PROTECT Our Kids Act
The PROTECT Our Kids Act would bar the use of federal education funds for U.S. elementary and secondary schools that have direct or indirect ties to the Government of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). Specifically, if a school currently has a partnership with a PRC-funded cultural or language institute (including Confucius Institutes/Classrooms) or receives any form of support from PRC-backed individuals or entities (such as teaching materials, personnel, or funds), it would be ineligible for funds under applicable federal education programs. The prohibition takes effect one year after enactment. The bill also creates a pathway for waivers for pre-existing contracts with such Chinese entities, subject to disclosure of contract details and a demonstration that the contract benefits the school’s mission and U.S. security and economy. The Secretary of Education would notify affected schools and provide compliance guidance within 90 days of enactment. In short, the bill targets PRC-funded partnerships and resources in K–12 schools, potentially removing federal dollars from schools involved with Confucius Institutes or related China-backed programs, while offering a limited waiver option for contracts that predate the law.
Key Points
- 1Prohibition on funds: No funds under applicable federal education programs may go to an elementary or secondary school that has (a) a current partnership with a PRC-funded cultural or language institute (including Confucius Institutes), (b) operates a PRC-supported learning center (Confucius Classroom), or (c) receives support from PRC entities or individuals (materials, personnel, funds, etc.).
- 2Effective date: The funding prohibition takes effect one year after enactment.
- 3Waivers for pre-existing contracts: If a school had such a contract before enactment, it may request a waiver. The school must provide the contract text (unredacted; English translation if needed) and a statement explaining how the contract benefits the school’s mission and supports U.S. security, stability, and economic vitality. The Secretary may grant a waiver for the duration of the contract.
- 4Scope of contracts covered: Waivers apply to contracts that started before enactment, continue after the effective date, and relate to the covered PRC-related circumstances.
- 5Notice and guidance: Within 90 days of enactment, the Secretary must notify affected schools and issue guidance on how to comply with the requirements.
- 6Definitions: Uses existing education law terms (e.g., “applicable program” defined by the General Education Provisions Act; “elementary school,” “secondary school,” and “Secretary” defined by the Elementary and Secondary Education Act) to interpret the bill’s reach.