Representative Pfluger advances HR 8 81 to curb Chinese influence in US universities

The U.S. House Committee on Rules convened on May 7, 2025, to discuss two significant pieces of legislation: H.R. 276 and H.R. 881. The primary focus of the meeting was H.R. 881, titled the DHS Restrictions on Confucius Institutes and Chinese Entities of Concern Act. This bipartisan bill aims to address national security concerns related to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and its influence on American educational institutions.

Representative Pfluger, the bill's sponsor, opened the discussion by emphasizing the CCP as a major existential threat to the United States. He highlighted the history of Confucius Institutes, which were initially established to promote Chinese language and culture but have since been linked to espionage, intellectual property theft, and efforts to undermine U.S. national security. At their peak, there were approximately 18 Confucius Institutes in the U.S., but that number has since decreased to fewer than 14. Pfluger stated that H.R. 881 would prohibit the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from providing funds to American universities that host these institutes or maintain relationships with entities deemed concerning by the U.S. government.

The bill has garnered significant bipartisan support, having passed the Committee on Homeland Security and previously receiving a vote of 249 to 161 in the House. Pfluger expressed gratitude to Chairman Greene for prioritizing the markup of the bill and acknowledged the collaborative efforts with Democratic counterparts to address concerns raised in previous sessions.

Mr. Thompson, another committee member, reiterated the importance of the bill, noting that it aligns with similar funding prohibitions established in past National Defense Authorization Acts. He mentioned that the bill now includes a waiver provision allowing DHS funding if the relationship with a Confucius Institute is deemed in the national security interest of the U.S. or has no bearing on such interests. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Secretary of Homeland Security provide technical assistance to educational institutions to ensure compliance.

The discussion also touched on broader implications of Chinese influence in U.S. universities, with several members expressing concerns about the potential for intellectual property theft and the pressure exerted on academic freedom. Questions were raised about safeguards to prevent Chinese entities from manipulating educational programs and the importance of protecting U.S. resources from foreign exploitation.

As the meeting concluded, members acknowledged the ongoing threat posed by the CCP and the necessity of legislative measures like H.R. 881 to safeguard national security. The committee's discussions underscored a growing consensus on the need for vigilance against foreign influence in American education and research. Further actions and follow-up discussions are anticipated as the bill progresses through the legislative process.