In a significant move to safeguard Texas land and resources from foreign threats, Governor Greg Abbott issued a proclamation1 on November 18, 2025, designating the Muslim Brotherhood and the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as foreign terrorist and transnational criminal organizations.
This action invokes the provisions of Senate Bill 17 (SB 17), enacted during the 89th Texas Legislative Session, to prohibit these entities from purchasing or acquiring real property in the state. Furthermore, it empowers the Texas Attorney General to pursue legal action to dismantle any existing operations tied to these groups.
Senate Bill 17
Senate Bill 17, sponsored by State Senator Lois Kolkhorst (R-Brenham) and passed2 by the Texas Legislature in May 2025, is a targeted response to growing concerns over foreign influence in Texas’ real estate markets. The legislation amends the Texas Government Code to restrict the purchase or acquisition of real property by certain aliens or foreign entities, specifically those associated with adversarial nations such as China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, as well as designated terrorist or criminal organizations. Proponents argued that such measures are essential to prevent hostile actors from gaining footholds in important sectors such as housing, agriculture, energy, and infrastructure, which could compromise national security and economic stability and opportunities.
The bill’s passage came after extensive debate, with several proposed amendments refining its scope. For instance, it includes exemptions for certain lawful permanent residents while emphasizing enforcement against entities posing clear risks.
SB 17 has already faced legal challenges, including a lawsuit3 before the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, but its core framework remains intact.
Texans for Fiscal Responsibility has long prioritized legislation that promotes accountable governance and protects taxpayer interests, viewing foreign land acquisitions as a fiscal and security liability. During the 89th Session, TFR identified SB 17 as a priority issue, advocating for its passage to prevent the erosion of Texas’s economic sovereignty. TFR urged members of the Texas Legislature to support the bill, emphasizing its role in shielding state resources from exploitation and control by foreign or foreign-linked adversaries.
Implications for Texas and Future Priorities
Governor Abbott’s proclamation solidifies the practical application of SB 17, transforming legislative intent into actionable policy. This measure not only protects strategic assets but also aligns with TFR’s advocacy for policies that prioritize Texas taxpayers and the opportunities of families over external interests.
As the state moves forward, continued vigilance will be required to enforce these provisions and address any new challenges. This development serves as a reminder that proactive governance is essential to ensuring Texas remains a place where taxpayers, small businesses, and families can prosper.
- https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-designates-muslim-brotherhood-cair-as-foreign-terrorist-organizations
- https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB17
- https://nationalaglawcenter.org/federal-court-dismisses-challenge-to-texas-newly-enacted-foreign-ownership-law/
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