Assemblyman Jeff Gallahan is backing new legislation that would ban the Chinese government and its affiliates from owning or leasing land anywhere in New York.
The bill, co-sponsored by Sen. Tom O’Mara, is aimed at protecting farmland, businesses, housing, and military infrastructure from what lawmakers call foreign influence and potential national security threats.
“Foreign entities affiliated with hostile governments have no business owning land in New York,” Gallahan said in the release. “It’s a matter of common sense and national security.”
The legislation responds to growing concerns about Chinese land purchases near critical sites like military bases and supply chains. It would give the New York State Attorney General the authority to enforce the ban and seek court orders if needed.
If passed, the law would take effect 30 days after it’s signed.
Gallahan represents the 131st Assembly District, which includes parts of Ontario, Seneca, Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Broome, and Chenango counties.
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