Arkansas House Bill HR1067

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/23
• Refer: 3/27/23
• Report Pass: 3/30/23
• Passed: 4/3/23

Caption

To Urge Arkansas Institutions Of Higher Education To Relocate Chinese-language Programs From Mainland China To Taiwan.

Impact

If enacted, HR1067 would encourage significant changes in how Arkansas higher education institutions approach foreign language and cultural programs. It suggests a pivot away from mainland China due to concerns related to operational challenges and the perceived lack of friendliness towards American institutions. The resolution aims to ensure that Arkansas students have access to quality Chinese language education by relocating programs to Taiwan, which is presented as a more positive environment for such studies.

Summary

House Resolution 1067 urges Arkansas institutions of higher education to move their Chinese-language programs from mainland China to Taiwan. The resolution emphasizes the value of overseas educational opportunities that promote cultural and language learning, strongly advocating for the relocation to enhance the educational landscape for students in the state. The resolution notes the decline of American students studying Chinese in China and highlights Taiwan's growing reputation as a viable and welcoming destination for such programs. It references existing initiatives like the Taiwan-United States Education Initiative that aim to strengthen educational ties.

Contention

The conversation surrounding HR1067 highlights the geopolitical context between the U.S., China, and Taiwan, underlining the importance of strengthening ties with Taiwan as a strategic partner. By advocating for the shift in educational programs, the resolution resonates with current national security considerations, where Mandarin is identified as a critical-needs language. However, the implications of such a move might initiate discussions on the broader impact on U.S.-China relations and China's response to perceived diminishment of its educational influence.