The "Research and Education Protection Act of 2025" seeks to amend Arkansas law to enhance the security and transparency of higher education institutions in their dealings with foreign adversaries, particularly focusing on entities from specified foreign nations, including the State of Qatar. The bill establishes a new subchapter under Arkansas Code Title 6, Chapter 60, defining key terms and outlining the purpose of the legislation. It mandates that institutions disclose any gifts or contracts valued at $250,000 or more from foreign adversaries to their governing boards and maintain public websites for transparency. Additionally, governing boards must approve any future agreements with foreign adversaries, ensuring alignment with state and national interests.

The legislation also introduces stringent regulations regarding contracts with foreign adversaries, requiring detailed disclosures and timely reviews by governing boards. It imposes penalties for non-compliance, including civil fines for failure to disclose required information, and prohibits cultural exchange agreements that could compromise institutional autonomy. The bill further establishes guidelines for hiring foreign nationals in research positions, mandates travel approval for faculty to adversary countries, and requires annual reporting on foreign travel. It classifies the misappropriation of trade secrets for foreign benefit as a Class D felony, with potential for reclassification, and includes a severability clause to maintain the enforceability of remaining provisions if any part of the act is invalidated.