House Approves Bill Against Chinese Influence in Universities

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed the 'DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act', spearheaded by Rep. August Pfluger, to limit Chinese influence in American universities. The legislation prohibits institutions with ties to Confucius Institutes or 'Chinese entities of concern' from receiving Department of Homeland Security funding. Lawmakers argue that these institutes serve as tools for the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to conduct espionage, steal intellectual property, and promote propaganda on campuses. While the bill received strong support among Republicans, some Democrats voiced concerns about its broad language potentially restricting essential funding. The bill's future now rests with the Senate, amid heightened scrutiny of China's growing presence in U.S. education. This legislative push is part of a broader initiative by House Republicans to address perceived threats from China across various sectors.