Bicameral Disclosing Foreign Influence in Lobbying Act introduced to target foreign lobbying loopholes

As introduced by U.S. Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA) and five other representatives this week, the new Disclosing Foreign Influence in Lobbying Act proposes closing a legislative loophole that foreign adversaries could use to influence U.S. policy.

Specifically, Miller-Meeks pointed the finger at China, claiming that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has taken advantage of federal loopholes to influence government officials and push its agenda abroad.

“Federal policy decisions should be made with the best interests of the American people in mind, not Xi Jinping’s dictatorship,” Miller-Meeks said. “I am proud to lead this bipartisan group to ensure that our government serves the people it represents.”

Other supporters broadened the net to other regimes, such as Russia, for similar efforts.

“Foreign governments, particularly the Russian and Chinese governments, are constantly looking for ways to influence American politics, so it’s vital that we close any and all loopholes that may allow them to do so,” said U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), another sponsor. “This bill makes sure that foreign governments can’t conceal their influence via American proxy organizations. Michiganders want to know that foreign actors aren’t playing a role in our democracy. Sunlight is the best disinfectant, and this is an important step forward towards bringing more transparency to lawmaking.”

The Disclosing Foreign Influence in Lobbying Act would require any political parties and foreign government parties to disclose their activities to the planning, supervision, direction, or control of a lobbying effort, regardless of their actual financial contribution to said lobbying.

In the Senate, efforts are being led by U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA).