Chinese Citizens Banned From Buying Properties in Florida Over Espionage Threat

By Thea Felicity

Jun 17, 2024 11:13 AM EDT

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MIAMI - SEPTEMBER 16: A Bank Owned sign is seen in front of a foreclosed home on September 16, 2010 in Miami, Florida. RealtyTrac, an online marketplace for foreclosure properties, released its U.S. Foreclosure Market Report for August 2010, which shows foreclosure filings - default notices, scheduled auctions and bank repossessions - were reported on 338,836 properties in August, a 4 percent increase from the previous month.
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Chinese citizens in Florida are facing frustration and uncertainty due to a new law prohibiting property purchases by those without US green cards, as reported by CNN. Signed by Governor Ron DeSantis, the law aims to curb what is perceived as Chinese Communist Party influence, sparking accusations of discrimination and a sense of alienation among Chinese residents. 

Florida government argues that limiting property ownership prevents potential espionage activities and undue influence from foreign entities, aligning with efforts to protect critical infrastructure and sensitive military installations from foreign control.

If recalled, VCPost reported earlier this year that the Biden administration is cracking down on a Chinese-backed crypto company near military bases over "espionage" risks.

READ MORE: US Lawmakers Push for Scrutiny of NewsBreak Over Chinese Origins and AI-Generated Stories

Chinese Residents vs Florida Government

Critics, however, view the law as discriminatory and unjustified, emphasizing that it unfairly singles out individuals based on their nationality and visa status. 

They argue that such measures stigmatize all Chinese citizens, regardless of their circumstances or intentions, reinforcing negative stereotypes and fostering a climate of exclusion.

Legal challenges against the law are already underway, and more are expected as affected parties, including Chinese residents and their advocates, seek to overturn or modify its provisions through the courts. 

The outcome of these legal battles will hinge on interpretations of constitutional rights, national security justifications, and the potential impact on international relations. 

The controversy will likely continue drawing national attention as it navigates through the legal system, with implications not only for Florida but potentially for other states considering similar measures and US foreign policy towards China.

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