Little Rock, Arkansas – In a significant move to protect Arkansas’ sovereignty and economic interests, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has introduced a comprehensive legislative package aimed at defending the state against the growing influence of Communist China. The Communist China Defense package is designed to curb the presence of Chinese Communist Party (CCP)-linked entities within the state, ensuring the security of critical infrastructure, agricultural land, and the economic landscape.
The package, spearheaded by Governor Sanders, is a direct response to the increasing concerns about foreign adversaries gaining access to sensitive areas in the United States. Key provisions of the legislation include banning CCP-affiliated companies from owning property near critical infrastructure such as military bases and electric substations. Additionally, it strengthens the state’s commitment to ensuring that foreign entities, particularly from China, cannot influence local politics or business practices.
Governor Sanders was joined by a group of lawmakers in introducing the bill, including Senator Blake Johnson and Representatives DeAnn Vaught, Britt McKenzie, Mindy McAlindon, and Howard M. Beaty, Jr. Their combined support underscores the bipartisan nature of the initiative, which aims to safeguard Arkansas’ national security, protect local farmers, and secure the integrity of the state’s business environment.
“President Trump is the first president in my lifetime to take a hard line against Communist China and we are proud to support that work in Arkansas by getting Communist China off our land and out of our state,” Governor Sanders stated, emphasizing the significance of the bill. “Once I sign this legislation into law, Chinese Communist Party-linked companies’ will be banned from owning property near critical infrastructure and lobbying on behalf of Communist China, Russia, and other foreign adversaries will no longer be allowed in the state of Arkansas. My administration is putting America and Arkansas first.”
This new package comes on the heels of previous efforts by the state to limit foreign influence, including the prohibition of Chinese military drones and restrictions on land ownership by foreign adversaries. By reinforcing these measures, the legislation sets a firm stance against foreign interference, particularly from China, which has long been viewed as one of America’s greatest global competitors.
Senator Blake Johnson, one of the primary sponsors of the bill, expressed his pride in Arkansas’ leadership in countering China’s influence. “China is America’s greatest adversary and I’m proud Arkansas is leading the way in pushing back against our enemies and putting America First,” Johnson said. He further noted that the legislation not only addresses national security concerns but also serves to protect local farmers and businesses from the detrimental effects of foreign ownership.
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Rep. DeAnn Vaught also underscored the importance of safeguarding Arkansas’ agricultural and technological assets. “The protection of Arkansas agricultural lands, seed technology, and our intellectual property should be of the highest priority,” she explained, reflecting the state’s commitment to securing critical industries against foreign exploitation.
The legislation introduces stricter penalties for companies tied to Communist China and expands prohibitions on property ownership and leasing. Additionally, it includes measures to prevent foreign lobbying on behalf of adversarial nations such as China and Russia. The bill also mandates the withdrawal of funding from universities and colleges that maintain ties with Chinese-sponsored institutions, such as Confucius Institutes, which have been viewed with suspicion due to their potential to influence academic and political views.
Rep. Britt McKenzie emphasized the broader context of these restrictions, stating, “Over the past two terms, the State of Arkansas has curbed the influence of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) within our borders, signaling a unified and bold stance against foreign interference.” He thanked Governor Sanders for her role in advancing these initiatives, which align with Arkansas’ overarching goal of protecting its citizens and securing its future.
The legislation also includes provisions to ensure taxpayer money is not being used to fund purchases from Chinese manufacturers, particularly when it comes to promotional items and other materials procured by state agencies. By preventing state funds from supporting Chinese products, the bill seeks to prioritize American-made goods and reduce dependence on foreign markets.
Rep. Stetson Painter added, “China’s pattern of theft of our intellectual property here in Arkansas must stop and will stop this session.” His statement reflects the growing concern about the economic impact of intellectual property theft, particularly in industries related to technology and innovation.
With this legislation, Governor Sanders and Arkansas lawmakers are sending a clear message that they are committed to protecting the state’s resources and national security. As the first state in the country to ban CCP-affiliated companies from owning farmland, Arkansas is positioning itself at the forefront of the national conversation on protecting America’s interests against foreign adversaries.
In the coming weeks, the bill is expected to face debates in the legislature, but with widespread support from both lawmakers and the public, it seems likely that the Communist China Defense legislative package will become a cornerstone of Governor Sanders’ tenure. Through this package, Arkansas is taking a bold stand in ensuring that its economic and security interests remain protected from foreign influence and interference.
