The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed legislation from U.S. Rep. Dale Strong (R-Monrovia) creating a working group within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) dedicated to countering terrorist, cybersecurity, border and port security, and transportation security threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
The Strategic Homeland Intelligence and Enforcement Legislation to Defend (SHIELD) Against CCP Act passed the House by a resounding margin of 409-4.
The bill would establish a dedicated DHS working group to counter specific threats and require the group to examine, assess and report on the spectrum of "nontraditional tactics" employed by the Chinese government and DHS's efforts to counter those activities.
"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," Strong said. "This bill will ensure DHS has a dedicated team working to combat this threat head-on. After a long four years, it's time to make America safer. I'm excited to get this bill through to better protect the American people."
According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection data, Chinese foreign national apprehensions nationwide have surpassed 64,000 since Joe Biden took office. DHS has previously acknowledged that certain Chinese nationals "exploit our lawful immigration and travel systems to collect intelligence, steal intellectual property, and harass dissidents."
U.S. Rep Barry Moore (R-Enterprise) also applauded the bill's passage after voting in favor.
"The Chinese Communist Party is a clear and present threat to our national security," Moore said. "From trafficking fentanyl to buying up American farmland near our military installations, their actions demand a strong, swift, and united response. This bill ensures we are better prepared to confront these dangers."
The bill will now go to the Senate for deliberation.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
