Bill > HB1239

This bill, known as the "Research, Education, and Government Operations Protection Act of 2025", requires political subdivisions (including public schools, school districts, and postsecondary educational institutions) to disclose and seek authorization for gifts and contracts from foreign sources in countries of concern, which include China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela, Syria, and other specified entities. The bill mandates that political subdivisions must submit detailed information about any gifts or contracts from these foreign sources to the attorney general, who will review and provide an opinion on whether the gift or contract can be accepted. The disclosure must include specifics such as the date, value, purpose, and identification of beneficiaries. Political subdivisions are prohibited from accepting gifts or entering contracts until receiving the attorney general's approval. The bill also establishes requirements for screening research personnel, international travel, and academic partnerships with institutions in countries of concern, with potential civil penalties for non-compliance ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 for the first violation and up to 105% of the undisclosed gift or contract value for subsequent violations. Additionally, the bill creates mechanisms for transparency, including a public web portal to disclose information about proposed and accepted gifts and contracts, and provides whistleblower protections for individuals who report undisclosed gifts or contracts.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB1239&year=2025&code=R