Cumberland Valley News

Following several high-profile incidents across the United States, including a hacking event at the Aliquippa Municipal Authority, Pennsylvania House Republicans are set to introduce a legislative package aimed at safeguarding critical state assets from foreign entities deemed unfriendly, such as China.

While national defense remains under federal jurisdiction, this legislative effort focuses on areas where Pennsylvania can protect its own assets. This initiative follows an incident labeled a "security threat" by the U.S. military when a Chinese-linked firm acquired farmland near a military installation in North Dakota.

Representative Barb Gleim (R-Cumberland) plans to propose legislation to restrict "countries of concern," as designated by the federal government—including China, Russia, and others—from purchasing agricultural land in Pennsylvania. Gleim emphasized the need for this measure, stating: "If the federal government has designated a foreign country as one of concern, we should not be jeopardizing our national security by allowing leaders, political parties, or associated businesses from those countries to purchase large swaths of agricultural land."

Gleim added that this legislation aligns with federal definitions and aims to enhance security while ensuring fair competition for Pennsylvania farmers. The proposal seeks to expand existing restrictions on purchases by officials and entities linked to these countries.

In response to the Aliquippa hacking incident, Representative Stephenie Scialabba (R-Butler) is preparing legislation to establish the Pennsylvania Cyber Security Task Force. This task force would include members from various state agencies and stakeholders tasked with enhancing cybersecurity measures across institutions and facilities.

Scialabba highlighted the importance of addressing cyber threats: "While there are valid concerns over the security of the physical realm, we also must be mindful of the cyber realm." She stressed that breaches could impact essential services and sensitive information storage.

Additionally, Representative Tim Bonner (R-Mercer/Butler) intends to introduce legislation directing a review of foreign purchases related to infrastructure assets in Pennsylvania for potential security risks. Bonner expressed his support for these efforts: “I am pleased to join with Rep. Gleim and Rep. Scialabba in sponsoring legislation to protect our farmlands, critical infrastructure and utility systems from ownership by foreign interests hostile to the United States.”