Tyler Reporter

WASHINGTON - Congressman Lance Gooden has introduced the "Think Tank and Nonprofit Foreign Influence Disclosure Act" to promote transparency and accountability in the funding of think tanks and nonprofit organizations. The legislation aims to protect American interests and policy-making from undue foreign influence.

In a statement, Congressman Gooden emphasized the need to expose foreign entities that attempt to shape U.S. policy and public opinion through covert funding. He said, "We must pull back the curtain on foreign entities that seek to shape U.S. policy and public opinion through covert funding."

The key provisions of the bill include mandatory public reporting of contributions exceeding $50,000 received by charitable organizations from foreign governments and political parties. The legislation specifically targets contributions from Russia, the People's Republic of China, and the Chinese Communist Party due to concerns about their attempts to influence the U.S. political system.

The bill comes in response to reports highlighting the influence of foreign governments and political parties, particularly from China, on American policy through donations to nonprofits, especially think tanks and cultural organizations. Several think tanks and universities have received substantial funding from entities linked to the Chinese government, raising concerns about foreign lobbying and self-censorship.

In addition, evidence suggests that foreign governments have utilized these nonprofits to negatively influence American energy production by supporting radical, left-wing environmental groups.

The Think Tank and Nonprofit Foreign Influence Disclosure Act is a crucial step in shedding light on the unreported financing behind research organizations and nonprofits that shape U.S. foreign policy.

The full text of the bill can be found on Congressman Gooden's official website.