WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23) reintroduced the Protecting Military Installations from Foreign Espionage Act, a bill to stop U.S. adversaries from acquiring land near military bases, and military areas, and putting our military operations and national security at risk. This legislation targets efforts by hostile actors from China – as well as Russia, Iran, and North Korea – to acquire U.S. land close to American military installations or areas. It will also empower the Department of Defense (DOD) to prevent construction on any site under federal investigation.

In 2015, GH America Energy, a subsidiary of China’s Guanghei Energy Company, owned by Sun Guangxin, a former member of China’s People’s Liberation Army and the wealthiest person in the Xinjiang province, purchased 130,000 acres in Val Verde County to develop a wind farm. The land purchased was directly adjacent to Laughlin Air Force Base, the U.S. Air Force’s largest training base.

“As our foreign enemies grow more aggressive, protecting our military installations is a top priority,” said Congressman Gonzales. “This legislation would defend our national security by enhancing government security measures and vigilance around military installations. GH America Energy should never have been allowed to purchase land so close to Laughlin Air Force Base in Del Rio. I will continue to work to address this national security concern.”

Read the full text of the bill here.