AUSTIN, Texas – The Texas legislature passed Senate Bill 17 on Friday, which prohibits the sale of land and other property in Texas to people and companies from China, Iran, North Korea, Russia, and any other country the governor chooses to ban. It even prohibits certain people from leasing homes or apartments for more than a year.
S.B. 17 violates the First Amendment and the Equal Protection Clause by banning individuals from participating in the Texas economy and building a life in our state — based solely on their nationality or political associations.
The bill will be sent to the governor and is expected to be signed into law.
The following quote can be attributed to Sarah Cruz (she/her), policy and advocacy strategist for immigrants’ rights:
“S.B. 17 denies people meaningful access to housing and business opportunities. The bill would promote racial profiling against citizens and non-citizens wanting to purchase or lease property, as well as cause sellers to discriminate against potential buyers. The bill also gives the governor and attorney general the unconstitutional power to dictate foreign policy and target countries and residents on a whim. Texas already has tools to protect public safety while upholding an individual’s right to basic needs and a fair legal process. Instead of fanning the flames of anti-immigrant hate, Texas politicians should focus on funding our public schools and increasing access to health care.”
