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119-s-769119th CongressWALLET

United States Research Protection Act of 2025

Sponsored By: Senator Cornyn, John [R-TX]

In Committee

Summary

Tightens and clarifies the ban on foreign talent recruitment tied to certain countries of concern. This bill would redefine the key term in federal research rules as a "foreign country of concern" and expand the rule to cover programs, positions, or activities provided directly or indirectly, including incentives tied to countries such as China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia.

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  • Researchers who receive federal research funds would face clearer limits on participating in recruitment programs or accepting incentives from a foreign country of concern. This covers both direct payments and indirect incentives.
  • Universities, national labs, and other research institutions would need to apply a broader definition when managing conflict of interest and disclosure rules for staff and collaborators.
  • Federal agencies that fund research would get a reorganized and more explicit definition to use when enforcing restrictions and screening grants or awards.

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.

Researchers face stricter foreign recruitment rules

If enacted, the bill would rename 'foreign country' to 'foreign country of concern' in the R&D Act's recruitment rule. It would cover programs, positions, or activities provided whether directly or indirectly. It would also shorten the definitional phrase to 'means any program, position, or activity' and remove one listed subparagraph. If enacted, research institutions, employers, researchers, and applicants could face wider screening and compliance costs. The changes would take effect upon enactment.

Sponsors & CoSponsors

Sponsor

Cornyn, John [R-TX]

TX • R

Cosponsors

  • Sen. Padilla, Alex [D-CA]

    CA • D

    Sponsored 2/27/2025

  • Sen. Curtis, John R. [R-UT]

    UT • R

    Sponsored 4/10/2025

  • Sen. Scott, Rick [R-FL]

    FL • R

    Sponsored 9/15/2025

  • Sen. McCormick, David [R-PA]

    PA • R

    Sponsored 11/20/2025

Roll Call Votes

No roll call votes available for this bill.

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