Texas' Controversial Property Law Raises Alarm for Chinese Americans

Sat Oct 18 2025 13:20:19 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Texas Senate Bill 17, banning property ownership for Chinese nationals added to the growing anti-foreign sentiment, sparking fears of discrimination among Asian communities.

Texas has enacted Senate Bill 17, restricting property ownership and rental for individuals from China, Iran, North Korea and Russia, citing national security. Critics argue it fosters xenophobia and unfair scrutiny of Asian communities, with advocates calling it reminiscent of historic discriminatory laws. The legislation could deter investments and adversely impact small businesses relying on Chinese clientele, raising broader concerns about the implications for immigrant rights.

Texas has passed Senate Bill 17 (SB 17), which will restrict property ownership and rental for individuals and companies from China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia starting September 1. The bill has stirred significant backlash, especially among the Asian American community, who see it as a revival of discriminatory sentiment against them.

Critics, including Texas Representative Gene Wu, have condemned the law as discriminatory. The measure has been labeled by some as a modern-day 'Chinese Exclusion Act,' a reference to historical laws that barred Chinese laborers from immigrating to the U.S.

Governor Greg Abbott has defended the law, claiming it secures national interests by keeping foreign adverse influences away from Texas property. However, opponents argue it unfairly targets Asian immigrants and jeopardizes their place in the American landscape. Many fear this could lead to enhanced scrutiny of individuals based on appearance rather than actions.

SB 17 comes amidst a national trend, with 26 states enacting similar laws aimed at restricting foreign property ownership, especially targeting Chinese nationals. Local businesses, particularly those serving the Chinese community, may suffer from decreased clientele due to the stigma associated with the legislation.

Activists warn that if such laws continue to proliferate, history could repeat itself, again stamping out the rights of immigrant communities across the U.S.