The Texas House gave approval Friday to a controversial bill that would restrict land purchases by people from certain foreign countries—drawing strong criticism from Democratic lawmakers, who compared the legislation to historical injustices like Japanese internment during World War II.

Legislation aimed at barring people and agents of countries deemed hostile to U.S. interests from owning land in Texas leaped closer to becoming law.

Advocates say they're protecting Texas and its resources, but opponents worry it could be used to justify racial discrimination.