The proposed bill, H.B. 2506, introduces stringent regulations for individuals acting as agents of foreign principals from designated "countries of concern," requiring them to file a detailed registration statement with the Attorney General's office and pay a fee. This registration must include comprehensive information about the registrant, the foreign principal, and their business activities. The Attorney General's office is tasked with retaining and publicly posting these statements, and the bill establishes penalties for violations, including class 6 felonies for compensation-related offenses and class 4 felonies for state employees who fail to submit annual affidavits confirming they are not foreign agents.

In contrast to current law, which lacks such rigorous registration and oversight, H.B. 2506 creates a clear framework for accountability and appropriates $100,000 along with a full-time position for the Attorney General's office to manage these requirements. The bill also clarifies the definition of "agent of a foreign principal" by excluding certain U.S.-based media entities and introduces a new definition for "country of concern," which includes nations like China and Russia. Additionally, it mandates higher education institutions to expel individuals who violate these provisions, thereby enhancing regulatory measures against foreign influence.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-197
House Engrossed Version: 41-197