Foreign land purchase measure approved

Lawmakers passed a bill April 11 that requires an affidavit for real property purchases near sensitive military areas in Nebraska.

LB1120, introduced by Gering Sen. Brian Hardin, requires purchasers of real property that is designated as “covered real estate” under federal law to swear an affidavit stating that they are not affiliated with any foreign government or adversary.

Responsibility for determining whether an affidavit is required rests solely with the purchaser and no individual or entity other than the purchaser will bear civil or criminal liability relating to an affidavit under the bill’s provisions.

Affidavits will be submitted to the register of deeds who will send a copy to the state attorney general. A falsely sworn affidavit is a misdemeanor offense.

LB1120 passed on a 45-0 vote.