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Bill

HB 1311

require the reporting of funding given by certain persons and governments to institutions under the control of the Board of Regents and the South Dakota Board of Technical Education.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Randy Deibert and 5 co-sponsors

South Dakota requires universities and technical colleges to publicly report all funding from designated foreign governments and entities to increase transparency and oversight.

Signed by the President S.J. 506
#education #foreignpersons #highereducation #reports
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Bill Summary · HB 1311

Legislative bill overview

HB 1311 requires South Dakota's public universities and technical colleges to report all funding received from specific foreign governments, foreign entities, and certain individuals. The bill mandates transparency about financial relationships that institutions under the Board of Regents and Technical Education Board must disclose to the state.

Why is this important

Universities and technical colleges receive millions in research grants, donations, and partnerships annually. This bill creates a public record of foreign funding sources, allowing lawmakers and the public to understand potential financial influences on academic institutions and identify undisclosed conflicts of interest.

Potential points of contention

  • Broad definition concerns: "Certain persons" and "certain governments" language may be vague, creating uncertainty about what funding actually requires reporting
  • Competitive disadvantage: Mandatory disclosure could discourage legitimate international research partnerships and donations if institutions fear scrutiny or reputational damage
  • Administrative burden: Compliance costs and staff resources needed to track and report all qualifying funding sources, particularly for institutions with extensive international research programs
  • National security vs. academic freedom: While aimed at identifying security risks, overly broad reporting could chill legitimate scholarly collaboration and international academic exchange

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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