Nashville Standard

Today, the U.S. House of Representatives approved the "SHIELD Against the CCP Act," H.R. 9668, a bill introduced by Representative Dale Strong (R-AL). The legislation mandates the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to form a working group focused on countering threats from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to the United States. The bill's cosponsors include Chairman Mark E. Green, MD (R-TN), Subcommittee Chairmen Clay Higgins (R-LA) and Anthony D’Esposito (R-NY), Vice Chairman Michael Guest (R-MS), Representative Tom Suozzi (D-NY), and Committee on Ways and Means Vice Chairman Vern Buchanan (R-FL).

Chairman Green emphasized bipartisan recognition of the CCP's threat to homeland security: “I am encouraged to see my colleagues on both sides of the aisle so clear-eyed about the threat the Chinese Communist Party poses to our homeland security.” He urged swift action from the Senate and President.

Representative Strong highlighted China's perceived threat over recent years: “China is one of the biggest threats to our country, and they have taken every opportunity over the last 4 years to exploit Biden’s open borders.” He expressed optimism for increased safety with this legislative step.

Representative Suozzi stressed Congress's bipartisan effort against CCP activities: “The Chinese Communist Party is intent on weakening democratic institutions, targeting our critical infrastructure, and interfering in our elections. Today Congress is taking a solid bipartisan step in protecting the United States from the CCP.”

Introduced in September by Rep. Strong, H.R. 9668 passed through committee unanimously. The DHS working group it establishes will assess efforts against various CCP threats including nontraditional tactics and exploitation of immigration systems. An annual report for five years will be submitted to Congress detailing these assessments.