Sen. Grassley, Rep. Johnson Introduce Bill to Shine Light on Foreign Influences

“Policy makers are here to serve the interests of the American people, so we need to know when someone is pushing the priorities of a foreign interest. Unfortunately, we’ve seen time and again how lobbyists of foreign principals skirt existing disclosure laws to conceal their clients’ identities and agendas. Congress passed the Foreign Agents Registration Act to prevent inappropriate influence in domestic policy, but my oversight work has uncovered rampant disregard by foreign agents and lackluster enforcement by federal authorities. This bill seeks to correct those flaws by improving enforcement, compliance and oversight of FARA,” Grassley said.

“Properly enforcing our disclosure laws and ending irresponsible exemptions is critical to maintaining the integrity of our political system as well as our national security. Hostile foreign nations have long sought to exploit every avenue when attempting to undermine the United States. Our bill ensures that those working with foreign nations appropriately disclose their relationships – ensuring transparency and protecting the democratic process,” Johnson said.