University Transparency: Mandatory Disclosure of Foreign Gifts and Contracts.
This law significantly tightens oversight of foreign funding and influence in US higher education institutions. It mandates disclosure of foreign gifts and contracts meeting specific thresholds, particularly those involving entities or countries deemed a national security concern. The goal is to safeguard research integrity and national security, offering students and taxpayers greater transparency regarding external influences on academic life.
Key points
Universities must disclose foreign gifts and contracts valued at $50,000 or more, and all transactions with "countries of concern," regardless of value.
Institutions are generally prohibited from entering into contracts with foreign entities or countries of concern, requiring a special, annual waiver if an exception is sought.
Faculty and staff at covered institutions must report their personal foreign gifts and contracts to prevent espionage and conflicts of interest.
Large private universities must disclose their investments in "investments of concern," increasing transparency regarding their financial portfolios.
2025-03-27
For
241
Against
169
Abstain
0
Full voting results
open_in_new
Passed House
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_1048
Sponsor: Rep. Baumgartner, Michael [R-WA-5]
Process start date: 2025-02-06
Voting date: 2025-03-27
Meeting no: 1
Voting no: 83