May 15, 2025
In Washington, D.C., a group of U.S. House Chairmen have expressed concerns regarding potential Chinese infiltration in American innovation programs. Congressman John Moolenaar (R-MI), Chairman of the Select Committee on China; Congressman Roger Williams (R-TX), Chairman of the House Committee on Small Business; Congressman Brian Babin (R-TX), Chairman of the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology; and Congressman Tim Walberg (R-MI), Chairman of the Committee on Education and Workforce, have reached out to the State University of New York (SUNY) and the University of California (UC). Their aim is to assess these institutions’ risk management strategies against efforts by the People’s Republic of China to acquire sensitive technology through programs like Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR).
Chairman Moolenaar stated, “The Chinese Communist Party continues to exploit U.S. taxpayer-funded research to fuel its military and economic ambitions. American universities must be vigilant against foreign influence and infiltration—especially when partnered with small businesses developing cutting-edge technology. This investigation is about safeguarding national security and making sure U.S. innovation benefits America, not the CCP.”
Chairman Williams emphasized the role of small businesses in driving economic growth: “Small businesses are the driving force of our economy, fueling innovation, creating jobs, and advancing our leadership in critical technologies. The SBIR and STTR programs are essential to helping Main Street develop next-generation solutions. However, without proper oversight, we risk losing our competitive edge to foreign adversaries like the PRC.”
Chairman Babin highlighted a core responsibility: “Protecting America’s research enterprise from foreign influence and exploitation is a core responsibility of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee,” he said.
Chairman Walberg expressed concern over higher education’s role in national security: “The CCP is using higher education to undermine our national security,” he noted.
These congressmen urge that legislative actions be taken to address these concerns.
