BY REP. JEFF MCNEELY

North Carolina House Bill 133, the NC Farmland and Military Protection Act, represents a prudent and necessary measure to protect our state’s agricultural resources and national security interests. By prohibiting adversarial foreign governments from acquiring agricultural land or property within 75 miles of military installations, this legislation addresses growing concerns over foreign influence and control in critical sectors.

Foreign ownership of U.S. agricultural land has seen a significant increase, with holdings growing by more than 8 percent in 2022 alone. In North Carolina, approximately 700,000 acres—3.5 percent of the state’s agricultural land—are under foreign control. This trend raises alarms about potential threats to food security and the integrity of our military operations.

The bill specifically targets nations designated as adversarial by the U.S. Department of State, including China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, and Venezuela. By restricting these entities from owning land near military bases such as Fort Bragg and Camp Lejeune, HB133 aims to prevent espionage and safeguard sensitive military activities.

Support for HB133 transcends partisan lines, reflecting a shared commitment to protecting North Carolina’s vital interests. Agriculture and military installations are cornerstones of our state’s economy and security. Ensuring that control over these areas remains in friendly hands is not just common sense—it’s imperative.

Critics may argue that such measures could deter foreign investment. However, HB133 is narrowly tailored, focusing solely on adversarial governments and their state-controlled enterprises. It does not impede legitimate foreign investments that contribute positively to our state’s economy.

In an era where global tensions are high, and the lines between economic and national security are increasingly blurred, HB133 stands as a proactive step to fortify our state’s sovereignty. By enacting this legislation, North Carolina sets a precedent for other states to follow, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in protecting our land and national interests.

As a chair on the House Agriculture and Environmental committee, I feel like it is my duty to protect this great state and nation. I pray that we are very careful about our children’s future and the eminent danger that our enemies pose in our own backyards.

Rep. Jeff McNeely represents the 84th District in the N.C. House of Representatives.