Relating to purchase or acquisition of real property by foreign entities

Senate Bill 19 prohibits foreign governments and entities from designated countries (like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea) from purchasing or acquiring title to real property in West Virginia, with key exceptions for U.S. citizens/residents, primary residences, and short-term leases (under 5 years). It requires existing foreign-owned properties to be sold within 180 days and mandates owners to file property details with the Department of Agriculture within 60 days. The West Virginia Attorney General enforces the law through investigations, court actions to divest property, and civil penalties. This bill directly affects foreign governments, entities controlled by them, and individuals from designated countries seeking to own real estate in West Virginia.