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DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act

10/4/2024, 8:07 PM

Summary of Bill HR 1516

Bill 118 hr 1516, also known as the DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act, aims to address concerns regarding potential national security threats posed by Chinese entities, specifically Confucius Institutes. These institutes are cultural and language programs funded by the Chinese government and operate on college campuses across the United States.

The bill seeks to prohibit the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from entering into agreements or partnerships with Confucius Institutes or other Chinese entities that are deemed to be of concern to national security. It also requires the DHS to conduct a thorough review of any existing agreements with these entities and terminate them if they are found to pose a risk.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the DHS provide regular reports to Congress on any interactions with Confucius Institutes or other Chinese entities, as well as any potential security threats identified. This increased transparency is intended to ensure that the DHS is taking appropriate measures to protect national security interests. Overall, the DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act is a proactive measure aimed at safeguarding against potential threats posed by Chinese entities operating within the United States. It underscores the importance of vigilance and oversight in protecting national security in an increasingly complex global landscape.

Congressional Summary of HR 1516

DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act

This bill restricts funding to an institution of higher education (IHE) that has a relationship with a Confucius Institute (a cultural institute directly or indirectly funded by the Chinese government). It also requires certain disclosures related to Chinese entities of concern (generally, universities or colleges involved in China's military, police, or intelligence activities).

Specifically, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) must ensure that an IHE that has awarded a contract to, entered into an agreement with, or received an in-kind donation or gift from a Confucius Institute is ineligible to receive specified funds from DHS, unless the IHE terminates the relationship. The IHE may regain eligibility for these funds upon termination of the relationship. DHS may waive this funding restriction, on a case-by-case basis and for a period of not more than one year, if it is in the national security interests of the United States.

Additionally, an IHE that has a relationship with a Chinese entity of concern and is seeking to receive or receives specified DHS funds must notify DHS about the relationship.

DHS must provide outreach and, upon request, technical assistance to IHEs related to compliance with this bill.

Current Status of Bill HR 1516

Bill HR 1516 is currently in the status of Introduced to Senate since September 12, 2024. Bill HR 1516 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the House on March 9, 2023.  Bill HR 1516's most recent activity was Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. as of September 12, 2024

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 1516

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
1
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
36
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
36
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 1516

Primary Policy Focus

Education

Potential Impact Areas

- Area studies and international education
- Asia
- China
- Department of Homeland Security
- Higher education
- International exchange and broadcasting

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 1516

DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act
DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act
DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act
DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act
To establish Department of Homeland Security funding restrictions on institutions of higher education that have a relationship with Confucius Institutes, and for other purposes.

Comments

Calum Shields profile image

Calum Shields

622

1 year ago

I think it's about time we start cracking down on these Chinese entities that are trying to influence our education system. We need to protect our national security and ensure that our students are not being fed propaganda from foreign governments. This bill is a step in the right direction to safeguard our institutions and prevent any undue influence from outside forces. Let's put America first and prioritize the well-being of our country over any foreign interests. #AmericaFirst #HR1516 #ProtectOurEducation

Alice Weiss profile image

Alice Weiss

655

1 year ago

I think the bill is a good idea cuz we gotta protect our country from China's influence. Better safe than sorry, ya know? #USA #politics

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