US States Expand Role in National Security, Creating Compliance Challenges
Several US states, including Texas, Florida, Utah, and Montana, are increasingly taking on roles traditionally held by the federal government in national security regulation. These states are enacting legislation and pursuing enforcement actions to address perceived foreign threats, particularly from China. For instance, Texas has filed lawsuits against companies for alleged ties to China, while Utah blocked a land purchase by a Chinese military-linked company. These actions are part of a broader trend where states use their police powers to impose restrictions on foreign land ownership and technology use, creating a fragmented regulatory landscape for businesses.