Hobbs Rejects Bill to Block Chinese Land Ownership in Arizona

Arizona’s Democratic governor has vetoed a controversial bill aimed at restricting Chinese ownership of land in the state. The legislation, backed by the Republican Party, sought to bar the People’s Republic of China and its government-owned enterprises from obtaining a substantial stake—defined as 30% or more—in Arizona properties.

Senator Janae Shamp, the Republican sponsor of Senate Bill 1109, argued that the measure was crucial for national security, asserting that the Chinese government had attempted to lease property near military installations in Arizona, specifically mentioning the Luke Air Force Base. “Not making sure that we are protecting our national security… is ludicrous,” Shamp stated.

Despite these claims, reports regarding Chinese land acquisitions near U.S. military facilities have often been misleading. Concerns were raised among state Democrats about the original legislation’s constitutionality and its potential for discriminatory practices in land sales.

A significant amendment was introduced to the bill, which was passed by the House on May 6. This revision narrowed the focus to only the Chinese government and its subsidiaries, alleviating some concerns. The Arizona House approved the amended bill on May 7 with a vote of 41-17, incorporating bipartisan support, while the Senate approved it along party lines on May 28.

In her veto letter dated June 2, Governor Katie Hobbs emphasized the importance of protecting infrastructure but criticized the bill’s effectiveness in counteracting espionage. “This legislation is ineffective at counter-espionage and does not directly protect our military assets,” she noted, adding that it lacked clear implementation guidelines.

Shamp defended the bill, claiming it would fortify Arizona’s position against national security threats by safeguarding military, commercial, and agricultural interests. Meanwhile, far-right Republican Senator Wendy Rogers expressed confusion over a similar bill she sponsored in previous years that was not passed, voicing hope that it was not too late for action.