Senator Carroll Advances Legislation Cracking Down on Foreign Adversaries Targeting Arizona Land & Infrastructure
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, February 16, 2026
PHOENIX, ARIZONA— Majority Whip Frank Carroll is taking decisive action to protect Arizona's land, critical infrastructure, and national security by advancing an emergency measure aimed at closing dangerous loopholes that foreign adversaries can exploit. This measure will ensure that Arizona does not become a backdoor for foreign surveillance, espionage, or strategic land grabs.
SB 1683 strengthens existing laws by lowering the "substantial interest" threshold from 30% to 5%, clarifying that foreign adversaries cannot bypass the law using shell companies, convertible debt arrangements, options, or other complex structures to acquire Arizona land or infrastructure. SB 1683 restricts not only ownership but also access to leases, development rights, and the installation or operation of equipment. This includes antennas, communication systems, autonomous technology, surveillance devices, and high-sensitivity sensors on Arizona property. Public utilities and operators of critical infrastructure must report any suspicious agreements. Any violations related to the use of prohibited equipment will be classified as a felony.
"This is about protecting Arizona, plain and simple," said Majority Whip Carroll. "We've already taken steps to prevent hostile foreign governments from purchasing our land, but we've seen how quickly bad actors adapt. If they can't buy property, they will try to lease it. If they can't put their names on a deed, they'll hide behind shell companies or secretly install surveillance equipment. This bill closes those loopholes. Arizona farmland, military-adjacent property, airports, utilities, and critical infrastructure should never become tools for foreign espionage or leverage for hostile regimes. We must not allow adversarial nations or terrorist-linked actors to gain control, either directly or indirectly, over Arizona soil. This legislation draws a clear line: our land, infrastructure, and security are not for sale, lease, or negotiation."
SB 1683 will head to the Senate floor for a full vote after passing the Senate Federalism Committee today with only Republican support.
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus