S.176 - Not One More Inch or Acre Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The "Not One More Inch or Acre Act" (S.176) aims to prohibit citizens and entities of the People's Republic of China (PRC) from purchasing public or private real estate in the United States. It directs the President to take necessary actions to enforce this prohibition and, under certain conditions, require the sale of real estate already owned by PRC citizens or entities if it poses a national security risk. Exceptions are made for refugees and for property held for personal use by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.
Expected Effects
The bill, if enacted, would significantly restrict investment by Chinese individuals and entities in the U.S. real estate market. This could lead to a decrease in property values in some areas and potentially strain diplomatic relations with China. It also amends the Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act of 1978 to adjust penalty amounts.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced National Security: Reduces potential influence or control by the Chinese government over strategic U.S. locations.
- Protection of Critical Infrastructure: Prevents foreign entities from acquiring land near military bases or other sensitive sites.
- Addresses Public Concerns: Responds to growing anxieties about foreign ownership of U.S. assets.
- Level Playing Field: Aims to create a more balanced relationship regarding land ownership between the US and China.
- Discourages Espionage: Limits opportunities for espionage activities through real estate holdings.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Economic Impact: Could negatively affect the real estate market and reduce foreign investment.
- Diplomatic Tensions: May strain relations with China and lead to retaliatory measures.
- Potential for Discrimination: Raises concerns about discrimination against individuals of Chinese descent.
- Legal Challenges: Could face legal challenges based on equal protection or due process grounds.
- Complexity of Enforcement: Difficult to determine the true ownership and control of entities.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality is debatable. While the federal government has broad powers over foreign affairs and national security, the Fifth Amendment protects against the taking of private property without just compensation. The Fourteenth Amendment guarantees equal protection under the law, which could be challenged if the law is deemed discriminatory. The power to regulate commerce with foreign nations is granted to Congress in Article I, Section 8, Clause 3.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).