On July 1, 2023, the DeSantis administration put into effect SB 846, a law that impedes Florida public institutions from collaborating or establishing grant agreements with select international institutions. The legislation, passed unanimously back in May in both the Florida House and Senate, seeks to prevent intellectual property theft by foreign nations labeled “countries of concern.” These countries include China, Russia, North Korea, Syria, Cuba, and Venezuela.
Impact
The State University System of Florida portrays its public institutions as hubs of opportunity that offer students a chance to obtain a degree at the lowest cost in the nation, making them favorable candidates for those with less financial resources. Despite the main purpose of SB 846, experts warn that it has the potential to curtail international student attendance at institutions like FSU and UF, as they may find more favorable opportunities to conduct research elsewhere due to timing and finances.
Coupled with similar legislation that restricts owning land due to concerns that these civilians are engaging in military espionage, this law may propagate racism and xenophobia. These bills (SB 258, SB 264, SB 846) correspond to Governor Ron DeSantis’ “Stop CCP Influence” package, which labels the China Communist Party (CCP) a threat to the United States. Although the CCP is highlighted here, restrictions outlined by the bill extend beyond Chinese nationals and are set to disproportionately affect students based in the listed countries, especially if they are facing financial challenges. The agreements mentioned above also extend to possible research collaboration between Florida public institutions and those of concern, prompting scholars to affirm this as an infringement upon open science, which is the right to distribute and amend knowledge following updated findings.
Understanding the Law
The ambiguity of language within SB 846 allows officials to review applications for employment and donations from foreign institutions on a case-by-case basis, effectively complicating the already time-sensitive process of research collaboration. Teams need to work cohesively to encourage the accurate development of information so more investigation can be done with the help of assistance grants, which operate under strict deadlines. Determining whether a person, institution, or grant is concerning will be entirely up to the personal values of non-academic authorities.
The FSU LegisLetter details that the law does not affect an international student’s ability to enroll in a public institution, but their application for employment will need to pass an approval process by the Florida Board of Governors. All members of the board are appointed by Ron DeSantis. The board will evaluate any possible affiliation with espionage, which could delay the hiring process and potentially jeopardize the student’s financial and living situation.
Assembly & Discussion
FSU’s faculty is currently investigating how these complications will affect research teams, but no known petitions or large gatherings have been organized. Faculty at the University of Florida have put forth efforts to support international students through the recruitment process, for which over 300 members expressed supportive comments. Several members have also expressed concerns that political tensions are disrupting educational development.
The Board of Governors will hold a public meeting on Jan. 24 in Ballroom E of the FSU Student Union. Covered topics will include budgeting and finance, governance and planning, and academic research and excellence. The research and excellence committee is scheduled to meet at 11:30 a.m. FSU students who are passionate about direct action, open science, and human rights are strongly encouraged to attend.
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