Protecting American Research and Talent Act

Protecting American Research and Talent Act would bar federal funding for awarding grants or contracts to higher education institutions for the purpose of conducting fundamental research in collaboration with a “covered entity,” unless a narrow waiver is granted. A waiver can be issued on a case-by-case basis if the agency head determines it serves national security interests. Eligibility for a waiver hinges on specific enrollment thresholds: the institution’s international student enrollment must be under 15%, and students from foreign countries of concern must be under 5% of the institution’s international student body. In waivers, persecuted groups from countries of concern are not counted toward these caps. Agencies must notify Congress within 30 days of any award involving a waived collaboration and annually report on compliance, including details about waivers and the nature of collaborations and intellectual property terms. The bill defines “collaboration” broadly to include sharing facilities, data, know-how, sponsorship of fellowships or visas, joint ventures, and other coordinated research activities. The term “covered entity” includes certain Chinese universities and companies identified by existing security-related lists, as well as any individuals or foreign students connected to those entities. The intent appears to be to limit foreign influence in basic scientific research tied to national security by restricting collaborations with entities deemed high-risk, particularly those connected to China, while allowing limited exceptions under tightly controlled conditions and with strong reporting requirements.