Dark Money Group Behind Florida Bill Threatening China Sister-City Ties

A Florida bill aimed at countering foreign influence from countries deemed security risks is drawing scrutiny for its ties to a national dark money group and its potential impact on long-standing international partnerships, including Orlando’s 40-year sister-city relationship with Guilin, China.

The legislation, House Bill 905 (HB 905), sponsored by Rep. Jenna Persons-Mulicka (R-Naples), cleared both chambers of the Florida Legislature in March 2026 and awaits action by Gov. Ron DeSantis. If signed into law, its provisions would take effect July 1, 2026.

HB 905 seeks to define “foreign countries of concern” and restrict certain official relationships with them, including sister-city affiliations and linkage institute partnerships. Supporters frame the bill as a necessary step to protect critical infrastructure and counter foreign influence operations, citing federal directives and concerns about espionage activities.

However, critics argue the bill’s broad language could disrupt beneficial cultural, educational, and economic exchanges that pose no security threat. They point to decades of student exchanges, arts collaborations, and municipal cooperation under programs like Orlando’s tie with Guilin, established in 1986.

Investigative reporting has linked the push for HB 905 to State Armor, a national advocacy group led by Michael Lucci. The organization states its mission is to help states defend against foreign influence and has promoted similar policy measures in multiple statehouses. Reports indicate State Armor’s 2024 fundraising and lobbying activities received support from outside financial backers, prompting scrutiny as the bill advanced through Tallahassee.

Should HB 905 become law, cities like Orlando would be required to terminate formal sister-city relationships with designated foreign countries of concern. The bill would also impose new registration requirements and contracting limitations on entities engaged with such nations.

Nationally, the effort reflects a broader trend: at least 41 states have introduced anti-China proposals in 2025, according to an Associated Press analysis, with most originating in GOP-controlled legislatures.

As the bill awaits gubernatorial consideration, local officials, educators, and community volunteers warn that ending long-standing partnerships could harm people-to-people ties built over generations, even as lawmakers insist the measures are vital for state security.