Bill > HB5520

This bill, titled the "Foreign Adversary and Terrorist Agent Registration and Transnational Repression Act," aims to enhance transparency and security by creating three new acts: the Foreign Adversary Contracting Prohibition Act, the Foreign Adversary and Terrorist Registration Act, and the Transnational Repression Act, while also clarifying lobbyist application requirements. The bill mandates that lobbyists disclose more detailed information about their employers, including the nature of their business and compensation, and specifically requires an acknowledgment if lobbying on behalf of a "PRC-affiliated military company," defined as any company involved in China's defense or surveillance sectors, or any entity linked to the People's Liberation Army (PLA) or related government bodies, including those contributing to China's Military-Civil Fusion (MCF) strategy. It also introduces stricter regulations for consultants working for such companies, requiring them to disclose their affiliation and acknowledge acting as an agent of a foreign adversary, with significant penalties for violations. Furthermore, the bill prohibits public entities from contracting with or transferring state funds to "scrutinized companies," which include entities organized in or controlled by foreign adversaries, unless specific exceptions apply, such as no other procurement option or a greater threat posed by not procuring the good. The "Foreign Adversary and Terrorist Agent Registration Act" requires individuals acting as agents for foreign principals from adversary nations or terrorist organizations to register with the Attorney General, detailing their activities and financial dealings, with exceptions for diplomats and legal professionals engaged in specific legal representation. The "Transnational Repression Act" aims to combat foreign government interference and harassment against state residents by increasing penalties for certain crimes committed by agents of foreign principals with the intent to coerce, suppress protected conduct, or retaliate, and establishes a legal standard for such offenses. The bill also mandates reporting on transnational repression threats, the development of training for law enforcement on recognizing and responding to these threats, and the creation of a public website for reporting instances of transnational repression.

Justice

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=5520&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill