House Passed H.R. 9668, the SHIELD Against CCP Act

Washington, D.C. - On Tuesday, the House Passed H.R. 9668, the SHIELD Against CCP Act, legislation aimed at bolstering America's defenses against homeland security threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). This bill establishes and authorizes a dedicated Department of Homeland Security (DHS) working group to assess, identify, and report on DHS efforts to counter the growing threat from the CCP.

"The Chinese Communist Party's actions represent a direct and unrelenting threat to our homeland security," said Congressman Ellzey. "From the spy balloon that flew over our nation's most sensitive defense sites to the illegal Chinese police stations operating right here on American soil, the CCP has become more brazen in its attempts to undermine our national security. H.R. 9668 ensures that the Department of Homeland Security has a focused and comprehensive strategy to identify and counter these threats."

The SHIELD Against CCP Act is a direct response to alarming testimony provided to Congress earlier this year. On March 9, 2023, national security experts testified before the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Law Enforcement, and Intelligence about the CCP's dangerous and escalating activities. Witnesses highlighted:

• The CCP's exploitation of American universities to steal intellectual property and technology.
• Threats to economic supply chain security and critical infrastructure.
• Surveillance activities targeting the U.S. homeland and American citizens.
• Harassment and intimidation campaigns against exiled communities, including Uyghur Americans.

H.R. 9668 establishes a DHS working group tasked with delivering regular assessments and recommendations to Congress to strengthen the nation's defenses against the CCP. This dedicated approach ensures accountability, focus, and a coordinated response to a growing threat.