State agencies (existing): other; foreign influence of public bodies; prohibit. Creates new act.
Impact
If enacted, HB5070 will modify the legal framework governing public bodies by instituting strict compliance measures related to foreign financing. It mandates that any public body receiving a grant or gift exceeding $50,000 from foreign sources must disclose such transactions to the state’s Department of Insurance and Financial Services. This legislation is expected to heighten transparency and accountability for public agencies and could potentially reshape how these entities engage with international partners.
Summary
House Bill 5070, dubbed the 'Foreign Influence of Public Bodies Act', seeks to restrict public entities from receiving financial gifts or grants from foreign actors identified as countries of concern, which include nations such as China, Russia, and Iran. The bill aims to enhance national security by rooting out potential undue foreign influence on state activities. The legislation explicitly prohibits public bodies from accepting agreements or contributions that may jeopardize their autonomy or promote harmful agendas against the interests of the United States.
Contention
The bill has drawn criticism and support with advocates arguing that it is a necessary precaution against foreign interference. Detractors, however, express concerns regarding the restrictive nature of the bill, fearing that it could limit legitimate international cooperation and funding opportunities for community projects, particularly those related to cultural exchange or education. The legislation introduces penalties for non-compliance, including significant fines and potential disqualification from future state contracts, suggesting a robust enforcement mechanism that could impact public sector operations significantly.
Higher education: other; foreign influence of state institutions of higher education; prohibit. Creates new act and repeals 1986 PA 90 (MCL 390.1231 - 390.1233).
Relating to the disclosure of certain gifts, grants, contracts, and financial interests received from a foreign source by certain state agencies, public institutions of higher education, and state contractors, and to the approval and monitoring of employment-related foreign travel and activities by certain public institution of higher education employees; providing civil and administrative penalties.
Relating to the disclosure of certain gifts, grants, contracts, and financial interests received from a foreign source by certain state agencies, public institutions of higher education, and state contractors, and to the approval and monitoring of employment-related foreign travel and activities by certain public institution of higher education employees; providing civil and administrative penalties.
Relating to establishing the hostile foreign adversaries unit at the Department of Public Safety and training, prohibitions, and reporting requirements designed to combat foreign influence and foreign adversary operations; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the disclosure of certain gifts, grants, contracts, and financial interests received from a foreign source by certain state agencies, public institutions of higher education, and state contractors, and to the approval and monitoring of employment-related foreign travel and activities by certain public institution of higher education employees; providing civil and administrative penalties.
Relating to the disclosure of certain gifts, grants, contracts, and financial interests received from a foreign source by certain state agencies, public institutions of higher education, and state contractors, and to the approval and monitoring of employment-related foreign travel and activities by certain public institution of higher education employees; providing civil and administrative penalties.