By Daniel Stefanski |

One of Arizona’s State Representatives is working to increase transparency from certain foreign agents.

Republican State Representative Matt Gress, entering his second year in office, sponsored HB 2506, the State Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA). House Majority Leader Leo Biasiucci is a co-sponsor of the legislation.

According to Gress’ press release, the bill would “require transparency from foreign agents acting on behalf of adversarial countries within Arizona,” forcing these individuals to “register with the Arizona Attorney General’s Office.” Under the federal FARA, there are exceptions for “commerce, religious activities, research, or education;” those would be removed under this new proposal. There would be penalties for any foreign agents who failed to comply with the requirements.

In a statement released in conjunction with his announcement, Gress said, “I am proud to sponsor the State Foreign Agents Registration Act as a crucial step towards safeguarding our democracy. While the federal FARA has its merits, our state legislation aims to close existing loopholes that have allowed foreign agents to operate unnoticed. As foreign nations increasingly attempt to exert influence on American soil, it is important that we take proactive measures to ensure we protect Arizonans from efforts to compromise our freedom and security.”

The press release added that HB 2506 “would help protect U.S. citizens and foreign nationals residing in Arizona from foreign agents acting on behalf of countries such as China, Russia, and Iran who seek to impose their authoritarian rule domestically.”

There are no individuals or organizations that have yet indicated support or opposition for the bill on the Arizona Legislature’s Request to Speak system.

Daniel Stefanski is a reporter for AZ Free News. You can send him news tips using this link.