H.R.2147 - Stop Chinese Communist Prying by Vindicating Intellectual Safeguards in Academia Act of 2025; Stop CCP VISAs Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2147, the Stop CCP VISAs Act of 2025, aims to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to prohibit the admission of Chinese nationals as nonimmigrant students for conducting research or pursuing a course of study under F, J, or M visas. The bill is sponsored by Mr. Moore of West Virginia and several other representatives. It targets concerns about intellectual property theft and national security.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would significantly restrict Chinese nationals' access to US academic institutions for research and study. This could lead to a decrease in the number of Chinese students and researchers in the US. It may also prompt reciprocal actions from China, affecting American students and researchers abroad.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces the risk of intellectual property theft from US academic institutions.
- May enhance national security by limiting access to sensitive research areas.
- Could encourage domestic students to pursue STEM fields.
- Addresses concerns about undue influence from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
- May protect American innovation and technological advantages.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could harm academic collaborations and research partnerships between US and Chinese institutions.
- May lead to a decline in international student enrollment, impacting university revenues.
- Could be perceived as discriminatory, damaging the US's reputation as a welcoming country for international students.
- May face legal challenges based on equal protection principles.
- Potentially hinders scientific progress by limiting the exchange of ideas and expertise.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality is complex. Congress has broad authority over immigration under Article I, Section 8, Clause 4, which grants the power to establish a uniform Rule of Naturalization. However, the bill could face challenges under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment if it is deemed to discriminate based on national origin without a compelling government interest. The First Amendment rights of academic freedom could also be invoked, arguing that the bill restricts the free exchange of ideas.
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).