For Immediate Release

June 23, 2025

SB 17 SIGNED INTO LAW DESPITE AAPI PROTESTS

AUSTIN, TX — Governor Greg Abbott has officially signed Senate Bill 17 into law, calling it “the toughest ban in America” against land ownership by individuals and companies from China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia. At Asian Texans for Justice (ATJ), we see SB 17 for what it is: a discriminatory and dangerous policy that targets immigrants, sows fear, and undermines the values of fairness and equal treatment.

This legislation, which restricts certain foreign nationals and entities from owning land in Texas, is not about national security—it is about scapegoating. Similar proposals across the country have drawn sharp criticism from civil rights groups, business leaders, and constitutional scholars alike. SB 17 echoes the same xenophobic rhetoric that has historically excluded and vilified Asian communities in this country.

For more than two years, defeating SB 17 has been our top policy priority at ATJ. Our community showed up—in hearings, on phones, and at the Capitol. We organized. We testified. We refused to be silent. And while the signing of SB 17 is deeply disappointing, our advocacy led to a crucial amendment: exemptions for visa holders to buy a primary residence. This amendment was not freely given—it was fought for and won through the power of collective action.

“We may not have stopped this bill, but we made them listen,” said Lily Trieu, Co-Executive Director of Asian Texans for Justice. “This is a long game. And today, we are more committed than ever to organizing our communities, challenging anti-immigrant policies, and electing leaders who will defend—not diminish—our rights.”

As we turn toward the 2024 local and state elections, ATJ is doubling down on its mission: connecting AAPI Texans to civic action and building personal and political power.

We will continue to speak out. We will continue to show up. And we will continue to build a Texas where all people feel bold in their belonging.

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Asian Texans For Justice (ATJ) envisions a future where all people feel bold in their belonging. We connect Asian and Pacific Islander Texans to civic action to build personal and political power. For updates follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Contact: Averie Bishop

Email: averie@asiantexansforjustice.org

Phone number: 512-982-8854