H.R. 881: DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act

This bill, known as the DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act, aims to establish funding limitations for institutions of higher education that maintain relationships with Confucius Institutes or certain Chinese organizations considered to be of concern. Here’s a breakdown of its key components:

Definitions

The bill provides specific definitions for several terms used within it:

• Chinese entity of concern: This refers to colleges or universities in China involved in various military and defense activities, supporting the Chinese government in specific ways, undermining U.S.-Taiwan relations, or engaging in disinformation campaigns.
• Confucius Institute: This refers to cultural institutes funded by the Chinese government.
• Institution of higher education: This generally pertains to colleges and universities as defined by U.S. education law.
• Relationship: This means any contracts, agreements, or donations received from a Confucius Institute or Chinese entity of concern.
• Thousand Talents Program: This is a program funded or managed by the Chinese Communist Party for technological and educational purposes.

Funding Restrictions

The bill establishes that starting one year after it becomes law, any institution of higher education that has a relationship with a Confucius Institute, Thousand Talents Program, or a Chinese entity of concern will not be eligible for funding from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). However, if such institutions terminate their relationships with these entities, they will regain eligibility for these funds.

Reporting Requirement

The Secretary of Homeland Security is mandated to provide a report to Congress detailing which institutions of higher education are in a relationship with a Confucius Institute or a Chinese entity of concern and are receiving DHS funds.

Implementation Timeline

The restrictions on funding become effective twelve months following the enactment of the bill, giving institutions a timeline to evaluate and potentially end relationships with the specified entities to maintain eligibility for federal funding.

Overall Impact

The bill could affect how institutions handle their partnerships with foreign entities, particularly those associated with China, and may lead to significant changes in funding sources for higher education institutions that currently work with these organizations.

Relevant Companies

None found