The House Government Operations Subcommittee has advanced a bill introduced by Apollo Beach Republican Rep. Michael Owen that would require foreign agents to register and disclose their funding sources. The measure aims to increase transparency around foreign political organizations and prevent foreign interference in American processes. Individuals acting as agents of foreign principals would need to register with the Division of Elections and disclose their identity, affiliations, financial transactions, and political activities by Jan. 1, 2026. The bill imposes fines for non-compliance and focuses on “hostile principals” such as China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. The legislation does not ban lobbying for foreign interests but aims to promote transparency. Lawmakers believe that foreign entities are funding organizations that are anti-American and influencing public opinion, policy, and laws. The bill passed the committee by a vote of 16 to 0 and will now move to the State Affairs Committee. Supporters of the bill, including Spring Hill Republican Rep. Jeff Holcomb, argue that it is a critical step in addressing the influence of foreign entities in American political processes and protecting national security.
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