As Congress debates funding levels and a national defense policy bill for the coming fiscal year, senators and representatives have increased focus on individuals perceived to have allegiances to certain rival foreign governments who also have access to federally supported research at institutions of higher education.

The House-approved National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 included and amendment by Rep. Michael Gallagher (R-WI) that would restrict DOD grant funds to scientists engaged in a foreign talent recruitment program sponsored by China, Iran, North Korea, or Russia. Universities would be required to certify compliance. The amendment didn't further define or the list the programs that would be included. The Senate version didn't contain the same language. Differences between the bills will need to be resolved ahead of passage of a final bill.

In an Inside Higher Ed op-ed, Representatives Lamar Smith (R-TX) and Clay Higgins (R-LA) call on universities to guard against theft of intellectual property by foreign entities. They cite examples of attempted and successful theft of sensitive information on university campuses. They conclude by pledging to work with the university community and law enforcement to confront the threat.

The higher education community is working with the Hill and others to develop legislative language that addresses the concern in a manner that is feasible for universities as well as respectful of academic freedom and the need for international collaboration.