WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Tom Kean Jr. of New Jersey’s 7th District has introduced legislation that would require clear disclosure on any advertisement paid for by a foreign government or foreign entity, aiming to increase transparency and prevent covert foreign influence in U.S. policy debates.
Kean said the Defending Against Foreign Propaganda Act would ensure Americans are informed when messaging they encounter is funded by a foreign government.
“In recent months, we have seen foreign governments, including allies like Canada, run ads in the United States aimed at influencing public opinion and policy debates,” Kean said in a statement. “Americans deserve to know when they are being targeted by messaging that originates from a foreign government. It is the American people who are the decision-makers in our policy debates, so we must ensure foreign governments can never hide their attempts to influence them.”
Under the bill, advertisements paid for by a foreign government or foreign person would be required to include a clear disclosure identifying the sponsor. Where applicable, disclosures would need to be provided in both written and audio form.
The Federal Trade Commission would be responsible for enforcing the requirement and treating violations as deceptive advertising practices.
Kean serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Foreign Affairs Committee.
