AELP Backs Legislation to Prohibit Foreign Ownership of U.S. Utility Companies

The American Economic Liberties Project (AELP) has publicly announced its support for forthcoming legislation designed to ban foreign corporations from acquiring American utility companies. The announcement, conveyed via a tweet, signals a heightened focus on safeguarding critical national infrastructure. The proposed legislative action was highlighted during a presentation by "@RepRileyNY" at "AMS2025," according to the organization.

The AELP's tweet stated: > "@RepRileyNY announces he is introducing legislation to 'ban foreign corporations from buying up American utility companies' at #AMS2025." This initiative underscores a growing movement to address national security and economic sovereignty concerns related to essential services.

This development reflects an increasing trend of scrutiny over foreign investment in strategic sectors, particularly those deemed critical infrastructure. Historically, the acquisition of U.S. utility assets by foreign entities has been subject to extensive review by federal bodies such as the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). These reviews often included conditions aimed at protecting domestic ratepayers and ensuring grid reliability.

More recent legislative measures, exemplified by the 2025 "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" (OBBBA), have introduced stringent "foreign entities of concern" (FEOC) requirements. While the OBBBA primarily targets foreign involvement in the clean energy sector, its existence illustrates a broader legislative appetite to restrict foreign influence across vital industries. Concerns driving such policies typically include national security risks, potential supply chain vulnerabilities, and the protection of essential services from foreign government control or influence.

The push for a comprehensive ban on foreign ownership of U.S. utility companies is rooted in the desire to enhance the resilience and independence of the nation's energy and utility grids. Proponents argue that maintaining domestic control ensures greater accountability to American consumers and national interests, thereby mitigating potential disruptions or undue influence from external actors. The American Economic Liberties Project, known for advocating policies that promote fair competition and limit corporate power, aligns this proposed legislation with its core mission.