H.R. 4795: Protect Economic and Academic Freedom Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Protect Economic and Academic Freedom Act of 2025, aims to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 with specific requirements and restrictions for institutions of higher education in relation to boycotting certain countries and facilitating student participation in academic programs.

Key Provisions of the Bill

1. Certification Against Commercial Boycotts

Institutions of higher education that participate in federal financial aid programs must certify annually that they will not engage in a "nonexpressive commercial boycott" of any "major strategic partner" of the United States. This certification must be submitted by July 31 each year. If an institution fails to provide this certification, it will be listed publicly by the Secretary and will be ineligible for certain federal funds.

2. Definition of Terms

The bill defines a "major strategic partner" as a country recognized by the United States or entities organized under its laws. A "nonexpressive commercial boycott" refers to actions intended to restrict commercial relations with a major strategic partner that do not have a valid business justification.

3. Eligibility for Federal Funds

Under this bill, institutions must also certify that they will allow students and faculty to participate in academic programs in major strategic partner countries on the same terms as programs offered in other foreign countries. This includes study abroad programs, exchanges, and collaborative research efforts.

4. Sense of Congress

The bill expresses that restrictions on educational collaborations with major strategic partners do not benefit the security or economy of the United States.

Implications for Institutions

This legislation will require institutions to review their policies regarding international collaborations and may lead to changes in how they interact with specific countries. Institutions that do not comply will face consequences, including potential loss of federal funding under related educational programs.

Accountability and Transparency

The Secretary of Education will be responsible for making available a list of institutions that fail to submit the required certification, adding a level of accountability and public awareness regarding compliance with the bill's provisions.

Relevant Companies

None found.