U.S. Representative Jim Banks announced his amendments to the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), aimed at preventing the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from undermining and influencing American institutions, including stealing "the crown jewels of American innovation." Banks made his statement in a press release regarding his amendments on May 22.

"America's foremost adversary, the Chinese Communist Party, has long pursued a malign agenda to weaken America from within," said Rep. Jim Banks (R-IN), U.S. Rep from Indiana. "We can no longer sit back and allow the CCP to subvert our institutions, influence American students, and steal the crown jewels of American innovation. We certainly cannot afford to unwittingly aid them via our own Department of Defense and your tax dollars. The CCP is counting on Congress to follow Joe Biden's lead and be passive in protecting American interests. My amendments to the 2025 NDAA will ensure Congress leads the way to secure America against the China threat."

According to the press release, Banks passed three amendments to the 2025 NDAA.

"Prohibition on DOD Funding for Universities with Agreements with China & Russia" prohibits universities from receiving federal funding if they have connections via educational programs with China, Russia, Iran, or North Korea. "Post-Employment Prohibition for Investigators on DOD-Funded Research" prohibits individuals from using Department of Defense (DOD) funding for technology projects with China, Russia, Iran, or North Korea for a minimum of 10 years. "Prohibition on DOD Funding of Fundamental Research with China" prohibits funding for "fundamental research" with China or any Chinese-military organizations.

In January, the DOD released a list of People's Republic of China (PRC) Military Companies that operate "directly or indirectly" in the United States. According to the release, "The PRC's Military-Civil Fusion strategy supports the modernization goals of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) by ensuring it can acquire advanced technologies and expertise developed by PRC companies, universities, and research programs that appear to be civilian entities."

Congressman Banks represents Indiana's 3rd District. He is a veteran and former Indiana State Senator.