GOP Sen. Grassley introduces plan to expose foreign influence operations

Iowa Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley on Wednesday introduced a plan that would require think tanks and non-profits to disclose foreign financial contributions and agreements with extra-American entities.

The Think Tank Transparency Act, would create a 90 window for think tanks or other non-profit groups that work to influence U.S. policy or public opinion to disclose to the Department of Justice any funds they receive from foreign principals or any agreements or contracts they make with such groups.

GOP Michigan Rep. Jack Bergman has introduced companion legislation in the lower chamber.

"Billions of dollars go toward funding policy research, recommendations and expert testimony at public policy non-profits," Grassley said in a press release announcing the bill. "Much of that comes from foreign powers, including China, Russia, Qatar and others. Those foreign powers clearly have an interest in directing American foreign, domestic and security policy to their benefit."

"Congress, the executive branch, and the American people deserve to know who’s influencing research and public policy in our country," he asserted.

The public would also be able to review think tank interactions with foreign entities as Grassley's plan would require the DOJ to create an online database through which anyone may individually inspect the disclosures.