H.R. 1005: CLASS Act

This bill, known as the CLASS Act (Combating the Lies of Authoritarians in School Systems Act), aims to restrict public elementary and secondary schools in the United States from receiving financial support or entering into contracts with entities associated with the Government of the People's Republic of China or the Chinese Communist Party.

Key Provisions of the Bill

• Prohibition on Funding: Schools that receive federal funding are not allowed to accept any financial contributions or contracts from:
  • The Government of the People’s Republic of China
  • The Chinese Communist Party
  • Individuals or entities acting on behalf of either the Chinese government or the Communist Party
• Disclosure Requirements: Schools must disclose to the Secretary of Education any foreign funding or contracts they receive. They have to submit a written disclosure that includes:
  • The name and country of origin of any foreign source
  • If funds are received from a foreign source, details about the amount and any terms or conditions attached to those funds
  • If a contract is entered with a foreign source, the terms and conditions of that contract

Definitions

The bill includes specific definitions relevant to its implementation:

• Applicable Program: This refers to programs defined in the General Education Provisions Act.
• Elementary and Secondary Schools: Definitions follow those established in the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.
• Federal Financial Assistance: Defined in the title 31, United States Code.
• Foreign Source: Defined in the Higher Education Act of 1965.

Implications

If enacted, this legislation could significantly impact public schools by limiting their funding options and requiring them to maintain strict oversight over their funding and contracts with foreign entities.

Relevant Companies

None found