The Asian American Scholar Forum (AASF) cautions against harm by the Stop Chinese Communist Prying by Vindicating Intellectual Safeguards in Academia Act (Stop CCP Visas Act), introduced by U.S. Representative Riley Moore (R-WV) today. The bill is co-sponsored by Representative Brandon Gill (R-TX); Representative Scott Perry (R-PA); Representative Troy Nehls (R-TX); Representative Andy Ogles (R-TN); and Representative Addison McDowell (R-NC).

The bill’s text, first reported by Fox News, would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to “prohibit the admission of Chinese nationals as nonimmigrant students, and for other purposes.”

Representative Moore claimed to Fox News that “It’s time we turn off the spigot and immediately ban all student visas going to Chinese nationals.” The bill adds that an “alien who is a national of the People’s Republic of China may not be issued a visa or otherwise provided status as a nonimmigrant under section 101(a)(15)(F), (J), or (M), for the purpose of conducting research or pursuing a course of study.”

AASF cautions that legislation like this would effectively harm the talent pipeline of Asian American scientists, scholars, and researchers, thereby undermining U.S. leadership in science and innovation.

Statement from Asian American Scholar Forum Executive Director Gisela Kusakawa:

The Asian American community is a predominantly immigrant population, and for many of our most esteemed scientists, researchers, and scholars, the journey began with a single step onto a college campus. They arrived as bright-eyed students, filled with hope, ambition, and a relentless drive to contribute to the world. Many came from countries where political turmoil, limited rights, or constrained opportunities made it difficult to fully realize their potential. In America, they found the freedom to dream, to innovate, and to push the boundaries of knowledge.

The American dream has long been a beacon, drawing the best and brightest minds from around the world—scholars who have not only built careers here but have also shaped industries, mentored future generations, and strengthened the very fabric of our society while building lives, having families, and becoming valued community members of our country. We cannot afford to cut off this pipeline of talent and exclude such an integral part of our American community. To do so would be to turn our backs on the very ideals that have made America a global leader in innovation and discovery. Ensuring that these opportunities remain open isn’t just about fairness; it’s about securing a future where knowledge and progress continue to thrive.

AASF remains committed to advocating for policies that enable us to maintain an open, thriving, and welcoming research and academic environment. By upholding these fundamental principles that built the foundation of U.S. leadership in science and technology, we’ll continue to be at the forefront of innovation and prosperity. Let us continue to foster American excellence and the security of our nation by being a beacon across the world for talents, ingenuity, and democratic principles.