PROTECT Our Kids Act
Sponsored By: Representative Hern (OK)
Passed House
Summary
Would bar federal education funds to elementary and secondary schools that have direct or indirect ties to the People's Republic of China. It targets partnerships with PRC-funded cultural or language institutes, Confucius Classrooms, and any support from individuals or entities acting on behalf of the PRC, including teaching materials, personnel, funds, or other resources.
Show full summary
- Schools: Elementary and secondary schools with the specified PRC ties would be ineligible for funding under any applicable federal education program.
- Pre-enactment contracts: Schools with contracts that took effect before enactment may request a waiver by submitting the full unredacted contract, an English translation if needed, and a statement that the contract benefits students and U.S. security. The Secretary may allow an eligible contract to continue until it terminates.
- Timing and notice: The funding prohibition would begin one year after enactment and the Secretary must notify affected schools within 90 days and provide guidance for compliance.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Would block federal funds to China-linked schools
If enacted, this would stop federal education funds one year after enactment for elementary and secondary schools with ties to the Chinese government. It would apply to schools that partner with PRC-funded cultural or language institutes, run Confucius Classrooms, or get teaching materials, staff, money, or other help from PRC agents. The Secretary would notify affected schools and give compliance guidance within 90 days of enactment. Schools with contracts signed before enactment that still run after the effective date could request a waiver. The waiver must include the full unredacted contract (with an English translation if needed) and a statement that it helps students and supports U.S. security, stability, and economic vitality. The Secretary could allow the contract to continue only until it ends.
Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Hern (OK)
OK • R
Cosponsors
Kiley (CA)
CA • I
Sponsored 2/6/2025
Barr
KY • R
Sponsored 2/12/2025
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
View on Congress.gov