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Foreign Agent Disclaimer Enhancement Act of 2021
1/11/2023, 1:43 PM
Summary of Bill HR 337
Under this legislation, foreign agents would be required to include a disclaimer stating that the communication is being distributed on behalf of a foreign principal. This disclaimer must be displayed in a clear and conspicuous manner, making it easily visible to the public. Failure to comply with these disclosure requirements could result in penalties and fines.
The Foreign Agent Disclaimer Enhancement Act of 2021 is designed to prevent foreign influence and interference in US politics and policymaking. By increasing transparency and accountability, the bill aims to protect the integrity of the US democratic process and ensure that American citizens are aware of the sources of information they are receiving. Overall, this legislation seeks to strengthen the disclosure requirements for foreign agents operating in the US, promoting transparency and safeguarding against foreign influence in American politics.
Congressional Summary of HR 337
Foreign Agent Disclaimer Enhancement Act of 2021 or the FADE Act of 2021
This bill revises the disclaimer requirements for informational materials transmitted by agents of foreign principals.
Specifically, the bill requires that, when such an agent posts information in support of a foreign principal on an online platform, the agent must ensure that the information includes the required disclaimer (i.e., a statement that the information is being transmitted by such an agent).
Further, the bill specifies that the disclaimer requirement applies to an agent whether the agent is within or outside the United States.
Upon notification by the Department of Justice (DOJ), an online platform must remove any materials that do not meet disclaimer requirements and must use reasonable efforts to inform recipients of the materials that they were disseminated by an agent on behalf of a foreign principal.
DOJ must analyze and report on the legal, policy, and procedural challenges to effective enforcement of foreign agent registration requirements.
