New Legislation to Block Foreign Influence in U.S. Rulemaking

Wyoming Senator Cynthia Lummis is set to present a new bill on Wednesday aimed at preventing foreign adversaries from impacting U.S. policy through federal rulemaking. The proposed “Protecting U.S. Rulemakings Act” includes measures that would restrict public commentary from governments categorized as foreign adversaries.

Specifically, the legislation would prohibit the Secretary of Commerce from making remarks regarding U.S. governance as it relates to nations such as China, North Korea, Iran, Cuba, Russia, and the Maduro regime in Venezuela. Previous reports indicated that China has sought to influence U.S. policies by commenting on proposals put forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Senator Pete Ricketts from Nebraska is co-sponsoring the bill, and Representative Barry Moore from Alabama will bring it to the House for consideration.

Lummis stressed that the rulemaking process is essential for giving American citizens a voice in government decisions. “Allowing foreign adversaries to interfere is not acceptable,” she stated. She also emphasized that this legislation aims to ensure regulatory processes prioritize the needs of American citizens rather than the interests of foreign entities that may promote policies limiting U.S. energy independence.

The bill seeks to close what Lummis’ office calls a “loophole” that foreigners can use to influence U.S. governance. Under current administrative procedure laws, this loophole allows public comments from such foreign adversaries. The new proposal aims to rectify that oversight.

Federal agencies must offer opportunities for interested parties to provide feedback before finalizing rules. This feedback process includes evaluating significant comments received during public consultation periods.

Reports have noted that China has submitted public comments regarding various EPA proposals, including regulations stemming from the administration of former President Biden. China has expressed a desire to sustain existing emission standards, specifically indicating support for rules affecting coal and oil-fired power plants.

Comments from EPA Administrator Li Zeldin suggested that the Chinese Communist Party’s desire to uphold Biden-era policies was telling. He stated that when the CCP weighs in on U.S. regulatory matters, it often signals that the opposite approach would benefit the U.S.

This proposed legislation clearly highlights the increasing attention on foreign influence in domestic policymaking, a trend that raises complex questions about safeguarding U.S. interests.