Increased Transparency for Foreign Influence and University Donations
New rules aim to increase transparency for individuals and institutions potentially influenced by foreign governments. Citizens will gain better insight into the sources of money and influence at universities and organizations previously exempt from registration. This helps protect national interests from hidden foreign influence.
Key points
Limited Exemption for Foreign Agents: Religious, academic, or artistic activities promoting a foreign government's political agenda will now require registration as foreign agents.
Greater Transparency for University Donations: Universities must disclose foreign gifts and agreements starting from $50,000 (down from $250,000), including full contract content.
Mandatory Disclosure of Confucius Institute Agreements: Universities collaborating with Confucius Institutes (funded by the Chinese government) must immediately make full agreement texts publicly available and to relevant authorities.
Consequences for Non-Compliance: Universities failing to meet disclosure requirements will be ineligible to enroll foreign students under the exchange program.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_1535
Sponsor: Rep. Wilson, Joe [R-SC-2]
Process start date: 2021-03-03