The Warren Sun

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The House of Representatives has passed the Disclose GIFTs (Getting Investments in Foreign Transactions) Act, introduced by Representative John James of Michigan. The bill, which was included in the DETERRENT Act sponsored by Representative Michelle Steel, aims to enhance transparency in higher education institutions by requiring them to report gifts and contracts from foreign nations of concern.

In a statement, Representative James highlighted the importance of the legislation in safeguarding national security. He expressed concern about the influence of the Chinese Communist Party and their strategic approach to exerting influence in the United States. James emphasized that requiring disclosure of potentially nefarious sources of income in academia is not only common sense but also crucial for national security.

"The Chinese Communist Party has been playing the long game. They know that growing their influence in America in subtle but powerful ways is more effective than traditional warfare, and academia has been a target-rich environment," said James.

Under the Disclose GIFTs Act, colleges and universities would be required to submit these disclosures to a publicly available and searchable database. The reporting standards would align with those that bind members of Congress, ensuring consistency and accountability.

The passage of this legislation in the House is a significant step towards increasing transparency in higher education institutions and protecting national security interests. Representative James expressed his gratitude for working with Representative Steel on getting the bill passed and urged his colleagues in the Senate to do the same.

The bill's full text can be viewed on the official website of the House of Representatives.

Contact:

Noah Sadlier

Phone: (586)-498-7122

Click this link to access more information: https://james.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-rep-james-disclose-gifts-act