Congressman Pat Harrigan Votes to Strengthen Transparency Around Foreign Influence in Schools

Contact: Lexi Kranich (814) 380-4408

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congressman Pat Harrigan (NC-10) voted to pass H.R. 1049, the TRACE Act, legislation that ensures parents are informed when foreign governments or foreign entities provide funding, materials, or support to their child’s public school. The bill creates basic transparency requirements so families know who is influencing classroom content and school operations.

“Parents deserve to know who is investing in their schools and what strings might come with that money,” said Congressman Harrigan. “When foreign entities are involved, there are real consequences if families are kept in the dark. It affects what gets taught, what materials are used, and what values are pushed in front of our kids. Transparency is the bare minimum, and this bill guarantees parents have the information they need to push back if something doesn’t align with their community.”

The TRACE Act requires school districts to disclose curricular materials, donations, agreements, and financial transactions that come from foreign countries or foreign entities of concern. It ensures parents can review this information upon request, mandates yearly public notices of these rights, and requires states and school districts to communicate these expectations clearly to families.

With House passage, the TRACE Act now moves to the Senate. Congressman Harrigan is urging quick action so parents have straightforward answers, school districts operate with transparency, and families can be confident about who is influencing their children’s education.