DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act
Impact
If enacted, HB 881 would mandate that institutions of higher education which have certain relationships will become ineligible for Department of Homeland Security funding. This represents a notable shift in the relationship between federal educational funding and foreign affiliations, particularly those that are perceived as hostile or detrimental to U.S. interests. Schools would be required to assess and possibly terminate relationships with Confucius Institutes and Chinese entities that are deemed of concern, potentially leading to significant shifts in academic partnerships.
Summary
House Bill 881, titled the 'DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act', proposes significant funding restrictions on institutions of higher education that maintain relationships with Confucius Institutes or other specified Chinese entities. The bill seeks to address national security concerns associated with collaboration between U.S. educational institutions and foreign entities that may be involved in questionable activities, including military-civil fusion and support for authoritarian practices within China. It aims to prevent the Department of Homeland Security from providing federal funding to any institution connected to these entities unless they sever those ties.
Contention
The bill may generate controversy regarding academic freedom and international collaboration in education. Proponents argue that it is necessary to safeguard U.S. interests and prevent espionage and influence operations from foreign powers. However, critics may view these restrictions as overly broad, potentially jeopardizing beneficial cultural and educational exchanges that occur through these institutes. The implications of categorizing specific educational initiatives as 'concerned' or 'suspicious' may lead to challenges in navigating international academic relationships.
Student Visa Security Improvement ActThis bill establishes new requirements for foreign student visas and participating educational institutions. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) must review the applications of student visa applicants and conduct in-person interviews when appropriate to determine whether they are inadmissible due to terrorist-related activities. DHS must also conduct on-site reviews of applications and supporting documents deemed appropriate prior to final adjudication.Institutions and exchange student visitor programs must ensure that student visa-holders are active participants in the program. Students must be regularly observed and must be reported on if they transfer or change majors. The bill also provides for enhanced access to the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System for institutions and programs that meet staffing and training requirements.The Government Accountability Office must review the fees for the Student and Exchange Visitor program.