H.R.881 - DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 881, the "DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act," aims to limit Department of Homeland Security (DHS) funding to institutions of higher education with ties to Confucius Institutes, the Thousand Talents Program, or Chinese entities of concern. The bill defines "Chinese entities of concern" broadly, encompassing entities involved in military-civil fusion, defense industries, or activities undermining U.S. interests. It includes a waiver provision allowing the Secretary of Homeland Security to grant exemptions under specific national security conditions.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is to reduce the influence of Chinese-affiliated organizations on U.S. campuses by restricting funding. Institutions will likely terminate relationships with these entities to maintain eligibility for DHS funds. The waiver process introduces flexibility but also requires ongoing monitoring and justification.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced National Security: Reduces potential for espionage and intellectual property theft on college campuses.
- Protection of Academic Integrity: Limits foreign influence in research and educational activities.
- Safeguarding U.S. Interests: Prevents activities that undermine U.S. relationships, particularly with Taiwan.
- Increased Awareness: Promotes greater scrutiny of foreign partnerships and funding sources in higher education.
- Addresses Human Rights Concerns: Counters entities involved in the persecution of Uyghur Muslims.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Academic Freedom Concerns: May be perceived as limiting academic institutions' autonomy in international collaborations.
- Administrative Burden: Institutions face increased compliance costs associated with monitoring and terminating relationships.
- Potential for Overreach: Broad definitions of "Chinese entity of concern" could inadvertently affect legitimate collaborations.
- Strained International Relations: Could negatively impact educational and cultural exchange programs with China.
- Limited Scope: Focuses solely on DHS funding, potentially overlooking other federal funding sources.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is complex. While Congress has the power to regulate commerce and provide for national defense (Article I, Section 8), restrictions on academic institutions could raise concerns about academic freedom, though not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution, it is related to the First Amendment's guarantee of freedom of speech. The waiver provision, requiring consultation with the Director of National Intelligence, reflects an effort to balance national security with institutional autonomy.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).