Nationwide U.S. Proposal Would Cut Funding to K–12 Schools With Chinese Government Ties
Washington, D.C. — A new federal proposal could eventually strip U.S. elementary and secondary schools of key education dollars if they receive support tied to the government of the People’s Republic of China, raising questions for families about the future of some Chinese language and culture programs.
The PROTECT Our Kids Act (H.R. 1069), sponsored by Rep. Kevin Hern of Oklahoma, has been reported out of the House Education and Workforce Committee and placed on the House Union Calendar but has not yet received a floor vote. The bill would bar federal education funds for any K–12 school that partners with Chinese government-backed cultural or language institutes, operates a “Confucius Classroom,” or accepts staff, curriculum, or funding from entities acting on Beijing’s behalf.
If enacted, the restrictions would take effect one year later. Schools with existing contracts could ask the U.S. Department of Education for a waiver by submitting full, unredacted agreements—plus translations where needed—and showing the partnership benefits students while supporting U.S. security and economic interests.
For families, that could mean changes to Chinese language electives, after-school classes, or cultural exchange activities if districts decide to unwind partnerships rather than seek waivers. Parents may want to ask local leaders whether their district receives any direct or indirect support from Chinese government-linked programs and how world language offerings would be maintained if those ties end.
The bill is still in the “introduced” stage in Congress, with further House action, a Senate vote, and the president’s signature required before it could become law. Families can follow updates on Congress.gov and through their district newsletters as lawmakers decide whether to advance the measure.
This article was produced by a journalist with the assistance of Ai. This is not legal advice. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
