Unparalleled innovation, research, and technological advancements have long defined America’s standing throughout the entire world. With that status comes the threat of exploitation from our longstanding adversaries – particularly China. Generations to come will face this same threat and it is high time we make headway in the present that will lead to a more secure future for the country. Today, I have some important news to share with you on my bipartisan work in Washington that will help get us there.

I’m proud to co-lead the bipartisan Federally Funded Research and Technology Development Protection Act alongside Representative Stephen Lynch (D-MA) that will protect American innovation, investments in technology, and critical research that our adversaries are hoping will advance their interests at the expense of our own. Without question, Congress cannot sit idly by while this threat is both clear and present. It’s time to act.

Under the Federally Funded Research and Technology Development Protection Act, grant-making agencies will be required to uphold strict compliance operations to avert foreign talent recruitment programs and shield both federally funded research and technology developments. Standard accountability measures to support these operations will also be strengthened – effectively adding layers of protection that were previously nonexistent. To add to this already promising news, I’m happy to report that this legislation passed out of the Oversight and Government Reform Committee by a unanimous vote. It’s clear that this legislation will serve not only as a vehicle for progress, but also as a starting point that can be built on over time.

In previous newsletters, I’ve spoken with you about my work on the Education and Labor Committee to hold China accountable on multiple fronts – particularly on college campuses where they’ve become embedded and are seeking to indoctrinate students. There’s a reason why I refuse to remain silent on issues where America’s interests and innovation are threatened: I believe that America is worth fighting for and the last thing we should do is leave it open and vulnerable.