Bill > S1296

This bill, known as the "DETERRENT Act," aims to strengthen transparency and oversight of foreign gifts and contracts at institutions of higher education in the United States. The bill requires colleges and universities to disclose detailed information about gifts and contracts from foreign sources, particularly those from countries or entities of concern. Institutions must now report gifts or contracts valued at $50,000 or more from foreign sources, and any gifts or contracts from foreign countries or entities of concern, regardless of value. The bill mandates the creation of a public, searchable database to track these disclosures and requires institutions to maintain unredacted copies of contracts. Additionally, the bill prohibits institutions from entering into contracts with foreign countries or entities of concern without obtaining a specific waiver from the Secretary of Education. Institutions must also establish internal policies and designate compliance officers to manage and report on foreign gifts and contracts. Penalties for non-compliance include substantial fines, potential loss of federal funding, and in severe cases, a multi-year ban from participating in federal education programs. The bill's goal is to protect national security by increasing transparency and preventing potential foreign influence in higher education research and operations.

Health and Social Services

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1296/all-info