[House Report 117-401]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
117th Congress } { Report
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
2d Session } { 117-401
======================================================================
STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS BILL,
2023
_______
July 1, 2022.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the
State of the Union and ordered to be printed
_______
Ms. Lee of California, from the Committee on Appropriations,
submitted the following
R E P O R T
together with
MINORITY VIEWS
[To accompany H.R. 8282]
The Committee on Appropriations submits the following
report in explanation of the accompanying bill making
appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations,
and related programs, for the fiscal year ending September 30,
2023, and for other purposes.
INDEX TO BILL AND REPORT
Page Number
Bill Report
Overview...................................................
Title I--Department of State and Related Agency:
Department of State:
Administration of Foreign Affairs.................. 2
10
Diplomatic Programs........................ 2
10
Capital Investment Fund................... 5
18
Office of Inspector General............... 5
19
Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs 6
19
Representation Expenses................... 7
23
Protection of Foreign Missions and
Officials.............................. 7
23
Embassy Security, Construction, and
Maintenance............................ 7
23
Emergencies in the Diplomatic and Consular
Service................................ 8
25
Repatriation Loans Program Account......... 8
26
Payment to the American Institute in Taiwan 8
26
International Center, Washington, District
of Columbia............................ 9
26
Payment to the Foreign Service Retirement
and Disability Fund.................... 9
27
International Organizations:
Contributions to International Organizations....... 9
27
Contributions for International Peacekeeping
Activities..................................... 10
28
International Commissions:
International Boundary and Water Commission, United
States and Mexico.............................. 13
29
American Sections, International Commissions....... 15
30
International Fisheries Commissions................ 15
31
Related Agency:
United States Agency for Global Media.............. 16
31
International Broadcasting Operations...... 16
32
Broadcasting Capital Improvements.......... 18
34
Related Programs:
The Asia Foundation................................ 18
34
United States Institute of Peace.................. 18
34
Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue Trust
Fund........................................... 18
35
Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Program............. 19
35
Israeli Arab Scholarship Program................... 19
35
East-West Center................................... 20
35
National Endowment for Democracy................... 20
36
Other Commissions:
Commission for the Preservation of America's
Heritage Abroad................................ 20
37
United States Commission on International Religious
Freedom........................................ 21
37
Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe... 21
37
Congressional-Executive Commission on the People's
Republic of China.............................. 22
37
United States-China Economic and Security Review
Commission..................................... 22
38
Title II--United States Agency for International
Development:
Funds Appropriated to the President
Operating Expenses......................... 23
38
Capital Investment Fund................... 24
41
Office of Inspector General................ 24
41
Title III--Bilateral Economic Assistance:
Funds Appropriated to the President
Global Health Programs..................... 25
41
Development Assistance..................... 30
48
International Disaster Assistance.......... 30
53
Transition Initiatives..................... 31
55
Complex Crises Fund........................ 32
55
Economic Support Fund..................... 32
56
Democracy Fund............................. 32
58
Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central
Asia................................... 33
59
Department of State:
Migration and Refugee Assistance........... 35
60
United States Emergency Refugee and
Migration Assistance Fund.............. 35
62
Independent Agencies:
Peace Corps................................ 36
63
Millennium Challenge Corporation........... 37
63
Inter-American Foundation.................. 38
64
United States African Development
Foundation............................. 38
65
Department of the Treasury:
International Affairs Technical Assistance. 39
65
Debt Restructuring......................... 40
66
Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation 40
66
Title IV--International Security Assistance:
Department of State
International Narcotics Control and Law
Enforcement............................ 41
66
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining
and Related Programs................... 42
69
Peacekeeping Operations.................... 44
70
Funds Appropriated to the President
International Military Education and
Training............................... 45
71
Foreign Military Financing Program........ 46
72
Title V--Multilateral Assistance:
Funds Appropriated to the President
International Organizations and Programs... 48
73
International Financial Institutions............... 49
75
Global Environment Facility............... 49
75
Contribution to the Green Climate Fund.... 49
75
Contribution to Clean Technology Fund...... 49
75
Contribution to the International Bank for
Reconstruction and Development......... 50
75
Contribution to the International
Development Association................ 50
75
Contribution to the Asian Development Fund 51
76
Contribution to the African Development
Bank................................... 51
76
Contribution to the African Development
Fund................................... 51
76
Contribution to the International Fund for
Agricultural Development............... 51
76
Global Agriculture and Food Security
Program................................ 52
77
Contributions to International Monetary
Fund Facilities and Trust Funds........ 52
77
Title VI--Export and Investment Assistance:
Export-Import Bank of the United States............ 52
77
United States International Development Finance
Corporation.................................... 55
78
Trade and Development Agency....................... 59
81
Title VII--General Provisions.............................. 60
81
Summary of Committee Recommendation
The Committee recommendation for fiscal year (FY) 2023 for
the activities under the jurisdiction of the Subcommittee on
State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs totals
$64,575,000,000 in new discretionary budget authority, which is
$8,475,000,000 above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level and
$1,763,519,000 below the fiscal year 2023 request. The funding
included in this bill underscores the need for parity between
diplomacy, development, and defense funding as integral parts
of national security and provides the resources necessary to
strengthen our foreign policy agencies and institutions to meet
the myriad of global challenges faced by the United States.
SUMMARY TABLE: AMOUNTS IN NEW BUDGET AUTHORITY
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FY 2023 Budget FY 2023 Committee
Title FY 2022 Enacted Request Recommendation
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title I--Department of State and Related Agency........ $17,054,577,000 $18,418,485,000 $17,857,329,000
Title II--United States Agency for International 1,974,147,000 2,112,950,000 2,087,354,000
Development...........................................
Title III--Bilateral Economic Assistance............... 27,377,442,000 31,133,241,000 30,866,189,000
Title IV--International Security Assistance............ 8,899,353,000 8,999,780,000 8,996,980,000
Title V--Multilateral Assistance....................... 2,374,460,000 4,726,715,000 4,671,515,000
Title VI--Export and Investment Assistance............. 323,800,000 787,348,000 540,633,000
Title VII--General Provisions.......................... -1,903,779,000 160,000,000 -445,000,000
--------------------------------------------------------
Total.............................................. $56,100,000,000 $66,338,519,000 $64,575,000,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EMBASSY AND DIPLOMATIC SECURITY
The Committee continues to prioritize the safety and
security of diplomatic and development staff and facilities.
The Committee recommendation includes funds to ensure Embassy
and Diplomatic Security has sufficient resources for training,
equipment, and support to evolve with the ever-changing
security context.
The explanatory statement that accompanied the Commerce,
Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2022
directed the Attorney General to ensure implementation of
evidence-based training programs on de-escalation, the use-of
force, and the protection of civil rights, that are broadly
applicable and scalable to all Federal law enforcement
agencies. Several agencies funded by this Act employ Federal
law enforcement officers and are Federal Law Enforcement
Training Centers partner organizations. These agencies are
again directed to consult with the Attorney General regarding
the implementation of these programs for their law enforcement
officers. The Committee further directs such agencies to submit
a report to the Committees on Appropriations on their efforts
relating to such implementation not later than 90 days after
consultation with the Attorney General. In addition, the
Committee continues to direct such agencies to the extent that
they are not already participating, to consult with the
Attorney General and the Director of the FBI regarding
participation in the National Use-of-Force Data Collection. The
Committee further directs such agencies to submit a report to
the Committees on Appropriations not later than 180 days after
enactment of this Act on their efforts to so participate.
DIPLOMATIC AND DEVELOPMENT WORKFORCE
The Committee provides robust funding to bolster and expand
both the Foreign Service and Civil Service workforce for the
Department of State and the United States Agency for
International Development (USAID) to address the ongoing and
emerging crises of the world. The Committee recognizes that a
robust and inclusive workforce is critical and complementary to
program implementation and oversight and to advancing the
Administration's diplomatic and development priorities.
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, AND ACCESSIBILITY
The Committee is encouraged by the actions of agencies to
prioritize and elevate issues of diversity, equity, inclusion,
and accessibility (DEIA) in the foreign policy workforce as
well as in programs supported by this Act. The hiring of Chief
Diversity Officers and establishment of DEIA offices within
respective agencies will help support advancing these
initiatives that improve access and participation for
minorities within the diplomatic and development workforce as
well as support professional growth to ensure the next
generation of leaders better represent the American people. The
diversity of the American people is one of our country's
strongest assets and central to our values as a nation. The
United States must continually reassess and reflect with
humility when we fall short of upholding these values. The
Committee continues providing funds to support DEIA initiatives
throughout all agencies funded by this bill.
MULTILATERAL COOPERATION
The Committee recommendation affirms support for
multilateral organizations and leverages United States tax
dollars to galvanize and increase partner participation and
financial contributions to tackle the world's greatest
challenges. As demonstrated by the global response to combating
the COVID-19 pandemic to supporting the government of Ukraine
to defending against Russian President Vladimir Putin's
invasion to working to achieve the United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs), global partnerships are key to
furthering goals of peace and prosperity for all people. The
Committee recommendation seeks to strengthen our global
partnerships and reinforce the United States as an active,
committed, and reliable partner and leader.
The Committee directs the Secretary of State, in
consultation with the USAID Administrator and other United
States assistance agencies, to submit a report to the
Committees on Appropriations, not later than 180 days after
enactment of this Act, on how the United States is contributing
to the achievement of the seventeen Sustainable Development
Goals by 2030.
COVID-19 RESPONSE AND RECOVERY
The Committee recognizes that the global community
continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic. Many countries
are still waiting on critical global health resources while
simultaneously trying to recover from secondary impacts brought
on by the pandemic. The Committee recommendation continues
funding to strengthen global health systems to prevent future
pandemics by proactively mitigating, and responding to,
emerging health threats.
The pandemic has not only revealed the weakness within
health systems but also the disproportionate harm to those
communities who were already the most vulnerable and
marginalized. The Committee provides assistance to those
vulnerable and marginalized communities in addition to
resources to address the secondary impacts of the pandemic on
education, economic livelihoods, public safety, and governance.
REGIONS
The Caribbean and Small Island Developing States.--The
Committee recognizes the existential threat brought on by
climate change to countries in the Caribbean, the Pacific
Islands, and other Small Island Developing States. The
Committee provides increased funds to those countries in
recognition of the long-standing need for more resources,
including towards combating climate change, increasing
inclusive economic growth, strengthening governance and the
rule of law, and promoting United States leadership to counter
malign influences.
Middle East and North Africa.--The Committee believes
strongly that the United States must continue to pursue a two-
state solution in the Middle East. The Committee affirms strong
support for the normalization agreements between Israel and
Arab states, including the Abraham Accords, and appreciates the
Secretary of State's commitment to strengthening and expanding
upon such agreements. The Committee applauds the advances that
have been created in the areas of economic development,
investment, scientific collaboration, security cooperation,
religious tolerance, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people
programming through such agreements. Participants in the
Abraham Accords, as well as Egypt and Jordan, should expand on
the success of normalization by helping to defuse tensions on
the ground between Israelis and Palestinians, promote
cooperation, rebuild opportunities for dialogue and direct
engagement, and work to include the Palestinians in such
agreements, all of which would also help encourage other
countries to join in normalizing relations with Israel. The
Committee directs the Secretary of State to report to the
Committee on Appropriations, on an annual basis, on the United
States strategy to strengthen, expand, and promote
normalization agreements with Israel, including opportunities
created by such agreements to advance the prospects for peace
between Israelis and Palestinians, consistent with Sections 105
and 106 of division Z of Public Law 117-103.
Northern Triangle.--The Committee maintains support for
the urgent needs of the people of El Salvador, Guatemala, and
Honduras and continues assistance to address the root causes of
migration, promote human rights, combat corruption, and advance
economic opportunity and the rule of law. The Committee
recommendation also provides additional resources for human
rights defenders, including government officials who are
harassed and threatened for upholding justice and the rule of
law, and reinforces the United States commitment to the region
and to those individuals that continue to fight corruption and
impunity.
Ukraine.--The Committee remains steadfast in supporting the
government of Ukraine following Vladimir Putin's unprovoked
invasion of the country, a grave breach of sovereignty. Yet in
the face of great odds and devastation, the people and
government of Ukraine continue to fight, demonstrating great
spirit and resilience. The Committee stands firm with the
country of Ukraine and provides continued security, economic,
and humanitarian assistance in the fight against Vladimir
Putin's oppression.
The Committee provided additional resources to respond to
Putin's invasion of Ukraine through the FY 2022 Supplemental
Appropriations Act (Public Law 117-103) and the FY 2022
Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act (Public Law
117-128). The Department of State, USAID, and the Department of
the Treasury are directed to keep the Committee updated on
emerging needs arising from the conflict as well as
strengthening structures to ensure proper procedures are in
place for oversight and accountability.
CLIMATE AND ENVIRONMENT
The Committee reaffirms the Administration's prioritization
of protecting the environment and combating climate change, an
existential threat to our nation and the planet, and continues
a concerted effort to advance more resources into these
programs both bilaterally and multilaterally. The Committee
also recognizes that climate change harms the most vulnerable
and marginalized communities disproportionately, commonly women
and children, and urges the Department of State and USAID to
take into consideration such disparities in the implementation
of any climate and environment programs. The Committee provides
additional resources to address the needs of Small Island
Developing States who are uniquely vulnerable to the
destruction caused by climate change and whose needs for
assistance often go unaddressed because of their income status.
DEMOCRACY & HUMAN RIGHTS
The Committee was encouraged by the Administration's first
Summit for Democracy and remains a committed partner with the
Administration to strengthen and preserve democracy worldwide.
The Committee provides resources for initiatives stemming from
the Summit for Democracy and the subsequent Year of Action
leading up to the next summit. Democracies continue to be
tested whether by external factors such as Vladimir Putin's
invasion of Ukraine or by internal factors such as corruption
that corrode governance, the rule of law, and democratic
institutions. A healthy democracy requires investment and
commitment, and the Committee allocates funds to support
struggling democracies stand firm against authoritarianism and
threats that seek to undermine democratic values.
The Committee remains committed to the preservation of
dignity for all people, including those most vulnerable and
marginalized. The Committee recognizes the risk and sacrifice
individuals and organizations take in order to increase
transparency, counter disinformation, combat corruption, and
uphold these core values. The Committee increases funding for
the protection of human rights defenders, who protect and
promote human rights even at the high cost of their own dignity
and safety.
SECURITY PROGRAMS
The Committee recognizes that security programs complement
development programs, and both are vital in advancing the
national security interests of the United States. The Committee
continues support for security programs, including those that
promote core values of governance through combating corruption,
supporting judicial reform, and strengthening rule of law.
Further, the Committee remains committed to the security of our
allies and partners and continues support for Israel, Jordan,
Mexico, and Colombia as well as Ukraine, Georgia, and the
Baltic allies who are on the front lines in opposition to
renewed Russian aggression.
RESULTS, OVERSIGHT, TRANSPARENCY, AND ACCOUNTABILITY
The Committee recognizes the need for accountability for
American taxpayer dollars and for the effective implementation
and progress towards diplomatic and development goals. To
conduct proper oversight and accountability of funds, the
Committee includes various notification requirements, spend
plans, and operational plans to increase transparency on the
allocation and obligation of funds. To better assess whether
funds are fulfilling their respective diplomatic and
development purposes, the Committee requires and provides funds
for project monitoring and evaluation, which are comprised of
quantitative and qualitative assessments throughout the life
cycle of the project as well as after completion of a program.
Such actions help measure progress towards foreign assistance
objectives and promote accountability by providing
opportunities to reassess programs as necessary.
The recommendation continues to prioritize the proper
management of taxpayer dollars, including strong internal
controls, reduced inefficiency, ineffectiveness, and waste,
fraud, or abuse; and a focus on results, and customer service
for all United States Government agencies under the
jurisdiction of this Act. The Committee continues its focus on
reducing unnecessary expenditures and expects the departments
and agencies funded by this Act to work with the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) to identify cost savings and
efficiencies where possible.
The Committee believes that better use of social and
behavior change communication can improve results for foreign
assistance programs. The Committee encourages greater
integration of media and communication across global health and
development programming, especially through locally relevant
content and multimedia partnerships. The Committee directs the
USAID Administrator to submit a report to the Committees on
Appropriations, not later than 90 days after enactment of this
Act, on the use of social and behavior change communications in
recent programming and the best practices and evidence of
effectiveness for integrating this approach for better health
and development outcomes.
The Committee understands that, as the largest advertiser
in the United States, the Federal government should work to
ensure fair access to its advertising contracts for small,
disadvantaged businesses, and businesses owned by minorities
and women. The Committee directs the Department of State and
agencies under the jurisdiction of this Act to include the
following information in the fiscal year 2024 budget
justification: expenditures for fiscal year 2023 and expected
expenditures for fiscal year 2024, respectively, for (1) all
contracts for advertising services; and (2) contracts for the
advertising services of (a) socially and economically
disadvantaged small business concerns (as defined in section
8(a)(4) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637(a)(4)); and
(b) women- and minority-owned businesses aggregated by race and
gender.
REPROGRAMMING, NOTIFICATION, REPORTING, AND CONSULTATION REQUIREMENTS
The Committee recommendation grants limited reprogramming
authorities to ensure that funds are devoted to the highest
priorities, particularly due to changes in circumstances of
countries facing unrest, terrorism, and violence. The Committee
notes that reprogramming notifications must be submitted
subject to the regular notification procedures of the
Committees on Appropriations. For the purposes of this Act and
report, ``regular notification procedures'' means notification
must be provided at least 15 days in advance of obligation of
funds unless otherwise specified. The Committee continues to
permit the waiver of such notification procedures, pursuant to
section 7015(e) of this Act, only if failure to do so would
pose a substantial risk to human health or welfare. The
Committee expects the use of this authority to be extremely
rare and directs the Secretary of State and the USAID
Administrator to use this authority judiciously.
The Committee further directs the Secretary of State and
USAID Administrator to submit notifications for the obligation
of funds made available by this Act and prior Acts not later
than 60 days prior to the expiration of such funds.
Congressional notifications submitted by the Secretary of State
and USAID Administrator for funds that are being reallocated
prior to initial obligation, reprogrammed, or reobligated after
deobligation, shall, to the maximum extent practicable, contain
detailed information about the sources of the funds and why
such funds are no longer intended to be used as previously
justified.
The Committee is concerned that spend plans consistently
submitted well past when required, and often after funds have
already been notified, diminishes the usefulness of such spend
plans for strategic planning as well as oversight. To address
these concerns, the Committee returns to prior practice of
directing that all required spend plans be submitted prior to
such funds being obligated.
The Committee directs that for the purposes of this Act and
report, the term ``prior consultation'' means a pre-decisional
engagement between a relevant Federal agency and the Committees
on Appropriations during which the Committees are provided a
meaningful opportunity to provide facts and opinions to inform:
(1) the use of funds; (2) the development, content, or conduct
of a program or activity; or (3) a decision to be taken.
The Committee continues to stress its expectation that the
Department of State, USAID, and the other international affairs
agencies under the jurisdiction of this Act will prudently, and
in a timely fashion, obligate the funds appropriated by the
fiscal year 2023 Department of State, Foreign Operations, and
Related Programs Appropriations Act, and prior Acts, during
their periods of availability.
BILL ORGANIZATION
The Committee recommendation, as detailed in this Act and
report, deletes, modifies, or moves previously provided
legislative provisions that are addressed elsewhere in
permanent law, outdated, pending consideration by the
appropriate authorizing committee, or are no longer necessary
or applicable.
The tables in the report within the appropriations headings
in titles III through V and under the sections in title VII are
subject to the terms and conditions of section 7019 of this Act
and shall be used as the basis for the section 653(a) report
that is due to Congress 30 days after enactment of this Act.
The Committee believes the funds provided by this Act are
essential for addressing the ever-evolving global challenges
from providing the most basic of human needs such as food,
clean water, and health to addressing complex threats from
climate change, conflict, authoritarianism, among others. The
Committee provides these resources to demonstrate the will of
Congress to remain engaged in the global world as both a leader
and partner with other countries to foster a more tolerant,
inclusive, and prosperous world.
TITLE I--DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND RELATED AGENCY
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Administration of Foreign Affairs
The Committee recommendation for Administration of Foreign
Affairs provides funds for the broad range of activities
necessary to support the operations and activities of more than
275 diplomatic and consular posts in 190 countries. The
Committee recommends a total of $13,092,944,000 for the
activities of the Department of State in fiscal year 2023. Of
the total amount provided, $12,934,044,000 is appropriated as
discretionary funds by this Act and $158,900,000 is
appropriated as mandatory funds by the Foreign Service Act of
1980.
Embassy security.--The Committee recommendation provides
$5,771,528,000 for embassy security, which is $180,000 above
the fiscal year 2022 enacted level and equal to the fiscal year
2023 request. Funds are made available for: (1) the purchase of
property and for construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance
of safe and secure United States diplomatic and consular
missions and other posts overseas; (2) the cost to the
Department of State associated with the Marine Security Guard
Program; (3) domestic security responsibilities; and (4) the
personnel and equipment required to protect United States
Government property and employees and their families under
Chief of Mission (COM) authority overseas.
EMBASSY SECURITY
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Program/Activity Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Worldwide Security Protection....................... $3,813,707
Embassy Security, Construction, and Maintenance..... 1,957,821
-------------------
Total, Embassy Security......................... $5,771,528
------------------------------------------------------------------------
DIPLOMATIC PROGRAMS
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $9,178,789,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 9,637,707,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 9,637,707,000
Change from enacted level........................... +458,918,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $9,637,707,000 for
Diplomatic Programs, including up to $3,813,707,000 for
Worldwide Security Protection (WSP).
Funds made available under this heading are allocated in
the following manner:
Human resources.--The Committee recommendation includes
$3,441,076,000 for human resources, of which $684,767,000 is
for WSP. Funds support American salaries at overseas and
domestic United States diplomatic missions.
Overseas programs.--The Committee recommendation includes
$1,934,833,000 for overseas programs. Funds for overseas
programs support the operational programs of regional bureaus
of the Department of State and the operations of United States
embassies, consulates, and other diplomatic posts worldwide.
The Committee directs that the operating plan required by
section 7062 of this Act include funding and projected hiring
levels for mid-level Foreign Service Officers.
Diplomatic policy and support.--The Committee
recommendation includes $1,104,740,000 for the operational
programs and management offices of the functional bureaus of
the Department of State. The Committee recommendation includes
$1,000,000 for the Office of the Special Coordinator for
Tibetan Issues to carry out the responsibilities detailed in
section 21(d) of the Foreign Relations Authorization Act,
Fiscal Year 2003 (Public Law 107-228).
Security programs.--The Committee recommendation includes
$3,157,058,000 for security programs, of which $3,128,940,000
is for WSP. Funds support the personnel, equipment, and
training necessary for the protection of diplomatic personnel,
overseas diplomatic missions, residences, and domestic
facilities and information.
Worldwide Security Protection
The Committee recommendation includes $3,813,707,000 for
WSP, of which $684,767,000 is for Human Resources and
$3,128,940,000 is for Security Programs.
The WSP program provides critical funding for the
protection of life, property, and information of the Department
of State and supports a worldwide guard force protecting more
than 275 overseas diplomatic missions, residences, and
facilities and 105 domestic offices. The resources provided
will support more than 3,100 regional security officers and
40,000 guards to provide perimeter security and access control.
Funds also support enhanced high threat protection, security
technology, cyber and information security, secure diplomatic
courier operations, and protective services for the Secretary
of State, the United States Ambassador to the United Nations
(UN), and foreign dignitaries visiting the United States.
The Committee understands the increased risks caused by
unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and the danger they can pose to
United States diplomatic facilities and personnel in foreign
countries. The Committee recommendation includes sufficient
funds for the Department to review and acquire, as appropriate,
commercially available counter-drone solutions and
technologies.
Visa and Passport Fraud Investigation.--The Committee is
supportive of the work carried out by the Visa and Passport
Analysis Branch within Diplomatic Security to protect the
national security of the United States through the continuous
identification of emergent threats to United States travel
documents by improving the Investigative Management System
(IMS) data enhancement, analytics, and governance, in addition
to other capabilities. Further, the Committee recommendation
includes additional funding above the prior year level to
continue IMS upgrades and enhancements.
Other Matters
Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy.--The
recommendation includes funding at not less than the request
level for the Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy. The
Committee directs the Secretary of State to consult with the
Committees on Appropriations on the use of funds for such
purpose.
Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and
Scientific Affairs.--The recommendation includes funding at not
less than the request level for the Bureau of Oceans and
International Environmental and Scientific Affairs. The
Committee directs the Secretary of State to consult with the
Committees on Appropriations on the use of funds for such
purpose.
Central America Sanctions Policy and Implementation.--The
Committee recommendation includes up to $500,000 above the
prior year for additional staff in the Office of Economic
Sanctions Policy dedicated to Central America. The Committee
directs that the operating plan required by section 7062 of
this Act include the projected budget and staffing level for
the Office.
Combating Anti-Semitism.--The Committee recognizes the
important work of the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-
Semitism and recommends not less than $1,500,000 for the
Office, as authorized by the Global Anti-Semitism Review Act of
2004 (Public Law 108-332).
Commercial Diplomacy.--The Committee recognizes the need
for continuing education of U.S. diplomats in the area of
commercial diplomacy and directs the Department of State to
establish a training program through partnerships with
universities and other institutions that specialize in training
and educating diplomats on effective commercial diplomacy. The
training program shall rely on expertise and a curriculum
developed by such partners in conjunction with senior
government officials. The Secretary of State shall consult with
the Committees on Appropriations on the timeline for creating
and implementing a training program as described.
Congressional oversight.--A core responsibility of the
Committees on Appropriations is to conduct oversight of the
funds appropriated and made available for assistance for
countries. This includes being able to visit the countries and
communities where such assistance is being delivered. The
Committee urges the Secretary of State to work with governments
receiving assistance from funds appropriated by this Act to
ensure Members of Congress are granted the necessary travel
documents and approvals to exercise oversight of such
assistance.
Conventional Arms Transfer Policy oversight.--The Committee
recommendation includes $20,000,000 to increase staffing and
resources for the Bureaus of Political-Military Affairs and
Democracy, Human Rights and Labor to enable efficient
management and robust oversight of United States security
assistance programs, related statutory requirements, and
implementation of the Conventional Arms Transfer Policy.
Cybersecurity capacity building.--The Committee recommends
the Department of State expand efforts to hire experienced
personnel to support cybersecurity capacity building.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility.--The
Committee recommendation includes not less than the budget
request for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility to
expand the Department of State's efforts to increase diversity
in hiring, retention, and promotion within its workforce,
including to continue and expand its recruitment programs,
professional development activities for mid-career and senior
executives, and outreach efforts.
The Committee supports ongoing partnerships between the
Department of State and community colleges, universities, and
other institutions to improve the diversity and excellence of
the United States Foreign Service (Foreign Service) by
preparing both graduate and undergraduate students for
positions in the Foreign Service, and includes $5,000,000 each
for the Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Fellowship and
Charles B. Rangel International Affairs programs to further
this goal. The Committee encourages the Secretary of State to
explore new opportunities to partner with Hispanic-Serving
Institutions, Historically Black Colleges and Universities,
Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-serving
institutions, and Tribal Colleges and Universities to further
the goal of increasing workforce diversity. The Committee
includes further language under Reports in this heading.
Distributed ledger technologies.--The Committee encourages
the Department of State, in coordination with other relevant
agencies, to support partnerships between the United States and
its allies on the establishment of standards for distributed
ledger technologies.
Global Engagement Center (GEC).--The Committee
recommendation includes funding at not less than the request
for the GEC. The Committee remains concerned about foreign
propaganda, disinformation, the malicious use of social media,
and other hybrid threats directed at the United States and our
allies and partners, especially as carried out by the People's
Republic of China (PRC), Russia, Iran, and extremist groups.
The Committee directs the GEC to expand, as appropriate, the
use of technologies and techniques to counter these threats.
The operating plan required by section 7062 of this Act should
describe the GEC's coordination with other Department of State
bureaus and the Department of Defense with respect to the
proposed use of all funds in fiscal year 2023.
Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act.--The
Committee recommendation includes $3,000,000 for implementation
of the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act,
including $1,000,000 each for the Bureau of Economic and
Business Affairs, the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law
Enforcement, and the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and
Labor.
Holocaust issues.--The Committee recognizes the important
work of the Office of Holocaust Issues and recommends
$1,500,000 for the Office to continue efforts to bring a
measure of justice and assistance to Holocaust victims and
their families and to assure that the Holocaust is remembered
properly and accurately.
The Committee supports the United States Helsinki
Commission and the Office of International Religious Freedom's
On the Road to Inclusion program as well as other efforts by
the Department of State to encourage representative governance
and advance social inclusion and social cohesion in European
societies.
Mid-level career and cross-learning.--The Committee directs
the Secretary of State, in consultation with the USAID
Administrator, to increase training and other career
advancement programs for mid-level personnel, strengthen cross-
learning between the workforces of the Department of State and
USAID, and to assess the benefits of expanding mid-level
conversion programs from the Civil Service to Foreign Service
and creating interagency exchanges between the Department and
USAID.
Minority rights.--The Committee directs the Secretary of
State to take steps to ensure that Department of State funded
programs adhere to non-discrimination policies and protect
minority rights.
Modernization of Commercial Law.--The Committee appreciates
the engagement of the Department's Office of Private
International Law to work with non-profit legal reform
organizations on efforts to modernize commercial law to promote
economic development and poverty reduction abroad.
Monitoring and combating trafficking in persons.--The
Committee recommendation includes $17,000,000 for the Office to
Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, as authorized by the
Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, as amended.
The Committee directs the Secretary of State to publicly
post resources for victims of human trafficking, including
hotlines and websites, in all United States embassies and
consulates in areas where visa applications are processed.
Office of the Special Advisor for International Disability
Rights.--The Committee recommendation includes additional funds
above the prior year level for the Office of the Special
Advisor for International Disability Rights and directs the
Secretary of State to consult with the Committees on
Appropriations on the use of funds for such purpose.
Paid Internships.--The Committee recommendation includes
not less than $18,000,000 for paid internships and directs the
Secretary of State to plan and take all necessary steps to
transition all Department of State internships to paid
internships. This Act also includes authority for the
Department of State to offer compensated internships during
fiscal year 2023.
Press Freedom Curriculum.--The Committee directs the
Secretary to develop a press freedom curriculum for the Foreign
Service Institute that enables Foreign Service Officers to
better understand issues of press freedom and the tools that
are available to help protect journalists and promote freedom
of the press norms, and to consult with the Committees on
Appropriations on the development of such curriculum.
Procurement.--The Secretary of State is directed to expand
opportunities for cooperatives and small businesses to compete
for Department of State contracts and grants, including
minority owned, veteran, and disadvantaged small businesses, as
well as faith-based organizations.
Race, Ethnicity, and Social Inclusion Unit (RESIU).--The
recommendation includes $2,000,000 to support the expansion of
RESIU to a Department-wide office, and to continue and expand
activities to address racial and ethnic equality and inclusion
across regional bureaus of the Department. Further, RESIU shall
coordinate and implement the Brazil, Colombia, Uruguay, and
U.S.-European Union action plans that combat anti-Semitism,
racism, and intolerance, work to realize the goals of the
International Decade for People of African descent, and work to
ensure that discrimination towards people of African descent is
included in human rights reports. Further language is included
under Reports in this heading.
Regional China Officers.--The Committee recommendation
includes funds to support public diplomacy activities of
Regional China Officers posted at United States missions
overseas.
Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs.--The
Committee continues to support the important work of the
Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, which leads and
coordinates United States diplomatic engagements on overseas
hostage-related matters.
Strengthen equity and transparency in promotions and
assignments.--The Committee directs the Department of State to
update the study of gender parity and racial equity in the
employee performance evaluation processes and diversity in
promotions required by the explanatory statement accompanying
the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related
Programs Appropriations Act, 2022 (Public Law 117-103). The
study should include a data-driven analysis on barriers to
promotion in the foreign and civil service.
Sustainable operations.--The Committee recognizes the
importance of sustainable operations of the Department of State
and minimizing the environmental footprint of United States
diplomatic facilities. The Committee encourages the Department
to reduce the use of single-use, petroleum-based plastics
products in daily operations both at domestic facilities and
diplomatic posts overseas, and encourages the use, as
appropriate, of materials that are American-made and certified
to be ocean degradable, compostable, and that reduce
environmental contamination.
Synthetic biology.--The Committee encourages the State
Department's Special Envoy for Critical and Emerging Technology
to promote innovation and security in synthetic biology as an
important dimension of U.S. strategic competition.
Timely Processing of Passports and Visas.--The Committee
notes the return of fee collections available to the Consular
and Border Security Programs account to pre-pandemic levels or
greater and directs the Secretary of State to dedicate the
necessary resources to ensure passport and visa applications
are processed in a timely and efficient manner to ensure that
unnecessary delays do not impact the public. The Committee
directs the Department to continue to proactively seek
technological and procedural alternatives to streamline
processes where possible to enhance consular services
domestically and overseas. Not later than 60 days after
enactment of this Act, the State Department shall brief the
Committees on Appropriations on its plan to return to visa
processing at full capacity at all embassies and consulates.
The Committee further directs the Secretary to
appropriately weigh the impact of increased passport and visa
fees on applicants and petitioners prior to making any such
increases.
The Committee notes American farmers have narrow time
windows associated with planting and harvesting perishable
crops and that the security of the United States food supply
chain is dependent on timely processing of H-2A visa
applications. Therefore, the Committee directs the Secretary of
State to plan for and allocate resources to address needs at
United States embassies and consulates responsible for
processing H-2A visa applications during peak demand. The
Committee further directs the Secretary to appropriately weigh
the impact of increases in visa processing fees on petitioners
and employers prior to increasing such fees.
The Committee recognizes that foreign-trained medical
professionals play a critical role in ensuring the health and
safety of many Americans, especially in rural communities and
underserved areas which suffer from provider shortages,
requiring residents to travel significant distances to receive
care. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to take
appropriate actions to ensure the timely processing of visas
for such workers.
Finally, the Committee directs the State Department to
prioritize processing visas in a timely manner for facilitating
the entry of legitimate travelers invited to the United States
for congressional business.
Further language is included under Reports in this heading.
United States citizens' deaths overseas.--Section 204(c) of
the Foreign Relations Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2003
(Public Law 107-228) mandates that, to the maximum extent
practicable, the Department of State collect and make available
on the Department's Bureau of Consular Affairs website
information with respect to each United States citizen who dies
in a foreign country from a non-natural cause. To improve data
collection, the Committee recommends the Department consider,
as appropriate, the age and gender of the deceased and, when
available, specific details on the site and circumstances of
the incident.
Women's reproductive rights.--The Committee directs the
Department of State to include in its annual country human
rights reports violations of women's reproductive rights.
Reports
Combating Anti-Semitism.--The Committee is concerned by the
reports of anti-Semitic graffiti found within the Department of
State's headquarters in Washington, and reports of Department
staff espousing anti-Semitic views online. Not later than 90
days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall
submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees on
the status of the investigations into these incidents,
including the status of any employee found to have committed
such acts. The report should also include recommendations for
how the Department can improve tolerance and non-discrimination
among its staff, including through required, targeted trainings
for Department employees.
Countering global racism.--The Committee is concerned by
the rise in global ethnic and racial discrimination. The
Committee directs the Secretary of State, in consultation with
the USAID Administrator, to submit a report to the Committees
on Appropriations, not later than 90 days after enactment of
this Act, on all Department of State and USAID programs and
initiatives that address racial and ethnic discrimination,
including grants and exchanges, and the associated funding
levels of such programs.
Diplomatic and Development Presence in the Pacific
Islands.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State, in
consultation with the USAID Administrator, to submit a report
to the appropriate congressional committees, not later than 120
days after enactment of this Act, on the diplomatic and
development presence of the United States in the Pacific
Islands. Such report shall include an analysis of staffing and
resourcing of Department of State and USAID operations in the
Pacific Islands, including an assessment of any limitations
caused by current staffing levels, and provide recommendations
on how to bolster the United States diplomatic presence in the
region, including by expanding the United States diplomatic and
development footprint to advance United States strategic
objectives.
Foreign Missions.--Not later than 90 days after enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the
Attorney General, shall submit to the appropriate congressional
committees an assessment of whether any foreign entities
operating in the United States, including but not limited to
cultural institutes, funded by the Government of the People's
Republic of China meet the criteria for designation as a
foreign mission of the Government of the People's Republic of
China.
Humane and Equitable Treatment.--The Secretary of State and
USAID Administrator are directed to work with governments and
partners to investigate reports of disparate treatment and
violence against third-country nationals fleeing conflict. The
Secretary and Administrator shall work to ensure that all
individuals fleeing conflict, whether nationsl of a country or
third-country nationals living in such country, are treated
humanely and have equal access to humanitarian assistance and
protection, especially during a time of war. Not later than 45
days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary in consultation
with the Aministrator, shall submit to the Committees on
Appropriations a report on how principles of equal access to
humanitarian assistance and protection against violence are
being carried out with partners implementing United States
assistance and in diplomatic and humanitarian dialogues with
other governments. The report shall include a review of
allegations of disparate treatment of third-country nationals
fleeing Russian aggression in Ukraine by government border
control and other security forces and the steps that were taken
to engage officials of such governments to ensure fair and
equitable treatment of all individuals fleeing the conflict.
Indigenous Engagement.--The Committee directs the Secretary
of State, in coordination with the Secretary of the Interior
and in consultation with other relevant Federal departments and
agencies, to submit to the appropriate congressional
committees, not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act
a report on international indigenous engagement and diplomacy.
The Secretary is directed to consult with the appropriate
congressional committees regarding the content of the report
prior to submission and to include in the report planned
actions and steps under consideration to increase such
engagement.
Materials.--Not later than 90 days after enactment of this
Act, Secretary of State shall submit an update to the report
required on passport stock under the heading ``Consular and
Border and Security Programs''' in House Report 117-84.
RESIU.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State to
submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later
than 45 days after enactment of this Act, that describes the
activities of RESIU prior to expansion to a Department-wide
office and how this initiative is being expanded to additional
regions.
Sexual Harassment and Misconduct.--The Committee expects
the Department of State to improve its handling of sexual
misconduct by fully implementing the recommendations in the
Office of the Inspector General's report from September 2020
(ESP 20-06) on the Department's response to reports of sexual
harassment. Not later than 180 days after enactment of this
Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the
Committees on Appropriations detailing the Department's
progress in implementing the recommendations contained in the
report. The Committee further directs that the report includes
a review of interagency policies for responding to and
preventing sexual misconduct at overseas posts under chief of
mission of authority and include recommendations on how to
improve interagency sexual misconduct response at overseas
posts, including at high threat posts.
Timely Processing of Passports and Visas.--Not later than
90 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State
shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations
regarding lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, including
the adoption of remote services, the feasibility of increased
interview waivers, and remote visa interviews, and any other
processing improvements that would enhance consular services
domestically and overseas, while maintaining security
requirements.
Workforce diversity.--The Committee directs the Secretary
of State to submit a report to the Committees on
Appropriations, not later than 45 days after enactment of this
Act, that describes all workforce diversity activities,
including the associated funding, results of such initiatives,
and the benchmarks for measuring such results and maintaining
accountability.
Funds in this Act under this heading are allocated
according to the following table and are subject to sections
7015 and 7062 of this Act.
DIPLOMATIC PROGRAMS
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bureau/Office (includes salary and bureau-managed
funds) Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bureau of Administration
Freedom of Information Act....................... [$41,300]
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
Human Rights Vetting............................. [15,000]
Atrocities Prevention Training................... [500]
Special Advisor for International Disability [750]
Rights..........................................
Special Envoy to Advance the Human Rights of [500]
LGBTQI+ Persons.................................
Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs
Office of the Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues. [1,500]
Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs
Office of Terrorism Financing and Economic [10,375]
Sanctions Policy................................
Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs
Special Envoy for Yemen.......................... [500]
Institute for Transatlantic Engagement............... 2,000
Office of International Religious Freedom............ 8,840
Religious freedom curriculum development......... [500]
Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons.. 17,000
Office of the Secretary
Office of Diversity and Inclusion................ [6,950]
Office of Global Women's Issues.................. [15,000]
Office to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism....... [1,500]
Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues........... [1,000]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CAPITAL INVESTMENT FUND
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $300,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 470,180,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 350,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +50,000,000
Change from request................................. -120,180,000
The Committee recommendation includes $350,000,000 for
Capital Investment Fund (CIF).
Funds appropriated for the CIF support enterprise-level
investments in information technology (IT) modernization and
essential IT services to sustain the Department's mission, and
address cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
Not later than 30 days after enactment of this Act, the
Secretary of State shall submit to the Committees on
Appropriations a report on the progress of the Department of
State in implementing Executive Order 14028 on Improving the
Nation's Cybersecurity. Such report may be submitted in
classified form if necessary.
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $131,458,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 133,700,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 133,700,000
Change from enacted level........................... +2,242,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $133,700,000 for
support of the oversight personnel and activities of the Office
of Inspector General (OIG) at the Department of State. Of this
amount, up to $38,000,000 is provided for the Special Inspector
General for Afghan Reconstruction (SIGAR).
Funds provided under this heading will support the audits,
investigations, and inspections of worldwide operations and
programs of the Department of State and United States Agency
for Global Media (USAGM). The Committee expects the OIG to
continue the coordination of audit plans and activities
involving Department of State operations and programs in
Afghanistan with the SIGAR in order to ensure the development
of comprehensive oversight plans and to avoid duplication.
EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMS
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $753,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 741,300,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 773,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +20,000,000
Change from request................................. +31,700,000
The Committee recommendation includes $773,000,000 for
Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs. The Committee
recognizes the importance of international exchange programs
and directs that funds made available under this heading be
directed to support United States foreign policy objectives and
be appropriately coordinated with Department of State regional
bureaus.
Funds made available under this heading are allocated in
the following manner and are subject to the requirements of
sections 7015 and 7062 of this Act.
EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMS
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Program/Activity Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Academic Programs
Fulbright Program................................ $285,000
Global Academic Exchanges........................ 64,510
Special Academic Exchanges....................... 21,908
Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship [17,000]
Program.....................................
Subtotal, Academic Programs...................... 371,418
Professional and Cultural Exchanges
International Visitor Leadership Program......... 105,000
Citizen Exchange Program......................... 115,000
Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange............ [4,125]
Special Professional and Cultural Exchanges.......... 6,250
J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange...... [6,000]
------------------
Subtotal, Professional and Cultural Exchanges........ 226,250
Special Initiatives
Young Leaders Initiatives........................ 36,000
Countering State disinformation and pressure..... 12,000
Community Engagement Exchange Program............ 6,000
------------------
Subtotal, Special Initiatives.................... 54,000
Program and Performance.............................. 11,932
American Spaces...................................... 15,000
U.S. Speaker Program................................. 4,000
Exchanges Support.................................... 90,400
------------------
Total, Educational and Cultural Exchanges........ $773,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
American Spaces and the United States Speaker Program.--The
Committee continues to support public diplomacy programming
conducted by United States Embassies and Consulates, including
American Spaces and the United States Speaker program.
The Committee recognizes the importance of increasing
United States engagement with, and presence in, the Caribbean,
particularly the eastern Caribbean, and directs the Secretary
of State to prioritize public diplomacy programming in the
region during fiscal year 2023. The Committee directs that the
fiscal year 2023 operating plan for funds made available under
this heading include details on the planned expansion of such
activities.
Citizen Exchange Program.--The Committee recommendation
includes $115,000,000 for the Citizen Exchange Program. Citizen
exchange programs provide American and foreign participants the
opportunity to gain knowledge and share expertise and
experiences through professional, youth, cultural, and other
exchanges. Funds are provided to support new competitive awards
administered in cooperation with the various divisions within
the Office of Citizen Exchanges, including through the Youth
Programs Division to foster interaction between United States
and foreign youth artists. The Committee supports the Bureau of
Educational and Cultural Affairs engagement with unique
American cultural and artistic assets to further United States
public diplomacy.
Civil Rights.--The Committee directs that the Secretary of
State prioritize support for projects and activities raising
awareness and understanding of the Civil Rights Movement and
the cause of racial justice internationally, and directs the
Secretary to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on
use of funds provided under this heading for such purpose in
fiscal year 2023.
Community Engagement Exchange Program.--The Committee
recommends funds for the Community Engagement Exchange Program,
consistent with the enacted prior year level, to provide civil
society activists, particularly in minority and
underrepresented populations, with the tools, networks, and
resources to address local challenges. During fiscal year 2023,
the program should continue to include: (1) trainings on
technical skills, including advocacy, program design,
organizational leadership, and evaluations; (2) short-term
workshops and reverse exchanges for foreign and domestic
participants; (3) networking opportunities; and (4) other
mechanisms to support the goals of the program.
Critical language programs.--Within the funds provided, the
Committee urges the Secretary of State to prioritize critical
language programs for United States students and exchange
programs with countries of national security importance.
Displaced scholars.--The Committee recommendation includes
an additional $1,000,000 under this heading for residential
fellowships to foreign scholars who face threats to their lives
or careers in their home countries or have been displaced due
to conflict.
Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Program.--The
Committee recognizes the importance of building educational and
cultural ties between the United States and countries in Latin
America and the Caribbean to maintaining and increasing United
States influence in the region. The Committee includes funds
for such purpose and directs that special emphasis be given to
placement of Fulbright English Teaching Assistants in
underserved communities across Latin America and the Caribbean.
In addition, the Committee recommendation includes not less
than prior year level for the Fulbright English Teaching
Assistant Program in Africa.
Global Academic Exchanges.--The Committee recommendation
includes an additional $400,000 under Global Academic Exchanges
for additional faculty development seminars at Department of
State funded research centers abroad and for additional costs
associated with the operations of such centers.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities.--The
Committee includes not less than $4,000,000 under this heading
for the Department of State to expand two-way international
academic and professional and cultural exchanges for
individuals of African descent, including the development of
partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and Universities
(HBCU) and Minority Serving Institutions (MSI). Not later than
60 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State
shall report to the Committees on Appropriations on the
Department of State's work with HBCU and MSI stakeholders to
support two-way international exchanges and scholarships for
Afro-descent students, faculty, and professionals.
Increase and Diversify Education Abroad for U.S. Students
(IDEAS).--The Committee recommendation includes $2,500,000 for
the IDEAS program.
Other exchanges.--The Committee recognizes the value of
competitive exchange programs for young people, including the
Youth Exchange and Study program; the Future Leaders Exchange;
educator programs; and programs providing overseas training in
strategic languages for Americans.
Oversight of Educational and Cultural Exchange funding.--
The Committee supports the role of the Assistant Secretary of
State for Educational and Cultural Affairs in implementing
exchange programs and overseeing funding appropriated under
this heading. The Committee expects robust coordination of
public diplomacy activities, while maintaining strong oversight
of funds, program implementation and accountability to the
Committees on Appropriations. The Committee directs the
Secretary of State to consult with the Committees on
Appropriation prior to any decision to realign responsibility
related to budgetary planning or the management of funds,
including grants management, appropriated under this heading.
Pacific Islands.--The Committee recommendation includes
additional funds above the prior year level for the Young
Pacific Leaders program and to expand the Fulbright Program in
the region. The Committee encourages the Secretary of State to
increase number of scholarships available to bring Pacific
Islanders to the United States to study, including for post-
baccalaureate degrees.
Pawel Adamowicz Exchange Program.--The Committee directs
the Secretary of State to make available $1,000,000 from funds
under this heading for the Community Engagement Exchange
Program for the Pawel Adamowicz Exchange Program, and to
consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the use of
funds for the program.
Professional Fellows Program.--The Committee continues to
support implementation of the Professional Fellows Program
consistent with prior years.
TechGirls Program.--The Committee recommendation includes
not less than the prior year enacted level for the TechGirls
program.
Special academic, professional, and cultural exchanges.--
The Committee recommendation includes funds to support at prior
year levels special academic, professional, and cultural
exchange programs where consistent with strategic priorities,
including Mexico and Central America and the academic and
cultural Tibetan exchanges and fellowships. The Committee
expects funds for such programs to be awarded on a competitive
basis and the planned levels for each to be included in the
fiscal year 2023 operating plan.
Ukrainian Veterans.--The Committee recognizes the sacrifice
of the Ukrainian veterans and supports efforts to expand access
to programs funded under this heading to Ukrainians with
military service in the armed forces or territorial defense
force of Ukraine, and directs the Secretary of State to brief
the Committees on Appropriations on options for expanding
access to such programs for Ukrainian veterans, including the
Community Solutions Program.
Unobligated balances.--Section 7062 of this Act includes a
requirement that the Secretary of State submit to the
Committees on Appropriations an operating plan for funds
appropriated under this heading. The Committee expects that
such plan will include the distribution of unobligated balances
and recoveries, as well as any transfers to this account from
other accounts in fiscal year 2023.
Young Leaders Initiatives.--The Committee recommendation
includes $36,000,000 for the Young Leaders Initiatives,
including not less than the enacted prior year levels for the
Young African Leaders, Young Southeast Asia Leaders, and Young
Leaders in the Americas initiatives. In addition to the funds
provided for the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative, the
Committee directs the Secretary of State to prioritize students
from underrepresented Indo-Pacific countries through other
scholarships and fellowship programs funded under this heading.
Vietnam Education Foundation Act.--The Committee
recommendation includes $2,500,000 under this heading for
grants authorized by section 211 of the Vietnam Education
Foundation Act of 2000, as amended.
REPRESENTATION EXPENSES
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $7,415,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 7,415,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 7,415,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $7,415,000 for
Representation Expenses authorized by section 905 of the
Foreign Service Act of 1980.
Funds provided under this heading are used to reimburse
Foreign Service officers for expenditures incurred in their
official capacities abroad in establishing and maintaining
relations with officials of foreign governments and appropriate
members of local communities. The Secretary of State is
directed to submit semi-annual reports to the Committees on
Appropriations containing detailed information on the allotment
and expenditure of the funding provided under this heading.
PROTECTION OF FOREIGN MISSIONS AND OFFICIALS
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $30,890,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 30,890,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 30,890,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $30,890,000 for
Protection of Foreign Missions and Officials.
Funds provided under this heading are used to reimburse
local governments and communities for the extraordinary costs
incurred in providing protection for international
organizations, foreign missions and officials, and foreign
dignitaries under certain circumstances. The Committee expects
the Department of State to provide reimbursement to local
jurisdictions on a timely basis if claims are fully justified.
The Department of State shall continue to submit to the
Committees on Appropriations a semi-annual report on the number
of claims for extraordinary protective services that have been
submitted by eligible jurisdictions that are certified as
meeting the program requirements and the amount of unobligated
funds available to pay such claims.
Section 7034(j) of this Act continues authority for the
Secretary of State to transfer expired unobligated balances
from funds made available under Diplomatic Programs. The
Committee directs the Department of State to include any
expired balances transferred to this heading in the report
required by the previous paragraph.
EMBASSY SECURITY, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $1,983,149,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 1,957,821,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 1,957,821,000
Change from enacted level........................... -25,328,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $1,957,821,000 for
Embassy Security, Construction, and Maintenance. Within the
amount provided, $1,055,206,000 is for Worldwide Security
Upgrades (WSU) and $902,615,000 is for repair, construction,
and operations.
Worldwide Security Upgrades.--Within the funds made
available for WSU, $940,206,000 under this heading is for the
Department of State's contribution to the Capital Security Cost
Savings (CSCS) and Maintenance Cost Sharing (MCS) programs.
This amount, combined with the estimated $1,101,726,000 in CSCS
and MCS program contributions from other agencies and
$162,285,000 from available consular fees, will provide a total
of $2,204,217,000 in fiscal year 2023 for the design,
construction, and maintenance of United States diplomatic
facilities overseas.
The Secretary of State shall promptly inform the Committees
on Appropriations of agencies that are delinquent in fulfilling
their capital security cost sharing obligation as required by
section 604(e) of the Secure Embassy Construction and
Counterterrorism Act of 1999.
Notification and reporting requirements.--Section 7004(c)
of this Act continues the notification requirements from prior
Acts as a means of ensuring the Committees on Appropriations
have the necessary information to conduct appropriate oversight
of construction projects. The Department is directed to clearly
define and consistently report on the elements of each project
factor and include an explanation of any changes from previous
reports or notifications for a project.
Congressional notifications made pursuant to section
7004(c) shall include, at a minimum, the following project
factors: (1) the location and size of the property to be
acquired, including the proximity to existing United States
diplomatic facilities and host government ministries; (2) the
justification of need for acquiring the property and
construction of new facilities and the reconciled appraised
value of the project; (3) a detailed breakdown of the total
project costs, including, at a minimum, the following cost
categories: (a) site acquisition, (b) project development, (c)
design contract, (d) primary construction, (e) other
construction costs, including: (i) procurement of art, (ii)
furniture, (iii) project supervision, (iv) construction
security, (v) contingency, and (vi) value added tax, and (f)
any other relevant costs; (4) the revenues derived from, or
estimated to be derived from, real property sales and gifts
associated with the project, if applicable; (5) any unique
requirements of the project that may increase the cost of the
project, such as consular workload, legal environment, physical
and/or security requirements, and seismic capabilities; (6) the
number of waivers required pursuant to section 606 of Appendix
G of Public Law 106-113, if applicable; (7) any religious,
cultural, or political factors that may affect the cost,
location, or construction timeline; (8) the current and
projected number of desks, agency presence, and the projected
number of United States direct hire staff, Locally Employed
Staff, and Third Country Nationals; (9) the current and
projected number of beds, if applicable; (10) the most recent
rightsizing analysis, and a justification for exceeding the
staffing projections of such rightsizing analysis, if
applicable; (11) with respect to new projects not previously
justified to the Committees on Appropriations, confirmation
that the Department of State has completed the requisite value
engineering studies required pursuant to OMB Circular A-131 and
Bureau of Overseas Building Operations Policy and Procedure
Directive, Cost 02 and the Department's adjudication of those
recommendations; (12) the project's scheduled start and
completion date, actual start and current estimated completion
date, and an explanation of any changes; and (13) any increase
in cost to the project resulting from the suspension,
termination, or delay of project work during the COVID-19
pandemic.
Operations.--The Committee recommendation includes
$705,200,000 for Operations. Funding for Operations provides
support for the five major organizational components of the
Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations: Planning and Real
Estate; Program Development, Coordination and Support;
Construction, Facility and Security Management; Operations;
Resource Management; and Domestic Renovations.
Operating plan.--Section 7062 of this Act requires the
Secretary of State to submit to the Committees on
Appropriations an operating plan for funds appropriated under
this heading. Such plan should include all resources available
to the Department of State in fiscal year 2023 for operations,
maintenance, and construction, and an accounting of the actual
and anticipated proceeds of sales or gifts for all projects in
fiscal year 2022.
Repair and Construction.--The Committee recommendation
includes $197,400,000 for repair and construction programs.
These funds support the repair, rehabilitation, improvement,
and upgrade of diplomatic facilities around the world. Within
the total, $100,000,000 is for the Minor Construction and
Improvement Program, $32,000,000 is for American Center
projects, $25,700,000 is for the Safe Housing Projects program,
and $5,000,000 is for the Accessible Housing Program. These
projects are not included as part of the larger MCS program.
Reports
Contingency savings.--The Committee understands from the
information included in the notifications received in prior
years that the Department of State has contingency savings on
previously appropriated construction projects. The Committee
directs the Secretary of State to continue to submit a report
to the Committees on Appropriations at the end of each fiscal
quarter on such contingency savings.
Quarterly reports.--The Secretary of State is directed to
continue to submit quarterly reports on the Beirut Embassy,
Mexico City Embassy, New Delhi Embassy, and Erbil Consulate
projects. Such reports shall include the following information:
(1) a detailed breakout of the project factors that formed the
basis of the initial cost estimate used to justify such project
to the Committees on Appropriations; (2) a comparison of the
current project factors as compared to the project factors
submitted pursuant to (1), and an explanation of any changes;
(3) the impact of currency exchange rate fluctuations on
project costs; and (4) a copy of the most current working
estimate that supports the basis for each report.
EMERGENCIES IN THE DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR SERVICE
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $7,885,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 8,885,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 8,885,000
Change from enacted level........................... +1,000,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $8,885,000 to enable
the Secretary of State to meet unforeseen emergencies arising
in the Diplomatic and Consular Service. Funding provided under
this heading is available until expended.
The recommendation provides resources for the Department of
State to meet emergency requirements in the conduct of foreign
affairs, including for the following purposes: (1) travel and
subsistence expenses for relocation of American employees of
the United States Government and their families from troubled
areas to the United States or safe-haven posts; (2) allowances
granted to Department of State employees and their dependents
evacuated to the United States for the convenience of the
Government; and (3) payment of rewards for information
concerning terrorist activities.
The recommendation continues prior year language providing
the authority to transfer up to $1,000,000 from this heading to
Repatriation Loans Program. This authority will ensure an
adequate level of resources for loans to American citizens
through the Repatriation Loans Program, should additional funds
be required due to an unanticipated increase in the number of
loans.
REPATRIATION LOANS PROGRAM ACCOUNT
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $1,300,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 1,300,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 1,300,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $1,300,000 for the
subsidy cost of repatriation loans.
PAYMENT TO THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE IN TAIWAN
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $32,583,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 32,583,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 32,583,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $32,583,000 for
Payment to the American Institute in Taiwan. The Committee
recommendation supports operating expenses of the American
Institute in Taiwan (AIT), and funds may also be made available
for special projects and consular upgrades including support
for the Global Cooperation and Training Framework.
The Taiwan Relations Act requires that programs concerning
Taiwan be carried out by the AIT and authorizes funds to be
appropriated to the Secretary of State to carry out the
provisions of this Act. The Institute administers programs in
the areas of economic and commercial services, cultural
affairs, travel services, and logistics. The Department of
State contracts with the AIT to carry out these activities.
INTERNATIONAL CENTER, WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $743,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 743,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 743,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $743,000 for site
security and routine maintenance and repairs to public spaces
of the International Center, Washington, D.C.
PAYMENT TO THE FOREIGN SERVICE RETIREMENT AND DISABILITY FUND
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $158,900,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 158,900,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 158,900,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $158,900,000 for
Payment to the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability Fund.
These funds are mandatory for budget scorekeeping purposes
and are appropriated by the Foreign Service Act of 1980, for
the unfunded liability created by new benefits, new groups of
beneficiaries, or increased salaries on which benefits are
computed. The Retirement Fund is maintained through
contributions made by participants, matching government
contributions, special government contributions (including this
account), interest on investments, and voluntary contributions.
International Organizations
CONTRIBUTIONS TO INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $1,662,928,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 1,658,239,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 1,659,739,000
Change from enacted level........................... -3,189,000
Change from request................................. +1,500,000
The Committee recommendation includes $1,659,739,000 for
Contributions to International Organizations.
Inter-Parliamentary Union.--The Committee supports efforts
by Members of Congress to engage with their international
counterparts in order to promote parliamentary democracy, the
protection of human rights, and international peace and
security. Therefore, the Committee includes the necessary
resources for a contribution under this heading to facilitate
the United States' readmission and participation in the Inter-
Parliamentary Union (IPU).
Universal Postal Union.--The Committee remains concerned
with the use of the international postal system to send opioids
and other illicit drugs to the United States, especially from
China. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to continue
working with the Universal Postal Union to adopt and implement
measures to further strengthen the security of the mail system,
including improvements to the quality of data collection and
further adoption of the advanced electronic data system. The
Department of State should continue to consult with the
Committees on Appropriations on steps being taken to address
these concerns.
Report
Credits.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State to
report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later than May
1, 2023, and 30 days after the end of fiscal year 2023, on any
credits attributable to the United States, including from the
United Nations Tax Equalization Fund, and provide updated
fiscal year 2023 and fiscal year 2024 assessment costs
including offsets from available credits and updated foreign
currency exchange rates. The Committee directs that such
credits shall only be made available for United States assessed
contributions to the United Nations regular budget and directs
the Secretary of State to notify the Committees on
Appropriations when such credits are applied to any assessed
contribution, including any payment of arrearages. Any
notification regarding funds appropriated by this Act or prior
Acts or any operating plan submitted pursuant to section 7062
of this Act, shall include an estimate of all known credits
currently attributable to the United States and provide updated
assessment costs including offsets from available credits and
updated foreign currency exchange rates.
CONTRIBUTIONS FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACEKEEPING ACTIVITIES
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $1,498,614,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 2,327,235,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 1,797,500,000
Change from enacted level........................... +298,886,000
Change from request................................. -529,735,000
The Committee recommendation includes $1,797,500,000 for
Contributions for International Peacekeeping Activities.
Consistent with the fiscal year 2023 request, the Committee has
included in this Act authority for the Secretary of State to
pay the full share of United States assessed peacekeeping costs
consistent with United States obligations under the Charter of
the United Nations, and includes more than $200,000,000 to pay
arrears from prior year peacekeeping assessments. The Committee
provides funding to pay assessed expenses and arrears for the
United Nations Support Office in Somalia under Peacekeeping
Operations instead of under this heading.
New or expanded missions.--The Committee recommendation
continues language requiring notification at least 15 days in
advance of voting for any new or expanded mission, including
the estimated cost and duration of the mission, the objectives
of the mission, the national interest that will be served, and
the exit strategy. The Committee notes that the notification
may be provided less than 15 days in advance of voting for a
new or expanded mission in the event of an emergency. The
Committee expects the Secretary of State to ensure the
appropriate and judicious application of this provision.
Trafficking in persons and sexual exploitation and abuse.--
The Committee recommendation includes language carried in prior
years prohibiting the obligation of funds under this heading
unless the Secretary of State certifies and reports to the
Committees on Appropriations on a peacekeeping mission-by-
mission basis that the United Nations (UN) is implementing
effective policies and procedures to prevent UN employees,
contractor personnel, and peacekeeping troops serving in such
mission from trafficking in persons, exploiting victims of
trafficking, or committing acts of sexual exploitation and
abuse or other violations of human rights.
Report
Credits.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State to
report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later than May
1, 2023, and 30 days after the end of fiscal year 2023, on any
credits attributable to the United States, including those
resulting from UN peacekeeping missions or the United Nations
Tax Equalization Fund, and provide updated fiscal year 2023 and
fiscal year 2024 assessment costs including offsets from
available credits.
International Commissions
INTERNATIONAL BOUNDARY AND WATER COMMISSION, UNITED STATES AND MEXICO
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $103,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 101,735,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 103,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. +1,265,000
The Committee recommendation includes a total of
$103,000,000 for International Boundary and Water Commission
(IBWC), United States and Mexico, including $51,970,000 for
Salaries and Expenses and $51,030,000 for Construction.
The Committee recommendation includes funds consistent with
prior fiscal years for the Rio Grande Flood Control System
Rehabilitation Project to continue and maintain levee projects
along the Rio Grande, including environmental, hydrologic,
hydraulic, and low water weir studies along the Rio Grande
Valley that are consistent with the projects outlined within
the Mexican Water Treaty of 1944, Treaty Series 994. The
Committee also supports efforts to reduce the amount of
sediment and other activities, including eradication and
mechanical control of carrizo cane, to maintain the health of
the river.
The Committee recommendation includes $250,000 under the
Salaries & Expenses heading for additional IBWC staffing and
other resources to sufficiently review lease compliance, in
coordination with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal
and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), and work with
lessees to amend or renew their agreements should an
environmental assessment support continuance of a grazing lease
program. An additional $250,000 is provided under this heading
to process public input in accordance with the National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and determine the best use for
this land in the interests of the Federal government and the
environment. The Commission is directed to report back to the
Committees on Appropriations, within 60 days after enactment of
this Act, on progress made in this regard.
Engagement with institutions of higher education.--The
Committee recognizes the need to equip the IBWC with more
access for research to address issues like sediment management
and supports the strengthening of its engagement with
institutions of higher education along the southern border to
conduct research relevant to the mission of the commission.
International Outfall Interceptor.--The Committee supports
the rehabilitation of the International Outfall Interceptor and
recommends funding be used to install a debris screen to avoid
blockages if IBWC determines that such a screen would be
effective and consistent with its authorities and mandate.
Release of effluent.--The Committee is concerned about the
adverse impact on communities in the United States from the
release of effluent from Mexico. The Committee directs the
Secretary of State and the United States Commissioner to the
IBWC to work with the Government of Mexico to take appropriate
steps to facilitate a resolution.
Report
Sediment and carrizo cane reduction.--The Committee
recommendation includes funding for efforts to eradicate and
control carrizo cane, reduce sediment, and maintain the health
of rivers, as appropriate. The Committee directs the United
States Commissioner to the IBWC to submit a report to the
Committees on Appropriations on these efforts, not later than
90 days after enactment of this Act, including how to improve
effectiveness, halt erosion stemming from sediment deposits
including in the Rio Grande River, and coordinate with federal,
state, and local entities and stakeholders.
AMERICAN SECTIONS, INTERNATIONAL COMMISSIONS
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $15,008,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 13,204,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 16,204,000
Change from enacted level........................... +1,196,000
Change from request................................. +3,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $16,204,000 for
American Sections, International Commissions, of which
$10,881,000 is for the International Joint Commission (IJC),
$2,323,000 is for the International Boundary Commission, and
$3,000,000 is for the North American Development Bank.
Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Adaptive Management
Committee.--The Committee includes the amount requested to
support the IJC's Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Adaptive
Management Committee and Phase II of the IJC's expedited review
of the Lake Ontario-St. Lawrence River Plan 2014 and the Lake
Superior Plan 2012.
Report
United States-Mexico environmental challenges.--The
Committee is concerned about the environmental challenges along
the United States border with Mexico. The Committee directs the
United States Federal Agency Board Members of the North
American Development Bank (NADBank) to use their voice and vote
to approve NADBank budget authority for the Bank to carry out a
comprehensive study to assess short and medium term needs and
make recommendations related to costs, benefits, and priorities
to improve the wastewater infrastructure on both sides of the
United States-Mexico border. Within 30 days of NADBank's
completion of such study, the United States Federal Agency
Board Members shall submit the study to the Committee on
Appropriations.
INTERNATIONAL FISHERIES COMMISSIONS
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $62,846,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 53,766,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 62,846,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. +9,080,000
The Committee recommendation includes $62,846,000 for
International Fisheries Commissions.
The Committee recommendation includes funds necessary to
fully support the anticipated United States assessments, other
expenses related to these commissions, and for the
participation of non-government United States commissioners to
the various commissions.
Funds in this Act under this heading are allocated
according to the following table and are subject to sections
7015 and 7062 of this Act.
INTERNATIONAL FISHERIES COMMISSIONS
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Commission/Activity Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Great Lakes Fisheries Commission.................... $47,060
of which, Grass Carp.............................. [1,000]
Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission............. 1,750
Pacific Salmon Commission........................... 5,935
International Pacific Halibut Commission............ 4,582
Other Marine Conservation........................... 3,519
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Great Lakes Fishery Commission (GLFC).--The Committee
recommendation includes $47,060,000 for the Great Lakes Fishery
Commission of which not less than $37,560,000 is for
operations, sea lamprey control requirements, and fishery
research, for the Great Lakes. The recommendation also includes
not less than $1,000,000 to address grass carp in the Great
Lakes. The Committee intends that the funds made available for
the GLFC be prioritized for meeting the United States
obligations under the 1954 Convention on Great Lakes Fisheries.
The Committee is concerned by aging infrastructure in the Great
Lakes Basin and supports the implementation of the Commission's
infrastructure plan.
Arctic Council.--The Committee recommendation includes not
less than the United States share of operating expenses for the
Arctic Council. The Committee recognizes the value of United
States engagement at the Arctic Council and encourages the
Secretary of State to prioritize engagement at the council as a
key element of United States' strategy in the Arctic.
RELATED AGENCY
United States Agency for Global Media
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $860,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 840,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 862,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +2,000,000
Change from request................................. +22,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $862,000,000 to carry
out United States international communications activities and
operations overseen by the United States Agency for Global
Media (USAGM), of which $852,300,000 is for International
Broadcasting Operations and $9,700,000 is for Broadcasting
Capital Improvements.
INTERNATIONAL BROADCASTING OPERATIONS
The Committee recommendation includes $852,300,000 for
International Broadcasting Operations, which is $22,000,000
above the request.
International Broadcasting Operations (IBO) funds the
operating, programming, and engineering costs of the Agency,
including the Voice of America (VOA), and the Office of Cuba
Broadcasting (OCB), as well as the independent grantees: Radio
Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL); Radio Free Asia (RFA); the
Middle East Broadcasting Networks (MBN); and the Open
Technology Fund (OTF). Funds made available under this heading
are allocated according to the following table and are subject
to the requirements of sections 7015 and 7062 of this Act:
INTERNATIONAL BROADCASTING OPERATIONS
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Entities/Grantees Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Federal Entities:
International Broadcasting Bureau Operations.... $50,303
Voice of America................................ 262,000
Office of Cuba Broadcasting..................... 12,973
Office of Technology, Services and Innovation... 182,851
-------------------
Subtotal, Federal Entities.................. 508,127
Independent Grantee Organizations:
Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty................. 145,000
Radio Free Asia................................. 62,384
Middle East Broadcasting Networks............... 106,789
Open Technology Fund............................ 30,000
-------------------
Subtotal, Grantees.......................... 344,173
-------------------
Total, International Broadcasting $852,300
Operations.............................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Central and Eastern Europe and countering Russian
disinformation.--The Committee remains deeply concerned with
significant media polarization and consolidation in the hands
of government-friendly outlets in Central and Eastern European
nations. Limited free press creates increased opportunities for
the spread of disinformation and influence from Russia and
facilitates the entrenchment of corruption, hate-speech against
minorities, threats to journalists, and continued erosion of
freedom of the press and expression in the region. The
Committee recognizes that RFE/RL has a significant impact in
small, medium, and large media markets and serves as a credible
and independent platform for objective sources of information.
The Committee supports the efforts of RFE/RL to support
Belarusian language services and to devote additional funding
and operations to counter Russian disinformation particularly
related to Russia's war on Ukraine and continued malign
influence in former states of the Soviet Union.
Hungary.--The Committee supports RFE/RL's Hungarian
language service programming and encourages the prioritization
on coverage in rural areas.
Latin America.--The Committee supports the programming and
activities of the Latin America Division of VOA. The Committee
expects USAGM to continue the focus on countries such as
Venezuela and Nicaragua, where governments censor news
coverage, access to independent media is restricted, and
interference from countries such as Russia and China continues
to increase.
Mongolia.--The Committee supports the establishment of a
Mongolian language service at VOA to serve as a source of
independent news and information to ethnic Mongolians living
under censorship and state-run media from the People's Republic
of China.
North Korea.--Section 7043(d)(2) of this Act continues the
directive from prior years that funds under this heading be
made available to maintain broadcast hours into North Korea at
not less than the levels of the previous year.
Office of Cuba Broadcasting.--The Committee recommendation
includes $12,973,000 for OCB radio and TV Marti, which is the
same as the prior fiscal year.
Pacific Islands.--The Committee supports coverage of Voice
of America on digital and conventional media to the Pacific
Islands, including through the pursuit of regional affiliates.
The Committee directs USAGM to include plans for such coverage
in its fiscal year 2023 program plan.
People's Republic of China.--The Committee supports the
role of VOA and RFA in countering disinformation from the
People's Republic of China and providing essential news and
information through the Mandarin, Tibetan, Uyghur, and
Cantonese language services.
The Committee supports the Tibetan language services of the
VOA and RFA, which the Committee understands provide the only
sources of independent information accessible to the people of
Tibet. The Committee directs USAGM to continue Tibetan language
programming at not less than current levels.
The Committee supports the expansion of the Uyghur Service
of RFA, including the daily radio broadcast digital content and
social media operations and original reporting, especially in
light of information about atrocities occurring in the Xinjiang
Uyghur Autonomous Region.
Pakistan-Sindhi Service.--The Committee supports the launch
of VOA's Sindhi language service and supports additional
funding for language service staffing and affiliate support in
Pakistan.
Report
Office of Cuba Broadcasting.--The Committee directs USAGM,
in consultation with OCB, to submit a report, not later than 90
days after enactment of this Act, to the Committees on
Appropriations, outlining reforms taken to address deficiencies
identified in the USAGM-commissioned internal and external
reviews of OCB's editorial policies and oversight procedures,
implementation of the recommendations identified by the State
Department Office of the Inspector General, and plans for
aligning OCB's personnel and activities with the budget request
level.
BROADCASTING CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
The Committee recommendation includes $9,700,000 for
Broadcasting Capital Improvements.
RELATED PROGRAMS
The Asia Foundation
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $21,500,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 20,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 22,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +500,000
Change from request................................. +2,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $22,000,000 for The
Asia Foundation. Additional funds should be prioritized for
increasing staff in the Pacific Islands as well continuing
programs across the Indo-Pacific, including in Burma,
Indonesia, and the Philippines.
The Committee directs The Asia Foundation (TAF) to continue
to work in consultation with the Department of State to develop
priorities and programming.
The Committee supports the efforts of TAF to seek
additional sources of funding to sustain program activities.
The Committee directs TAF to include a summary table in the
congressional budget justification (CBJ) for fiscal year 2024
detailing total revenue and support by category for fiscal year
2022 and projected for fiscal year 2023.
United States Institute of Peace
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $54,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 47,250,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 54,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. +6,750,000
The Committee recommendation includes $54,000,000 for
United States Institute of Peace.
The Committee notes that, in addition to appropriated
funds, the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) receives
resources from interagency transfers, reimbursements, and
offsetting receipts to support USIP programs. The Committee
directs USIP to fully implement fee-based or reimbursable
agreements, where appropriate, as a means of sustaining USIP
activities. In addition, the Committee directs USIP to include
information in the CBJ for fiscal year 2024 on the amount of
funds received from other Federal agencies and the amount of
revenue generated from fees and reimbursable agreements.
The Committee recommendation includes sufficient funds for
continued support to USIP's program and office in Colombia. The
Committee encourages USIP to deepen and expand its outreach and
support of peacebuilding, reconciliation, and reform activities
in Colombia, including support for Colombia's transitional
justice system and the facilitation of dialogues between former
combatants and victims.
The Committee is aware of the importance of human rights
education, outreach, and practice in fostering democratic
values domestically and globally and the critical role they
play in preventing and resolving violent conflict. The
Committee urges USIP as part of its 2023 grant competition to
solicit research proposals to develop innovative efforts to
disseminate democratic knowledge, values, and skills through
the study and application of human rights training at home and
abroad.
Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue Trust Fund
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $180,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 180,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 180,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommends an appropriation for fiscal year
2023 of interest and earnings from the Center for Middle
Eastern-Western Dialogue Trust Fund, as authorized by section
633 of Public Law 108-199. Interest and earnings for fiscal
year 2023 are projected to total $180,000.
Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Program
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $170,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 170,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 170,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommends an appropriation for fiscal year
2023 of interest and earnings from the Eisenhower Exchange
Fellowship Program Trust Fund, as authorized by sections 4 and
5 of the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Act of 1990. Interest
and earnings for fiscal year 2023 are projected to total
$170,000.
Israeli Arab Scholarship Program
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $119,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 119,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 119,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommends an appropriation for fiscal year
2023 of interest and earnings from the Israeli Arab Scholarship
Endowment Fund, as authorized by section 214 of the Foreign
Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1992 and 1993.
Interest and earnings for fiscal year 2023 are projected to
total $119,000.
East-West Center
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $19,700,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 19,700,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 21,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +1,300,000
Change from request................................. +1,300,000
The Committee recommendation includes $21,000,000 for the
East-West Center to promote people-to-people engagement in the
Indo-Pacific region and the United States through cooperative
study, training, and research.
National Endowment for Democracy
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $315,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 300,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 310,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... -5,000,000
Change from request................................. +10,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $310,000,000 for
National Endowment for Democracy. The fiscal year 2022
agreement included funds for unanticipated expenses, and the
Committee notes that such expenses are not expected in fiscal
year 2023. Of this amount, and consistent with current
practice, $205,840,000 shall be allocated in the traditional
and customary manner, including for the core institutes. The
remaining $104,160,000 shall be for democracy, human rights,
and rule of law programs as well as for supporting the National
Endowment for Democracy's (NED) mid-to long-term strategic
approach and response to immediate and unanticipated challenges
or opportunities. The President of the NED shall consult with
the core institutes on the use of such funds, and the core
institutes shall be eligible to receive funds for such
purposes.
The Committee encourages the Department of State and USAID
to support coordination and cooperation with the NED on
developing a comprehensive approach to defending democratic
norms and values.
Funds made available under this heading shall continue to
be provided directly to the NED and shall not be subject to
prior approval by the Department of State or USAID.
Administrative or management surcharges, and minimal expenses,
if any, should be charged to Department of State operating
expenses. The NED should not be precluded from competitively
bidding on other grant solicitations.
The Committee recommendation includes language exempting
funds made available under this heading from the operating plan
requirements of section 7062(a) of this Act.
Central and Eastern Europe.--The Committee is concerned by
the erosion of democracy in Central and Eastern Europe and
directs the NED to prioritize the region and implement
programming in additional countries in Central and Eastern
Europe to protect democratic gains and counter malign
influences from Russia and the People's Republic of China.
Tibetan communities.--The Committee recommendation includes
funding at not less than the prior year level to promote human
rights and democracy in Tibetan communities.
Report
Uses of funds.--The Committee directs the President of the
NED to submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not
later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, on the proposed
uses of the funds provided under this heading on a regional and
country basis. The report should include a description of
programmatic goals for each region and country and how the
planned use of funds will meet such goals. The Committee
directs the NED to consult with the Committees on
Appropriations in advance of any significant deviation from the
plans outlined in such report.
OTHER COMMISSIONS
Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $642,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 655,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 819,000
Change from enacted level........................... +177,000
Change from request................................. +164,000
The Committee recommendation includes $819,000 for
Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad,
as authorized.
United States Commission on International Religious Freedom
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $4,500,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 4,500,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 4,500,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $4,500,000 for United
States Commission on International Religious Freedom, as
authorized by title II of the International Religious Freedom
Act of 1998. The Committee is aware of efforts to reauthorize
the Commission on International Religious Freedom and directs
the Commission to consult with the Committees on Appropriations
following passage of such legislation.
Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $2,908,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 2,908,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 2,908,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $2,908,000 for
Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, as authorized
by Public Law 94-304.
Congressional-Executive Commission on the People's Republic of China
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $2,250,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 2,300,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 2,300,000
Change from enacted level........................... +50,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $2,300,000 for
Congressional-Executive Commission on the People's Republic of
China.
The Committee directs the Commission to report annually to
the President and Congressional leadership on the compliance of
the People's Republic of China with international human rights
standards, track the rule of law in the People's Republic of
China, and make recommendations for policy action and
legislation, when appropriate.
United States-China Economic and Security Review Commission
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $4,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 4,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 4,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $4,000,000 for United
States-China Economic and Security Review Commission.
The Committee recommendation continues by reference the
authorities, conditions, and limitations carried in the second
through fifth provisos under this heading in division F of
Public Law 111-117 that provide an administrative framework for
the operations of the Commission.
TITLE II--UNITED STATES AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Funds Appropriated to the President
OPERATING EXPENSES
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $1,635,947,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 1,743,350,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 1,743,350,000
Change from enacted level........................... +107,403,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $1,743,350,000 for
Operating Expenses.
Funds under this heading are provided for salaries and
expenses of employees of USAID, personal service contractors,
and employees hired by other Federal agencies but assigned to
USAID. The recommendation includes funding above the prior year
to expand diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and
support the agency's multi-year workforce plan, the Global
Development Partnership Initiative.
Gender advisors.--The Committee supports USAID's commitment
to putting a qualified and dedicated Gender Advisor in every
overseas Mission, Regional Platform, and Washington Bureau and
provides additional funds for this purpose.USAID shall identify
funds for this purpose in the operating plan submitted to the
Committees on Appropriations for fiscal year 2023.
Gender training.--The Committee recommendation includes
funds above the prior year level for additional training,
technical assistance, and staff with gender expertise and
gender training to equip USAID with the technical capacity to
carry out section 3 of the Women's Entrepreneurship and
Economic Empowerment Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-428).
Human Rights Division.--The Committee recommendation
includes funding at not less than the prior year level for the
Human Rights Division and LGBTQI+ persons portfolio.
Locally led Development.--The Committee commends USAID's
launch of the Work with USAID website that helps lower barriers
faced by nontraditional partners in working with USAID and
supports the USAID Administrator's initiative on locally led
development. The Committee encourages the agency to continue to
expand this public website into a more global platform, such as
by providing availability in different languages. The costs for
the website and any plans to expand its accessibility should be
included in the operating plan required pursuant to section
7062(a).
Mid-level career and cross-learning.--The Committee directs
the USAID Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of
State, to increase training and other career advancement
programs for mid-level personnel and strengthen cross-learning
between the workforces of the Department of State and USAID to
include an assessment of the benefits of expanding mid-level
conversion programs for civil service to foreign service and
creating interagency exchanges between the Department and
USAID.
Non-discrimination policies.--The Committee directs the
USAID Administrator to review and revise, where necessary,
USAID's non-discrimination policies in the delivery of USAID-
funded programs and services, and consult with the appropriate
congressional committees prior to such review.
Pacific Islands.--The Committee encourages USAID to hire
locally employed staff in the Pacific Islands to promote and
expand diplomatic and development engagement between the United
States and the region.
Partner diversification.--The Committee supports USAID's
efforts to find additional opportunities to work with new
partners, including the consideration of appropriate funding
mechanisms, in order to assist in the development of local
capacity. The USAID Administrator is directed to provide
regular updates to the Committees on Appropriations on progress
in this area.
Procurement.--The Committee directs the USAID Administrator
to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on any
proposed significant or substantive change to USAID guidance or
directives related to acquisition and assistance prior to
issuing such guidance or directives to USAID posts worldwide.
As in prior years, USAID is directed to notify the
Committees on Appropriations 15 days prior to any procurement
action that involves raising the ceiling on an existing
Indefinite Quantity Contract (IQC) and issuing a new IQC. The
Committee directs that the thresholds for notification be the
same as in prior years.
The Committee continues to be concerned about the
difficulty with which United States companies, including small,
minority-owned, and disadvantaged business enterprises;
universities; and non-governmental organizations have in
navigating the acquisitions and assistance process at USAID.
The Committee expects that, to the maximum extent practicable,
the USAID Administrator shall ensure that United States small,
minority-owned, veteran, and disadvantaged business enterprises
and faith-based organizations fully participate in the
provision of goods and services especially if they have a
proven record of promoting local self-reliance and democratic
governance.
Workforce diversity initiatives.--The Committee
recommendation includes not less than $29,500,000 for
diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at USAID,
including fellowships to promote diversity and excellence in
the Foreign Service, such as the Donald M. Payne International
Development Graduate Fellowship Program. The Committee supports
recruiting talent from non-traditional talent pools as well as
from underrepresented communities in foreign affairs. Further,
the agency should bolster efforts to retain and strengthen
professional development in order to retain diverse staff and
equip them for advanced opportunities by including diversity
and inclusion precepts for promotion from mid-level to senior
ranks.
Reports
Collection of USAID Workforce Data.--The Committee directs
the USAID Administrator, in consultation with the Director of
the Office of Personnel Management and the Director of the
Office of Management and Budget, to submit a report to the
appropriate congressional committees, not later than 180 days
after enactment of this Act, on USAID's workforce data that
includes disaggregated demographic data and other information
regarding the diversity of the workforce of USAID. Such report
shall include the following data to the maximum extent
practicable and permissible by law: 1) demographic data of
USAID workforce disaggregated by grade or grade-equivalent; 2)
assessment of agency compliance with the Equal Employment
Opportunity Commission Management Directive 715; and 3) data on
the overall number of individuals who are part of the
workforce, including all U.S. Direct Hires, personnel under
personal services contracts, and Locally Employed staff at
USAID. The report shall also be published on a publicly
available website of USAID in a searchable database format.
Locally led development.--The Committee directs the USAID
Administrator to submit a report to the appropriate
congressional committees, not later than 180 days after
enactment of this Act, assessing the agency's progress in
advancing locally led development, including a clear definition
of ``local entity''; a description of how the agency is
tracking funds to local entities; a breakdown of funds
advancing this initiative; and a strategy to reach Agency
targets in this area.
Obligation reporting.--The Committee recognizes USAID's
efforts to increase the transparency of Operating Expenses
obligations and directs the USAID Administrator to continue to
provide quarterly obligation reports as described under this
heading in the explanatory statement accompanying the
Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs
Appropriations Act, 2020.
Procurement.--The Committee directs the USAID Administrator
to submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not
later than 30 days after enactment of this Act, on any
procurement actions for which competition was limited, and the
justification for each such action taken, during fiscal years
2021 and 2022.
Workforce diversity initiatives.--The Committee directs
that the USAID Administrator submit a report to the appropriate
congressional committees, not later than 60 days after
enactment of this Act, on the implementation of current
workforce diversity activities, including the associated
funding and results of such initiatives, as well as proposals
for new initiatives aimed at increasing and retaining a more
diverse and inclusive workforce at USAID in relation to
implementing the agency's Global Development Partnership
Initiative. The report shall also set clear goals and
benchmarks for measuring progress and holding agency officials
accountable for results.
CAPITAL INVESTMENT FUND
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $258,200,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 289,100,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 263,504,000
Change from enacted level........................... +5,304,000
Change from request................................. -25,596,000
The Committee recommendation includes $263,504,000 for
Capital Investment Fund to fund the USAID Capital Security Cost
Sharing bill and information technology investments. The
Committee notes that USAID must submit an operating plan to the
Committees on Appropriations as required in section 7062(a) of
this Act.
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $80,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 80,500,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 80,500,000
Change from enacted level........................... +500,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $80,500,000 for
Office of Inspector General and directs the OIG to submit its
annual audit plan within the first quarter of fiscal year 2023.
TITLE III--BILATERAL ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE
Funds Appropriated to the President
GLOBAL HEALTH PROGRAMS
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $9,830,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 10,576,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 10,976,500,000
Change from enacted level........................... +1,146,500,000
Change from request................................. +400,500,000
The Committee recommendation includes $10,976,500,000 for
Global Health Programs.
Funds for certain programs under this heading are allocated
according to the following table and subject to section 7019 of
this Act:
GLOBAL HEALTH PROGRAMS
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Program/Activity Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maternal and Child Health............................ $890,000
of which, Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus.......... 2,000
of which, Polio.................................. 75,000
of which, The GAVI Alliance...................... 290,000
Nutrition (USAID).................................... 160,000
of which, Iodine Deficiency Disorder............. 3,500
of which, Micronutrients......................... 33,000
Vitamin A (non-add).......................... [22,500]
Vulnerable Children.................................. 30,000
of which, Blind Children......................... 4,000
HIV/AIDS (USAID)..................................... 330,000
of which, Microbicides........................... 45,000
HIV/AIDS (Department of State)....................... 6,395,000
of which, Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS, Malaria 2,000,000
and Tuberculosis................................
of which, Joint U.N. Programme on HIV/AIDS 50,000
(UNAIDS)........................................
Family Planning and Reproductive Health.............. 760,000
Global Health Security............................... 1,000,000
Malaria.............................................. 820,000
Tuberculosis......................................... 469,000
of which, Global TB Drug Facility................ 15,000
Other Public Health Threats.......................... 122,500
of which, Neglected Tropical Diseases............ 112,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
USAID Global Health Programs
The Committee recommendation includes $4,581,500,000 for
USAID global health programs to be directly apportioned to
USAID.
Global Health Security.--The Committee recommendation
includes increased funding to promote global health security,
address emerging health threats overseas, and prevent future
pandemics. The Committee encourages the USAID Administrator to
integrate global health security programming with other health
programming at the country level. Funds available for global
health security should also support the strengthening of the
primary health care system in partner countries as a foundation
to rapidly detect and effectively respond to emerging health
threats and to strengthen laboratory and surveillance
capabilities. The Committee includes further language under
Reports in this heading.
Global health security programming should address the risks
of zoonotic spillover posed by greater human contact with
wildlife driven, in large part, by deforestation and wildlife
degradation. The Committee supports the prioritization of
zoonotic surveillance and spillover prevention under global
health security and pandemic preparedness, including through
the multilateral financial intermediary fund.
The Committee supports funding for the Coalition for
Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), consistent with the
fiscal year 2022 enacted level, to develop vaccines for
emerging infectious diseases, deadly viruses, and other
pathogenic threats, and to make those vaccines globally
accessible, pursuant to section 6501 of Public Law 117-81.
The Committee supports United States participation in the
World Health Organization's ACT-Accelerator (ACT-A) program and
the use of assistance provided for global health security to
accelerate development, production, and equitable access to
COVID-19 tests, treatments, and vaccines. The Committee
acknowledges the critical work of ACT-A to bring together
governments and businesses in pursuit of ending the COVID-19
pandemic.
The Committee recognizes that drug-resistant bacterial
infections are increasing, posing a threat to global health
security, and impacting gains made in management of infectious
diseases and maternal and child health. USAID is encouraged to
support research, development of, and access to antibiotics in
its global health security work to safeguard gains made through
its global health programs and boost collaboration with
international partners.
Health Resilience Fund.--The Committee recommendation
includes additional funding under ``Other Public Health
Threats'' in the ``Global Health Programs'' table to support
cross-cutting global health activities including health service
delivery, health workforce, health information systems, access
to essential medicines, health systems financing, and
governance, in challenging environments and countries in
crisis.
Health systems strengthening.--The Committee recognizes the
importance of strong health systems in low- and middle-income
countries to the sustainment of global health success,
preparedness for emerging health threats, research to prevent
and cure chronic diseases, and progress in preventing and
responding to non-communicable diseases, including cancers
affecting women and children and severe, chronic conditions
such as type 1 diabetes, childhood heart disease, lupus, and
sickle cell disease. By strengthening health systems, countries
will be able to better address non-communicable diseases, many
that affect children and disproportionately impact underserved
communities even in cases where effective interventions exist.
The Committee directs the USAID Administrator and the
Global AIDS Coordinator to ensure that, for operating units
implementing more than one Global Health program area, not less
than 10 percent of each program line in the ``Global Health
Programs'' table, including HIV/AIDS, is spent on cross-cutting
health system capacity to ensure these systems are affordable,
accessible, reliable, and accountable to the people served.
These funds should be in addition to ongoing health system
capacity building that supports individual programs, and
programs should be jointly funded. The Committee includes
further language under Reports in this heading.
The Committee encourages the USAID Administrator, in
consultation with the United States Office of the Global AIDS
Coordinator (OGAC) and the Director of the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC), to increase access to quality
health care through strengthening frontline health workers,
particularly at the community level, as part of their strategy
to prevent child and maternal deaths and build sustainable
health systems.
The Committee recognizes the need to increase the capacity
and resilience of national health systems and institutions to
respond to and manage climate-sensitive health risks and
directs USAID to support policies to address the needs of
specific communities disproportionately affected by pollution
and environmental degradation.
Innovative technology.--The Committee directs that funds be
made available above the prior year to support the research,
development, and introduction of innovative technologies
related to child survival activities and disease programs,
including diagnostics, therapeutics, vaccines, and devices. The
USAID Administrator shall consult with the Committees on
Appropriations, representatives from other Federal research
agencies, representatives of affected communities in low- and
middle-income countries, and representatives of relevant
technical and nongovernmental organizations specializing in
biomedical product research and development, on the most
effective use of funds for such innovations.
Maternal and child health.--The Committee continues funds
for programs that have proven effective in reducing maternal
and child mortality. The Committee directs USAID to support, at
not less than the prior year level, programs to prevent and
treat obstetric fistula. The Committee encourages the promotion
of early childhood development interventions through USAID's
maternal and child health activities.
Malaria.--Within the funds made available for malaria, the
Committee encourages USAID's continued support for public-
private partnerships; research and development; diagnostics and
vector control; and access and delivery of anti-malarial
medicine, including effective pediatric formulations and
alternatives to counter resistance. The Committee continues to
encourage USAID to support the development and introduction of
anti-malarial tools targeted to young children and those that
interrupt transmission of the disease. The Committee encourages
USAID to explore methods of integrating malaria control
programming into other development sectors including food
security and water and sanitation.
Mental health.--The Committee recognizes the necessity of
integrating mental health screenings for vulnerable
populations, particularly in conflict-affected areas, and
supports training and education in psychosocial support
services for relevant personnel.
Neglected Surgical Conditions.--The USAID Administrator
shall support efforts to strengthen surgical health capacity to
address such health issues as cleft lip and cleft palate, club
foot, cataracts, hernias, fistulas, and untreated traumatic
injuries in underserved areas in developing countries,
including in contexts without water or electricity.
Strengthening surgical health systems includes the training of
local surgical teams and assisting ministries of health to
develop and implement national surgical, obstetric, trauma, and
anesthesia plans. Not later than 90 days after enactment of
this Act, the USAID Administrator shall brief the Committees on
Appropriations on the planned uses of funds for these purposes
in fiscal year 2023.
Neglected Tropical Diseases.--The Committee supports the
integration of neglected tropical disease programs with
complementary development and global health programs including
water, sanitation and hygiene.
Nutrition.--The Committee supports effective nutrition
interventions, including to reduce stunting and wasting,
increase breastfeeding and nutrition supplementation for
pregnant women, promote early childhood development, and treat
severe malnutrition, including through multilateral mechanisms.
The Committee supports implementation of the Multi-Sectoral
Nutrition Strategy to cohesively meet the needs of vulnerable
women and children, including integration with deworming and
water and sanitation efforts. The Committee encourages USAID to
make funding available for program implementation research,
including in cooperation with other donors and through public-
private partnerships, to develop and adopt best practices in
nutrition that enhance health outcomes. The Committee includes
further language under Reports in this heading.
The Committee notes the increase in cases of child wasting
globally as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and humanitarian
crises and that there is a shortage of therapeutic food
treatments. Therefore, the Committee encourages the USAID
Administrator to consider scaling-up procurement of American-
made Ready-To-Use Therapeutic Foods (RUTF).
Other health matters.--The Committee directs that USAID
consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the estimated
need and cost-effectiveness of supporting programs that focus
on children with hydrocephalus or autism. The Committee
supports consideration of public-private partnerships that
strengthen health systems and address childhood cancer.
Research.--The Committee supports USAID's role in health-
related research and supports continued investments in new
global health technologies. The Committee encourages USAID to
include efforts to find new diagnostic and treatment tools for
tuberculosis and effective, affordable contraceptives in their
research agenda.
Risk management and insurance.--In order to manage the
risks associated with the worldwide delivery of sensitive
global health commodities, USAID and the Department of State
shall collect data on risks to product quality in the supply
chain and ensure adequate insurance is in place to protect
against losses. The Secretary of State and the USAID
Administrator should consult with the Committees on
Appropriations on the implementation of these measures.
Tuberculosis (TB).--The Committee recommendation includes
funding to combat drug-susceptible and drug-resistant
tuberculosis. The Committee encourages support for new products
to prevent and treat tuberculosis and encourages investment in
new drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics. The USAID Administrator
is directed to consult with the Committees on Appropriations
regarding the use of funds in this Act for such purposes. The
Committee includes further language under Reports in this
heading.
Vaccines.--The Committee supports continued efforts at not
less than the prior year level to create effective vaccines for
malaria and HIV/AIDS as part of a comprehensive prevention,
diagnostic, and treatment strategy. The Committee notes the
potential of advances in development of broadly neutralizing
antibodies for long-lasting prevention of HIV infection as part
of this research and supports multilateral efforts that expand
research and development and leverage funding from other
donors.
The Committee directs the USAID Administrator to undertake
vaccine development efforts to prevent and respond to outbreaks
from deadly viruses from funds provided for global health
security. In working to address COVID-19, USAID should
prioritize outbreak hotspots and potential vaccine diplomacy
efforts. The Committee directs the USAID Administrator to
consult with the Committees on Appropriations on amounts
proposed for vaccine development and administration for fiscal
year 2023.
The Committee supports efforts to expand vaccine research,
development, and manufacturing capabilities in Africa for the
purposes of advancing global health security and furthering
local capacity to effectively respond to infectious disease
pandemics. Not later than 60 days after enactment of this Act,
the USAID Administrator shall consult with the appropriate
congressional committees on opportunities for public-private
partnerships to advance such efforts.
The Committee notes that combating vaccine hesitancy is
essential to achieving global vaccination goals, including to
combat COVID-19. The Committee encourages USAID to develop
digital tools and multimedia partnerships with local content
creators and media outlets to combat vaccine hesitancy and
misinformation. The USAID Administrator is directed to consult
with the Committees on Appropriations regarding the use of
funds in this Act for such purposes.
Vulnerable children.--The Committee supports USAID's
objectives of building strong beginnings, putting family care
first, and protecting children from violence, abuse, and
neglect through the United States Government Strategy on
Advancing Protection and Care for Children in Adversity
(APCCA). USAID should partner with organizations that
demonstrate an expertise promoting permanent family-based care,
foster care programs in and outside of family networks, and
preventing unnecessary family separation. Children recovering
from trauma, those in fragile contexts, and migrant children on
the move should be prioritized. Funds should also support
inclusive, early childhood education, including training health
and education professionals to work effectively with autistic
children. The Committee encourages additional support for
mental health and psychosocial support programs for vulnerable
caregivers and children particularly in light of COVID-19
impacts. The Committee directs the USAID Administrator to
regularly update the Committees on Appropriations on APCCA
implementation.
Reports, USAID
Global health security.--The Committee recommendation
includes increased funding to promote global health security,
address emerging health threats overseas, and prevent future
pandemics. Not later than 60 days after enactment of this Act,
and prior to the initial obligation of funds, the Committee
directs the USAID Administrator to submit to the Committees on
Appropriations a report on the proposed uses of such funds on a
country and project basis including possible contributions to
multilateral mechanisms. The report shall also detail research
and development of antibiotics to be used in low- and middle-
income countries. The Committee directs that such report shall
be updated and submitted to the Committees on Appropriations
every 90 days until the funds are fully obligated.
Health systems.--The USAID Administrator and United States
Global AIDS Ambassador are directed to submit to the Committees
on Appropriations, not later than 90 days after enactment of
this Act, a report detailing progress on the integration and
joint funding of health systems strengthening activities
including the implementation of the 10 percent directive. The
report should include a description of how USAID and OGAC are
designing these integrated efforts by operating unit, including
Washington-based programming, and the expected result of this
integration on improved performance of country health systems.
In addition, the report should include: (1) a baseline
accounting of ongoing systems strengthening contributions from
each program line in the table under Global Health Programs;
(2) performance indicators used to track and coordinate such
efforts; and (3) a description of steps taken, or planned to be
taken, to ensure systems strengthening investments are
sustained by host countries. The report should include cross-
cutting efforts to strengthen local health workforces.
Nutrition.--The USAID Administrator is directed to report
to the Committees on Appropriations, not later than 90 days
after enactment of this Act, on the nutrition outcomes achieved
over the previous fiscal year, which shall also include: (1)
the outcomes, disaggregated by USAID bureau, including
nutrition-specific treatment and prevention interventions on a
country-by-country basis; (2) the approximate number of
additional children treated for severe acute malnutrition and
receiving vitamin A as a result of United States Government
assistance; and (3) the approximate number of women receiving
prenatal vitamins and breastfeeding education and support as a
result of such assistance. The report should be publicly
available and track progress towards the 2025 World Health
Assembly global targets on stunting, wasting, anemia, and
breastfeeding.
Tuberculosis.--The Committee directs the USAID
Administrator to submit a report to the Committees on
Appropriations not later than 180 days after enactment of this
Act on progress in implementing a comprehensive strategy to (1)
achieve TB elimination by simultaneously searching actively for
TB disease and infection, (2) treat TB disease and infection
(including multi-drug resistant TB), (3) enable infection
control at key congregate settings including hospitals and
prisons, (4) support patients so they are able to complete
their treatment, (5) develop appropriate and accessible
vaccines against tuberculosis for use in low resource settings,
and (6) support the development and implementation of TB
recovery plans in the countries most impacted by COVID-19. Such
report may be combined with existing reporting requirements.
HIV/AIDS Prevention and Treatment
The Committee recommendation includes a total of
$6,725,000,000 to fight HIV/AIDS. Of this amount, the Committee
recommendation includes $6,395,000,000 to be directly
apportioned to the Department of State.
The Committee recommends that OGAC build upon the success
of the Accelerating Children's Treatment Initiative,
particularly for infants and young children at the highest risk
of dying without treatment. OGAC is encouraged to develop
targets and track the prevention, treatment, and care of
children and adolescent populations in HIV-affected communities
and collect and evaluate detailed data by age in order to
strengthen the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief's
(PEPFAR) efforts. The Committee urges OGAC to ensure that women
and girls have adequate access through their existing health
providers to HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and treatment services.
Outcomes based on such targets shall be included in PEPFAR's
Annual Report. OGAC should include pediatric data in its
Population-based HIV Impact Assessment Studies to ensure
investments are targeted and effective.
In order to reach the Sustainable Development Goal of
ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, the Committee
believes there should be a deeper integration of the social
services system alongside the health system, and a stronger
focus on addressing the drivers of HIV such as poverty, gender
inequality, violence, stigma and discrimination, mental health
issues particularly among mothers living with HIV, and limited
access to education especially for adolescent girls and young
women.
Cervical cancer.--The Committee understands OGAC and USAID
are exploring partnerships to prevent the spread of human
papillomavirus and cervical cancer through screening and
treatment programs in low-income countries with high prevalence
and directs OGAC and USAID to consult with the Committees on
Appropriations on plans for and progress of such partnerships.
Global Fund.--The Committee recommendation includes
$2,000,000,000 for the first installment of the seventh
replenishment of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis,
and Malaria. The Committee notes that this amount shall be
fully obligated for this first installment unless the
conditions of section 202(d) of the United States Leadership
Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Act of 2003, as
amended, have not been met, or the maximum threshold in such
section has been exceeded. Oversight of the Global Fund remains
a top priority, as well as continued support for an independent
Office of the Inspector General.
Microbicides.--The Committee recommends continued support
for microbicide development and directs OGAC to coordinate with
USAID, the National Institutes of Health, other Federal
agencies, and donors to expedite microbicide development and
implementation. The Committee directs OGAC to work with USAID
on a plan for product rollout and access and update the
Committees on Appropriations on a regular basis on the use of
funds in fiscal year 2023.
Programs for vulnerable children.--The Committee encourages
OGAC to continue to align existing programs for vulnerable
children with the goals and objectives of APCCA and ensure that
orphans and vulnerable children remain a priority within PEPFAR
country programs. The Committee directs the Secretary of State
to include in the next Annual Report how the ten percent target
for orphans and vulnerable children was met for that fiscal
year including country-level accounting.
Report, OGAC
Key populations.--The Committee directs the Secretary of
State to submit a report not later than 60 days after enactment
of this Act to the Committees on Appropriations on efforts to
reach key populations in bilateral and multilateral prevention
and treatment programs including efforts to address root causes
of stigma and discrimination.
DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $4,140,494,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 4,769,787,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 4,769,787,000
Change from enacted level........................... +629,293,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $4,769,787,000 for
Development Assistance. Programs funded by this account should
be directed for long-term development programs to build the
resilience and stability of communities, support broad-based
economic growth, and contribute to the achievement of the
Sustainable Development Goals. The Committee recommendation
includes most countries' long-term development programs even if
they are also receiving support under Economic Support Fund.
Funds for certain programs under this heading are allocated
according to the following table and subject to section 7019 of
this Act:
DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Africa:
Counter-Lord's Resistance Army/Illicit Armed $10,000
Groups Program.................................
Democratic Republic of the Congo................ 95,000
Liberia......................................... 70,500
Malawi.......................................... 65,500
Higher education programs....................... 10,000
Somalia......................................... 55,000
Power Africa.................................... 100,000
Prosper Africa.................................. 80,000
Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI)......... 20,000
East Asia and the Pacific:
Laos
Combating trafficking in persons................ 2,000
Greater Mekong rule of law and environment...... 5,000
Timor-Leste..................................... 16,000
Middle East and North Africa:
USAID Middle East Regional
Refugee Scholarships Program in Lebanon......... 10,000
South and Central Asia:
Bangladesh
Labor programs.................................. 3,000
Global Programs:
Bureau for Resilience and Food Security
Feed the Future Innovation Labs................. 65,000
Global Crop Diversity Trust..................... 5,500
Combating child marriage........................ 23,000
Development Innovation Ventures................. 40,000
Disability Programs............................. 15,000
Ocean Freight Reimbursement Program............. 2,500
Office of Education............................. 35,000
Trade Capacity Building......................... 20,000
Victims of Torture.............................. 12,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Agriculture
The Committee recommendation includes not less than
$1,200,000,000 for food security and agriculture development as
authorized by the Global Food Security Act of 2016 (Public Law
114-195). The Committee appreciates the whole-of-government
approach presented in the Global Food Security Strategy and
directs the USAID Administrator to consult with the Committees
on Appropriations on such strategy, including the benchmarks
and performance metrics.
The Committee supports Feed the Future's comprehensive
approach to combating global food insecurity and poverty and
intends that programs are prioritized for small-holder farmers,
particularly for women, and other vulnerable populations. The
Committee recommends that USAID continue the implementation of
a multi-faceted food and nutrition security program, in order
to prioritize such populations. These investments are
especially critical as the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia's war
in Ukraine has placed enormous pressure on the global food
supply chain as unprecedented quarantine orders and border
closures have disrupted trade and created labor shortages. The
Committee also recognizes the importance of building and
scaling local entrepreneurial networks that directly serve
smallholder farmers and supports further development of such
efforts in Africa.
The Committee supports efforts to ensure there are adequate
storage facilities and distribution systems available in
recipient countries to prevent spoilage or waste, and
encourages the deployment of American technology and management
systems to enhance post-harvest food safety and security.
Agricultural research.--The Committee recommendation
includes not less than $160,000,000 for the research
initiatives of the Bureau for Food Security, of which
$65,000,000 is for the Feed the Future Innovation Labs. The
Committee directs that the request level for the research and
development initiatives be designated in the CBJ for fiscal
year 2024. The Committee urges the USAID Administrator to
support partners working in the agriculture-biotechnology
research field that focus on durable resistance to climate
change, plant disease, and pests, and would benefit smallholder
farmers.
Accountability in agriculture.--The Committee directs the
USAID Administrator to consult with the appropriate
congressional committees on prioritizing locally led,
smallholder farmers over larger-scale, commercial farming
entities in order to ensure that local perspectives on
increasing crop productivity, protecting the environment, and
reducing rates of poverty are represented in USAID's programs.
Furthermore, the Committee urges USAID to hold food security
implementers accountable for commitments they've made to build
capacity among local partners and produce sustainable results.
Coffee production.--The Committee is concerned about the
growing pressure on worldwide coffee production from pests,
pathogens, and reductions to growing zones hospitable to coffee
production. The Committee encourages the USAID Administrator to
prioritize coffee agricultural research, with a focus on
solutions that benefit smallholder farmers and long-term,
sustainable, and resilient agricultural development.
Economic Growth
Microenterprise and microfinance.--The Committee
recommendation includes funds for micro, small, and medium-
sized enterprises and directs the USAID Administrator to
prioritize such investments in sub-Saharan Africa to reach the
poorest and most marginalized. The Committee supports
microfinance programs to promote economic development in
communities throughout the developing world and encourages
USAID to continue such programs in Mexico and Central America.
Trade capacity building.--The Committee continues to
support capacity building activities, specifically on labor
rights and environmental standards, in countries with free
trade agreements with the United States to ensure that United
States workers and businesses can compete on a level playing
field. The Committee directs that not less than half of such
funding be allocated for labor activities, including efforts to
support formal employment, build organizing and bargaining
capacity among workers, enforce labor rights, and access to
labor justice for workers in both formal and informal
employment. The Committee includes further direction under
Reports in this section.
Education
American Schools and Hospitals Abroad (ASHA).--The
Committee recommendation includes not less than $33,000,000 for
the ASHA program. The Committee continues to recognize the
important contributions made to United States foreign policy
interests by institutions funded by this program, including
fostering a positive image of the United States around the
world. The Committee expects USAID to allocate funds to
administer the ASHA program from funds provided under Operating
Expenses on a proportionate basis with other agency programs.
The Committee directs the USAID Administrator to notify the
Committees on Appropriations prior to making any changes to the
annual solicitation for ASHA, including consulting with the
Committees on Appropriations not less than 15 days prior to
issuing the annual solicitation for ASHA.
Basic education.--The Committee recommendation includes not
less than $985,000,000 for basic education programs in this
Act. The Committee includes further direction under Reports in
this heading.
The Committee recognizes that increased investments in
bilateral and multilateral basic education programs provides
the foundational skills essential to success for millions of
children. With a record number of children out of school or
unable to access educational resources due to the COVID-19
pandemic, the USAID Administrator should expand access to
distance learning materials and technology, support safe school
reopening plans, including reenrollment campaigns for out-of-
school children and youth, and prioritize assessments of
student learning levels, remedial and accelerated learning, and
curriculum adaptation, and renew efforts to reach marginalized
students, including girls, children with disabilities, and
those living in displaced persons camps. The Committee
encourages USAID to build local capacity and leadership
development in the education sector and to continue the
deployment of inclusive education methodologies.
Higher education.--The Committee supports funds for higher
education programs in countries impacted by economic crisis and
in the Western Hemisphere. The Committee notes that reaching
underserved populations with educational programs of sufficient
duration to provide leadership, language skills, and career
training is important for countries' economic and social
development. Therefore, the Committee urges USAID to prioritize
educational opportunities at post-secondary institutions for
underserved populations.
Scholarship program for refugees.--The Committee
recommendation includes funds to continue the university
scholarship pilot program for refugees in Lebanon. Such funds
are in addition to funds made available for assistance for
Lebanon under Economic Support Fund. The USAID Administrator is
directed to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on an
ongoing basis on how the program will be administered
consistent with the Lebanon scholarship program at not-for-
profit educational institutions in Lebanon that meet the
standards required for American accreditation, and other
matters related to implementation.
Global Programs
Ocean Freight Reimbursement.--The Committee supports
USAID's Ocean Freight Reimbursement Program to provide
competitive grants for Private Voluntary Organizations to
deliver commodities, especially learning materials, to
countries overseas, especially to Africa. The USAID
Administrator is directed to consult with the Committees on
Appropriations on the administration of the program for fiscal
year 2023.
Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).--The Committee
recommendation includes not less than $500,000,000 in this Act
for long-term, sustainable water supply, sanitation, and
hygiene projects pursuant to Public Law 109-121, as amended by
Public Law 113-289.
The Committee notes that access to adequate water,
sanitation, and hygiene is a critical component of disease
prevention, and that a lack of access to toilets, adequate
sanitation, and hygiene products impacts women and girls in
particular. The Committee urges USAID to address this issue in
the design of WASH programs, especially in response to COVID-
19.
The Committee notes the importance of sustainable access to
water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in healthcare facilities
(HCFs) to provide quality and safe care and urges USAID and the
State Department to promote the inclusion of programming that
improves or sustains WASH services in healthcare facilities,
including access to clean drinking water, adequate sanitation
and hygiene, and access to menstrual hygiene products, proper
disposal, and handwashing stations. The Committee encourages
USAID to support partner governments to implement local
priorities and include WASH services in national health sector
strategic plans and address challenges in executing health
budgets to ensure that quality health services are delivered.
The Committee includes further language under Reports in this
heading.
The Committee encourages USAID to explore using American
expertise in drilling methods that reach deeper aquifers and
avoid contamination to expand inexpensive, sustainable access
to water.
Reports
Adolescent girls.--The Secretary of State, in consultation
with the USAID Administrator, is directed to submit to the
appropriate congressional committees, not later than 45 days
after enactment of this Act, a report on the actions taken over
the previous 12 months to implement the United States Global
Strategy to Empower Adolescent Girls including programs to
reduce the incidence of child and forced marriage and address
the needs of already married adolescent girls, encourage the
abandonment of female genital cutting and address the needs of
those who have already undergone these procedures, and the
training of staff on the specific challenges and needs of
adolescent girls.
Basic education.--The Committee directs that, pursuant to
the Reinforcing Education Accountability in Development Act
(Public Law 115-56), the annual report to Congress on the
United States Government Strategy on International Basic
Education should include programmatic funding by education
level (pre-primary, primary, secondary, post-secondary/non-
higher education, and higher education) as well as a list of
indicators that will be used to monitor performance for each of
these education levels and the criteria used to prioritize
country programs. Data should be disaggregated by age, sex, and
disability when practicable and appropriate. The report should
also include funds made available during the previous fiscal
year to maintain education access for children in emergencies
and conflict.
Locally led development.--The Committee supports USAID's
commitment to locally led development, including new goals to
fund local entities, and efforts to work with countries and
partners to achieve locally-sustained results. The Committee
directs the USAID Administrator, not later than 120 days after
enactment of this Act, to submit to the Committees on
Appropriations a report on funding under this heading for
programs implemented directly by local and national
nongovernmental entities. The report should include a
description on how USAID is working to increase funding to
capable local and national nongovernmental entities as well as
how USAID tracks funding to local entities, how USAID is
progressing toward its stated locally-led development targets,
and how the Agency plans to reach targets in subsequent fiscal
years.
Tracking of Funding for Children and Youth.--Not later than
90 days after enactment of this Act, the USAID Administrator
shall report on steps being taken under the new Youth in
Development Policy to improve the tracking and disaggregation
of funding benefiting children and youth, including for
programs related to the protection, education, support and
safety of children and youth.
Trade Capacity Building.--The Committee directs the
Secretary of State and USAID Administrator, not later than 60
days after enactment of this Act, to provide a joint report on
plans to implement trade capacity building activities in fiscal
year 2023, including in the Western Hemisphere and how projects
are coordinated and prioritized with other U.S. agencies or
Departments.
WASH.--The Committee directs the USAID Administrator, not
later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, to update the
report to the Committees on Appropriations on how women's
access to adequate sanitation facilities and feminine hygiene
products are included in the design and implementation of the
Agency's WASH programs, especially for frontline health
workers. The report should also include progress made in
providing WASH services in healthcare facilities, including the
number of health care facilities where USAID provided support
for WASH activities as part of infection prevention.
INTERNATIONAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $3,905,460,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 4,699,362,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 4,395,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +489,540,000
Change from request................................. -304,362,000
The Committee recommendation includes $4,395,000,000 for
International Disaster Assistance.
This account funds humanitarian relief, rehabilitation, and
reconstruction in countries affected by natural and man-made
disasters, as well as support for disaster mitigation, disaster
risk reduction, prevention, and preparedness. This includes the
purchase of commodities, such as temporary shelter, blankets,
and supplementary and therapeutic food; potable water; medical
supplies; and agricultural rehabilitation. Program
beneficiaries include disaster victims, conflict victims, and
internally displaced persons. Funds are also provided for the
Emergency Food Security Program, as authorized in the Global
Food Security Act of 2016 (Public Law 114-195).
The Committee urges USAID to expedite the process of
reporting to the Committees on Appropriations on planned use of
humanitarian funding and making such funding available for
obligation to programs.
Air transport.--The Committee recognizes the critical need
to provide swift humanitarian aid to save lives and ease
suffering in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. The
Committee supports an assessment by USAID of the efficacy of
air drop technology for large-scale humanitarian aid delivery
for quicker response time.
Child malnutrition.--The Committee notes that there has
been a global spike in cases of child malnutrition as a result
of the COVID-19 pandemic and persisting and emerging
humanitarian crises, increasing the need for Ready-to-Use
Therapeutic Foods (RUTF). The Committee requests the USAID
Administrator to include in its reporting to the Committees on
Appropriations information on its procurement of RUTF,
including the status of a multi-year strategy to scale-up
procurement of RUTF, and efforts to scale up RUTF producers in
high burden countries.
Child protection.--The Committee recognizes the need for
additional protection of children in conflict and crisis
settings. The Committee encourages the USAID Administrator to
play an increasing leadership role to protect children in
humanitarian crises and ensure that protection is integrated
across other humanitarian sectors, consistent with Global Child
Thrive Act (Public Law 116-283).
Education and flexible learning.--The Committee recognizes
that education and flexible learning opportunities in
humanitarian emergencies, both acute and protracted, play an
essential role in supporting internally displaced and host
community child development and well-being at a time when they
are at their most vulnerable and should be included as part of
humanitarian response efforts. The Committee encourages USAID
to allocate funds made available under this heading for the
support of safe, inclusive, quality education for internally
displaced children, including for adolescent girls.
Emergency food security program.--The Committee urges USAID
to continue to make funds made available under this heading to
support USAID's emergency food security program, which
addresses food security emergencies through strengthening
existing functional local markets.
Gender-based violence.--The Committee urges USAID to
support at not less than the prior year level programs to
address gender-based violence in humanitarian settings,
including continued support of the Safe from the Start program.
Local entities.--The Committee recognizes that local and
national nongovernmental leadership is critical for an
effective, meaningful and sustainable humanitarian response.
The Committee urges the USAID Administrator to prioritize
making funds available to local and national nongovernmental
entities to improve local self-reliance.
Reports
Gender advisors.--Not later than 90 days after enactment of
this Act, the USAID Administrator shall submit a report to the
Committees on Appropriations on the feasibility, capacity,
cost, and technical assistance needed to put a qualified Gender
Advisor on each Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) team.
The report shall identify how the Gender Advisor would be
integrated into the DART and plans for transitioning the Gender
Advisor to a stabilization role once the DART is no longer
required.
Local entities.--Not later than 120 days after enactment of
this Act, the USAID Administrator shall submit a report to the
Committees on Appropriations detailing programs awarded to
local and national nongovernmental entities from funds made
available under this heading in the previous two fiscal years.
The report should include a description of how USAID is working
to increase funding to capable local and national
nongovernmental entities.
TRANSITION INITIATIVES
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $80,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 102,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 93,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +13,000,000
Change from request................................. -9,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $93,000,000 for
Transition Initiatives.
Funds provided in this account support programs targeting
key transitions to democracy for countries in crisis and quick-
impact activities for conflict prevention or stabilization.
Funds made available under this heading may only be
administered by the Office of Transition Initiatives (OTI).
Not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the
USAID Administrator shall submit to the Committees on
Appropriations a report summarizing new, ongoing, and completed
country programs implemented by OTI in fiscal year 2022,
including programs supported with transferred funds.
Venezuela.--The Committee encourages the Office of
Transition Initiatives to continue support for programs that
assist Venezuela with a democratic transition, as circumstances
permit.
COMPLEX CRISES FUND
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $60,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 40,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 60,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. +20,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $60,000,000 for the
Complex Crises Fund.
The Complex Crises Fund (CCF) enables the USAID
Administrator to support programs and activities that prevent
or respond to emerging or unforeseen events, and complex crises
overseas, including activities in support of the Global
Fragility Strategy, and contribute to United States foreign
policy or national security goals. USAID deploys CCF when there
is an unanticipated and overwhelming urgent need where United
States assistance can help stem the rise of violent conflict
and instability or advance the consolidation of peace and
democracy.
ECONOMIC SUPPORT FUND
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $4,099,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 4,122,463,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 4,128,268,000
Change from enacted level........................... +29,268,000
Change from request................................. +5,805,000
The Committee recommendation includes $4,128,268,000 for
Economic Support Fund.
The Committee notes that funds recommended under this
heading are provided to advance United States interests by
helping countries meet political and security needs. The
Committee recommendation includes short-term, diplomatic
activities under this heading even if countries are also
receiving support under Development Assistance.
Funds for certain programs under this heading are allocated
according to the following table and subject to section 7019 of
this Act:
ECONOMIC SUPPORT FUND
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Country/Program Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
East Asia and the Pacific
Greater Mekong democracy, rule of law, and $11,000
environment.....................................
Global Cooperation and Training Framework........ 3,000
Middle East and North Africa
Iraq............................................. 150,000
Scholarships................................. 10,000
Democracy.................................... 25,000
Justice sector assistance.................... 2,500
Lebanon
Lebanon scholarships......................... 14,000
Middle East Partnership Initiative............... 27,200
Scholarship program.......................... 20,000
Middle East Regional Cooperation................. 8,000
Near East Regional Democracy..................... 55,000
Nita M. Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace 50,000
Act.............................................
South and Central Asia
Maldives......................................... 2,000
Western Hemisphere
Mexico........................................... 55,000
Global Programs
Atrocities Prevention............................ 3,000
Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women's Issues.... 20,000
Bureau for Oceans and International Environment
and Scientific Affairs
Arctic Council............................... 1,000
Conflict and Stabilization Operations............ 5,000
House Democracy Partnership...................... 2,300
Implementation of Public Law 99-415.............. 4,000
Information Communications Technology Training... 1,000
Small Island Developing States................... 60,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Committee provides additional direction on programs in
Africa (Sec. 7042), East Asia and the Pacific (Sec. 7043),
South and Central Asia (Sec. 7044), and Latin America and the
Caribbean (Sec. 7045) under title VII of this report.
Middle East and North Africa
The Committee provides additional direction on programs in
the region under section 7041 of this report.
Lebanon scholarships.--The Committee recommendation
includes funds for scholarships for Lebanese students with high
financial need to attend not-for-profit educational
institutions in Lebanon that meet standards comparable to those
required for American accreditation. Students in Lebanon should
be eligible for scholarships if they demonstrate financial
need, have strong academic records, and show potential to
contribute to the long-term political, economic, and social
development of Lebanon. The Committee directs that these funds
be awarded through an open and competitive process.
Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI).--The Committee
supports continued funding for the MEPI scholarship program.
Scholarships should be made available for institutions that
meet standards comparable to those required for American
accreditation and should be awarded in a manner consistent with
prior fiscal years, including on an open and competitive basis.
Middle East Partnership Initiative Availability and
Consultation Requirement.--The Committee recommends funds under
title III of the Act, which shall be made available for
assistance for the Western Sahara. Not later than 90 days after
enactment of this Act, and prior to the obligation of such
funds, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the USAID
Administrator, shall consult with the Committees on
Appropriations on the proposed uses of such funds.
Middle East Regional Cooperation (MERC).--The Committee
supports increased funding for the MERC program to facilitate
research collaboration in the Middle East, including between
Israelis and Palestinians.
USAID-Israel international development cooperation.--The
Committee is supportive of cooperative projects, and the
recommendation includes $2,000,000 to support local solutions
to address sustainability challenges relating to water
resources, agriculture, and energy storage.
Global Programs
Independent media.--The Committee encourages USAID and the
Department of State to strengthen independent media programs,
especially where independent information sources are
increasingly under internal and external threat, including many
countries in sub-Saharan Africa including in Tanzania, Central
African Republic, Kenya and Uganda; the Indo-Pacific region
including Burma and Cambodia; as well as Venezuela, Central
America, Afghanistan, and Ukraine.
Information Communication Technology Training.--The
Committee includes funds to support public-private partnerships
that provide capacity building technology training for
professionals from developing countries to advance a consistent
global regulatory framework on critical information
communication technology issues.
Post-Conflict/Peace Process Implementation Assessments.--
The Committee includes funds under this heading for the Bureau
of Conflict and Stabilization Operations, including to support
programs that utilize independent, evidence-based assessments
of peace accord implementation in Colombia, and for expansion
of such assessments in other fragile settings where peace
processes and stabilization efforts are underway. Impartial
standards and methodologies for measuring the progress of peace
in Colombia and other post-conflict settings by gathering
information from public, private, and nongovernmental entities
provides a valuable oversight tool for congressional
stakeholders.
Global Cooperation Training Framework.--Not later than 60
days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall
consult with the appropriate congressional committees on
implementation plans for funding provided under this heading
from fiscal years 2021, 2022, and 2023.
DEMOCRACY FUND
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $340,700,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 290,700,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 345,700,000
Change from enacted level........................... +5,000,000
Change from request................................. +55,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $345,700,000 for
Democracy Fund. Of the funds provided, $215,450,000 shall be
for the Human Rights and Democracy Fund of the Bureau of
Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL) at the Department of
State, and $130,250,000 shall be for the Bureau for
Development, Democracy, and Innovation (DDI) at USAID.
Funds under this heading are allocated according to the
following table and subject to section 7019 of this Act:
DEMOCRACY FUND
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Program/Activity Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bureau for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor,
Department of State:
of which, Global Equality Fund................... $25,000
of which, International Religious Freedom........ 10,000
of which, Promotion of Disability Rights......... 5,000
Bureau for Development, Democracy, and Innovation,
USAID:
of which, Global Labor Program................... 12,500
of which, Protection of LGBTQI+ Persons.......... 25,000
of which, Legislative Strengthening Programs..... 5,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual human rights report.--The Committee directs the
Department of State to include in its Country Reports on Human
Rights Practices descriptions of stigma, violence, and
discrimination, including the prevalence of conversion therapy,
against LGBTQI+ persons conducted by both state and non-state
actors and consider discrimination by the government in
assistance decisions.
Digital risk impact assessments.--The Committee supports
USAID's Digital Ecosystem Country Assessment initiative, which
identifies development opportunities and risks in a country's
digital ecosystem on digital connectivity and infrastructure;
digital society, rights, and governance; and digital economy,
and provides additional funds for USAID to complete such an
assessment for each bilateral Mission.
Global Labor Program.--Prior to the obligation of funds for
the Global Labor Program or any planned restructuring, the
USAID Administrator shall consult with the appropriate
congressional committees.
Reports
Human rights.--The Committee directs the Secretary of
State, in consultation with the USAID Administrator, to submit
a report, not later than 60 days after enactment of this Act,
on the activities of the Special Envoy to Advance the Human
Rights of LGBTQI+ Persons at the Department of State and the
Senior LGBTQI+ Coordinator at USAID in promoting U.S.
engagement with governments, citizens, civil society, and the
private sector on these issues.
Uses of Funds.--The Committee directs the Secretary of
State and the USAID Administrator respectively, to submit a
report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later than 60
days after enactment of this Act, on the uses of funds under
this heading for fiscal years 2021, 2022, and proposed for
2023. Prior to the submission of the report, the Secretary of
State and USAID Administrator shall consult with the Committees
on Appropriations on the details of the report, which should
describe how funds are allocated at the program level to the
extent practicable.
ASSISTANCE FOR EUROPE, EURASIA AND CENTRAL ASIA
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $500,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 984,429,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 850,334,000
Change from enacted level........................... +350,334,000
Change from request................................. -134,095,000
The Committee recommendation includes $850,334,000 for
Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia.
Funds for certain programs under this heading are allocated
according to the following table and subject to section 7019 of
this Act:
ASSISTANCE FOR EUROPE, EURASIA AND CENTRAL ASIA
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Country Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Georgia.............................................. $88,025
Moldova.............................................. 47,850
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Building cybersecurity capacity in Eastern Europe.--The
Committee recommendation includes funds above the prior year
enacted level under this heading for international
cybersecurity capacity-building efforts to strengthen
collective commitments to security in cyberspace, improve
incident response and remediation capabilities, train
appropriate personnel on the applicability of international law
in cyberspace and the policy and technical aspects of
attribution of cyber incidents. The Secretary of State is
directed to consult with the Committees on Appropriations with
respect to the use of funds for such purposes.
Cyprus.--The Committee notes that no funds were requested
for Cyprus under this heading, but should the Secretary of
State decide to provide funds, such assistance should only be
used for measures aimed at reunification and designed to reduce
tensions and promote peace and cooperation between the two
communities in Cyprus. The Committee notes that such programs
are subject to the requirements of section 7015 of this Act.
Funding for the United States assessed cost of the UN
Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus are provided under Contributions
for International Peacekeeping Activities.
Research and training.--The Committee recommendation
includes funding above the prior year enacted level to for
programs pursuant to section 7034(d)(1) of this Act for
research and training authorized by the Soviet-Eastern European
Research and Training Act of 1983.
Use of notwithstanding authority.--Any notification of
funds made available under this heading in this Act or prior
Acts making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign
operations, and related programs shall include information (if
known on the date of transmittal of such notification) on the
use of notwithstanding authority, if applicable. If subsequent
to the notification of assistance it becomes necessary to rely
on notwithstanding authority, the Committees on Appropriations
should be informed at the earliest opportunity and to the
extent practicable.
Department of State
MIGRATION AND REFUGEE ASSISTANCE
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $2,912,188,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 3,912,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 3,700,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +787,812,000
Change from request................................. -212,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $3,700,000,000 for
Migration and Refugee Assistance.
Child protection.--The Committee recognizes the need for
additional protection of children in conflict and crisis
settings. The Committee encourages the Bureau of Population,
Refugees, and Migration to play an increasing leadership role
to protect children in humanitarian crises and ensuring that
protection is integrated across other humanitarian sectors.
Education and flexible learning.--The Committee recognizes
that education and flexible learning opportunities in
humanitarian emergencies are important components of supporting
children's development and wellbeing, both for those displaced
and those in host communities. The Committee encourages the
Department of State to allocate resources made available under
this heading to ensure support for safe, inclusive, quality
education for refugee and internally displaced children,
including adolescent girls.
Gender-based violence.--The Committee is concerned by the
rising rates and challenges of gender-based violence in
humanitarian settings and urges the Secretary of State to
continue providing support to implementing agencies to
prioritize these needs and critical services to prevent and
respond to such violence.
Higher education.--The Committee recognizes the need to
close the gap between refugees and their peers in the area of
higher levels of education. The Committee encourages the
Secretary of State to set an ambitious target, consistent with
the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
goals, for the enrollment of eligible refugees in post-
secondary education, including technical and vocational
training, connected and traditional degree and diploma
programs, in host and third countries by 2030.
Mexico.--The Committee recommendation includes sufficient
funds under this heading to continue assistance to enhance and
expand the capacity of the Mexican Commission for Refugee
Assistance to process asylum applications of, and provide
protection to, refugees in Mexico.
Resettlement in Israel.--The Committee recommendation
includes funds for refugees from the former Soviet Union,
Ukraine and other Eastern European states, and other refugees
resettling in Israel, which is the same as the request.
Rohingya refugees.--The Committee continues to be deeply
concerned about the forced relocation of Rohingya refugees to
Bhasan Char but recognizes the humanitarian imperative to
continue support for meeting the basic needs of Rohingya
refugees in Bangladesh. Not later than 180 days after enactment
of this Act, the Department of State shall brief the
appropriate congressional committees on whether: (1) a
comprehensive and independent system of monitoring has been
established to ensure that any relocation efforts are voluntary
and include meaningful informed consent; (2) the Rohingya have
the ability to freely return to Cox's Bazar or elsewhere, if
they so choose; (3) there are clear contingency and evacuation
plans in the event of emergencies or natural disasters,
including the pre-positioning of backup food supplies and other
relief materials on Bhasan Char; (4) there are effective
protection services provided by the UN and national and
international NGOs; and (5) the Government of Bangladesh is
upholding its commitments to allow education according to the
Myanmar curriculum and skills-building/livelihood activities.
Tibetan refugees.--The Committee supports the continued
allocation of funds to assist Tibetan refugees in Nepal and
India at levels commensurate with prior years. The Committee
remains concerned that Tibetans living in Nepal are restricted
from enjoying certain basic rights, including lack of access to
secondary education, right to work, right to free expression
and peaceful assembly, and that agreements in recent years
between the governments of Nepal and China have resulted in
increased vulnerability for Tibetans in and transiting through
Nepal. The Committee encourages the Secretary of State to urge
the Government of Nepal to honor the agreement reached with the
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to respect the
principle of non-refoulement that prohibits countries from
expelling or returning people to a country where they would be
at risk of irreparable harm or serious human rights violations,
and to provide safe transit for Tibetan refugees and legal
protections to Tibetans residing in Nepal.
Uyghur refugees.--The Committee is concerned about the
vulnerability of Uyghur and other Turkic Muslim refugees who
have fled persecution in the PRC and who have difficulty
getting access to humanitarian assistance and basic services in
their places of refuge, and who remain at risk of refoulement.
The Committee recommendation includes funds under this heading
to support the humanitarian needs of Uyghur and other Turkic
Muslim refugees, including health, education, and psychosocial
support. The Committee supports efforts by the Secretary of
State to work with host governments to provide access to basic
services to such refugees and to prevent their refoulement to
the PRC where they could face torture and other gross violation
of human rights.
Venezuelan migrants.--The Committee recommendation includes
funds to expand support for refugees fleeing economic collapse
and repression in Venezuela. Furthermore, the Committee urges
the Secretary of State to press other donor countries to make
more substantial commitments to help Colombia and other
neighboring countries deliver needed humanitarian services to
migrants who have fled Venezuela.
The Committee directs USAID and the Department of State to
focus greater attention and resources to address the violence,
abuse, and exploitation suffered by Venezuelan women and
children, including by disaggregating data by sex and age in
needs assessments and program reporting. Additionally, the
Committee recognizes the need to increase diplomatic
initiatives and humanitarian assistance to strengthen
protections for Venezuelan refugees and migrants and their host
communities, with an emphasis on the protection of women and
children. This includes better protection and assistance for
Venezuelan refugees and migrants subject to gender-based
violence, malnutrition, human trafficking, recruitment to
illegal groups and activities, and xenophobia.
Report
Migrant protection protocols.--Not later than 90 days after
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in consultation
with other relevant agencies, shall submit to the Committees on
Appropriations a report on the following: (1) monthly data of
the number of individuals receiving services after being
returned to Mexico disaggregated by gender, nationality, and
port of entry, including transportation from international
organizations, housing in shelters, know-your-rights
orientations, and access to telephonic or video communications
with legal counsel; (2) reports of kidnapping and human rights
violations experienced by individuals waiting in Mexico and any
United States assistance and training to support Mexican
prosecutors in the investigations of these crimes; (3) the
number of Migrant Protection Protocol (MPP) returnees
participating in the International Organization for Migration
(IOM) Assisted Voluntary Return program, which has been funded
with funds made available under this heading; and (4) the total
amount of funding allocated for international organizations to
provide services, including transportation and COVID-19
testing, to individuals returned under MPP.
UNITED STATES EMERGENCY REFUGEE AND MIGRATION ASSISTANCE FUND
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $100,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 100,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 100,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. -99,900,000
The Committee recommendation includes $100,000 for United
States Emergency Refugee and Migration Assistance Fund. The
bill also directs the transfer to Migration and Refugee
Assistance of any balances in the Fund that exceed the
limitation in paragraph (2) of section 2(c) of the Migration
and Refugee Assistance Act of 1962.
Independent Agencies
PEACE CORPS
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $410,500,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 430,500,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 430,500,000
Change from enacted level........................... +20,000,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $430,500,000 for
Peace Corps, of which $7,300,000 is for the Office of the
Inspector General.
The Committee recommendation for Peace Corps will provide
support as the agency works to return volunteers back into
service overseas and continues to prioritize volunteer safety
and security operations in the post-pandemic environment. The
Committee urges the Peace Corps to prioritize reopening its
program in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the Federated
States of Micronesia, and the Republic of Palau and directs the
Director of the Peace Corps to assess expanding the presence of
the Peace Corps in the Pacific Islands and consult with the
Committees on Appropriations on the feasibility of such
expansion.
Increasing Diversity.--The Committee directs the Director
of the Peace Corps to increase recruitment and outreach efforts
to minority serving institutions and from underrepresented
communities to diversify the Volunteer corps.
Reports
Collection of Peace Corps workforce and volunteer data.--
The Committee directs the Director of the Peace Corps to submit
a report to the appropriate congressional committees, not later
than 90 days after enactment of this Act, on Peace Corps'
workforce and volunteer data that includes disaggregated
demographic data, including race, ethnicity, and gender, and
other information regarding the diversity of the workforce of
the Peace Corps and of Peace Corps Volunteers.
MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE CORPORATION
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $912,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 930,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 915,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +3,000,000
Change from request................................. -15,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $915,000,000 for
Millennium Challenge Corporation. The Committee recommendation
includes a limitation of $115,000,000 for administrative
expenses and not more than $100,000 may be for representational
expenses.
Funding included for administrative expenses is made
available until expended.
Administrative expenses.--The Millennium Challenge
Corporation (MCC) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is directed to
provide to the Committees on Appropriations quarterly
obligation reports of administrative expenses by the cost
categories detailed in the CBJ, starting not later than 30 days
after enactment of this Act. Such report shall also include
information on administrative expenses deobligated from prior
year appropriations.
Deobligation notification.--Consistent with section 7015(c)
of this Act, the reobligation of funds deobligated by the MCC
is subject to the regular notification procedures of the
Committees on Appropriations. In any notification of
reobligation, the MCC shall indicate the compact or activity
that is the source of the deobligation and the year in which
the deobligation occurred.
Inclusion and gender.--The Committee supports the MCC's
work to empower women and make inclusion central to the
translation of growth into poverty reduction. The Committee
directs MCC to continue and increase the use of administrative
expenses for training, technical assistance, and staff with
gender expertise to ensure that the MCC has the capacity to
shape its programs with gender analysis.
MCC mandate.--The Committee continues to direct the CEO of
the MCC to include the corresponding economic rate of return
estimated for each line item funded in the compact in
congressional notifications submitted for new compacts.
Threshold program.--The CEO of the MCC shall consult with
the Committees on Appropriations if a planned threshold program
will cause the total amount obligated for purposes of carrying
out section 616 of the Millennium Challenge Act of 2003 (Public
Law 108-199), as amended, to exceed 5 percent in fiscal year
2023.
Threshold programs after compacts.--The Committee did not
include prior year bill language prohibiting threshold programs
with countries that previously had a compact. The Committee
expects the MCC to provide justification for such threshold
programs and consult with the Committees on Appropriations in
advance of any action to move forward with a threshold program
in countries that previously had a compact.
INTER-AMERICAN FOUNDATION
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $42,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 38,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 47,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +5,000,000
Change from request................................. +9,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $47,000,000 for
Inter-American Foundation.
The Committee applauds the work of the Inter-American
Foundation (IAF) in supporting community-led solutions for
building resiliency to disasters, improving economic
opportunity, and empowering civil society, while advancing
United States priorities in the region. The Committee supports
the IAF's commitment to expanding its investments in the
eastern Caribbean, and the IAF's strategy in the Northern
Triangle, which focuses on building resilience and sustainable
solutions for communities impacted by food insecurity,
corruption, poverty, marginalization, environmental
degradation, and violence.
The Committee includes $1,725,000 to expand the economic
exchange program between indigenous IAF grantees and Native
American tribes, including to increase export, trade, and
investment opportunities and improve the capacity of IAF
grantees to engage in, and benefit from, such economic
exchanges with indigenous and Native American tribes. The IAF
shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations on next
steps for the exchange program.
Within the increase provided, the Committee recommends
additional IAF investments to help address the impacts of
COVID-19 abroad and enable the IAF to further facilitate
recovery from the pandemic and strengthen resilience to future
disasters and shocks in Latin America and the Caribbean.
The Committee notes that section 7062(a) of this Act
requires an operating plan for funds made available under this
heading.
UNITED STATES AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $40,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 33,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 45,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +5,000,000
Change from request................................. +12,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $45,000,000 for
United States African Development Foundation.
The Committee applauds the work of United States African
Development Foundation (USADF) in addressing food insecurity,
energy poverty, and unemployment, particularly among women and
youth, as well as spurring economic development, improving
lives and livelihoods, and contributing to increased peace and
stability in critical regions.
The Committee encourages the USADF to continue partnering
with African diaspora entities and individuals in the United
States and to allocate $500,000 to support new, collaborative
projects between USADF grantees and Africa diaspora communities
in order to expand such mutually beneficial and meaningful
relationships.
The Committee directs the USADF to consult with the
Committees on Appropriations prior to exercising the authority
in section 7024 of this Act for new grants. The Committee notes
that section 7062(a) of this Act requires an operating plan for
funds made available under this heading.
Department of the Treasury
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $38,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 38,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 38,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $38,000,000 for
International Affairs Technical Assistance at the Department of
the Treasury, of which $9,500,000 is available for
administrative expenses. The operating and spend plans required
under section 7062 of this Act shall include estimated program
and administrative costs by fiscal year of appropriation.
DEBT RESTRUCTURING
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $52,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 52,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 52,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $52,000,000 for Debt
Restructuring to support the Debt Service Suspension Initiative
and the Common Framework on Debt Treatments to provide economic
relief stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic.
TROPICAL FOREST AND CORAL REEF CONSERVATION
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $15,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 15,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 20,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +5,000,000
Change from request................................. +5,000,000
The agreement includes $20,000,000 for Tropical Forest and
Coral Reef Conservation. In implementing the Tropical Forest
and Coral Reef Conservation Act, the Department of the Treasury
should seek to negotiate agreements with eligible partners in
the most expeditious manner possible.
TITLE IV--INTERNATIONAL SECURITY ASSISTANCE
Department of State
INTERNATIONAL NARCOTICS CONTROL AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $1,391,004,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 1,466,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 1,450,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +58,996,000
Change from request................................. -16,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $1,450,000,000 for
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.
Funds for certain programs under this heading are allocated
according to the following table and subject to section 7019 of
this Act:
INTERNATIONAL NARCOTICS CONTROL AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Country/Program/Activity Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Atrocities prevention............................... $3,000
Combating wildlife trafficking...................... 50,000
Combating Trafficking in persons.................... 77,000
Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in 66,000
Persons........................................
Cybercrime and intellectual property rights......... 20,000
Demand reduction.................................... 20,000
Fighting Corruption................................. 30,000
Global Crime and Drugs Policy....................... 7,000
International Law Enforcement Academies............. 39,000
International Organized Crime....................... 68,150
West Bank and Gaza.................................. 40,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Atrocities prevention.--The Committee recommendation
includes funds under this heading for atrocities prevention
programs and activities. Additional funds are also recommended
under Economic Support Fund.
Combating wildlife trafficking.--The Committee
recommendation includes funds under this heading for programs
to combat wildlife poaching and trafficking. The Committee
supports the use of the authority provided in section 484(a)(2)
of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 for transfer of title of
aircraft to support anti-poaching activities.
Cybercrime and intellectual property rights.--The Committee
recommendation supports the efforts of United States Government
agencies to build the capacity of partner nations to improve
cybercrime policies and regulations and strengthen law
enforcement capabilities to hold malign actors accountable in
the areas of cybercrime and intellectual property rights. The
Committee notes the spend plan requirements contained in
section 7062(b) apply to such funds.
Demand reduction.--The Committee recommendation includes
funds for the centrally-managed, evidence-based global demand
reduction program to ensure that these funds will continue to
achieve reductions in drug use and crime in countries around
the world.
DNA forensic technology to combat human trafficking in
Central America and Mexico.--Pursuant to section 7034(b)(2) of
this Act, the bill provides not less than $10,000,000 under
this heading for DNA forensic technology programs to combat
human trafficking in Central America and Mexico. The Committee
notes that DNA forensic science and DNA databases have a unique
capability to confirm identities and have proven to be an
effective tool in deterring and preventing human trafficking.
The Committee expects the Department of State to work in
partnership to further develop the capacity of the governments
of Central America and Mexico to utilize DNA forensic science
and databases to combat trafficking in persons.
DNA infrastructure to combat sexual violence in Africa.--
Sexual violence and human trafficking in Africa are both
pervasive and under-reported. DNA forensic science and DNA
databases have the unique ability to identify offenders and
have been a vital tool in convicting perpetrators of violent
crime where such technology is present. DNA evidence is also
critical to connecting seemingly unrelated cases of sexual
assault and human trafficking and identifying serial
perpetrators. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to
consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the use of
funds provided in this Act for development of DNA technology
and infrastructure in countries in Africa.
International Law Enforcement Academies (ILEA).--The
Committee recommendation provides funds for ILEA to support
regional law enforcement training. The Committee urges the
Secretary of State to review the feasibility of expanding
coverage of the International Law Enforcement Academies (ILEA)
program for the Pacific Islands, including by expanding
coverage of the regional program located in Bangkok, Thailand.
The review should include consultation and coordination with
the Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police and civil society,
including entities focused on human rights and specializing in
victim-centered approaches. Not later than 180 days after
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall brief the Committees
on Appropriations on the review and plans for such expansion.
International Organized Crime.--The Committee
recommendation provides funds for International Organized
Crime, which includes amounts requested for programs to further
the objectives of Executive Order 13773 on Enforcing Federal
Law with Respect to Transnational Criminal Organizations and
Preventing International Trafficking. The Committee notes the
spend plan requirements contained in section 7062(b) apply to
such funds.
Money laundering.--The Committee recognizes that money
laundering in the PRC is becoming of increasing concern as it
relates to drug trafficking. The Committee encourages the
Department of State to press the PRC to implement a more robust
and expansive anti-money laundering framework which extends to
less traditional actors, including online lenders and
designated non-financial businesses and professions. Not later
than one year after enactment of this Act, the Department of
State should brief the Committees on Appropriations on the
implementation of such efforts.
Opioids and other illicit drugs.--The Committee continues
to support Department of State efforts and activities to
address the flow of illegal opioids into the United States,
including: (1) programs to assist the Government of Mexico in
securing its borders and reducing poppy cultivation and heroin
and synthetic drug production; (2) programs to thwart
transnational criminal organizations involved in the
trafficking of heroin and fentanyl; (3) diplomatic efforts to
strengthen precursor chemical control and training on
international treaty obligations related to opioids; (4)
measures to strengthen the security of the international postal
system to prevent illegal shipments of opioids from entering
the United States, particularly from the PRC; and (5) global
demand reduction programs. The Committee encourages the
Department of State to create a policy framework to engage with
PRC to improve the regulation of its chemical industries.
The Committee recognizes the importance of effective early-
warning networks to collect critical information on drug harms.
The Committee commends the Department of State for the
resources it has helped develop, such as the UN Toolkit on
Synthetic Drugs, and its efforts to encourage other countries
to adopt the recommendations in the Toolkit, and encourages
continued work in this regard.
The Committee recognizes that Mexico is the principal
source of illicit fentanyl and its analogues, manufactured by
cartels in undisclosed laboratories. A number of these
synthetic opioid variants are less costly and difficult to
produce than heroin, making them appealing alternatives to
criminals to lace into illicit drugs, including counterfeit
pills. The Committee directs the Department of State to
encourage Mexican counternarcotics authorities to expand
efforts to target counterfeit pill operations and the illegal
importation of machinery and equipment used to manufacture
tablets. The Department of State should work with the
Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, and
appropriate Mexican counterparts to increase the efficacy of
these efforts. The Department of State shall provide an update
on the implementation of such directives in its next
International Narcotics Control Strategy (INCSR) Report.
Passive screening.--The Committee is aware of ongoing
efforts with foreign governments to deploy passive, non-
intrusive screening technologies to detect small quantities of
person-borne opioids, fentanyl, and other narcotics as well as
U.S. currency, related to drug trafficking. The Committee
supports this ongoing effort and encourages the Department of
State to consider expanding these efforts with international
partners to other United States bound airports and pedestrian
ports of entry. Not later than 60 days after enactment of this
Act, the Secretary of State shall brief the Committees on
Appropriations on a training and procurement strategy to
expedite the implementation of these and other related
solutions and provide an overview of planned funding levels for
fiscal years 2022 and 2023.
Unarmed civilian protection.--The Committee supports the
allocation of funds appropriated under this heading for grants
and contracts, awarded on a competitive basis, for unarmed
civilian protection programs implemented by international and
nongovernmental organizations.
Report
Narcotics Control.--Not later than 120 days after enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of State shall update the reports
required under this heading in House Report 117-84.
NONPROLIFERATION, ANTI-TERRORISM, DEMINING AND RELATED PROGRAMS
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $900,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 900,247,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 920,247,000
Change from enacted level........................... +20,247,000
Change from request................................. +20,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $920,247,000 for
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related
Programs. Such funds are allocated according to the following
table and subject to section 7019 of this Act:
NONPROLIFERATION, ANTI TERRORISM, DEMINING AND RELATED PROGRAMS
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Program/Activity Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonproliferation and Disarmament Fund............... $15,000
International Atomic Energy Agency.................. 95,000
Conventional weapons destruction.................... 264,603
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anti-terrorism programs.--The Committee recommendation
includes $330,397,000 for anti-terrorism programs, including
$192,000,000 for the Anti-terrorism Assistance Program, which
provides counterterrorism law enforcement training to partner
countries.
Conventional Weapons Destruction.--The Committee
recommendation includes $264,603,000 for Conventional Weapons
Destruction programs, of which $80,000,000 is for programs in
Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia, of which $50,000,000 is for Laos,
and $10,000,000 is for programs in Sri Lanka, $10,000,000 is
for programs in Angola, $4,000,000 is for programs in Zimbabwe,
and $30,000,000 is for programs in Afghanistan.
The Committee recommends that of funds allocated to
Conventional Weapons Destruction activities in Afghanistan,
$5,000,000 should be directed to support the clearance of
improvised explosive devices in Afghanistan.
The Committee continues to support the Department of
State's demining activities in Colombia, Syria, the West Bank,
among other areas.
In addition, the Committee recommendation also includes not
less than $2,000,000 for demining activities in Nagorno-
Karabakh.
International cooperation in science.--The Committee
recommendation includes funds for assistance to international
scientific and technological facilities in the Middle East
region that foster mutual understanding and tolerance through
international cooperation in science. Funding is intended to
promote scientific excellence in the Middle East region and
prevent the loss of scientific expertise that is holding back
science education and research in the region.
Nonproliferation programs.--The Committee includes
$300,247,000 for nonproliferation programs. The Committee
emphasizes that nonproliferation programs of the Department of
State and other Federal agencies are critical to United States
national security. The Committee urges close coordination among
all agencies involved in such activities.
The Committee recommendation includes $95,000,000 for a
voluntary contribution to the International Atomic Energy
Agency to support programs that promote nuclear safeguards,
nuclear safety and security, the responsible use of nuclear
energy, and the peaceful uses of nuclear technologies.
PEACEKEEPING OPERATIONS
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $455,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 463,559,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 460,759,000
Change from enacted level........................... +5,759,000
Change from request................................... -2,800,000
The Committee recommendation includes $460,759,000 for
Peacekeeping Operations. Such funds are allocated according to
the following table and subject to section 7019 of this Act:
PEACEKEEPING OPERATIONS
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Country/Program/Activity Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Africa Regional..................................... $59,050
Somalia............................................. 233,209
Multinational Force and Observers................... 25,000
Global Peacekeeping Operations Initiative........... 71,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Child soldiers.--The Committee includes language in section
7035(c) of this Act requiring that funds should not be used to
support military training or operations that include child
soldiers.
Near East.--The Committee recommendation includes
$25,000,000 for the Multinational Force and Observers Mission
(MFO) in the Sinai, including $1,000,000 above the request for
force protection requirements. The Committee notes the
invaluable service provided by the MFO in preserving stability
in a very volatile part of the world with relatively few
personnel and a small budget. United States leadership and
participation in the MFO is important to the national security
interests of the United States.
Office of Regional Peace and Security.--The Committee
recommendation includes $59,050,000 for Africa regional
programs, including not less than $10,000,000 to continue
support for the Office of Regional Peace and Security's
infrastructure programs. The Committee supports the goal of
improving the infrastructure used by African partner nations in
their efforts to reduce the capacity of terrorist networks and
enhance border security in areas of terrorist activities. These
partner nations include, but are not limited to, selected
participant nations in the Trans-Sahara Counterterrorism
Partnership, the Partnership for Regional East Africa
Counterterrorism, and Somalia. Therefore, the Committee urges
the Department of State to ensure that the full resources
appropriated to the Office of Regional Peace & Security,
without rescission or reprogramming from other activities,
include rapid infrastructure as a priority. This includes fast-
tracking improved structural technology for rapid impact on
counterterrorism efforts.
Somalia.--The Committee recommendation includes the funding
requested for the United Nations Support Office in Somalia
(UNSOS), including for arrears. Pursuant to the third proviso
under this heading in the Act, the authority under
Contributions for International Peacekeeping Activities in this
Act to exceed the limitation in section 404(b)(2) of the
Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1994 and
1995, as amended (22 U.S.C. 287e note) shall apply to funds
made available by this Act for UNSOS.
Funds Appropriated to the President
INTERNATIONAL MILITARY EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $112,925,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 112,925,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 112,925,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $112,925,000 for
International Military Education and Training.
Africa.--The recommendation includes additional funds above
the prior year to increase International Military Education and
Training (IMET) programming for countries in Africa.
Indo-Pacific.--The Committee notes that the allocation of
funds made available for the IMET program should reflect the
importance of the Indo-Pacific region, especially in enhancing
military-to-military relationships with key partners and allies
in the region and strengthening the professionalism and
democratic values among security partners in the Indo-Pacific.
Northern Triangle.--Funds appropriated under this heading
in this Act and made available for assistance for Guatemala,
Honduras, and El Salvador shall only be made available for
military professionalization and human rights training of such
countries' security forces.
FOREIGN MILITARY FINANCING PROGRAM
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $6,040,424,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 6,057,049,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 6,053,049,000
Change from enacted level........................... +12,625,000
Change from request................................. -4,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $6,053,049,000 for
Foreign Military Financing Program (FMF).
Assistance provided under this heading helps facilitate
strong military-to-military cooperation; promotes United States
trade and economic interests; enables greater interoperability
of friends and allies with United States military forces; and
increases participation in coalition operations. The program
provides grant and loan assistance to partner countries in
coordination with the Department of Defense.
Funds for certain programs under this heading are allocated
according to the following table and subject to section 7019 of
this Act:
FOREIGN MILITARY FINANCING PROGRAM
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Country Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Europe and Eurasia:
Estonia......................................... $10,000
Georgia......................................... 35,000
Latvia.......................................... 10,000
Lithuania....................................... 10,000
Western Hemisphere:
Colombia........................................ 38,525
Costa Rica...................................... 7,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cybersecurity.--The Committee supports the use of funding
under this heading for bolstering allies' and partners'
capability to provide for their own cybersecurity.
East Asia and the Pacific.--The Committee remains concerned
about the military modernization of the People's Republic of
China (PRC) and the PRC's claims in territorial disputes,
including on the seas and in cyberspace. The Committee
encourages the Secretary of State to continue to engage with
allies in the region on the political, economic, and military
implications of the strategic rise of the PRC, including
through military assistance and sales programs. FMF resources
should emphasize building the maritime security capabilities of
United States partners in Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
Lebanon.--The Committee recommendation includes language in
section 7041(f) of this Act requiring that certain conditions
be met prior to the obligation of funds under this heading for
assistance for Lebanon. The Committee intends that assistance
provided to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) not be used against
Israel, and such assistance will not affect Israel's
qualitative military edge in the region. The Committee notes
that section 7041(f) prohibits funds for the Lebanese Internal
Security Forces or the LAF if either organization is controlled
by a foreign terrorist organization and the Committee directs
the Secretary of State to regularly consult with the Committee
regarding the rigorous implementation of this provision and on
the activities of the LAF and assistance provided by the United
States. The Committee includes further language under Reports
in this heading.
Reports
Lebanon.--Not later than 45 days after enactment of this
Act, the Committee directs the Secretary of State to submit to
the Committees on Appropriations an updated report, in
classified form if necessary, on the performance of the LAF,
including an assessment of the operational capabilities of such
forces and how the training, curriculum, and equipment provided
by the United States contributes to those capabilities.
Vetting.--Not later than 45 days after enactment of this
Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the
appropriate congressional committees on foreign assistance
cases submitted for vetting for purposes of section 620M of the
Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 during the preceding fiscal
year, including: (i) the total number of cases submitted,
approved, suspended, or rejected for human rights reasons; and
(ii) for cases rejected, a description of the steps taken to
assist the foreign government in taking effective measures to
bring the responsible members of the security forces to
justice, in accordance with section 620M(c) of the Foreign
Assistance Act of 1961. The report shall be submitted in
unclassified form but may be accompanied by a classified annex.
TITLE V--MULTILATERAL ASSISTANCE
Funds Appropriated to the President
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND PROGRAMS
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $423,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 457,200,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 592,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +169,000,000
Change from request................................. +134,800,000
The Committee recommendation includes $592,000,000 for
International Organizations and Programs (IO&P).
Such funds are allocated according to the following table
and subject to the conditions under this heading and section
7019 of this Act:
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND PROGRAMS
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Organizations/Programs Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
International Chemicals and Toxins Programs.......... $3,175
International Civil Aviation Organization............ 1,200
International Conservation Programs.................. 7,000
International Development Law Organization........... 400
International Maritime Organization.................. 325
Montreal Protocol Multilateral Fund.................. 64,000
Organization of American States (OAS)................ 8,000
of which, Development Assistance................. [3,000]
of which, Fund for Strengthening Democracy....... [5,000]
Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy 50
and Armed Robbery Against Ships in Asia.............
UN Capital Development Fund.......................... 1,000
UN Children's Fund................................... 145,000
of which, Joint Program on Eliminating Female [5,000]
Genital Mutilation..............................
UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf 100
(UNCLCS)............................................
UN Democracy Fund.................................... 3,500
UN Development Program............................... 81,550
UN Environment Program............................... 10,200
UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change/ UN 21,000
Framework Convention on Climate Change..............
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights................ 18,300
of which, Honduras............................... [1,000]
of which, Colombia............................... [3,000]
of which, Guatemala.............................. [1,500]
of which, Mexico................................. [1,000]
UN Human Settlements Program......................... 700
UN Junior Professional Officer Program............... 1,500
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian 3,500
Affairs.............................................
UN Office of the Special Coordinator on Improving the 1,500
UN Response to Sexual Exploitation and Abuse........
UN Peacebuilding Fund................................ 1,000
UN Population Fund................................... 70,000
UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA)................... 100,000
UN Resident Coordinator System....................... 23,000
UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General 1,750
for Sexual Violence in Conflict.....................
UN Trust Fund to End Violence Against Women.......... 1,500
UN Voluntary Fund for Technical Cooperation in the 1,150
Field of Human Rights...............................
UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture............. 8,000
UN Women............................................. 12,000
World Meteorological Organization.................... 1,000
World Trade Organization Technical Assistance........ 600
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Funds appropriated under this heading are made available
for core contributions for each entity listed in the above
table unless: (1) otherwise provided for in this Act or such
table; or (2) the Secretary of State justifies the proposed
uses of funds other than for core contributions in the
congressional notification submitted for funds under this
heading. The Secretary shall consult with the Committees on
Appropriations prior to submitting any such notification.
The Committee encourages the United Nations and specialized
United Nations agencies to engage with a wide variety of
private enterprises in the spirit of dialogue and engagement.
Sustainable Development Goals.--The Committee notes the
importance of the Sustainable Development Goals in establishing
an international blueprint to end poverty, protect the planet,
and strive toward peace and prosperity for all peoples by 2030.
The Committee urges the Secretary of State and USAID
Administrator to recommit to implementing United States
commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals and to
consider supporting the Joint Sustainable Development Goals
(SDG) Fund, which serves as a public and private financing
vehicle for programs aimed at achieving the Sustainable
Development Goals.
UNRWA.--In addition to amounts made available for UNRWA
under Migration and Refugee Assistance, the Committee
recommends $100,000,000 under this heading to be made available
to maintain the provision of food assistance to vulnerable
Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza in response to rising
food and transport costs.
International Financial Institutions
GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT FACILITY
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $149,288,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 150,200,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 150,200,000
Change from enacted level........................... +912,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $150,200,000 for
Global Environment Facility for the first of four installments
for the GEF-8 replenishment.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE GREEN CLIMATE FUND
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $0
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 1,600,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 1,600,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +1,600,000,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $1,600,000,000 for
Contribution to the Green Climate Fund.
The Committee encourages fully funding the United States
pledge of $3,000,000,000 to the Green Climate Fund and provides
funding towards this effort.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE CLEAN TECHNOLOGY FUND
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $125,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 550,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 350,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +225,000,000
Change from request................................. -200,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $350,000,000 for
Contribution to the Clean Technology Fund.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE INTERNATIONAL BANK FOR RECONSTRUCTION AND
DEVELOPMENT
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $206,500,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 206,500,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 206,500,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $206,500,000 for
Contribution to the International Bank for Reconstruction and
Development.
LIMITATION ON CALLABLE CAPITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
The Committee recommendation includes not to exceed
$1,421,275,728.70 for Limitation on Callable Capital
Subscriptions.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $1,001,400,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 1,430,256,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 1,430,256,000
Change from enacted level........................... +428,856,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $1,430,256,000 for
Contribution to the International Development Association
towards the third of three installments for IDA-19 and for the
first of three installments for IDA-20.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE ASIAN DEVELOPMENT FUND
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $53,323,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 43,610,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 43,610,000
Change from enacted level........................... -9,713,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $43,610,000 for
Contribution to the Asian Development Fund towards AsDF-13.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT BANK
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $54,648,752
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 54,648,752
Committee recommendation.............................. 54,648,752
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $54,648,752 for
Contribution to the African Development Bank.
United States Presence.--The Committee urges the Secretary
of the Treasury to work with the African Development Bank to
establish an office presence in the United States and directs
the Secretary to brief the Committees on Appropriations, not
later than 60 days after enactment of this Act, on the status
of such efforts.
LIMITATION ON CALLABLE CAPITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
The Committee recommendation includes not to exceed
$856,174,624 for Limitation on Callable Capital Subscriptions.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT FUND
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $211,300,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 171,300,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 171,300,000
Change from enacted level........................... -40,000,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $171,300,000 for
Contribution to the African Development Fund towards the third
of three installments to AfDF-15.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE INTERNATIONAL FUND FOR AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $43,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 43,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 43,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... 0
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $43,000,000 for
Contribution to the International Fund for Agricultural
Development. This is the second of three installments in
support of the twelfth replenishment for the International Fund
for Agricultural Development.
GLOBAL AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SECURITY PROGRAM
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $5,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 0
Committee recommendation.............................. 10,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +5,000,000
Change from request................................. +10,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $10,000,000 for
Global Agriculture and Food Security Program.
Global Agriculture Food Security Program (GAFSP).--The
Committee supports GAFSP in its work advancing the UN
Sustainable Development Goal to end hunger and achieve food
security and urges the Secretary of the Treasury on behalf of
the United States government to consider submitting a pledge in
support of the 2020-2025 replenishment period and to work with
countries to secure further donor pledges for the program.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND FACILITIES AND TRUST
FUNDS
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $102,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 20,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 20,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... -82,000,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $20,000,000 for
Contributions to the International Monetary Fund Facilities and
Trust Funds.
TITLE VI--EXPORT AND INVESTMENT ASSISTANCE
Export Import Bank of the United States
INSPECTOR GENERAL
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $6,500,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 6,415,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 7,500,000
Change from enacted level........................... +1,000,000
Change from request................................. +1,085,000
The Committee recommendation includes $7,500,000 for Office
of Inspector General. The Committee directs the OIG to submit
to the Committees on Appropriations its annual audit plan
within the first quarter of fiscal year 2023.
ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $114,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 129,800,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 120,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +6,000,000
Change from request................................. -9,800,000
The Committee recommendation includes $120,000,000 for
Administrative Expenses and does not include funds for a
subsidy appropriation. The Committee expects continuation of
Export-Import Bank's (EXIM) current policy that Members of the
Board of Directors and political appointees are ineligible to
receive administratively determined pay and also directs any
changes to such policy be subject to prior consultation with
the Committees on Appropriations.
Support for minority-owned businesses.--The Committee
directs the President of EXIM to submit a report to the
Committees on Appropriations, not later than 90 days after
enactment of this Act, on financing support provided to
minority-owned business partners disaggregated by race,
ethnicity, and gender.
PROGRAM BUDGET APPROPRIATIONS
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $5,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 25,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 10,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +5,000,000
Change from request................................. -15,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $10,000,000 for
Program Budget Appropriations to cover subsidy costs to better
position United States companies to compete internationally.
United States International Development Finance Corporation
INSPECTOR GENERAL
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $2,800,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 5,133,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 5,133,000
Change from enacted level........................... +2,333,000
Change from request................................. 0
The Committee recommendation includes $5,133,000 for Office
of Inspector General. The Committee directs the OIG to submit
to the Committees on Appropriations its annual audit plan
within the third quarter of fiscal year 2023.
CORPORATE CAPITAL ACCOUNT
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $698,000,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 1,000,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 813,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +115,000,000
Change from request................................. -187,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $813,000,000 for the
Corporate Capital Account for the United States International
Development Finance Corporation (DFC). Within that amount,
$220,000,000 is provided for administrative expenses and
project-specific transaction costs; and $593,000,000 for
programs, including for equity financing, credit subsidy,
technical assistance, and feasibility studies, which may be
paid to the DFC Program Account.
Accountability.--The Committee provides funding at not less
than the prior year level for the DFC's independent
accountability mechanism, including for the Office of
Accountability.
Budget request.--The Committee directs the DFC CEO to
include in the congressional budget justification for fiscal
year 2024 a confidential annex that describes new loans,
guarantees, insurance, feasibility studies and technical
assistance grants, and equity agreements approved or
anticipated in the prior year, current year, and budget year
by: category, recipient, country; level of DFC resources
provided; source year of financing used; and additional details
including a description of the positive and negative subsidy
assigned to the largest projects and the level of guarantee
provided.
Collaboration and Partnerships.--The Committee urges the
DFC CEO to pursue more Memorandums of Understanding and
Investment Incentive Agreements with countries or institutions
in the Caribbean, Africa, and the Indo-Pacific region to
facilitate greater collaboration and partnerships on
development.
Contribution to Capital Security Cost Sharing program.--The
Committee directs the DFC CEO to make a contribution to the
Capital Security Cost Sharing program for any personnel under
Chief of Mission authority in fiscal year 2023 consistent with
the requirements of section 7004 of this Act and title 22
United States Code 4865 note.
Ocean plastics.--The Committee supports and encourages
investment in the DFC's Ocean Plastics Initiative to engage the
private sector in eliminating plastic waste and marine debris.
Private sector development.--The Committee notes that the
DFC is an important tool to counter predatory lending and other
malign activity by the People's Republic of China, particularly
in Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa, as well as to address
economic needs in regions like the Northern Triangle. The
Committee directs the DFC to comply with sections 1411 and 1412
of the BUILD Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-254) and prioritize
projects with a significant potential for advancing United
States development priorities, including facilitating market-
based private sector development and inclusive economic growth,
especially in low- and lower-middle income countries.
Revision of policies.--The Committee directs the DFC to
ensure that all major policies, including its environmental and
social policies and independent accountability mechanisms, that
are issued or revised are subject to public notice, prior
consultation, and public comment on the proposed policy
revision.
Three Seas Initiative.--The Committee supports the Three
Seas Initiative and expects the DFC to work in coordination
with the Department of State and USAID to uphold the diplomatic
pledge of United States financing into the Three Seas Funds and
advance transparent alternative sources of investment for
energy projects in Europe while executing full oversight of
funds.
Vaccines.--The Committee directs the DFC CEO to support the
research, development, and manufacturing of COVID-19 vaccines,
treatments, and therapeutics on the continent of Africa. The
Committee also urges the DFC to provide financing to entities
in less developed countries for the purpose of enhancing the
production, delivery, storage, and distribution of vaccines,
particularly in regions with the lowest vaccination rates such
as sub-Saharan Africa.
Reports
2X gender lens investing.--The Committee commends DFC's
efforts to advance the 2X initiative and support women's
economic empowerment and entrepreneurship. The Committee
directs the DFC CEO to submit a report to the appropriate
congressional committees, not later than 90 days after
enactment of this Act, on the 2X initiative. Such report should
assess DFC commitments to 2X transactions for fiscal years 2021
and 2022, disaggregated per transaction by the type of
transaction, the percentage of such transaction qualifying as
``2X'', and the sector/development objective advanced, and
describe steps to be taken to increase such initiative
throughout DFC's portfolio.
Collection of DFC workforce data.--The Committee directs
the DFC CEO to submit a report to the appropriate congressional
committees, not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act,
on DFC's workforce data that includes disaggregated demographic
data, including by race, ethnicity, and gender, and other
information regarding the diversity of the DFC workforce.
Corruption.--The Committee directs the DFC CEO to submit a
report to the appropriate congressional committees not later
than 180 days after enactment of this Act on 1) its required
policies and procedures to mitigate risks of corruption and
money laundering, particularly in Central America; 2) any
challenges implementing projects in countries with high degrees
of known corruption; and 3) recommendations for improving
implementation of projects in such environments.
Investment in the Pacific Islands and the Caribbean.--The
Committees urges the DFC to prioritize investments in the
Pacific Island countries and the Caribbean, especially
investments that support minority- and women-owned businesses
and promote women's economic empowerment. The Committee directs
the DFC CEO to submit a report to the Committees on
Appropriations, not later than 90 days after enactment of this
Act, on efforts to increase DFC investments in the Pacific
Islands and the Caribbean, projects being implemented or under
consideration, and challenges to increasing such investment.
Such report should also include DFC's participation in the
Small and Less Populous Island Economies (SALPIE) Initiative.
Northern Triangle.--Not later than 60 days after enactment
of this Act, the DFC CEO shall submit a report to the
Committees on Appropriations detailing assistance provided by
the DFC for assistance for El Salvador, Guatemala, and
Honduras. The report shall include the objectives and
benchmarks for the use of such assistance, the mechanisms for
safeguarding the assistance from corrupt influences, and how
such assistance promotes economic growth within those
respective countries. Such report should also include a plan
outlining DFC's objectives and priorities in Central America
and its role in strengthening the bilateral economic
relationship between the United States and Central America.
Support for minority-owned businesses.--The Committee
directs the DFC CEO to submit a report to the Committees on
Appropriations, not later than 90 days after enactment of this
Act, on financing support provided to minority-owned business
partners disaggregated by race, ethnicity, and gender. Such
report shall include planned initiatives to expand outreach to
minority-owned businesses.
Transparency and oversight of financial intermediary
projects.--The Committee commends the DFC for publicly
publishing public summaries for Financial Intermediary (FI)
projects and continues to encourage the DFC to increase
transparency and oversight on FI projects. The Committee
directs the DFC CEO to submit a report to the appropriate
congressional committees, not later than 60 days after
enactment of this Act, on improving transparency and oversight
on FI projects, including on disclosure practices. Such report
should include agency efforts to increase transparency and
oversight of FI transactions, including by: differentiating FI
projects from other types of projects in public summaries;
publicly disclosing environmental and social standards for each
respective FI project, especially if the FI is not adopting DFC
standards; publishing non-business confidential project
information in a more accessible and searchable form; and
providing more information on the estimated and actual
development impact in public summaries.
PROGRAM ACCOUNT
The Committee recommendation includes amounts paid to, or
transferred into, this account that shall be available for the
costs of direct and guaranteed loans.
Trade and Development Agency
Fiscal Year 2022 enacted level........................ $79,500,000
Fiscal Year 2023 request.............................. 98,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 87,000,000
Change from enacted level........................... +7,500,000
Change from request................................. -11,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $87,000,000 for Trade
and Development Agency.
Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership.--The
Committee provides funding above the prior year level for the
Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership to
strengthen cybersecurity capabilities.
Report
Support for minority-owned businesses.--The Committee
directs the Director of Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) to
submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later
than 90 days after enactment of this Act, on technical
assistance and other support provided to minority-owned
business partners disaggregated by race, ethnicity, and gender.
Such report shall include planned initiatives to expand
outreach to minority-owned businesses.
TITLE VII--GENERAL PROVISIONS
The Committee recommends the following new, revised and
retained provisions:
Section 7001 (Allowances and Differentials)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
regarding allowances and differentials.
Section 7002 (Unobligated Balances Report)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
requiring agencies to provide quarterly reports on the
cumulative balances of any unobligated funds.
Section 7003 (Consulting Services)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
requiring that consulting service contracts shall be a matter
of public record.
Section 7004 (Diplomatic Facilities)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
with respect to the construction and use of diplomatic
facilities, setting limitations, expanding notification and
oversight requirements, and placing conditions and restrictions
on certain funds. Further direction concerning notification and
oversight of diplomatic facilities is included under Embassy
Security, Construction, and Maintenance.
The Secretary of State is directed to promptly inform the
Committees on Appropriations of each instance in which a
Federal department or agency is delinquent in providing the
full amount of funding required by section 604(e) of the Secure
Embassy Construction and Counterterrorism Act of 1999.
Section 7005 (Personnel Actions)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
regarding certain personnel actions and the authority to
transfer funds between appropriations accounts.
Section 7006 (Prohibition on Publicity or Propaganda)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting the use of funds in this Act for publicity or
propaganda purposes within the United States not otherwise
authorized by law.
Section 7007 (Prohibition Against Direct Funding for
Certain Countries)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting assistance for the governments of Cuba, North
Korea, Iran, and Syria.
Section 7008 (Coups d'Etat)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting assistance for countries whose duly elected head of
government is deposed by military coup or decree, or a coup or
decree in which the military plays a decisive role; requiring a
determination; and providing a waiver under certain conditions.
Section 7009 (Transfer of Funds Authority)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
setting limitations and conditions on transfers between
appropriations accounts and requiring audits of certain
transfers.
The Committee directs the Secretary of State and the USAID
Administrator to submit a report to the Committees on
Appropriations, not later than October 31, 2023, detailing all
transfers to another United States government agency made
pursuant to sections 632(a) and 632(b) of the FAA and include a
listing of each transfer with the funding level, appropriations
account, and receiving agency. This requirement shall not apply
to agreements entered into between USAID and the Department of
State.
All funds transferred pursuant to section 1434(j) of the
BUILD Act of 2018 shall be subject to the regular notification
procedures of the Committees on Appropriations.
Section 7010 (Prohibition and Limitation on Certain
Expenses)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting first-class travel, setting certain limitations on
computer networks, the promotion of tobacco, and representation
and entertainment expenses.
Section 7011 (Availability of Funds)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
regarding the availability of funds appropriated by this Act.
Section 7012 (Limitation on Assistance to Countries in
Default)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting assistance for countries in default and allowing
exceptions in certain circumstances.
Section 7013 (Prohibition on Taxation of United States
Assistance)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
withholding assistance to a country where such assistance is
subject to taxation, unless the Secretary of State makes
certain determinations.
Report
Not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the
Secretary of State shall submit a report to the Committees on
Appropriations on the steps taken by the Department of State
and other relevant Federal agencies to comply with the
requirements contained under this section of this Act. The
report shall include rules, regulations, and policy guidance
issued and updated pursuant to subsection (f).
Section 7014 (Reservations of Funds)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
regarding the reservation of funds and the designation of
certain funding levels.
Section 7015 (Notification Requirements)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
establishing the notification requirements for funds made
available by this Act.
Subsection (c) requires that notifications submitted
pursuant to this section shall include information (if known on
the date of transmittal of such notification) on the use of any
notwithstanding authority. Additionally, if subsequent to a
notification of assistance it becomes necessary to rely on
notwithstanding authority, the Committees on Appropriations
should be informed at the earliest opportunity and to the
extent practicable.
Notifications submitted in accordance with subsection (g)
shall include the following information: (1) the office or
bureau at the Department of the Treasury, USAID, or the
Department of State that will oversee programs and expenditures
of the trust fund; (2) the website link to publicly available
expenditures of the trust fund; and (3) whether direct
government assistance will be provided by the trust fund and
what specific risk mitigation steps are being taken by the
trust fund.
Individuals Detained at United States Naval Station,
Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.--Not later than 5 days after the
conclusion of an agreement with a country, including a state
with a compact of free association with the United States, to
receive by transfer or release individuals detained at the
United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, the
Secretary of State shall notify the Committees on
Appropriations in writing of the terms of the agreement,
including whether funds appropriated by this Act or prior Acts
making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign
operations, and related programs will be made available for
assistance for such country pursuant to such agreement.
Section 7016 (Documents, Report Posting, Records
Management, and Related Cybersecurity Protections)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
concerning public posting of reports and documents, records
management, and related cybersecurity protections.
The Committee acknowledges and commends efforts by the
Department of State and USAID to publicly post reports on a
public website and encourages posting reports collectively on a
single webpage to advance accessibility and transparency.
Section 7017 (Use of Funds in Contravention of this Act)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting funds for programs in contravention of this Act.
Section 7018 (Prohibition on Funding for Involuntary
Sterilization)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
prohibiting funding for involuntary sterilization.
Section 7019 (Allocations and Reports)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding compliance with: (1) funding directives in certain
tables in the accompanying report; and (2) reporting directives
in such report.
Section 7020 (Multi-Year Pledges)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting the use of funds in this Act to make a multi-year
pledge unless such pledge meets the requirements of section
7066 of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and
Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2019 (division F of Public
Law 116-6).
Section 7021 (Prohibition on Assistance to Governments
Supporting International Terrorism)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting assistance for governments that support
international terrorism.
Section 7022 (Authorization Requirements)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
regarding authorization requirements.
Section 7023 (Definition of Program, Project, and Activity)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
defining the terms ``program, project, and activity''.
Section 7024 (Authorities for the Peace Corps, Inter-
American Foundation, and United States African Development
Foundation)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
regarding certain authorities for the Peace Corps, IAF, and the
USADF.
Section 7025 (Commerce, Trade and Surplus Commodities)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
relating to commerce, trade, and surplus commodities.
Section 7026 (Separate Accounts)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
regarding the requirement that separate accounts be established
for cash transfers and assistance that generates local
currencies and establishing certain conditions on the use of
those funds.
Section 7027 (Eligibility for Assistance)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
regarding assistance through nongovernmental organizations and
assistance provided under the Food for Peace Act.
Section 7028 (Disability Programs)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding disability programs.
The Committee provides funds under Development Assistance
for USAID disability programs in developing countries, which
may include initiatives focusing on independent living,
economic self-sufficiency, advocacy, education, employment,
transportation, sports, political and electoral participation,
and integration of individuals with disabilities. Funds should
also be available to support disability rights advocacy
organizations.
Section 7029 (International Financial Institutions)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding: evaluations; social and environment safeguards; the
compensation level of the United States executive director to
each international financial institution (IFI); human rights
promotion; fraud and corruption; beneficial ownership;
whistleblower protections; and grievance mechanisms.
Pursuant to subsection (d) concerning human rights, the
Committee directs the Secretary of the Treasury to instruct the
United States executive director of each IFI to promote human
rights by determining whether: (1) the IFI has an explicit
policy commitment to respect human rights; (2) the IFI conducts
assessments of how proposed loans, grants, policies, or
strategies may impact human rights; (3) the IFI's due diligence
process is informed by information and recommendations from the
United Nations, regional human rights entities, or other human
rights organizations, as appropriate; (4) the IFI has a
specific policy and procedures for consulting local communities
and other stakeholders as part of the due diligence process;
(5) the IFI requires free, prior and informed consent for
loans, grants, policies, or strategies affecting indigenous
peoples; (6) the IFI has a specific policy and procedures for
responding to intimidation and reprisals against people
adversely affected by IFI loans, grants, policies, or
strategies; and (7) the IFI has accessible, efficient, and
effective accountability and grievance mechanisms in place at
the national and project levels.
Pursuant to subsection (g) concerning whistleblower
protections, the Committee directs the Secretary of the
Treasury to instruct the United States executive director of
each IFI to use the voice of the United States to encourage
each such institution to effectively implement and enforce
policies and procedures for the protection of whistleblowers
from retaliation, including best practices for: (1) protection
against retaliation for internal and lawful public disclosure;
(2) legal burdens of proof; (3) statutes of limitation for
reporting retaliation; (4) access to binding independent
adjudicative bodies, including shared cost and selection
external arbitration; and (5) results that eliminate the
effects of proven retaliation, including provision for the
restoration of prior employment.
The Committee directs the Secretary of the Treasury to
instruct the United States executive directors of each
international financial institution to use the voice and vote
of the United States to oppose projects in the Xinjiang Uyghur
Autonomous Region that involve violations of human rights
towards Uyghurs or other ethnic minorities.
The Committee is concerned that the current structure for
the allocation of financial assistance, particularly from
multilateral institutions, does not properly account for the
vulnerability of particular states to large scale shocks such
as climate disasters regardless of their income category. The
Committee directs the Secretary of the Treasury, in
consultation with the executive directors of each IFI, to look
for ways to address this gap and consult with the Committees on
Appropriations on tools or mechanisms to increase such
countries' access to finance in recognition of their needs.
Reports
Evaluations.--Pursuant to subsection (a), the Committee
directs the Secretary of the Treasury to submit a report to the
Committees on Appropriations, not later than 90 days after
enactment of this Act, on steps taken in fiscal year 2022 by
the United States executive directors of the European Bank for
Reconstruction and Development and the Inter-American
Development Bank consistent with subsection (a) compared to the
previous fiscal year.
Beneficial ownership information.--Pursuant to subsection
(f), the Committee directs the Secretary of the Treasury to
submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later
than 90 days after enactment of this Act, on steps taken in
fiscal year 2022 by the United States executive directors and
the international financial institutions consistent with
subsection (f) compared to the previous fiscal year.
Section 7030 (Insecure Communications Networks)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
making funds available to advance the adoption of secure
communications networks and counter the adoption of insecure
networks and services.
Section 7031 (Financial Management and Budget Transparency)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
regarding management of direct assistance to governments,
budget transparency of recipient countries, corruption and
human rights violations, and the foreign assistance website.
For the purposes of this section, the term ``direct
government-to-government assistance'' shall include cash
transfers, non-project sector assistance, and other forms of
assistance where funds appropriated by this Act are provided
directly to the recipient government.
The Committee directs that any planned government-to-
government assistance should be included with the fiscal year
2024 CBJ and should include the proposed funding amount, source
of funds, and type of assistance.
For the purposes of subsection (b), ``minimum requirements
of fiscal transparency'' shall mean the public disclosure of a
country's national budget, including income and expenditures by
ministry, and government contracts and licenses for natural
resource extraction, including bidding and concession
allocation practices. The report required by this subsection
should identify steps taken by a government to disclose
additional budget documentation, contracts, and licenses, which
are additional to information disclosed in the previous year,
as well as recommendations of short- and long-term steps such
government should take to improve fiscal transparency. The
report should also include a description of how funds
appropriated by this Act, including those provided pursuant to
subsection (b)(3), are being used to improve fiscal
transparency and identify benchmarks for measuring progress.
In making the determination or in considering whether or
not the Secretary of State has credible information pursuant to
subsection (c) on significant corruption, the Secretary shall
consider such individuals or foreign officials' involvement in
narcotics trafficking, campaign finance through narcotics
trafficking, misuse of official office, and obstruction of
legal processes, including those individuals listed in the
report submitted to the Committees on Appropriations pursuant
to the requirement under the heading ``Corrupt officials''
under section 7045(a) of House Report 116-444. The Secretary
should also make every effort to make application of section
7031(c) visa restrictions public to send a strong message on
anti-corruption.
Pursuant to subsection (d)(2), the United States may
support such assistance if the recipient government has adopted
laws, regulations, or procedures that: (1) accurately account
for and publicly disclose payments to the government by
companies involved in the extraction and export of natural
resources; (2) include independent auditing of accounts
receiving such payments and the public disclosure of such
audits; and (3) require public disclosure of agreement and
bidding documents, as appropriate.
Report
Government-to-government report.--Not later than 45 days
after enactment of this Act, the USAID Administrator shall
submit to the Committees on Appropriations a report that
details all assistance provided through government-to-
government mechanisms by country, funding source and amount,
and type of procurement instrument, including whether the
assistance was provided on a reimbursable basis.
Section 7032 (Democracy Programs)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding democracy programs funded in this Act.
Nothing in subsection (f) shall be construed to affect the
ability of any entity, including United States small
businesses, from competing for proposals from USAID-funded
civil society programs.
With respect to the provision of assistance made available
in this Act for democracy programs, the Secretary of State and
USAID Administrator should prioritize using organizations with
significant experience implementing such programs and that
demonstrate successful outcomes.
For the purposes of subsection (g), programs to advance
digital security and counter disinformation should address
digital security to enhance safety of implementers and
beneficiaries; support civil society organizations working to
counter government surveillance, censorship, and repression by
digital means; combat weaponized technology, including the
misuse of social media; prevent the digital manipulation of
elections, electoral data, and critical infrastructure; and
counter disinformation propagated by malign actors, including
the PRC and the Russian Federation.
For the purposes of subsection (i), ``human rights
defenders'' is defined as an individual or entity that acts to
address any human right on behalf of individuals or groups and
seek the promotion and protection of civil and political
rights. Such human rights defenders may include civil society
activists, journalists, government officials, civil servants,
and members of the private sector.
Funds provided under subsection (i) may be made available
to support civil society in developing countries that are
working to prevent harm to the environment including
organizations that work to prevent poaching and wildlife
trafficking, particularly if members of those organizations
have been the target of government-sanctioned harassment,
threats, and other forms of abuse.
The Committee directs the Secretary of State, in
coordination with the USAID Administrator, to review its ``U.S.
Support for Human Rights Defenders Guidance'' document and
assess whether the guidance provides the necessary and
essential support to at-risk and embattled journalists and
human rights defenders in an evolving environment that is
increasingly hostile to such individuals, and to brief the
appropriate congressional committees following such review.
Funds provided under subjection (j) should support the
implementation of the updated action plan required under
7032(h) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and
related Programs Appropriations Act, 2021 (division K of Public
Law 116-260).
Pursuant to subsection (k), the Committee directs the USAID
Administrator to submit a report to the appropriate
congressional committees on steps taken to build capacity
within the agency to implement programs that support labor
rights, strengthen worker organizing, and build capacity in
collective bargaining as well as an update on the status of
current and future program implementation efforts. The
Committee commends the agency's actions to hire a labor expert
and build labor expertise and capacity for implementing labor
programs within the agency and continues to urge the USAID
Administrator to prioritize building such capacity within the
agency, working with relevant stakeholders in civil society
groups and in Congress.
The Committee urges the Department of State and USAID to
prioritize supporting and strengthening independent media and
freedom of expression programs, especially where independent
information sources are under threat, including in sub-Saharan
Africa and the Indo-Pacific region. Further, the Department of
State and USAID should apply appropriate measures, such as the
visa restriction policy pursuant to section 212(a)(3)(C) of the
Immigration and Nationality Act also known as ``the Khashoggi
Ban'', on foreign entities that commit gross violations of
human rights against independent media.
The Committee directs the Secretary of State to brief the
appropriate congressional committees, not later than 60 days
after enactment of this Act, on the implementation of the
Daniel Pearl Freedom of the Press Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-
166) and provide recommendations for how to advance press
freedom abroad.
The Committee continues to support efforts to engage
parliamentarians and parliamentary organizations, like the
Parliamentary Forum for Democracy, in support of democratic
norms and values. The Committee directs the Secretary of State
and the USAID Administrator, in consultation with the NED, to
consult with the Committees on Appropriations, not later than
60 days after enactment of this Act, on how to expand such
efforts.
The Committee is encouraged that USAID includes conversion
therapy as a violation of the agency's non-discrimination
policy and urges that any such violation be subject to
applicable contract and grant remedies available to the
government. The Committee encourages USAID to continue closely
monitoring any allegation of such activities and respond
accordingly.
Reports
Democracy and Gender Equality.--The Committee directs the
USAID Administrator to submit a report, not later than 90 days
after enactment of this Act, to the appropriate congressional
committees on activities of the Bureau for Development,
Democracy, and Innovation that advance democracy and gender
equality, describing how USAID is reinforcing gender equality,
addressing the overlap between attacks on democracy and
struggles over gender equality, and investing in women's
political leadership, including through the Partnerships for
Democracy initiative.
Legislative Strengthening Programs.--The Committee provides
additional funds for USAID to support legislative strengthening
programs to build the capacity of national legislative bodies
and civil society organizations that interact with them to be
effective, accountable, and transparent. In determining
programming, the Committee encourages the Administrator to take
into account countries where the House Democracy Partnership is
actively engaged. Not later than 60 days after enactment of
this Act, the Committee directs the USAID Administrator, to
consult with, and report to, the Committees on Appropriations,
on expanding efforts for legislative strengthening programs,
including technical assistance for emerging and transitioning
democracies.
Women's and Girls' Civic and Political Participation.--The
Committee directs the Secretary of State, in coordination with
the USAID Administrator, to submit to the appropriate
congressional committees, not later than 180 days after
enactment of this Act, a comprehensive strategy on
strengthening the participation of adolescent girls in
democracy, human rights, and governance as part of the
Advancing Women's and Girls' Civic and Political Leadership
Initiative announced during the Summit for Democracy. The
Secretary and Administrator are directed to consult with the
appropriate congressional committees prior to the development
of the strategy.
Section 7033 (International Religious Freedom)
This section continues language carried in the prior year
regarding international religious freedom.
Subsection (a) designates funds under Diplomatic Programs
to be made available for the Office of International Religious
Freedom, and funds for the Office of International Religious
Freedom shall be made available for the continued development
and implementation of an international religious freedom
curriculum in accordance with section 708 of the Foreign
Service Act of 1980.
The Committee directs that funds made available under
Economic Support Fund and Democracy Fund pursuant to subsection
(b) shall be the responsibility of the Ambassador-at-Large for
International Religious Freedom, in consultation with other
relevant United States Government officials, and shall be
subject to prior consultation with the Committees on
Appropriations.
The Committee recommendation includes not less than
$10,000,000 under Economic Support Fund for programs to protect
and investigate the persecution of religious minorities, and
not less than $10,000,000 for international religious freedom
programs under Democracy Fund.
Funds designated for the Prevention and Stabilization Fund
shall also be made available for international religious
freedom programs to support transitional justice,
reconciliation, and reintegration programs for vulnerable and
persecuted religious minorities.
Pursuant to subsection (b), the Committee directs that
humanitarian assistance shall be made available for vulnerable
and persecuted religious minorities, including victims of
genocide, ethnic cleansing, and other crimes against humanity,
and urges the Secretary of State to expedite the delivery of
such assistance, work to enhance protection of conflict
victims, and help establish livelihoods for displaced and
persecuted persons in their communities or in secure locations.
Furthermore, the Committee urges the prioritization of
assistance for such minorities, including access to secure
locations for receiving humanitarian services and the
restoration of residential services such as water, electricity,
sewage, health, and education.
The Committee supports the expansion of psychosocial
support programs for religious and ethnic minorities. The
Committee also supports funding for trauma-based care for such
groups in post-conflict zones and capacity building in mental
health and psychosocial support for health responders and other
aid workers.
Report
Strategy.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State, in
consultation with the USAID Administrator, to submit a report
to the appropriate congressional committees, not later than 120
days after enactment of this Act, on a strategy to address the
humanitarian needs of persons who have fled persecution in
countries in which the Secretary has made a genocide
determination, with a particular focus on the psychosocial
needs of those who have suffered trauma associated with acts
related to genocide and crimes against humanity and who are not
receiving adequate assistance. The strategy should include an
assessment of the challenges that such persons, especially
women and children, face in their country of first asylum or
where they have established non-durable communities of origin.
Section 7034 (Special Provisions)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
granting certain special authorities and limitations relating
to funds made available by this Act.
Subsection (d)(1) directs that funds appropriated under
Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia shall be made
available to carry out the Program for Research and Training on
Eastern Europe and the Independent States of the Former Soviet
Union as authorized by the Soviet-Eastern European Research and
Training Act of 1983 (22 U.S.C. 4501 et seq.).
Subsection (d)(3) extends the availability of certain
funds, up to $50,000,000, for an additional year if they are
being used for private sector partnerships following
consultation with the Committees on Appropriations.
Subsection (d)(9) temporarily increases the default rate
cap at the Export-Import Bank from two percent to four percent
through September 30, 2023, in light of the economic impacts of
the COVID-19 pandemic and Russian aggression in Ukraine on the
global economy.
For the purposes of subsection (e), partner vetting shall
mean the required submission of personal identifiable
information prior to the conduct of a program. The Committee
urges the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator to ensure
that adequate staffing and resources are made available to
conduct partner and beneficiary vetting in a timely fashion.
Subsection (k)(5) continues prior year language commonly
known as ``the Lautenberg Amendment''. The Committee notes that
this provision is needed to preserve a safe and reliable
mechanism for eligible persecuted religious minorities to seek
freedom and safety in the United States, including certain
refugees fleeing the conflict in Ukraine.
Subsection (l) makes funds available to be used for ex-post
evaluations of the sustainability of United States Government-
funded assistance programs. Not later than 60 days after
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State and USAID
Administrator shall jointly consult with the Committees on
Appropriations on the development of a plan for the use of such
funds across multiple sectors. Such plan shall be submitted to
such Committees not later than 120 days after enactment of this
Act and shall include: (1) a timeline for implementing ex-post
evaluations with such funds; (2) steps that will be taken to
incorporate ex-post evaluation criteria in future project
design, as appropriate; (3) a description of which sectors and
countries will be selected for such ex-post evaluations,
including the criteria for selection; and (4) a description of
the manner in which such ex-post evaluations will be conducted.
Subsection (n) modifies language carried in prior years
authorizing funds made available under Economic Support Fund
and Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia by this Act
to be made available for support of loan guarantees to certain
countries. The bill extends such authority to Small Island
Developing States as a means of better equipping the State
Department and USAID to assist such states in meeting the
challenge of climate change and the growing number of
devastating storms confronting such states.
Reports
Lautenberg Amendment.--Not later than 60 days after
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit to
the Committees on Appropriations a report on the Lautenberg
Amendment program for fiscal years 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and
2022. The report shall include data by fiscal year on
Lautenberg program applicants, including the number in process,
the number awaiting security review, the number approved and
awaiting admission, and the number admitted to the United
States. The report shall also include a description of program
policy changes since fiscal year 2021.
Local Works.--Not later than 180 days aftr enactment of
this Act, the USAID Administrator shall submit an update to the
report on prioritization of funding to marginalized groups
required under this heading in House Report 117-84.
Section 7035 (Law Enforcement and Security)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
related to assistance, authorities, limitations, and
notifications regarding law enforcement and security matters.
Report
Security assistance coordination.--The Committee supports
measures to ensure that security assistance programs supported
by this Act are strategic, address clearly defined goals and
objectives, and are integrated with other programs. Not later
than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of
State, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, shall
submit to the Committees on Appropriations an update to the
strategy required under this heading in the explanatory
statement accompanying the Department of State, Foreign
Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2022
(division K of P.L. 117-103).
Section 7036 (Impact on Jobs in the United States)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
establishing certain limitations on assistance that may impact
jobs in the United States.
The Committee requests agencies funded by this Act to take
into consideration the impact on United States domestic jobs
and exports when considering the enforcement of any rule,
regulation, policy or guideline that would have the effect of
prohibiting power-generation projects.
Section 7037 (Palestinian Statehood)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
establishing limitations on the use of funds in support of a
Palestinian state.
Section 7038 (Prohibition on Assistance to the Palestinian
Broadcasting Corporation)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
restricting assistance to the Palestinian Broadcasting
Corporation.
Section 7039 (Assistance for the West Bank and Gaza)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
placing conditions on assistance for the West Bank and Gaza.
Section 7040 (Limitation on Assistance for the Palestinian
Authority)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
placing limitations on any assistance for the Palestinian
Authority and regarding Hamas.
Section 7041 (Middle East and North Africa)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding policies and countries in the Middle East and North
Africa.
Arab League Boycott of Israel.--It is the sense of the
Congress that--(1) the Arab League boycott of Israel, and the
secondary boycott of American firms that have commercial ties
with Israel, remain an impediment to trade and investment in
the Middle East and should be terminated forthwith, as should
the Central Office for the Boycott of Israel; (2) several Arab
states and Israel have made important progress toward peace
through treaties, the Abraham Accords, and normalization
agreements, opening a path toward a more stable and prosperous
Middle East; (3) all Arab League states should join Egypt,
Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan
in establishing and normalizing relations with Israel, in
addition to promoting peace negotiations, economic cooperation,
and security cooperation between Israelis and Palestinians; (4)
the President and the Secretary of State should continue to
vigorously oppose the Arab League boycott of Israel and; (5)
the President should support broadening and deepening
participation in the Abraham Accords, or other normalization
agreements, and report annually to the appropriate
congressional committees on the United States Government's
strategy and steps being taken by the United States to
encourage additional Arab League and other Muslim-majority
states to normalize relations with Israel, in addition to
advancing the prospects for peace between Israelis and
Palestinians.
Annual report to Congress.--The Committee remains concerned
about international efforts to stigmatize and isolate Israel
through the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement.
The Committee directs, as part of the report required in the
previous paragraph, that the President add information about
the BDS campaign, covering companies, international
organizations, countries, and other organizations, including
state investment vehicles, that are involved in promoting the
movement, as well as specific steps the Department of State has
taken and expects to take to discourage or end politically-
motivated efforts to boycott, divest from, or sanction Israel
or Israeli entities. The Committee further directs the
Secretary of State and USAID Administrator to strengthen
policies and procedures to ensure organizations supported
through funding are not participants in such efforts.
Bahrain.--The Committee remains concerned with ongoing
reports of the widespread violations of human rights, including
the use of arbitrary detention, harsh prison conditions,
restrictions on political participation, and severe limitations
on freedom of expression, the press, and assembly. The
Committee urges the Department of State to prioritize working
with the Government of Bahrain to release political prisoners,
provide detainees with due process of law, and ensure that
parliamentary elections are free, fair, and include the
participation of political parties and independent media
outlets.
Egypt.--The Committee recommends assistance for Egypt at
levels consistent with the prior fiscal year. The Committee
notes the United States and Egypt share a mutual interest in
Middle East peace and stability, economic opportunity, and
regional security. Since the Camp David Accords, United States
assistance to Egypt has played a central role in the country's
economic and military development. The Committee recognizes the
enduring Egyptian-Israeli peace agreement as well as Egypt's
ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and counter Iran's malign
influence in the region. Promoting a stable, democratic, and
prosperous Egypt, where the government empowers civil society
and protects human rights, shall continue to be a core
objective of United States policy.
The Committee continues to support $40,000,000 for higher
education programs in Egypt, including $15,000,000 for
scholarships. Not later than 45 days after enactment of this
Act, the USAID Administrator shall consult with the Committees
on Appropriations on implementation of funds made available for
scholarships in Egypt.
Funds made available for assistance for Egypt shall be
subject to prior consultation and the regular notification
procedures of the Committees on Appropriations. Such funds
should be made available for democracy programs and for
development programs in the Sinai. Funds shall not be made
available for cash transfer assistance or budget support. The
Secretary of State shall take all practicable steps to ensure
that mechanisms are in place for monitoring, oversight, and
control of funds made available by this subsection for
assistance for Egypt.
Withholding.--Pursuant to subsection (a)(3), the Secretary
of State shall withhold $170,000,000 of the funds provided for
Egypt under Foreign Military Financing Program until the
Secretary certifies and reports to the Committees on
Appropriations that the Government of Egypt is meeting the
governance and human rights conditions described under Reports
in this section. The national security waiver included in this
Act is applicable only to paragraph (3)(A).
In addition to the funds withheld pursuant to subparagraph
(A), $130,000,000 of the total funds provided for Egypt under
Foreign Military Financing Program are also withheld from
obligation pursuant to subparagraph (C), and excluded from the
waiver, until the Secretary of State determines and reports to
the Committees on Appropriations that--(i) the Government of
Egypt is making clear and consistent progress in releasing
political prisoners, providing detainees with due process of
law, and preventing the intimidation and harassment of American
citizens; and (ii) that the Government of Egypt has provided
American citizens with fair and commensurate compensation for
injuries caused during an attack against a tour group by the
Egyptian military. The Secretary, in making the determination
with respect to whether the Government of Egypt has provided
American citizens with fair and commensurate compensation for
injuries suffered as a result of an attack against a tour group
by the Egyptian military, shall consider the case of American
citizen, April Corley, and her severe injuries and losses
sustained during an attack on her tour group by Egyptian armed
forces on September 13, 2015.
Iran.--Subsection (b) continues language from the prior
year. Pursuant to paragraph (1), funds appropriated under
Diplomatic Programs, Economic Support Fund, and
Nonproliferation, Antiterrorism, Demining and Related Programs
shall be made available for the following: (1) to support the
United States policy to prevent Iran from achieving the
capability to produce or otherwise obtain a nuclear weapon; (2)
to support an expeditious response to any violation of United
Nations Security Council Resolutions or to efforts that advance
Iran's nuclear program; (3) to support the implementation,
enforcement, and renewal of sanctions against Iran for its
support of nuclear weapons development, terrorism, human rights
abuses, and ballistic missile and weapons proliferation; and
(4) for democracy programs for Iran, to be administered by the
Assistant Secretary for Near Eastern Affairs, Department of
State, in consultation with the Assistant Secretary for
Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, Department of State.
Iraq.--Subsection (c) continues language from the prior
year. Pursuant to paragraph (1), funds shall be made available
for bilateral economic assistance and international security
assistance, including in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI),
and for programs to protect and assist religious and ethnic
minority populations in Iraq.
Funds made available under International Disaster
Assistance and Migration and Refugee Assistance should be made
available to support programs that address the needs of
internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees throughout all
regions of Iraq, including in the KRI, as well as their host
communities. Additionally, funds under Economic Support Fund
should continue to support programs that mitigate the impact of
such IDPs and refugees in such region.
Within the amount provided for assistance to Iraq, the
Committee recommendation includes funds to support American-
style higher education institutions in Iraq, including in the
Kurdistan region, on an open and competitive basis. The
Secretary of State or USAID Administrator, as appropriate,
shall include funds to be allocated for this purpose in the
spend plan submitted pursuant to section 7062(b) of this Act.
The Committee urges the Department of State and USAID, in
collaboration with civil society partners, the Kurdish Regional
Government, and other appropriate U.S. government entities, to
develop an integrated strategy dedicated to religious and
ethnic minorities in Iraq to help ensure that such populations
can stay in, or return to, their homeland. The Committee notes
that such a strategy should include a ten-year recovery plan
for affected religious minorities in Iraq, including their safe
return, and outline how U.S. assistance to Iraq contributes to
such efforts.
The Committee encourages the Department of State to work
with the relevant Federal agency partners to expedite the
processing of the backlog of Iraqi Special Immigrant Visa (SIV)
applications as well as their family members. The Committee
notes the critical role of the SIV program in assisting the
United States mission in Iraq. The Committee encourages the
State Department to expand the days and hours of operation for
consular services in Erbil, as appropriate, to better
accommodate the demand for services.
Israel.--Subsection (d) includes language carried in the
prior year recommending $3,300,000,000 in grants for military
assistance under the Foreign Military Financing (FMF) Program
to Israel, which is the same as the budget request. The
Committee reaffirms its support for the 2016 United States--
Israel Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which demonstrates
the unshakable commitment of the United States to the security
of Israel and to ensuring that Israel's qualitative military
edge and defense capabilities are maintained. The Committee
notes the continued importance of Israel as a major strategic
partner and ally of the United States in an unstable and
critical region of the world. The Committee strongly believes
in the right and ability of Israel to defend itself against the
wide range of threats it faces and believes that a close United
States-Israel security partnership benefits the interests of
both countries. The Committee further believes that by
contributing to a safe and secure Israel, United States
assistance also positively contributes to broader efforts aimed
at achieving a negotiated two-state solution. Therefore, the
Committee urges the Secretary of State to address in bilateral
consultations with Israel the importance of ensuring that MOU-
supported equipment is not used in any way that undermines the
prospects of a negotiated two-state solution.
Israeli-Palestinian Conflict.--The Committee reaffirms the
longstanding, bipartisan support for a two-state solution to
the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and notes that a negotiated
two-state solution is essential to achieving the goal of a
democratic Jewish State of Israel and a viable, democratic
Palestinian state living side-by-side in peace, security, and
mutual recognition. The Committee remains concerned by the
absence of direct negotiations and urges both sides to refrain
from engaging in unilateral action that jeopardizes the chances
for dialogue and returning to the negotiating table, or of
eventual achievement of a two-state solution. This includes
Palestinian incitement of violence, ongoing prisoner and
``martyr'' payments that incentivize or reward terrorism, and
pursuing recognition as a state and membership in international
organizations in lieu of achieving a two-state solution through
negotiations. This also includes Israeli annexation of
territory and settlement expansion outside of an agreement
negotiated between the two sides and extremist settler violence
in the West Bank. The Committee fully supports efforts that
foster reconciliation and engagement, and therefore recommends
$50,000,000 under Economic Support Fund for the Nita M. Lowey
Middle East Partnership for Peace Act for fiscal year 2023 in
order to continue critically needed people-to-people
programming and joint economic partnerships between Israelis
and Palestinians.
The Committee continues to support the People-to-People
Partnership for Peace Fund Advisory Board created under the
Nita M. Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace Act of 2020.
Advisory Board members play an integral role in making
recommendations to the USAID Administrator regarding the types
of projects that should be considered for funding through the
Fund. The Committee directs USAID to provide the Advisory Board
members the appropriate information to carry out their
responsibilities, other than information that is considered
procurement-sensitive. This information shall include, but not
be limited to: grantee recipient names and awards once
available; progress reports on the status of current grantees;
total number of applications; and geographic and demographic
information of recipients. The Committee further directs USAID
to continue consulting with the Committees on Appropriations on
implementation of the Nita M. Lowey Middle East Partnership for
Peace Act of 2020.
Jordan.--The Committee notes the importance of the
relationship with the Kingdom of Jordan and the strong
leadership that Jordan continues to play in advancing peace and
stability in the region. The Committee is supportive of the
historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the
governments of the United States and Jordan and expects all
parties to work consistently towards its success. The Secretary
of State and USAID Administrator shall continue to support
critical economic reforms by providing budget support and
incentive funds to help ensure Jordan's long-term stability,
strengthen Jordan's borders with Iraq and Syria, and help
mitigate the impact of hosting large numbers of refugees.
Not later than 180 days after enactment of this Act, and
every 90 days thereafter, the Secretary of State and USAID
Administrator shall update the Committees on Appropriations on
efforts to support the Government of Jordan in making
sustainable economic reforms, including in the water and public
sectors, on progress being made to meet negotiated benchmarks
toward reforms agreed upon between the United States and the
Government of Jordan, and the budget support being provided per
the new MOU.
Lebanon.--Subsection (f) continues language from the prior
year. The Committee supports increasing assistance for Lebanon
above the prior fiscal year, given the rising economic
challenges facing Lebanon and the country's ongoing political
crises and instability. The Committee urges the Secretary of
State and USAID Administrator to continue providing
humanitarian assistance, including through local NGOs, to help
communities impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and the global
food security crisis. The Committee notes the important and
enduring partnerships with institutions of higher education in
Lebanon and directs the Secretary of State and USAID
Administrator to consult with the Committees on Appropriations
on funding for such institutions.
Libya.--Subsection (g) includes language from the prior
year. The Committee recommends that assistance for Libya be
made available to support a Libyan-led, inclusive, and
negotiated political solution to the conflict, facilitated
through the UN, and in full compliance with the Libyan
ceasefire agreement. The Committee directs the Secretary of
State and USAID Administrator to strengthen the Libyan
political process to help ensure free, fair, and credible
elections as well as ongoing efforts to remove foreign forces
and mercenaries from Libya.
Prior to the initial obligation of funds made available by
this Act for assistance for Libya, the Secretary of State shall
certify and report to the Committees on Appropriations that all
practicable steps have been taken to ensure that mechanisms are
in place for monitoring, oversight, and control of such funds.
Morocco.--Subsection (h) continues language from the prior
year. Within the amount provided for Morocco, the Committee
recommendation includes not less than $10,000,000 under
Economic Support Fund, not less than $10,000,000 under
Development Assistance, and $10,000,000 under Foreign Military
Financing Program.
The Committee recognizes the longstanding partnership
between the United States and the Kingdom of Morocco based on
mutual interests of stability, tolerance, and economic
prosperity in the Middle East and Africa. The Committee
encourages the diversification of the US-Morocco strategic
partnership in order to strengthen trilateral cooperation with
countries of the Sahel and West Africa to promote peace and
security in this region.
Saudi Arabia.--Subsection (i) includes language carried in
the prior year prohibiting the Government of Saudi Arabia from
receiving funds under International Military Education and
Training.
Syria.--Pursuant to subsection (j)(1), funds appropriated
or otherwise made available by this Act may be made available
for non-lethal stabilization assistance for Syria, including
emergency medical and rescue response and chemical weapons use
investigations.
Prior to the initial obligation of any funds appropriated
by this Act for assistance for Syria, the Secretary of State
shall take all practicable steps to ensure that mechanisms are
in place for monitoring, oversight, and control of such
assistance inside Syria.
The Committee remains deeply concerned by the rapidly
deteriorating food security crisis in Syria, which makes the UN
cross-border assistance critical to the well-being of civilians
who rely on aid to survive. The Committee continues to support
United States efforts to lead the humanitarian response and
urges the Administration to redouble its efforts in the UN
Security Council to reauthorize existing UN cross-border access
and reinstate other UN border crossings to enable the delivery
of life-saving aid.
The Committee encourages the Secretary of State and USAID
Administrator to utilize humanitarian and stabilization funds
for Syrian local and diaspora NGOs as well as international
NGOs to help implement early recovery and resilience activities
alongside increased support for lifesaving interventions in
Syria. The Committee notes that the equitable distribution of
stabilization assistance in northeast Syria is critical to
addressing serious economic challenges and building capacity of
trusted partners to help ensure that the region remains stable
and secure.
The Committee is concerned about smuggling, arms trading,
drug trafficking, and other illicit activities that further
destabilize Syria, provide illicit revenue to the regime of
Bashar al-Assad, and pose a significant threat to U.S. allies
and partners in the region. The Committee supports the
development of a strategy to guide appropriate action against
narcotics production and trafficking in Syria, particularly
involving the Syrian-produced drug known as Captagon and other
illegal amphetamines.
Tunisia.--Subsection (k) includes language carried in the
prior year and notes that a stable and viable democratic
Tunisia is critical to regional security. The Committee
recommends that assistance be made available to support the
Tunisian people in holding free and fair elections and
strengthening democratic governance, fighting corruption,
promoting economic growth, empowering the private sector, and
maintaining regional security. Additionally, the Committee
directs the Secretary of State to raise concerns both publicly
and privately with the Government of Tunisia on democratic
backsliding and coordinate with the international community on
an appropriate response to such action.
In addition to the reporting requirement pursuant to
subsection (k)(3), and prior to the obligation of assistance
for Tunisia under Foreign Military Financing Program and
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement, the
Secretary of State shall determine and report to the
appropriate congressional committees whether the Government of
Tunisia has: (1) ceased the use of military courts to try
politicians, journalists, or other civilians; (2) removed
military personnel and assets from outside of the Tunisian
Parliament building; (3) ceased the use of excessive force
against protesters and respect freedom of assembly; and (4)
ceased the repression of fundamental rights of civilians and
political and media figures to criticize the government,
security forces, and public officials.
UN Political Process on Western Sahara.--The Secretary of
State shall continue to support a United Nations-led political
process that achieves a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable
political solution in accordance with relevant United Nations
Security Council resolutions.
West Bank and Gaza.--Subsection (l) includes similar
language carried in the prior year regarding assistance for the
West Bank and Gaza.
Assistance to the Palestinians.--The Committee
recommendation includes $225,000,000 under Economic Support
Fund for humanitarian and development assistance for the
Palestinian people in the West Bank and Gaza and believes such
assistance is critically needed to help provide for basic
needs, such as food, water, health, shelter, protection,
education, and livelihoods; to promote peace and development;
and to support the East Jerusalem Hospital Network. The
Committee urges the Secretary of State to continue supporting--
with United States assistance--Palestinian economic
development, security coordination, and Israeli-Palestinian
reconciliation, which are the underpinnings to any sustainable
two-state solution. The Committee directs the Secretary of
State to promptly inform the Committees on Appropriations of
any alleged incident involving any United States assistance
used in such a way that adversely affects or jeopardizes these
objectives.
Yemen.--The Committee recommends funds under title III and
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related Programs
for health, humanitarian, and stabilization efforts for Yemen,
including demining operations.
Reports
Bahrain.--Not later than 60 days after enactment of this
Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the
Committees on Appropriations detailing U.S. government actions
taken to ensure that parliamentary elections in Bahrain are
conducted according to international standards and respect the
free will of the people of Bahrain.
Subsection (a)--Egypt
Governance and human rights.--The certification and report
required by section 7041(a)(3)(A) shall include whether the
Government of Egypt is taking, on a sustained and effective
basis, steps to: (i) strengthen the rule of law, democratic
institutions, and human rights in Egypt, including to protect
religious minorities and the rights of women, which are in
addition to steps taken during the previous calendar year for
such purposes; (ii) implement reforms that protect freedoms of
expression, association, and peaceful assembly, including the
ability of civil society organizations, human rights defenders,
and the media to function without interference; (iii) hold
Egyptian security forces accountable, including officers
credibly alleged to have violated human rights; (iv)
investigate and prosecute cases of extrajudicial killings and
forced disappearances; and (v) provide regular access for
United States officials to monitor such assistance in areas
where the assistance is used.
Political prisoners and American citizens.--The Committee
notes with concern the treatment of human rights defenders and
political prisoners held in Egypt. Not later than 45 days after
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a
report to the appropriate congressional committees on the
treatment and conditions of political prisoners in Egyptian
custody as well as the steps taken to secure the release of
wrongfully detailed American citizens from Egypt and to prevent
the intimidation or harassment of Americans citizens.
Religious freedom.--Not later than 90 days after enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of State shall update the report
required under this heading in House Report 117-84.
Subsection (b)--Iran
Sanctions.--Pursuant to subsection (b)(2), not later than
180 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State
shall report on Iran's compliance with the Joint Comprehensive
Plan of Action (JCPOA) as well as on the status of United
States bilateral sanctions on Iran, the re-imposition and
renewed enforcement of secondary sanctions, and the impact such
sanctions have had on Iran's destabilizing activities
throughout the Middle East. Such report shall also include any
entities involved in providing significant support for the
development of a ballistic missile by the Government of Iran,
including shipping and financing, and note whether such
entities are currently under United States sanctions. The
report shall be submitted in an unclassified form and contain a
classified annex if necessary.
Subsection (c)--Iraq
Religious minorities.--The Committee remains concerned for
ethnic and religious minorities in Iraq and directs the
Secretary of State to provide a report to the Committees on
Appropriations, not later than 45 days after enactment of this
Act, on the status of humanitarian assistance for vulnerable
and persecuted religious minorities. Such report shall include
information regarding the status of restoring residential
services such as water, electricity, sewage, health, and
education.
Subsection (f)--Lebanon
Lebanon report.--The Committee continues to be concerned
about Hezbollah's growing influence within the Government of
Lebanon. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to submit
a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later than 45
days after enactment of this Act, on: (1) the extent of
Hezbollah's influence within such government, including the
LAF; (2) what steps are being taken to prevent the use of
Lebanon as a safe haven for terrorist groups; (3) the
implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution
1701; (4) the prevention of building of cross-border tunnels
into Israel and weapons factories inside Lebanon; and (5) the
risks associated with the reported development of precision
guided missiles by Hezbollah.
Subsection (l)--West Bank and Gaza
Security report.--The reporting requirements in section
1404 of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008 (Public Law
110-252) shall apply to funds made available by this Act,
including a description of modifications, if any, to the
security strategy of the Palestinian Authority.
Other reports
Incitement report.--Not later than 90 days after enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to
the appropriate congressional committees detailing steps taken
by the Palestinian Authority to counter terrorism and
incitement of violence against Israelis and to promote peace
and coexistence with Israel. The report shall also include
efforts by the Government of Israel to counter incitement of
violence against Palestinian civilians and promote peace and
coexistence with Palestinians.
United States Consulate in Jerusalem.--The Committee
recommendation includes sufficient funds under Embassy
Security, Construction, and Maintenance to support the
Administration's plan to reopen the United States Consulate in
Jerusalem. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to
submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later
than 45 days after enactment of this Act, detailing the steps
necessary to reopen the United States Consulate in Jerusalem, a
timeline for restoring staffing levels within the Consulate,
and the extent to which such a diplomatic mission complements
the broader strategy of improving relations with the
Palestinian people.
Section 7042 (Africa)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding assistance for Africa.
The Committee acknowledges that global development,
diplomacy, and defense are pertinent to protecting United
States national security and advancing United States policy
toward Africa and notes the important role the countries of
Africa play with respect to global security and stability. The
Committee also recognizes that the underlying causes of
instability and conflict in the region, including extreme
poverty, poor health, food insecurity, climate change, and
environmental degradation, are critical areas for United States
involvement through foreign assistance. The Secretary of State
should prioritize issues affecting the future of these
countries and ensure adequate diplomatic and assistance
resources are made available to support the continent.
The Committee encourages the Secretary of State to continue
to work with the leaders of Egypt, Ethiopia, and Sudan to
address concerns over water security and development needs. The
Committee believes substantive negotiations, such as under the
leadership of the African Union, are the only path to resolving
the dispute over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
Africa counterterrorism.--The Committee continues to
support African counterterrorism initiatives such as the
Partnership for Regional East Africa Counterterrorism and the
Trans-Sahara Counterterrorism Partnership (TSCTP). The
Committee recommends an increase over the fiscal year 2022
enacted level for TSCTP.
Cameroon.--The Committee remains concerned about gross
violations of human rights committed against Cameroonian
citizens, including displaced people in the Anglophone regions
of Cameroon, and urges the Secretary of State to encourage the
Government of Cameroon to support a genuinely inclusive
political dialogue. The Secretary of State shall ensure that
any security assistance from the United States is not used in
the perpetration of human rights abuses and shall consult with
the Committees on Appropriations on the uses of funds made
available by this Act for Cameroon.
Central African Republic.--The Committee is concerned about
widespread intercommunal tensions in the Central African
Republic that have led to violence, conflict, and humanitarian
suffering. The Committee supports additional funding to support
peacebuilding, reconciliation, food security, democracy, and
livelihoods programming to help civilians rebuild their lives,
communities, and local economies.
Counter Lord's Resistance Army.--The Committee directs the
Department of State to make funds available for programs and
activities in areas affected by the Lord's Resistance Army
(LRA) consistent with the goals of the Lord's Resistance Army
Disarmament and Northern Uganda Recovery Act of 2009 (Public
Law 111-172). In addition, these funds may be used to expand
programs to areas neighboring LRA-affected regions threatened
by other illicit armed groups to address gaps in
telecommunications, early warning systems, and psychosocial
assistance.
Ethiopia.--The Committee remains deeply concerned about the
humanitarian impacts of the conflict in Ethiopia on civilian
populations and notes that conditions have been exacerbated by
increasing food and fertilizer prices resulting from the war in
Ukraine. The Committee supports efforts to facilitate sustained
humanitarian access, address human rights abuses and
accountability, and help secure an immediate and lasting peace
for the country.
Lake Chad Basin.--Funds made available for Cameroon, Chad,
Niger, and Nigeria should support (1) democracy, development,
and health programs; (2) assistance for individuals targeted by
foreign terrorist and other extremist organizations, including
Boko Haram; (3) assistance for individuals displaced by violent
conflict; and (4) counterterrorism programs.
Malawi.--The Committee expects higher education investments
in Malawi to increase access to higher education, governance,
and economic growth in Malawi. USAID is encouraged to design a
comprehensive higher education program to address job growth
and the need for a skilled workforce, specifically in the
agriculture sector. The program should provide training and
livelihood opportunities to students graduating from secondary
school and enrolling in post-secondary education. Self-
sustaining business models should be encouraged.
Power Africa.--The Committee supports Power Africa's goal
to double access to electricity in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.
The Committee recommendation includes increased funding for the
initiative and encourages the prioritization of health facility
electrification, including through solar power, to increase
access, improve operations, and reduce costs.
Prosper Africa.--The Committee supports efforts to assist
African Union member states meet the objectives in the African
Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and the AfCFTA
Secretariat, including the protection of intellectual property
rights, digitization of border crossings, development of local
capital markets, promotion of regional economic integration,
and expansion of small and medium-sized enterprises. The
Committee encourages the Secretary of State and relevant
federal agencies, including the Office of the U.S. Trade
Representative, the U.S. International Development Finance
Corporation, and USAID, to work closely with U.S. private
corporations and business associations to assist with requested
capital investments and technical assistance in key industries
such as telecommunications and technology, transportation and
logistics, and customs and border control to help African
nations develop their own capacities for intracontinental
trade.
Rwanda.--In determining whether to provide assistance to
the Government of Rwanda, the Secretary of State shall
prioritize whether such government is respecting freedom of
expression and association, the right of due process,
transparency and fairness in judicial and electoral processes,
and the humane treatment of prisoners.
Sahel.--The Committee notes with concern the increasing
terrorist attacks and violence against civilians in the Sahel
region. Funds made available for Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso
should also prioritize efforts to counter violent extremism;
integrate community peacebuilding programs, including through
inter-faith dialogue; improve health outcomes and foster
economic opportunity and community resilience.The Committee
believes that USAID and other international donors must remain
focused on long-term development and governance needs of
countries in the Sahel in addition to addressing the current
humanitarian and security crisis.
South Sudan.--Funds made available to support civil society
organizations in South Sudan should prioritize organizations
that advocate for an end to ethnic violence, displacement, and
government corruption, and in support of conditions conducive
to holding free and fair elections, strengthening democratic
institutions, and economic development that is equitable and
reaches all, including the most marginalized.
The Committee supports implementing wildlife conservation
programs in Boma and Badingilo National Parks and the wildlife
migration corridors within the larger Boma-Badingilo Landscape
to build capacity for community conservancies to continue to
protect wildlife in South Sudan.
Reports
Democratic Republic of the Congo.--The Committee is
concerned by the ongoing violence and instability in the
eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
affecting civilian and minority communities, including the
Banyamulenge. Not later than 90 days after enactment of this
Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the
Committees on Appropriations on efforts to protect minority
communities in the DRC as well as efforts to address the
structural causes of the ongoing violence, including combating
illegal trafficking of natural resources and strengthening
international institutions. The report shall also describe
humanitarian assistance provided and any sanctions levied
against responsible individuals.
Ethiopia.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State to
submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees,
not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, on the
extent to which the Government of Ethiopia and other parties to
the conflict--(A) have ceased offensive military operations;
(B) have taken credible steps toward a political dialogue to
end the conflict; (C) are providing unimpeded access to
humanitarian assistance; (D) are taking effective steps to
protect human rights and comply with international humanitarian
law and international refugee law; and (E) are cooperating with
independent investigations of gross violations of human rights.
Prosper Africa.--The Committee directs the USAID
Administrator, in consultation with other relevant Federal
agencies, to submit a report to the Committees on
Appropriations, not later than 60 days after enactment of this
Act, on the achievements of Prosper Africa in the prior fiscal
year and metric-based goals to be achieved in fiscal year 2023.
Section 7043 (East Asia and the Pacific)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
containing limitations, directives on assistance, and
authorities for diplomatic and development activities and
programs in East Asia and the Pacific.
Burma.--Pursuant to subsection (a)(1)(A), the Committee
directs that funds be made available for assistance for Burma
notwithstanding any other provision of law, except section 7008
of this Act. Assistance is provided to address the ongoing
humanitarian and development crisis in Burma. The Committee
continues to condemn the military coup in Burma and does not
provide any assistance to the Tatmadaw, State Administration
Council, or entities affiliated with the military junta.
Pursuant to subsection (a)(1)(B), the Committee directs
that funds shall be made available for programs supporting: (1)
conflict mitigation and stabilization; (2) democracy, human
rights, civil society, independent media, and rule of law (3)
health; (4) education; (5) rural economic development and
agriculture; and (6) humanitarian assistance.
The Committee expects that any new programs and activities
initiated in fiscal year 2022 in Burma shall be subject to
prior consultation with the appropriate congressional
committees.
The Committee urges the Secretary of State to provide
robust diplomatic engagement and assistance for refugees and
other displaced people from Burma, including those who have
fled violence as a result of the military coup, ethnic
cleansing, and other attacks.
The Committee encourages funding at not less than prior
year levels in support of democratic governance activities that
engage the non-military aligned and democratically elected
members of Parliament, the National Unity Government, and civil
society organizations in a way that builds trust and
cooperation among ethnic groups and communities. Such
activities should include building capacity and promoting
participation and inclusion in elections and political and
democratic processes.
Cambodia.--The Committee recommendation includes language
modified from the prior year containing directives on
assistance and a certification on providing assistance to the
Government of Cambodia.
Pursuant to subsection (b)(1)(A), the Committee directs
that none of the funds made available by this Act that are made
available for assistance for the Government of Cambodia may be
obligated or expended unless the Secretary of State certifies
and reports to the Committees on Appropriations that such
Government is taking effective steps to: (1) strengthen
regional security and stability, particularly regarding
territorial disputes in the South China Sea and the enforcement
of international sanctions with respect to North Korea; (2)
assert its sovereignty against interference by the People's
Republic of China, including by verifiably maintaining the
neutrality of Ream Naval Base, other military installations in
Cambodia, and dual use facilities such as the Dara Sakor
development project; (3) cease violence, threats, and
harassment against civil society and the political opposition
in Cambodia and dismiss any politically motivated criminal
charges against critics of the government; and (4) respect the
rights, freedoms, and responsibilities enshrined in the
Constitution of the Kingdom of Cambodia as enacted in 1993.
The Committee directs that none of the funds made available
by this Act be used to negotiate or enter into an agreement
with the Kingdom of Cambodia for the repatriation of any
citizen, former citizen, or national of Cambodia who arrived in
the United States before March 22, 2022.
Indo-Pacific Strategy and the Countering PRC Influence
Fund.--The Committee recommendation includes funding for the
Countering PRC Influence Fund to counter the strategic
influence of the People's Republic of China.
Funds for the Countering PRC Influence Fund are allocated
according to the following table and subject to 7019 of this
Act:
COUNTERING PRC INFLUENCE FUND
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Development Assistance.............................. $100,000
Economic Support Fund............................... 105,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement. 70,000
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 25,000
Related Programs...................................
Foreign Military Financing Program.................. 50,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pursuant to subsection (c)(2), the uses of the Countering
PRC Influence Fund should be allocated to activities that
provide the highest strategic impact to counter PRC influence
globally. The Secretary of State in coordination with the USAID
Administrator should develop a strategic impact measurement
system that assesses PRC influence globally and measures the
strategic impact of United States government involvement in
such country by sector and activity. Such system should be used
to help prioritize and guide the allocation and obligation of
funds from the Countering PRC Influence Fund. The Committee
directs the Secretary of State to provide a briefing to the
appropriate congressional committees, not later than 60 days
after enactment of this Act, detailing the framework and
processes for administering the Countering PRC Influence Fund.
The Committee urges the State Department, USAID, and the
DFC to focus on economic development projects that help
countries counter economic coercion and mitigate
vulnerabilities stemming from using Huawei equipment and
infrastructure.
Japan.--The Committee supports and encourages continued
regional partnership between the United States Government with
Japan and allies in the region in pursuing policies that
enhance stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Laos.--The Committee directs that none of the funds made
available by this Act be used to negotiate or enter into an
agreement with the Government of Laos for the repatriation of
any citizen, former citizen, national, or former national of
Laos who arrived in the United States before the date of
enactment of this Act.
The Committee provides funds under Development Assistance
to combat trafficking in persons in Laos and encourages USAID
to address vulnerability to trafficking along the northern
border.
Mekong-U.S. Partnership.--The Committee includes not less
than $12,000,000 for the Mekong-U.S. Partnership.
North Korea.--The Committee directs that the Secretary of
State shall report to the appropriate congressional committees
if the Secretary has credible information that a government
receiving assistance by this Act is currently contributing
materially to the malicious cyber-intrusion capabilities of the
Government of North Korea.
The Committee urges the Office of North Korean Human
Rights, in consultation with Korean American community
organizations, to identify Korean Americans who wish to be
reunited with their family in North Korea in anticipation of
future reunions.
Pacific Islands.--The Committee recommendation includes
funds under title III to enhance engagement with Pacific
Islands nations and supports increased investment in the region
to improve health outcomes, strengthen resilience in
communities against malign influences, promote development and
good governance, and support economic growth.
The Committee directs the USAID Administrator to provide a
briefing to the appropriate congressional committees, not later
than 60 days after enactment of this Act, on USAID's strategy
to promote the development of civil society in the Pacific
Islands for the purpose of strengthening independent media and
press freedom; empowering citizens to freely organize and
communicate; strengthening rule of law and increasing
government accountability; and promoting democratic political
culture. The briefing shall also include the impact of foreign
investment on media in the Pacific Islands, governmental
restrictions on freedom of expression, and efforts by foreign
media actors to interfere with local media.
The Committee recommendation includes not less than
$4,000,000 for trade capacity building activities to improve
the enabling environment for trade and investment in the
Pacific Islands.
The Committee recommendation includes not less than
$20,000,000 for efforts to bolster climate resilient
development and climate mitigation and adaptation efforts in
the Pacific Islands.
The Committee encourages the Department of State, in
coordination with the Department of Defense, to support and
address shared security challenges, including on fragility and
development, in the Pacific Islands.
People's Republic of China.--The Committee is concerned
about threats to the cultural and linguistic heritage of ethnic
and other minority communities in the PRC and directs the
Secretary of State to brief the appropriate congressional
committees on how the Department is assisting such communities
to preserve their cultural and ethnic heritage.
The Committee supports the Energy Resource Governance
Initiative in addressing the vulnerabilities that enable the
PRC to dominate the rare earth mineral supply chains and
threaten the national security interests of the United States
and our allies.
Philippines.--Pursuant subsection (g), none of the funds
appropriated by this Act may be made available for
counternarcotics assistance for the Philippines, with certain
exceptions.
The Committee continues to direct the Department of State
to strictly monitor United States assistance, including funding
provided under Foreign Military Financing Program and
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement, made
available for the Philippines with respect to human rights,
abuses or violence against journalists or human rights
activists, and the accountability and professionalism of
security forces personnel.
The Committee provides funds under title III of this Act
for USAID to continue to support the national and community-
based drug treatment and demand reduction program implemented
by the Philippine Department of Health and local entities. Such
funds should be made available on a cost-matching basis to the
maximum extent practicable.
The Committee directs the Secretary of State to provide a
briefing to the appropriate congressional committees, not later
than 60 days after enactment of this Act, on how the Department
of State is coordinating with the Department of the Treasury to
jointly implement Global Magnitsky sanctions on foreign
individuals for direct or indirect involvement in significant
corruption or gross violations of human rights in the
Philippines, as appropriate.
South Korea.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State
to brief the Committees on Appropriations on efforts to
harmonize export control regimes with South Korea and provide
recommendations to better protect strategic commodities and
technical data from foreign exploitation.
The Committee is concerned about the abolishment of the
South Korean Ministry of Equality and Family and urges the
Secretary of State to remain actively engaged with efforts to
advance women's empowerment and gender equality in the country.
The Committee encourages the State Department to expand the
trilateral relationship with South Korea and Japan.
Tibet.--Funds provided under subsection (h)(3) shall be the
responsibility of the Assistant Secretary of State for
Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor in coordination with the
United States Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues.
Vietnam.--The Committee directs that no funds made
available by this Act be used to negotiate or enter into an
agreement with the Government of Vietnam for the repatriation
of any citizen, former citizen, or national of Vietnam who
arrived in the United States before July 12, 1995.
The Committee recommendation includes $9,000,000 under
title III for the Vietnam Education Foundation Act of 2000.
Reports
Burma.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State to
submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later
than 180 days after enactment of this Act, detailing the steps
taken by the United States government to provide cross-border
humanitarian assistance to populations in need in Burma and
initiatives to strengthen the financial and technical capacity
of civil society organizations channeling such cross-border
humanitarian assistance.
Indo-Pacific.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State
to submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees,
not later than 180 days after enactment of this Act, assessing
resource levels necessary to adequately support maritime
security and enhance maritime awareness for certain countries
in the Indo-Pacific region. The Secretary shall consult with
the appropriate congressional committees on the selection of
countries prior to submitting such report.
Trade Capacity-Building in the Pacific Islands.--The
Committee directs the Secretary of State, in coordination with
the USAID Administrator, MCC CEO, DFC CEO, and USTDA Director,
to develop and submit a trade capacity-building strategy for
the Pacific Islands to the appropriate congressional committees
not later than 120 days after enactment of this Act. Such
strategy should include an assessment of legal, economic,
governance, and infrastructure impediments to increased United
States investment in the Pacific Islands and include ways to
develop human and institutional capacity and infrastructure
across multiple economic sectors.
Transnational Crime in the Pacific Islands.--The Committee
directs the Secretary of State to submit a report to the
appropriate congressional committees, not later than 60 days
after enactment of this Act, on the progress of each country of
the Pacific Islands towards ratifying and implementing
international legal conventions related to transnational crime
such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered
Species of Wildlife Fauna and Flora; the Agreement on Port
State Measures; and relevant protocols supplementing the United
Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime, such
as the Protocol to Prevent, Suppress, and Punish Trafficking in
Persons, Especially Women and Children; and the Protocol
Against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea, and Air. Such
report should also include the United States' plans for
assisting those countries that have yet to fully ratify such
conventions.
Debt Trap Diplomacy.--Not later than 45 days after
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall update the
report required under this heading in division K of H.R. 2471--
Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022 (Public Law 117-103).
Humanitarian Needs.--The Committee directs the Secretary of
State, in consultation with the USAID Administrator, to submit
a report to appropriate congressional committees, not later
than 120 days after enactment of this Act, on a strategy to
address the humanitarian needs of persons who have fled
persecution in countries in which the Secretary has made a
genocide determination, with a particular focus on the
psychosocial needs of those who have suffered trauma associated
with acts related to genocide and crimes against humanity.
Rare Earth Minerals.--The Committee directs the Secretary
of State to submit a report to the appropriate congressional
committees, not later than 120 days after enactment of this
Act, on steps taken to address the national security threat
posed by the PRC control of an estimated two thirds of the
global supply of rare earth minerals. The report shall include:
(1) a description of the extent to which the United States has
engaged with the other countries of the Quadrilateral Security
Dialogue and in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa to
promote market-oriented policies, shared investment and
development of rare earth minerals; and (2) a description of
steps planned to be taken to produce a more reliable and secure
global supply chain of such minerals.
Philippines.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State
to submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not
later than 60 days after enactment of this Act, assessing the
extent to which the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the
Philippines National Police are respecting human rights and the
rule of law.
Section 7044 (South and Central Asia)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
containing limitations, directives, and authorities for
diplomatic and development activities and programs in South and
Central Asia and for regional programs.
Afghanistan.--The Committee continues to be concerned about
Afghans and their families who have provided valuable service
to the United States and are facing threats against them and
their families due to such service. The Committee strongly
supports the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program
established in the Afghan Allies Protection Act of 2009 (8
U.S.C. 1101 note) to provide a visa pathway for Afghan
nationals who meet the requirements described in the Act. The
Committee has been pleased in recent years to extend the SIV
program with additional visas for Afghan nationals facing
danger as a result of their work with the U.S. government in
Afghanistan. The Committee is concerned, however, about the
backlog and delays of current applications that continue to
hamper the program and expects the Department of State to
eliminate processing backlogs and expedite adjudication of
Afghan SIV cases.
The Committee strongly supports efforts to ensure women and
girls in Afghanistan have access to education and encourages
USAID to consider the feasibility of supporting methods of
online education for girls in Afghanistan who would otherwise
be unable or severely limited in their ability to attend
school.
The Committee supports continued funding for the American
University of Afghanistan (AUAF), which is providing online
education for Afghan students and educational opportunities in
third countries for such students in Qatar, Iraq, and Central
Asia, and directs the Secretary of State and USAID
Administrator to consult with the Committees on Appropriations
not later than 15 days after enactment of this Act on plans to
support AUAF.
Bangladesh.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State
and USAID Administrator to continue to prioritize humanitarian
assistance to help displaced Rohingya who have fled from Burma
to Bangladesh. Such assistance should include improving
cooperation with host communities in Bangladesh. The Committee
continues to be concerned by the forced relocation of Rohingya
to the island of Bhasan Char.
The Committee directs that funds made available by this Act
for assistance for Bangladesh support programs to improve labor
conditions including by strengthening the capacity of
independent workers organizations in readymade garment, shrimp,
and fish industries and to support non-governmental
organizations that have a history of working with independent
labor unions on labor rights advocacy related to these sectors.
USAID should consult with the United States Department of
State, the International Labor Affairs Bureau in the United
States Department of Labor, and the Office of the United States
Trade Representative prior to allocating these funds. The
Committee directs the USAID Administrator to consult with the
Committees on Appropriations prior to making any changes to
labor programs in Bangladesh.
India.--The Committee is concerned with the deterioration
of human rights and religious freedom in the Kashmir region of
India including journalistic freedom and reports of the jailing
of journalists and political dissidents. The Committee directs
the Secretary of State to continue to report on these issues in
the State Department's annual Country Reports on Human Rights
Practices.
Pakistan.--The Committee supports funding for Pakistan for
democracy and gender programs consistent with the prior year
level.
The Committee continues to be concerned with court rulings
regarding child marriage in Pakistan that violate international
human rights standards. The Secretary of State should urge the
government of Pakistan to take steps to end child marriage
consistent with international norms.
Reports
Afghanistan.--The Committee recommendation includes
additional support for the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV)
program and directs the Secretary of State to submit a report,
not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, to the
Committees on Appropriations on the status of such program and
the specific actions taken to provide additional personnel,
operational, and technical support to eliminate processing
backlogs and expedite the adjudication of Afghan Special
Immigrant Visa cases including the National Visa Center (NVC)
and the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (ASIV) Unit and the
Department's progress on meeting the conditions as described in
section 7076(b) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations,
and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2019.
Pakistan.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State to
submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later
than 90 days after enactment of this Act, on the status of Dr.
Shakil Afridi and the actions the United States Government has
taken to try to secure his release from prison and ensure that
he has been cleared of all charges related to the assistance
provided in locating Osama bin Laden.
Sri Lanka.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State to
submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later
than 90 days after enactment of this Act, with a classified
annex if necessary, on: (1) the Government of Sri Lanka's
compliance with United Nations Human Rights Council resolutions
including Resolution 46/1, adopted on March 23, 2021; (2) the
status of security reforms in Sri Lanka including an update on
the report required under this heading in Senate Report 116-126
in the manner described; (3) the involvement of Sri Lankan
police and military officers, of whatever rank, who have been
involved in ordering, condoning, carrying out, or covering up
crimes of arbitrary and incommunicado detention, torture, and
extortion of Tamils; and (4) the involvement of Sri Lankan
officials, of whatever rank, in significant acts of corruption.
Section 7045 (Latin America and the Caribbean)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding programs and funding for countries in Latin America
and the Caribbean.
Central America.--Subsection (a)(1) directs that funds
appropriated under titles III and IV of this Act be made
available for assistance for Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador,
Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama, including to
implement the U.S. Strategy for Addressing the Root Causes of
Migration in Central America and through the Central America
Regional Security Initiative. Such assistance shall be
prioritized for programs that address factors that contribute
to irregular migration, including violence, poverty, and
corruption, and promote economic growth that is equitable and
reaches all, including the most marginalized.
Funds for certain assistance for Central America are
allocated according to the following table:
SELECTED ASSISTANCE FOR CENTRAL AMERICA
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account/Program Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Development Assistance:
Central America Youth Empowerment Program........ $50,000
Honduras......................................... 126,650
El Salvador......................................
National Commission for the Search of Persons [1,000]
Disappeared in the Context of the Armed Conflict
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement:
Central America Pilot Program to Protect 2,500
Prosecutors, Judges, and Journalists............
Central America Regional Security Initiative.....
Costa Rica....................................... [32,500]
International Military Education and Training:
Costa Rica....................................... 725
Foreign Military Financing Program:
Costa Rica....................................... 7,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Committee supports the implementation of the United
States Strategy for Addressing the Root Causes of Migration in
Central America and recognizes that the systemic change
envisioned will take time to achieve. Funds made available
under Development Assistance and Economic Support Fund for
assistance for Central America shall include support for
programs that promote the opportunity and desire to remain in
one's community of origin, including for improving access to
basic health, educational services, and to stable and formal
jobs, especially for youth. Funds also should be available for
enhancing access to, and management of, fertile land and the
ability to adapt to climate change to improve agricultural
productivity.
Certification requirement.--Subsection (a)(2)(A) withholds
60 percent of funds made available pursuant to paragraph (1)
under Economic Support Fund and title IV for assistance for the
central governments of such countries pending a certification
by the Secretary of State that such government is--
(i) combating corruption and impunity, including
investigating and prosecuting government officials,
military personnel, and civilian police officers
credibly alleged to be corrupt;
(ii) implementing reforms, policies, and programs to
strengthen the rule of law, including increasing the
transparency of public institutions, strengthening the
independence of judicial and electoral institutions,
and improving the transparency of political campaign
and political party financing;
(iii) protecting the rights of human rights
defenders, trade unionists, journalists, civil society
groups, opposition political parties, and the
independence of the media;
(iv) providing effective and accountable law
enforcement and security for its citizens, curtailing
the role of the military in public security, and
upholding due process of law;
(v) effectively implementing programs to reduce
violence against women and girls;
(vi) implementing policies to reduce poverty and
promote equitable economic growth and opportunity,
including the implementation of reforms to strengthen
educational systems, vocational training programs, and
programs for at-risk youth;
(vii) improving border security and combating human
smuggling and trafficking and countering the activities
of criminal gangs, drug traffickers, and transnational
criminal organizations;
(viii) informing its citizens of the dangers of the
journey to the southwest border; and
(ix) implementing policies that improve the
environment for foreign investment, including executing
tax reform in a transparent manner, ensuring effective
legal mechanisms for reimbursements of tax refunds owed
to United States businesses, and resolving disputes
involving the confiscation of real property of United
States entities.
In the event the Secretary of State is unable to make one
or more of the certifications required above, subsection
(a)(2)(B) permits the Secretary of State to reprogram such
assistance for civil society organizations in such country or
for assistance for other countries in Latin America and the
Caribbean, subject to the regular notification procedures of
the Committees on Appropriations.
Funds shall only be made available to entities of the
central governments that have demonstrated an effective
partnership with the United States government; no credible
allegations of corruption, including under section 7031(c) of
this Act; and compliance with relevant government-to-government
assistance requirements, including those referenced in section
7031(a)(1) of this Act.
The Committee is concerned by reports that United States
businesses operating in the Northern Triangle frequently
encounter barriers to expansion. In Guatemala and Honduras, it
is especially troubling that tax refunds that might otherwise
serve as working capital for reinvestment are held captive due
to the lack of effective legal mechanisms to both adjust
withholdings to minimize overpayment of tax or to issue timely
reimbursements. Such problems are not issues unique to the
Northern Triangle, but also occur in other Central American
countries and the Caribbean. The Committee directs the
Secretary of State to provide the Committees on Appropriations
with an update on steps taken by the Department of State to
work with local governments to promote a pro-investment
environment, including reducing or eliminating trade-related
barriers and facilitating tax refunds owed to U.S. businesses.
Combating corruption.--Pursuant to subsection (a)(1)(A)(i),
not less than $65,000,000 shall be for support of entities and
activities in Central America to: (1) combat crime, corruption,
and impunity; (2) protect and advance human rights; and (3)
hold partner governments accountable.
The Committee emphasizes that advancing the rule of law and
combating corruption must be priorities for United States
engagement in the countries of El Salvador, Guatemala, and
Honduras in order to help address root drivers of migration,
ensure accountability for United States assistance, and promote
effective regional partnerships. The Committee encourages the
State Department and USAID to use of all of their diplomatic
and development tools, as appropriate, to strengthen civil
society, increase the capacity of governments to hold corrupt
officials accountable, increase prosecutions of corrupt actors,
and strengthen the legal and regulatory framework to improve
the transparency of official actions and decision-making. The
State Department and USAID should use such funds to support
regional anti-corruption mechanisms that seek to coordinate and
collaborate on these efforts. If funding recipients are not
able to effectively carry out this work, the funding should be
redirected.
The Committee recommendation includes funds for support of
anti-corruption mechanisms, including UN-led mechanisms.
However, prior to providing such support, the Secretary of
State shall ensure such entity has sufficient authority,
autonomy, and legal mandate to carry out independent
investigations and support prosecutions against corrupt actors.
The Committee understands the Government of Honduras is
discussing with the UN the establishment of such a mechanism
and urges the Secretary of State to support such an anti-
corruption entity if it meets the above-mentioned criteria.
Within the funds made available pursuant to subsection
(a)(1), the Committee recommendation also includes assistance
for offices of Attorneys General, particularly for support of
special prosecutorial units dedicated to anticorruption, money
laundering, financial crimes, human rights crimes, asset
forfeitures, and criminal analysis, if the Secretary of State
determines such offices and units have the authority,
independence, and will to hold corrupt and illicit actors
accountable. Additionally, the Committee recommendation
includes $500,000 for the Guatemalan Human Rights Ombudsman's
Office (Procuraduria de los Derechos Humanos); and recommends
support for the Specialized Prosecutor's Unit against Networks
of Corruption (UFERCO) in Honduras, to the extent such entity
demonstrates the autonomy and capacity to assist in the fight
against corruption and impunity.
Within the funds provided for anti-corruption activities,
the Committee recommendation also includes assistance for civil
society organizations, particularly to support efforts to
increase government oversight and transparency; advance human
rights and anticorruption initiatives; protect journalists and
human rights defenders, and investigate, collect, and
disseminate public information on corrupt individuals and
activities.
The Committee recommendation includes $500,000 under
Diplomatic Programs for the Department of State's Bureau of
Economic and Business Affairs' Office of Economic Sanctions
Policy and Implementation to be used for increased staffing
focused on Central America.
Child protection and care.--In implementing the U.S.
Strategy for Addressing the Root Causes of Migration in Central
America, the Committee directs the USAID Administrator to
consult with child development experts to scale up successful
child-centered and child-sensitive approaches to programming
funding in line with the implementation of the APCCA strategy.
Disaster resilience.--The Committee recommendation includes
funding for USAID to work with Central American countries on
implementing programs to adapt to climate change, increase
resilience to natural disasters, and reduce post-disaster
migration surges.
Gender-based violence.--Pursuant to subsection
(a)(1)(A)(ii), the bill includes not less than $75,000,000 for
programs to combat gender-based violence, of which not less
than $20,000,000 should be made available for the Secretary of
State to enter into bilateral agreements known as Women and
Children Protection Compacts with the countries of El Salvador,
Honduras, and Guatemala, with the purpose of: (1) strengthening
the Compact Countries' criminal justice systems and civil
protection courts to protect women and children and serve
victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse
and neglect and hold perpetrators accountable; (2) securing,
creating, and sustaining safe communities, building on current
place-based approaches to prevent and deter violence against
women and children; (3) ensuring schools are safe, such as
aligning bus routes with school hours, and promoting the
prevention and early detection of gender-based and domestic
abuse within communities in the Compact Countries; and (4)
providing security within the region to families and
unaccompanied children fleeing domestic, gang, or drug
violence. Compacts should establish a multi-year plan for
achieving shared objectives articulated in Compacts, and should
also include--(1) identification of areas of highest incidence
of violence against women and children; (2) evaluation of women
and child victims' access to protection and justice; (3)
evaluation of justice system capacity to respond to reports of
femicide, sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse
and neglect and to hold perpetrators accountable; (4)
identification of measurable goals to protect women and
children to deter crimes against them that the Compact commits
to achieve during the term of the Compact; (5) indicators to
monitor and measure progress toward achieving these objectives,
including reductions in prevalence of femicide, sexual assault,
domestic violence, and child abuse and neglect; and (6)
provisions to ensure funds provided under the Compact are fully
auditable.
Honduras.--The Committee is encouraged by the positive
steps taken by the recently elected Government of Honduras to
address corruption, inequality, and poverty and urges the new
Government to strengthen support for the rule of law, advance
equity in its judicial and security sectors, and improve the
function and transparency of its institutions. The Committee
commends the Government for formally requesting discussions
with the UN on creating and independent commission to address
corruption and impunity and urges a quick conclusion of such
talks.
Locally led development.--The Committee supports USAID's
commitment to locally led development through the Centroamerica
Local initiative and efforts to work with countries and
partners to achieve locally sustainable results. Pursuant to
subsection (a)(1)(B) of this Act, not less than $100,000,000 of
the funds made available for assistance for Central America
should be made available for programs that support locally led
development.
Furthermore, the Committee directs the USAID Administrator
to develop a clear and consistent definition of ``local
entity'' and shall consult with the appropriate congressional
committees at least 30 days prior to finalizing such
definition.
Limitation on major infrastructure projects.--The Committee
directs that none of the funds appropriated by this Act that
are made available for assistance for Central America may be
used for assistance for major infrastructure plans, nor to
finance infrastructure or energy projects, that contribute to
environmental damage, violate labor laws, disregard community
land rights including indigenous land rights, or are opposed by
local residents.
Natural protected areas.--The Committee recognizes that a
large proportion of the Northern Triangle's international
borders are contained within, or contiguous with, natural
protected areas. The Committee notes in particular the
importance of the Maya Forest areas of Guatemala, Belize, and
Mexico and the Moskitia Forest region of Honduras. The
Committee recommendation includes funds to support the
comprehensive strategy to support activities to strengthen
security and governance in these areas, including funds for
support of scientific investigation, heritage conservation, law
enforcement, and sustainable tourism.
Nicaragua.--The Committee recommendation includes
$15,000,000 for assistance for Nicaragua for programs that
promote democracy and the rule of law. No funds are provided
for the central government of Nicaragua or for security
assistance under title IV of this Act.
Notification and spend plans.--The Committee recommendation
maintains the special notification and spend plan requirements
related to Central America and emphasizes the importance of
utilizing these tools to provide the appropriate congressional
committees with timely updates on United States assistance and
its relationship to: corresponding regional and country-
specific strategies; goals and objectives; performance
monitoring indicators and benchmarks; context indicators,
including obstacles and opportunities for growth; the results
of assessments and evaluations; and the role of other key
stakeholders including donors and counterpart governments.
Peace accord implementation.--The Committee recommendation
includes $1,000,000 for support of peace accord implementation
in El Salvador and Guatemala, including through coordination
with civil society groups.
Reintegration assistance.--The Committee recommendation
includes not less than $10,000,000 for programs that assist
with the reintegration of migrant children returning from the
United States to Northern Triangle countries. These programs
should include a range of services for children and families,
including education, job training and placement, case
management, health and mental health services, as well as
gender-focused services to address the unique needs of
returning girls and survivors of gender-based violence.
The Committee recognizes that severe problems confirming
the identity and background of migrants contributes to the
massive processing backlog. The Committee encourages the
Department of State to consult with the governments of El
Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras regarding backlogs and other
challenges at migrant processing facilities and to provide
support, as appropriate.
Research.--The Committee supports the launch of a
collaborative Central America Open Source Research Initiative
comprised of private sector leaders and university research
stakeholders from the United States and the Western Hemisphere,
focused on Central America, to provide the State Department and
other partner agencies with academic research capability that
fuses ground-level, open source political, economic, security,
social, health, energy and environmental, and traditional and
emerging media expertise with intra-governmental analysis.
Support for and protection of journalists.--The Committee
recommendation includes funding to support independent,
investigative journalists in Central America, to help collect
and disseminate high-quality, fact-based, and actionable
information for citizens and authorities to effectively fight
corruption. Additionally, the Committee notes that section
7032(i) of this Act directs not less than $40,000,000 for
programs to protect human rights defenders, including
journalists that advance international freedom of expression
and independent media. The Committee expects that a portion of
those funds will be made available for the protection of
journalists and independent media organizations under threat in
Central American countries.
Youth empowerment program.--The Committee recommendation
includes funding for the continuation of the Central America
Youth Empowerment Program (CAYEP) established pursuant to
section 7045(a)(1)(C) of the Department of State, Foreign
Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2022
(division K of Public Law 117-103). The Committee directs that
the spend plan on assistance for the countries of Central
America required by section 7062 of this Act shall detail the
proposed uses of funds for CAYEP.
Colombia.--The Committee notes that 2022 marks the 200th
anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States
and Colombia. The Committee acknowledges and appreciates this
longstanding partnership and recognizes the strategic
importance of Colombia. The Committee looks forward to the
continued partnership and to building on the progress made in
recent years with the adoption of the peace accord. The
Committee also commends the Government and people of Colombia
for their longstanding support of Venezuelan migrants.
Pursuant to subsection (b), not less than $487,375,000 of
the funds appropriated by this Act should be made available for
assistance for Colombia, of which not less than $40,000,000
shall be made available to enhance rural security in coca
producing municipalities and other municipalities with high
levels of illicit activities. Such funds are allocated
according to the following table and subject to section 7019 of
this Act:
COLOMBIA
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account/Program Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Development Assistance.............................. $95,000
Biodiversity.................................... 11,500
Economic Support Fund............................... 156,000
Afro-Colombian and indigenous communities....... 25,000
Human rights.................................... 15,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement. 175,000
Rule of Law and Human Rights.................... 36,000
Of which, Justice Sector Institutional [19,000]
Strengthening & Reform.........................
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 21,000
Related Programs...................................
International Military Education and Training....... 1,850
Foreign Military Financing Program.................. 38,525
-------------------
Total....................................... $487,375
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pursuant to subsection (b)(1), funds appropriated under
titles III and IV of this Act and made available for assistance
for Colombia shall be made available for programs and
activities that support the efforts of the Government of
Colombia to: (1) implement the Colombian peace agreement,
including through assistance for expanding the presence of
civilian institutions in rural areas and for vocational
training and reintegration programs for former combatants, and
to advance humanitarian agreements in conflict ridden areas to
protect civilians; (2) assist communities impacted by
significant refugee, internally displaced, or migrant
populations; (3) dismantle illegal armed groups and drug
trafficking organizations, including those with regional
connections; (4) assist farmers eradicating and replacing coca
as agreed to in the peace accord, including by creating
economic alternatives and livelihoods; (5) promote equitable
economic and social development in consultation with local
communities, including small farmers, women, and indigenous and
Afro-Colombian peoples, in areas affected by the conflict,
including by improving access through demining programs and by
land titling and supporting the return of land to displaced
persons; (6) strengthen and expand governance, the rule of law,
access to justice, and respect for human rights throughout
Colombia, particularly in former conflict areas; (7) enhance
rights-respecting security and stability in Colombia and the
region; and (8) provide protection to human rights defenders
and communities, in particular Afro-Colombian and indigenous
persons, facing high risk.
Economic and development assistance.--The Committee
recommendation includes a total of $251,000,000 under
Development Assistance and Economic Support Fund for assistance
for Colombia, which shall be apportioned directly to the USAID
Administrator. Within the total, not less than $3,000,000 shall
be for the Colombian Representative of the U.N. High
Commissioner for Human Rights to monitor human rights and
verify implementation of human rights provisions of the peace
accord; not less than $5,000,000 shall be for the United
Nations Political Mission in Colombia; not less than
$25,000,000 shall be for Afro-Colombian and indigenous
communities; and not less than $15,000,000 shall be for human
rights programming. Further, $500,000 should be provided to
support the National Unit to Search for Disappeared Persons and
$500,000 to support the Commission for the Clarification of
Truth, Coexistence, and Non-Repetition (Truth Commission)
established by the peace accord.
Funds should continue support for the Colombian
government's Victims Unit and Land Unit for Reparations and
Land Restitution. In addition, the Committee recommendation
includes not less than $500,000 shall be provided to the
independent Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP). Funds made
available pursuant to subsection (b)(1) should support civil
society entities that promote truth, justice, and
reconciliation; victims and advocacy for their rights; protect
human rights defenders; verify implementation of the accords;
and provide civic education for a culture of peace.
Comprehensive rural development should advance agrarian
chapters of the peace accord and guarantee free, prior, and
informed consent of communities.
Eradication programs.--The Committee directs the Secretary
of State to ensure that eradication programs supported by funds
appropriated by this Act are designed and executed in
compliance with any requirements of the Constitutional Court of
Colombia and within the framework and provisions of the peace
accord, including ensuring that basic needs of communities are
addressed, such as land titling, food security, and the
establishment of a lasting and responsive state presence in
coca-growing zones. Such programs shall also ensure the
protection of indigenous reserves and reservations; Afro-
Colombian collective territories; natural parks of Colombia,
whether national or regional; strategic ecosystems like
paramos, wetlands as defined by the Ramsar Convention, and
mangroves; population centers; settlements of populations; and
bodies of water.
Humanitarian demining.--The Committee recommendation
includes $21,000,000 for humanitarian demining efforts in
Colombia.
Narcotics control and law enforcement.--The Committee
recommendation includes $175,000,000 under International
Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement for assistance for
Colombia, of which not less than $10,000,000 should be provided
to support the work of the Special Unit to Dismantle Organized
Crime and Paramilitary Successor Groups established by the
peace accord and not less than $17,000,000 should be provided
for the Human Rights Unit of the Attorney General's Office,
including support for investigations into threats against human
rights defenders. The Committee directs the Secretary of State
to ensure that entities receiving United States assistance
remain viable, active, and capable of advancing the intended
outcomes and holding accountable those responsible for
committing violations of human rights. The Committee is
especially concerned over the increasing murders, assaults, and
threats against human rights defenders and indigenous leaders
and directs the Secretary of State to place the highest
priority on their protection, the prosecution of the
perpetrators, and the dismantling of structures that perpetuate
violence against civilians.
Security assistance accountability.--The Committee
recommendation updates limitations and conditions on the
obligation of funds made available by this Act under Foreign
Military Financing Program and International Narcotics Control
and Law Enforcement, pursuant to subsection (b)(3). The
Committee directs that not later than 60 days prior to issuing
a certification required by subsection (b)(3) the State
Department consult with United States and Colombian human
rights organizations regarding progress in meeting the
conditions contained in such subsection.
Costa Rica.--The Committee recommends not less than prior
year enacted funding levels for assistance for Costa Rica.
Cuba.--The Committee recommendation includes $20,000,000
under Economic Support Fund for democracy building, human
rights, and civil society programs for Cuba. Within the amount
provided, not less than $5,000,000 is for programs to provide
technical and other assistance to the Cuban people to support
the development of private enterprise and private business
organizations in Cuba and for people-to-people educational and
cultural activities. No such funds may be used for assistance
for the Government of Cuba.
Dominican Republic.--The Committee recognizes the Dominican
Republic as a key United States ally in the Americas central to
building more secure supply chains integrated with the United
States market, and fighting corruption and drug trafficking.
The Committee applauds the effectiveness of counternarcotics
efforts, including through the Caribbean Basin Security
Initiative, and the steps taken to confront public corruption
and increase transparency in government. The Committee supports
increased bilateral cooperation to confront crime and violence,
improve public safety and security, support at-risk youth
programs, and prosecute corruption.
Haiti.--Subsection (d) includes language from the prior
year concerning assistance for Haiti. The Committee expects the
Secretary of State and USAID Administrator to support dialogue
aimed at resolving the political crisis and ensuring that any
elections are transparent, Haitian-led, and inclusive. The
Committee urges the Secretary of State to take stronger action
against individuals engaged in human rights abuses or
corruption in Haiti and to continue to work for policies and
programs that provide support, security, and opportunity to the
Haitian people.
Mexico.--The Committee recommendation includes funds for
assistance for Mexico.
Assistance priorities.--Funds made available for assistance
for Mexico shall prioritize protection of human rights and the
investigation and prosecution of human rights violators;
efforts to search for and identify disappeared persons;
training and equipment to enhance forensics capacity; capacity-
building in Mexican security and justice sector institutions to
combat and prosecute transnational criminal organizations,
including the investigation of illicit finance; and activities
to address the flow of illegal opioids into the United States
and to keep citizens and communities safe on both sides of the
border.
Within the funds provided under Economic Support Fund and
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement and made
available for assistance for Mexico, the Committee recommends:
(1) not less than $5,000,000 for violence prevention programs
at Mexico's northern border to protect migrants, with a
particular focus on the protection needs of children, women and
LGBTQI+ individuals; (2) not less than $10,000,000 to build the
capacity of Mexico's national child protection system
(SIPINNA), child welfare agency (DIF), and federal and local
child protection authorities (Procuradurias de Proteccion de
Ninas, Ninos, y Adolescentes) to ensure that the rights of
migrant children are protected; and not less than $10,000,000
for programs to strengthen Mexico's capacity and practices to
search for and identify disappeared persons and to investigate
such disappearances and other serious human rights violations.
The Committee also recognizes that Mexico's southern border
security issues present significant obstacles to the efficient
flow of commerce and trade to the United States. The Committee
supports efforts to enhance United States-Mexico trade through
investment at Mexico's southern border.
Humanitarian assistance.--Funds appropriated under
Migration and Refugee Assistance should continue to be made
available to strengthen Mexico's refugee agency, Comision
Mexicana de Ayuda a Refugiados (COMAR), and its migration
agency, Instituto Nacional de Migracion (INM), to improve
intake facilities and asylum case management and processing.
Human rights along the border.--The Committee encourages
the Department of State and the United States Mission to the
United Nations to strengthen coordination to boost regional
cooperation, alleviate inhumane conditions, and strengthen
human rights along the United States-Mexico border.
Sargassum seaweed blooms.--The Committee is concerned about
the spread of Sargassum seaweed blooms along the Gulf Coast of
the United States and Mexico. This has negatively affected
tourism and may permanently damage fishing industries in the
region. The Department of State, in coordination with the
United States Geological Survey's Contaminant Biology Program,
is directed to explore the United States environmental
contributions to this phenomenon and work with Mexican
officials through the High-Level Economic Dialogue to examine
the economic costs, and potential solutions, to the issue.
Security assistance.--The Committee notes that no funds
were requested, and no funds are provided for assistance for
Mexico under Foreign Military Financing Program. The Committee
directs that none of the funds appropriated by this Act and
made available for assistance for Mexico be used to support
military involvement in law enforcement in Mexico. Further, the
Committee directs that funds appropriated by this Act and made
available to support Mexican law enforcement shall include
support for effective internal and external control mechanisms.
The Caribbean.--The Committee is concerned that United
States diplomatic and development engagement in the Caribbean
remains neglected, particularly in the small and developing
island states of the Eastern and Southern Caribbean. This
neglect has led many neighboring states in the Caribbean to
turn to competing nations, such as the PRC, for assistance,
especially for investment financing and reconstruction
assistance in the wake of destructive storms when multilateral
or United States bilateral assistance is not available. The
Committee commends the State Department and USAID for
acknowledging this dynamic and significantly expanding
assistance to the region in its fiscal year 2023 budget
request. The Committee recommendation for assistance for the
Caribbean supports and expands upon those recommendations in
the manner outlined below.
Diplomatic and development presence.--The Committee directs
the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator to, not later
than 90 days after enactment of this Act, review the United
States diplomatic and development presence in the Caribbean and
develop and submit to the Committees on Appropriations a plan
for expanding such presence, with a particular focus on the
Eastern and Southern Caribbean. Such plan shall review and
examine the personnel, facility, and transportation assets,
particularly options for improved methods for transit between
islands, needed to reengage in a region and in countries where
there is no regular presence of United States diplomatic or
development personnel and provide an estimate of resources
required and a timeline for the plan's implementation.
Assistance.--Funds appropriated by this Act and made
available for assistance for the Caribbean shall be allocated
according to the following table:
THE CARIBBEAN
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Development Assistance:
Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean.................. $19,000
Dominican Republic.................................. 17,000
USAID Caribbean Development Program................. 13,000
USAID Latin America and the Caribbean Regional
Strengthening Resilience to Natural Disasters... 17,000
Inclusive Economic Growth....................... 12,000
Digital Agenda for Transformation in the 5,000
Americas.......................................
Economic Support Fund:
State--Western Hemisphere Regional
Caribbean Basin Security Initiative......... 37,000
State--Energy Resources
Caribbean Energy Security Initiative........ 3,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement:
State--Western Hemisphere Regional
Caribbean Basin Security Initiative......... 35,000
Foreign Military Financing Program:
State--Western Hemisphere Regional
Caribbean Basin Security Initiative......... 10,000
-------------------
Subtotal, Caribbean Basin Security $82,000
Initiative.............................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Committee recommendation includes $12,000,000 under
Development Assistance to support initiatives aimed at
promoting inclusive economic growth in the Caribbean region,
with a primary focus on small grants that advance
entrepreneurship efforts of women, youth, and other
disadvantaged populations, as appropriate. Not later than 45
days after enactment of this Act, the USAID Administrator shall
consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the
implementation of this program in fiscal year 2022 and the
plans for fiscal year 2023.
The Committee understands that many Caribbean nations face
growing security complexities and requirements. The complex and
multidimensional impacts of climate change coupled with
increasingly sophisticated, armed illicit actors require a more
robust response and a greater range of capabilities. In
implementing the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI) the
Secretary of State should consider the needs of Caribbean
states to replace or upgrade equipment needed to better respond
to natural disasters, detect and interdict illicit drug
traffickers, and investigate and dismantle transnational
criminal organizations. The Secretary should also consider
utilizing the authority of section 516 of the Foreign
Assistance Act to transfer excess defense articles, such as
radars, boats, and helicopters, to partner countries to meet
such needs.
Loan guarantee authority.--To address concerns expressed by
several Caribbean state leaders regarding their particular
vulnerabilities as small island nations and the challenge of
access to affordable financing, section 7034(n) expands prior
year loan guarantee authority to Small Island Developing States
(SIDS). The Committee encourages the State Department and USAID
to use such tool to assist SIDS in the Caribbean that rely on
external financing to help prepare for, and recover from,
climate-related disasters and to manage their growing debt
burden.
Venezuela.--The Committee recommendation includes
$50,000,000 for programs to address the crisis in Venezuela,
including bilateral democracy assistance for Venezuela.
Additionally, the Committee recommendation includes funding to
support the long-term needs of countries in the region
receiving Venezuelans fleeing their country and the communities
hosting them. The Committee urges the Secretary of State and
USAID Administrator to allocate additional funds for support of
a peaceful democratic transition in Venezuela as conditions
permit. The Committee recommendation also includes funds under
International Disaster Assistance and Migration and Refugee
Assistance to assist in the response to humanitarian needs
resulting from the Venezuelan migration both inside Venezuela
and in the region.
The Committee directs USAID and the Department of State to
focus greater attention and resources to address the violence,
abuse, and exploitation suffered by Venezuelan women and
children, including by disaggregating data by sex and age in
needs assessments and program reporting. Additionally, the
Committee recognizes the need to increase diplomatic
initiatives and humanitarian assistance to strengthen
protections for Venezuelan refugees and migrants and their host
communities, with an emphasis on the protection of women and
children. This includes more targeted protection and assistance
for Venezuelan refugees and migrants subject to gender-based
violence, malnutrition, human trafficking, recruitment to
illegal groups and activities, and xenophobia.
The Committee includes additional direction regarding
Venezuelan migrants under Migration and Refugee Assistance in
this report.
The Committee notes that the United States remains
committed to identifying and tracking assets taken from the
people of Venezuela through theft, corruption, money
laundering, or other illicit means. The Committee further notes
that the United States remains committed to asset repatriation
when the funds can be transferred and administered in a public,
transparent, and accountable manner to ensure that they benefit
the Venezuelan people. In fiscal year 2022, House Report 117-
184 directed the Department of State to customize a vehicle for
repatriating the proceeds of Venezuelan corruption in a manner
that benefits the Venezuelan people while providing
transparency and accountability in the return and disposition
of recovered assets. The Committee looks forward to receiving
the strategy for carrying out the activity described above.
Other Latin America and the Caribbean
Higher education.--The Committee urges the USAID
Administrator to prioritize educational opportunities at post-
secondary institutions for underserved populations in the Latin
America and the Caribbean, including funding for new and on-
going partnerships between higher education institutions in the
United States and developing countries focused on building the
capacity of higher education institutions and systems in
developing countries.
Trade agreements.--The Committee directs the Secretary of
State to review whether the parties to the Dominican Republic-
Central America-United States Free Trade agreement are
compliant with obligations under such agreement and are taking
steps to improve conditions for United States trade and
investment including both compliance and the investment
environment. The review should include whether such governments
are minimizing undue country of origin inquiries on United
States products, fairly assessing the value of goods in
imposing taxes, implementing a fair tax system, adequately
justifying delayed shipments, and ensuring effective legal
mechanisms for reimbursement of tax refunds owed to United
States businesses.
Trade capacity building activities.--The Committee
recommendation includes funds under Development Assistance for
labor and environmental capacity building activities relating
to free trade agreements with countries of Central America,
Colombia, Peru, and the Dominican Republic.
Reports
Subsection (a)--Central America
CAYEP.--Not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act,
the USAID Administrator shall submit to the Committees on
Appropriations a plan for the implementation of the Central
America Youth Empowerment Program (CAYEP). Such report shall
include: (1) a timeline for implementation of the program; (2)
the target participant populations, identified by age and
community, taking into consideration available migration
information, local NGO capacity, and other relevant factors;
(3) types of community service projects for the communities
identified; (4) program components that will foster a sense of
community and rootedness, including a shared skills development
curriculum, financial inclusion interventions and partnership
with local NGOs that have a presence in selected communities;
and (5) the operational design of the program, to include the
process of selecting, engaging, and sustaining partners and
participants, as well as a strategy to obtain matching funds by
private sector donors and local governments.
CARSI.--Not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act,
the Committee directs the Secretary of State, in coordination
with the USAID Administrator, to provide to the Committees on
Appropriations a report on the uses of all funds provided for
CARSI on a country-by-country basis for each program, project,
and activity for fiscal years 2015 through 2022, and integrate
such information into the ForeignAssistance.gov website, as
appropriate.
Electricity theft.--Not later than 90 days after enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to
the Committees on Appropriations on efforts by the United
States Government and Guatemalan officials to track and disrupt
individuals and entities involved in, or providing material
support to, those causing a significant interruption or
impairment of a function of an energy facility involved in the
transmission or distribution of electricity in Guatemala.
El Mozote massacre.--Not later than 45 days after enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of State shall provide a report to
the Committees on Appropriations on the status of the release
of documents by all relevant Federal departments and agencies
to appropriate Salvadoran judicial authorities, including to
Judge Guzman, the former presiding judge in San Francisco de
Gotera. The release and delivery shall include all documents,
correspondence, reproductions of Salvadoran documents, and
other similar materials from January 1981 through January 1983
relevant to the December 1981 massacre at El Mozote, El
Salvador, and surrounding communities. The Secretary shall
provide the Committees with a specific timeline for completion
of this mandate by all relevant Federal departments and
agencies, which should not exceed 120 days after enactment of
this Act.
International Military Education and Training.--Not later
than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
Secretary of State shall submit to the appropriate
congressional committees a report on assistance under
International Military Education and Training that has been
made available to the countries of Central America for the
period of fiscal year 2012 through fiscal year 2022. The report
shall include the units receiving such training by country and
by year. The report shall also include whether the Secretary
has credible information that any of the units trained with
such funds have used assistance provided by the United States
against United States personnel or in violation of an end-use
agreement or otherwise contrary to United States national
security policy. The Secretary of State shall consult with the
appropriate congressional committees not later than 45 days
after enactment of this Act on the scope and content of the
report.
Local entities.--Not later than 180 days after enactment of
this Act, the USAID Administrator shall submit to the
Committees on Appropriations a report on funding made available
for assistance for Central America and implemented by local
entities in the previous two fiscal years. The report should
include a description of how USAID tracks funding to local
entities, how USAID is progressing toward stated locally led
development targets, and how it plans to reach such targets in
subsequent fiscal years. The USAID Administrator may
consolidate the above report with the related report directive
under Operating Expenses.
Metrics.--The Committee is concerned about the lack of
articulated metrics used for monitoring and evaluating the
impact of the funds made available to address the root causes
of migration. Not later than 120 days after enactment of this
Act, the State Department and USAID shall jointly submit a
report to the appropriate congressional committees identifying
the methodology and benchmarks used to assess the effectiveness
of such programs towards achieving stated objectives and the
plan to conduct oversight of programs and activities in the
Northern Triangle.
Natural protected areas strategy.--Not later than 60 days
after enactment of this Act, the USAID Administrator shall
submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations on plans to
further the strategy developed pursuant to the directive in
House Report 116-78 and to ensure its complementary and
integration with the U.S. strategy in the region.
Women's reproductive healthcare in El Salvador.--Not later
than 120 days after enactment of this Act, the Committee
directs the Secretary of State to submit a report to the
Committees on Appropriations on the availability of women's
reproductive healthcare in El Salvador, including access to
pre- and post-natal care and access to abortion and post-
abortion care.
Mexico
Bicentennial framework.--Not later than 90 days after
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in consultation
with the USAID Administrator, shall submit a report to
appropriate congressional committees on the impact of programs,
projects, and activities implemented as part of the
Bicentennial Framework. The review shall include a selection of
activities that have demonstrated success, and which could be
scaled up. The review shall also include programs that have not
resulted in the intended outcomes, including those that have
been discontinued. In addition, the review shall discuss the
impact of United States assistance programs on human rights in
Mexico. Finally, the report should include the plans to
reestablish regular bilateral meetings between high-level and
working-level Mexican officials and provide a timeline for such
dialogues and goals for such talks.
Human rights.--Prior to the obligation of funds
appropriated by this Act under International Narcotics Control
and Law Enforcement and Foreign Military Financing Program, but
not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, the
Secretary of State shall report to the Committees on
Appropriations on the extent to which the Government of Mexico
is: (1) credibly investigating and prosecuting violations of
human rights in civilian courts; (2) enforcing prohibitions
against torture and the use of testimony obtained through
torture; and (3) searching for victims of forced disappearances
and credibly investigating and prosecuting those responsible
for such crimes. Prior to the submission of such report, the
State Department shall consult with United States and Mexican
human rights organizations regarding progress in meeting the
elements detailed in this paragraph.
Migration and law enforcement agents.--The Committee
expresses concern about the involvement of United States-
trained Mexican police agents in the massacre of nineteen
people in northern Mexico, as well as irregularities committed
by Mexican migration enforcement agents in connection with this
and other cases. Not later than 90 days after enactment of this
Act, the State Department shall submit to the Committees on
Appropriations a report describing the amounts, recipient
units, equipment, and the types of training provided through
U.S. support to Mexican migration and law enforcement agents,
including specialized units, operating in the northern and
southern border zone since 2016. This report should also
include any United States training to support improved
screening of apprehended migrants to detect possible protection
concerns.
Resiliency of North American supply chains.--The Committee
notes that House Report 117-84 required that not later than 180
days after enactment of the Act, the Department of State, shall
submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees on
a strategy for bolstering cooperation with Mexico and Canada on
supply chain resiliency. Further, the report directed that the
strategy shall define steps the United States is taking, and
plans to take, to work with Mexico and Canada to build
resilient and trusted North American supply chains, including
on critical and emerging technologies, such as semiconductors
and healthcare industry products. The Committee directs the
State Department to expeditiously submit such report, and to
provide an update to such committees on the implementation of
the strategy not later than September 30, 2023.
The Caribbean
CBSI.--Not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act,
the Committee directs the Secretary of State, in coordination
with the USAID Administrator, to provide to the Committees on
Appropriations a report on the uses of all funds provided for
the CBSI on a country-by-country basis for each program,
project, and activity for fiscal years 2015 through 2021, and
integrate such information into the ForeignAssistance.gov
website, as appropriate.
Disaster resiliency.--Not later than 45 days after
enactment of this Act, the USAID Administrator shall submit a
report to the Committees on Appropriations, detailing the uses,
and intended uses, of all funds provided by this Act and prior
year Acts for strengthening resilience to natural disasters of
countries in the Caribbean.
Access to Maternal Care in Haiti.--The Committee is
concerned about the availability of quality prenatal, neonatal,
and maternal care in Haiti and the resulting impact of Haitians
seeking such care in neighboring countries. Not later than 45
days after the enactment of this Act, the USAID Administrator
shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations a report on
proposed resources and programs to improve access to needed
services for women, as well as assistance for impacted
communities.
Other Latin America and the Caribbean
Tax refunds to United States businesses.--Not later than
180 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State
shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations an update to
the report required under this heading in this section of House
Report 117-84.
Section 7046 (Europe and Eurasia)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding Europe and Eurasia.
Armenia.--The Committee recommendation includes not less
than $60,000,000 for Armenia for economic development, private
sector productivity, energy independence, democracy and the
rule of law, and other purposes.
Belarus.--The Committee recommendation includes not less
than $30,000,000 for democracy programs, including for civil
society, rule of law, independent media and human rights in
Belarus.
Conflict in the Caucasus.--The Committee remains concerned
about the humanitarian impact of the conflict in the Nagorno-
Karabakh and resulting challenges in the areas of housing, food
security, water and sanitation, health care and other human
needs. The Committee notes the important role United Nations
agencies play in administering such needs. Not later than 60
days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in
consultation with the USAID Administrator, is directed to
develop and submit to the Committees on Appropriations an
assistance strategy for addressing humanitarian and recovery
needs arising from the conflict. The strategy shall identify
resources and programs available to address the ongoing crisis,
along with an estimate of resources available for such purpose.
Georgia.--The Committee recommendation includes not less
than $132,025,000 for assistance for Georgia. The Committee
directs the Secretary of State and the USAID Administrator to
prioritize programs aimed at strengthening the rule of law and
democratic institutions to promote transparency and good
governance. The ongoing military invasion of Ukraine by the
Russian government underscores the importance of continuing
U.S. foreign assistance to former communist countries,
including Georgia.
Not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the
Secretary of State shall update and submit to the Committees on
Appropriations the report described under this section in the
explanatory statement accompanying the Department of State,
Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act,
2021.
Greece.--The Committee welcomes increased cooperation
between the United States and Greece and encourages the
Secretary to deepen engagement between public and private
institutions in the United States and Greece, particularly
around issues of climate adaptation, clean energy
infrastructure development, and resilience against wildfires
and drought.
The Committee recommendation includes $1,800,000 for Greece
under International Military Education and Training. In
addition, the Committee directs the Secretary of State to
facilitate and, as appropriate, defray the costs of the
meetings of the Interparliamentary Group established by the
United States-Greece Defense and Interparliamentary Partnership
Act of 2021. The Interparliamentary Group is expected to meet
at least once a year and will serve as the legislative
component to the 3+1 process between the United States, Israel,
Greece, and Cyprus.
Moldova.--The Committee reaffirms long-standing support for
Moldova's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity,
and encourages the State Department and USAID to increase
cooperation, coordination, and support for Moldova's democratic
development, economic prosperity, energy diversification,
security, and efforts to combat and root out corruption.
Responsibilities of the Coordinator for United States
Assistance to Europe and Eurasia.--Assistance requested for
countries in Europe, Eurasia, and Central Asia under Global
Health Programs and International Narcotics Control and Law
Enforcement are not included in this account, but shall be
administered in accordance with the responsibilities of the
Coordinator for United States Assistance to Europe and Eurasia.
Ukraine.--The Committee continues to support funding for
Ukraine to respond to Russia's unprovoked and unjustified
invasion of Ukraine and notes that over $25,000,000,000 has
been appropriated in supplemental funding to date in fiscal
year 2022 for the Department of State, USAID and other agencies
funded in this Act for such purposes. The Committee directs the
Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of the
Treasury and the USAID Administrator, to consult with the
Committees on Appropriations on the use of supplemental funds
enacted during fiscal year 2022, the use of resources
appropriated by this Act, and any supplemental appropriations
enacted during fiscal year 2023, as well as additional needs
that may arise. Further, the Committees expect to be consulted
prior to the public announcement of commitments using such
funds.
The Committee appreciates the Department of State and
USAID's efforts to strengthen cooperation with Ukraine on
veterans' issues including bolstering psycho-social, health,
and reintegration programs. The Committee directs the Secretary
of State to facilitate exchanges between Ukrainian American
diasporic groups with veteran care experience and Ukrainian
medical veteran affairs professionals.
The Committee continues to support USAID efforts to
increase economic opportunity for Ukrainian women who are
smallholder farmers, medium sized producers, and rural growers
through direct support programs. The Committee is concerned
that access to finance will be limited as a consequence of
Russia's invasion and will hamper Ukraine's economic recovery
and agriculture sector. The Committee directs the USAID
Administrator, in consultation with the heads of other relevant
Federal agencies, as appropriate, to establish initiatives
targeting these women producers as part of USAID's Agricultural
Capacity Development programs. The Committee directs the USAID
Administrator to report to the Committees on Appropriations on
the progress of program development, including funding levels,
not later than 180 days after enactment of this Act.
The Committee is concerned about Russia's use of offensive
cyber operations that are being employed in concert with
conventional military operations in the ongoing invasion of
Ukraine. The Committee recognizes that Ukraine's artificial
intelligence strategy is important to its national security,
and that the United States can benefit from Ukrainian
innovation and cooperation in this area. The Committee directs
the State Department and USAID to cooperate with Ukraine on the
implementation of its artificial intelligence national strategy
to enhance Ukraine's resilience to Russian cyber operations.
The Committee notes the proactive role of the members of
Ukraine's parliament during Russia's invasion and the continued
need to support the Rada, as directed by the Committees on
Appropriations in prior years. Not later than later 90 days
after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in
consultation with the USAID Administrator, is directed to
report to the Committees on ongoing efforts to support the
Rada, including efforts related to, and costs associated with,
establishing a non-partisan legislative research office.
The Committee supports additional funds being made
available to collect, analyze, and preserve evidence and
information related to war crimes and other atrocities
committed during the invasion of Ukraine for use in prosecuting
those responsible for such crimes.
Section 7047 (Countering Russian Influence and Aggression)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding programs to counter Russian influence and aggression.
Countering Russian Influence Fund.--The Committee
recommends that not less than $300,000,000 be made available
from funds in this Act for Countering Russian Influence Fund to
be allocated according to the following table, subject to
section 7019 of this Act:
COUNTERING RUSSIAN INFLUENCE FUND
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia...... $90,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 50,000
International Military Education and Training........ 5,000
Foreign Military Financing Program................... 155,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Democracy Programs.--Not later than 90 days after enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the
USAID Administrator, shall develop and submit to the Committee
a multi-year strategy for the promotion of democracy in non-
presence countries in Eurasia.
Section 7048 (United Nations)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
relating to conditions on funds for the UN and other
international organizations.
Transparency and Accountability.--Pursuant to subsection
(a), not later than 180 days after enactment of this Act, the
Secretary of State shall report to the Committees on
Appropriations on whether international organizations,
including the United Nations and its specialized agencies,
regional and Inter-American organizations, which receive
assessed and voluntary contributions from the United States,
are meeting the required transparency and accountability
standards.
United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).--None of the
funds appropriated by this Act may be made available in support
of the United Nations Human Rights Council unless the Secretary
of State determines and reports to the Committees on
Appropriations that participation in the Council is important
to the national interest of the United States and that such
Council is taking significant steps to remove Israel as a
permanent agenda item and ensure integrity in the election of
members to such Council. The report shall include a description
of the national interest served and the steps taken to remove
Israel as a permanent agenda item and ensure integrity in the
election of members to such Council. The Secretary of State
shall report to the Committees on Appropriations not later than
September 30, 2023, on the resolutions considered in the United
Nations Human Rights Council during the previous 12 months, and
on steps taken to remove Israel as a permanent agenda item and
ensure integrity in the election of members to such Council.
The Committee notes with disappointment the ascension to
UNHRC of countries with poor human rights records, and
therefore urges the Secretary of State and the United States
Ambassador to the United Nations to continue to exercise the
renewed influence of the United States in the Council to
vigorously press other countries to uphold human rights,
respect the rule of law, and treat their citizens with dignity.
The Committee directs the Secretary of State and the United
States Ambassador to the United Nations to continue to publicly
denounce, and work to reverse, the disproportionate focus of
the UNHRC on Israel, including the 2021 establishment of the
unprecedented Commission of Inquiry to investigate Israel,
which perpetuates the unfair singling out of Israel in the UN
and represents an unnecessary obstacle to the cause of peace.
The Committee continues to disapprove of UNHRC resolution A/
HRC/31/L.39, which is counterproductive to achieving peace
between Israel and the Palestinians.
United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).--Prior to
the initial obligation of funds for the United Nations Relief
and Works Agency (UNRWA), the Secretary of State shall report
to the Committees on Appropriations, in writing, on whether
UNRWA is: (1) utilizing Operations Support Officers in the West
Bank, Gaza, and other fields of operation to inspect UNRWA
installations and reporting any inappropriate use; (2) acting
promptly to address any staff or beneficiary violation of its
own policies (including the policies on neutrality and
impartiality of employees) and the legal requirements under
section 301(c) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961; (3)
implementing procedures to maintain the neutrality of its
facilities, including implementing a no-weapons policy, and
conducting regular inspections of its installations, to ensure
they are only used for humanitarian or other appropriate
purposes; (4) taking necessary and appropriate measures to
ensure it is operating in compliance with the conditions of
section 301(c) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and
continuing regular reporting to the Department of State on
actions it has taken to ensure conformance with such
conditions; (5) taking steps to ensure the content of all
educational materials currently taught in UNRWA administered
schools and summer camps is consistent with the values of human
rights, dignity, and tolerance and does not induce incitement;
(6) not engaging in operations with financial institutions or
related entities in violation of relevant United States law,
and is taking steps to improve the financial transparency of
the organization; and (7) in compliance with the United Nations
Board of Auditors' biennial audit requirements and is
implementing in a timely fashion the Board's recommendations.
The Committee commends the Administration's decision to
resume humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people, including
contributions to UNRWA and notes that over 70 percent of
UNRWA's program budget is dedicated to education and
healthcare. As part of the Administration's ongoing
reengagement with UNRWA, the Committee urges the Secretary of
State to secure additional contributions to the Agency from
countries in the region, work with the Government of Lebanon on
job opportunities for refugees, and work with UNRWA on
overcoming residual financial impacts to the Agency created by
the 2018 suspension of U.S. contributions.
In addition to the reports required prior to the obligation
of funds made available by this Act to UNRWA, the Secretary of
State shall take additional steps to ensure that UNRWA adheres
to the UN humanitarian principles of independence,
impartiality, humanity, and neutrality, and redoubles efforts
to (1) implement procedures to maintain the neutrality of its
facilities, including implementing a no-weapons policy and
conducting regular inspections of its installations, to ensure
they are only used for humanitarian or other appropriate
purposes; and (2) take steps to ensure that the content of all
educational materials taught in UNRWA-administered schools and
summer camps is: (A) consistent with the value of dignity for
all persons; and (B) does not induce or encourage incitement,
violence, or prejudice.
Reports
Annual report on anti-Israel bias.--The Committee directs
the Secretary of State to submit a report to the Committees on
Appropriations describing instances of anti-Israel bias at the
United Nations, including an identification of the agencies and
entities where such bias has been demonstrated in the past,
including those that appear under this heading in title I of
House Report 116-444.
UNHRC.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State to
submit an updated report to the Committees on Appropriations,
not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, on all
United States contributions to the UNHRC for the preceding
fiscal year, including amounts provided through the UN Regular
Budget and through voluntary contributions. Such report shall
also include a description of the extent to which United States
participation in the Council serves the national interest and
the steps the Council has taken to remove Israel as a permanent
agenda item.
United Nations Relief and Works Agency.--Not later than 90
days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall
submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees on
the degree to which UNRWA is complying with the policies and
procedures described under the heading ``United Nations Relief
and Works Agency'' and the areas in which the Department is
partnering with the Agency on new guidelines or reform efforts.
Such report shall include an updated description of the
mechanisms UNRWA has in place to identify incitement and other
unacceptable subject matters, including anti-Semitic content,
in locally-produced textbooks and the procedures in place to
substitute such material with curriculum that emphasizes the
importance of human rights, tolerance, and non-discrimination.
Section 7049 (War Crimes Tribunals)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
regarding authority for the President to draw down certain
funds to support war crimes tribunals or commissions.
Section 7050 (Global Internet Freedom)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
directing that not less than $80,500,000 be made available for
programs to promote internet freedom globally and establishing
certain limitations and conditions on the use of such funds.
Within the total, $30,000,000 are from funds appropriated under
International Broadcasting Operations for the Open Technology
Fund (OTF) and $50,500,000 are from funds appropriated under
title III of this Act and shall be allocated according to the
following table, subject to section 7019 of this Act:
GLOBAL INTERNET FREEDOM
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Economic Support Fund................................ $27,000
of which, Near East Regional Democracy........... 16,750
Democracy Fund (Department of State)................. 14,000
Democracy Fund (USAID)............................... 3,500
Assistance for Europe, Eurasia, and Central Asia..... 6,000
International Broadcasting Operations, OTF........... 30,000
------------------
Subtotal, Global Internet Freedom.................... $80,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pursuant to section 7050(b)(1)(B) funds to promote internet
freedom globally shall be made available: (1) to implement the
cyberspace strategies of the Department of State and the
comprehensive strategy to promote Internet freedom access to
information in Iran, as required by section 414 of the Iran
Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012; (2) for
programs that support efforts of civil society to counter the
development of repressive Internet-related laws; (3) for
research of key threats to Internet freedom; and (4) for the
continued development and implementation of technologies that
provide or enhance access to the Internet, including
circumvention tools that by pass Internet blocking, filtering,
and other censorship techniques used by authoritarian
governments.
Section 7051 (Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or
Degrading Treatment or Punishment)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting funds for the use of torture.
Section 7052 (Aircraft Transfer, Coordination, and Use)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
relating to aircraft transfer and coordination.
Section 7053 (Parking Fines and Real Property Taxes Owed by
Foreign Governments)
This section includes prior year language relating to
unpaid parking fines and real property taxes owed by foreign
governments.
Section 7054 (International Monetary Fund)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
regarding the International Monetary Fund.
Section 7055 (Extradition)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting funds for a country that does not cooperate in the
extradition to the United States of certain individuals.
Section 7056 (Enterprise Funds)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
establishing restrictions on enterprise funds.
Section 7057 (United Nations Population Fund)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding assistance provided to UNFPA and to address women's
health.
Section 7058 (Global Health Activities)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding global health activities and provides certain
authorities to better prepare for, and respond to, emerging
health threats.
Section 7059 (Gender Equality and Women's Empowerment)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding programs that support gender equality.
The Committee supports robust funding for gender equity and
equality and applauds the Administration's commitment to
programming not less than $2,600,000,000 specifically on such
goals. The Committee directs the Secretary of State, the USAID
Administrator, and each department or agency that receives
humanitarian and development assistance by this Act to
prioritize the empowerment of women and girls worldwide,
including by addressing impediments to women and girls' full
participation and access to opportunity, in their programming
and reporting. To support such efforts, the Committee supports
increasing staff in each relevant department or bureau
dedicated to gender-specific programing and to assist in
implementing gender integration across all programing.
With respect to subsection (c), gender programs should
incorporate coordinated efforts to combat a variety of forms of
gender-based violence, including child marriage, rape, female
genital cutting and mutilation, and domestic violence. Funds
made available for gender-based violence should support the
increased use of sexual assault evidence kits, especially in
Africa, and ensure that training and technical assistance are
available for local healthcare workers on medical and
psychological care and the collection of evidence following
sexual assault. Funding for DNA evidence collection and
analysis should also be increased, as DNA forensic science and
DNA databases have the ability to identify perpetrators and
have proven to be an effective tool in deterring, preventing,
and prosecuting cases of gender-based violence. The Committee
is concerned about the rise in gender-based violence as a
direct result of the coronavirus pandemic and resulting
economic lockdowns and recognizes that women in conflict and
humanitarian situations are particularly vulnerable.
With respect to subsection (d), the Committee recognizes
the important role the Office of Global Women's Issues at the
State Department and USAID's Bureau for Conflict Prevention and
Stabilization play in implementing Women, Peace, and Security
strategies. The Secretary of State and USAID Administrator
shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations on
operational requirements, including staffing and training, to
carry out these responsibilities.
Women and girls at risk from extremism and conflict.--The
Committee is strongly supportive of proactive and well-designed
programs in support of the Women, Peace, and Security strategy.
The Committee directs that programs to support women and girls
at risk of extremism and conflict shall be a core element
within the implementation of such strategy and funded at levels
above prior years. Such programs should be built on the
respective expertise of USAID's Bureau for Conflict Prevention
and Stabilization in collaboration with the Office of Global
Women's Issues at the State Department. The Secretary of State
and USAID Administrator shall consult with the Committees on
Appropriations on the coordination on the use of funds made
available for the Global Fragility Act strategy and the Women,
Peace, and Security implementation plans.
The Committee is concerned about women's safety online and
recommends funding for programs, especially for human rights
defenders and journalists, that promote and protect the safe
usage of the Internet by providing training, resources, and
support for a legal environment that respects their rights.
Reports
Gender.--The Committee is concerned that according to the
United States own reporting to the Organization for Economic
Cooperation and Development (OECD), only 20 percent of the
United States' official development assistance integrates
gender or promotes gender equality. The Committee directs that,
not later than 60 days after enactment of this Act, the
Secretary of State, in consultation with the USAID
Administrator, shall submit a report to the Committees on
Appropriations on the percentage of development programs
focused on gender integration as reported to the OECD and plans
to improve the United States' performance.
Gender-based violence in humanitarian settings.--The
Committee remains concerned about the alarming rates of gender-
based violence in humanitarian crises and acknowledges that
coordinated action is critical to mitigating such violence. The
Committee directs the Secretary of State, in coordination with
the USAID Administrator, not later than 90 days after enactment
of this Act, to submit a report to the Committees on
Appropriations on the steps taken by the United States to
prevent, mitigate, and respond to gender-based violence in
humanitarian emergencies. The report should include an analysis
of the key drivers of gender-based violence in such settings;
gaps in existing response mechanisms; progress made through
existing models to address such violence, such as Safe from the
Start; care for survivors; and ways to build the capacity of
local NGOs to better respond.
Section 7060 (Sector Allocations)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding assistance for programs related to basic education,
higher education, food security and agriculture development,
microenterprise, combating trafficking in persons,
reconciliation, and water and sanitation.
Basic education.--Of the funds made available by subsection
(a)(1)(B), $140,000,000 is included for the Global Partnership
for Education and $35,000,000 is included for Education Cannot
Wait. The Committee expects that funds provided to Education
Cannot Wait should be derived from funding accounts in a manner
consistent with prior years. The Committee recognizes that
these organizations leverage additional funding and complement
bilateral efforts to address international basic education
needs, including mitigating the immediate and long-term
disruptions to education caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Committee is aware that the need for basic education
assistance has increased substantially, particularly in Africa,
as education globally was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Committee recognizes the immediate and urgent need to
increase access to basic, uninterrupted education on the
continent of Africa to improve literacy, strengthen education
systems, expand access to safe learning, and promote education
as a foundation for sustained economic growth.
Pursuant to paragraph (2) of such amounts provided for
higher education, after consultation with the Committees on
Appropriations, not less than $35,000,000 shall be made
available for human and institutional capacity building
partnerships between higher education institutions in the
United States and developing countries, including $15,000,000
for new partnerships. The Committee directs USAID to initiate
new competitive grants for partnerships of a sufficient length
and size to make a transformational impact on colleges and
universities in developing nations.
Funds for higher education shall also be used to support
institutions of higher education in countries experiencing
economic crisis and should prioritize United States-accredited
institutions of higher education in the Middle East and not-
for-profit, coeducational American institutions in the Middle
East and Asia.
Pursuant to subsection (c), $1,200,000,000 is included to
expand food security. The Committee acknowledges the increasing
importance of such programming to address the food security
needs of countries facing rising food prices, climate shocks,
and instability. The USAID Administrator shall, in partnership
with United States and international institutions, including
higher education and nongovernmental organizations, develop
approaches focused on safe, sustainable food systems that
support and incentivize the replacement of terrestrial wildlife
in diets while ensuring that existing wildlife and associated
habitat are not harmed.
Pursuant to subsection (d), $265,000,000 is included to
support the development of, and access to financing for, micro,
small, and medium-sized enterprises that benefit the poor,
especially women. The Committee urges the USAID Administrator
to look for ways to further advance economic growth, financial
inclusion, and employment opportunities in the Caribbean.
Pursuant to subsection (e), $112,200,000 is included for
programs to combat trafficking in persons under Development
Assistance, Economic Support Fund, Assistance for Europe,
Eurasia and Central Asia, and International Narcotics Control
and Law Enforcement to be coordinated by the Office to Monitor
and Combat Trafficking in Persons. Of the amounts provided, not
less than $77,000,000 is included under International Narcotics
Control and Law Enforcement. The Committee directs that
$10,000,000 of such funds be made available for child
protection compacts. The Committee expects that funds will be
prioritized for countries with the greatest need and continue
to support child protection compacts pursuant to Public Law
113-4. The Committee includes up to $25,000,000 under
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement for
programs to end modern slavery, which support transformational
efforts to achieve a measurable and substantial reduction of
the prevalence of modern slavery in targeted populations in
specific countries or regions worldwide. Within the increase
provided for fiscal year 2023, the Committee directs the
Secretary of State and USAID Administrator to increase programs
to counter human trafficking in Eastern Europe to assist
vulnerable individuals fleeing Ukraine.
The Committee notes an additional $17,000,000 is provided
under Diplomatic Programs for the operational costs of the
Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, which is
described further under title I of this report.
Report
Basic education obligations.--Pursuant to subsection
(a)(1), the Committee directs that not later than 30 days after
enactment of this Act and semiannually thereafter until
September 30, 2023, the USAID Administrator shall report to the
Committees on Appropriations on the status of cumulative
unobligated balances and obligated, but unexpended, balances in
each country where USAID provides basic education assistance
and such report shall also include details on the types of
contracts and grants provided and the goals and objectives of
such assistance.
Section 7061 (Environment Programs)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding United States bilateral and multilateral environment
programs.
Funds for certain programs under this heading are allocated
according to the following table and subject to section 7019 of
this Act:
FUNDING FOR ENVIRONMENT PROGRAMS
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account/Program Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Andean Amazon....................................... $25,000
Central Africa Regional Program for the Environment. 50,000
Guatemala/Belize.................................... 8,000
Lacey Act........................................... 6,000
United States Fish and Wildlife Service............. 7,000
of which, migratory bird conservation........... 1,500
of which, endangered sea turtles................ 150
United States Forest Service........................ 8,500
Toxic Chemicals..................................... 9,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Committee recognizes the Administration's pledge of
$11,400,000,000 for climate finance and includes funding for
biodiversity, adaptation, sustainable landscapes, clean energy,
as well as other bilateral and multilateral initiatives to
support such climate pledge and help protect developing
countries and those most vulnerable to the effects of climate
change. Funds provided for adaptation programs should support
the implementation of the President's Emergency Plan for
Adaptation and Resilience (PREPARE) initiative.
The Committee directs the Secretary of State, in
coordination with the USAID Administrator, to provide a
briefing to the appropriate congressional committees, on the
implementation of funds for the Plan To Conserve Global Forests
initiative.
The Committee includes $3,000,000 for the Maya Biosphere
Reserve.
The Committee is concerned with the increase in jaguar
poaching, timber trafficking, unregulated cattle and narco-
ranching in the Honduras-Guatemala-Mexico border forest regions
and includes funds above the prior year level for border
cooperation for anti-poaching and counter-fire regimes.
Pursuant to subsection (b)(2), the Committee remains
concerned about the crisis of wildlife trafficking and the
continued negative effect it is having on international
security and stability and the implications for endangered
species. The Committee encourages the monitoring of wet markets
and illegal wildlife trade that incentivize poaching and have
consequences for human health. The Committee notes that funds
from biodiversity programs are used to meet the wildlife
trafficking directive.
The Committee urges that law enforcement programs to deter
and prevent wildlife criminals apply the latest criminology,
behavioral, or social sciences practices and that such programs
be considered for long-term multi-year national initiatives to
strengthen cooperation and coordination between government
agencies to combat wildlife trafficking and illicit supply
chains at a global level.
The Committee urges the Secretary of State to work
collaboratively with the United Nations as well as
international organizations, such as Interpol and the World
Organization for Animal Health, to address the risks of
commercial wildlife markets and trade for human consumption and
increasing enforcement of existing laws to end wildlife
trafficking.
The Committee recognizes the need to integrate climate
impacts into State Department's strategies and policies and
encourages greater coordination and collaboration between the
State Department's Policy Planning staff, the Special
Presidential Envoy for Climate, the Bureau of Oceans and
International Environmental and Scientific Affairs, and
regional bureaus.
The Committee includes funds for the Central Africa
Regional Program for the Environment (CARPE), which may be
transferred to other federal agencies, such as the United
States Fish and Wildlife Service International, United States
Forest Service, Department of Interior, and National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration, for implementation to leverage
their technical agency capacity and partnerships.
The Committee supports the development of programming and
partnerships on climate forecasting and early warning and
response systems, including in Mongolia and other areas that
lack climate forecasting tools.
The Committee provides funds to address toxic chemical
pollution in Africa, Asia, and Latin America to reduce public
exposure to lead associated with the unsafe disposal or
recycling of batteries, contaminated cookware, or other sources
of lead exposure. Prior to the initial obligation of funds, the
USAID Administrator shall consult with the Committees on
Appropriations on a multi-year strategy targeting such exposure
and materials in severely affected countries.
Based on the CARPE model, the Committee supports continuing
and expanding transnational approaches throughout sub-Saharan
Africa, including the Okavango River Basin. Not less than
$5,000,000 should be made available to implement the Delta Act
(Public Law 115-353) and should focus on the headwaters of the
Okavango Delta which originate in Angola and should integrate
demining efforts, public private partnership for conservation,
prevention of wildlife trafficking and development of eco-
tourism. The Secretary of State should consider utilizing
sustainable arrangements for the rehabilitation and long-term
management of national parks in partnership with local
communities.
The Committee directs the Secretary of State, the USAID
Administrator, and the Director of United States Fish and
Wildlife Service to consult within 90 days after enactment of
this Act with the Committees on Appropriations on the use of
funds provided for programs to combat wildlife trafficking.
Further, the Committee directs that the CBJ for fiscal year
2023 include country and program funding levels for such
programs. The Committee also directs USAID and the Bureau of
International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs to include
monitoring and evaluation components in wildlife trafficking
implementation agreements and include data from such monitoring
and evaluation efforts in its reports to Congress.
Funds made available for national parks and protected areas
should only be made available if agreements for the obligation
of funds between implementing partners and the Department of
State and USAID include provisions requiring that: (1)
information detailing the proposed project and potential
impacts is shared with local communities and the free, prior,
and informed consent of affected indigenous communities is
obtained in accordance with international standards; (2) the
potential impacts of the proposed project on existing land or
resource claims by affected local communities or indigenous
peoples are considered and addressed in any management plan;
(3) any eco-guards, park rangers, and other law enforcement
personnel authorized to protect biodiversity will be properly
trained and monitored; and (4) effective grievance and redress
mechanisms for victims of human rights violations and other
misconduct exist. Funds made available for the management of
national parks and protected areas may be made available to
support implementation of the above requirements, and
implementing partners shall provide information on these
requirements to the Department of State and USAID on request.
The Secretary of State and USAID Administrator shall consult
with the Committees on Appropriations not later than 45 days
after enactment of this Act on the implementation of these
requirements.
Report
Women and Climate.--The Committee directs the Secretary of
State, in consultation with the USAID Administrator and other
relevant Federal agencies, to submit to the Committees on
Appropriations, not later than 180 days after enactment of this
Act, an interagency strategy to respond to the effects of
climate change on women. The Secretary shall consult with the
Committees on Appropriations prior to formulation of the
strategy.
Section 7062 (Budget Documents)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
requiring operating and spend plans for funds appropriated by
this Act.
Section 7063 (Reorganization)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
concerning consultation, notification, and reporting
requirements involving any agency reorganization.
Section 7064 (Department of State Management)
This section includes language carried in the prior year
regarding management of the Department of State including
financial management, personnel levels, and information
technology.
Section 7065 (United States Agency for International
Development Management)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding management of USAID including personnel levels and
hiring authorities.
The Committee directs the USAID Administrator to provide a
briefing to the Committees on Appropriations, not later than 60
days after enactment of this Act, updating on the status of
USAID's pilot accountability mechanism and how the mechanism is
operating with international best practices. Such briefing
should explain such best practices, including features such as
a compliance review of project requirements, dispute
resolution, and advisory services. Further, the briefing should
also provide details on the tracking and monitoring of
complaints, the agency's communications strategy to increase
awareness of the mechanism, as well as staffing for the
mechanism.
Report
The Committee directs the USAID Administrator to submit a
report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later than 30
days after enactment of this Act, on steps required to create
and implement an acquisition and assistance Working Capital
Fund. Such report should explain the necessity for such a Fund
and assess how USAID's systems would be set up to implement and
manage such a Fund.
Section 7066 (Stabilization and Development in Regions
Impacted by Extremism and Conflict)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
related to assistance to regions impacted by extremism and
conflict.
Prevention and Stabilization Fund.--The Committee
recommendation provides that, from amounts made available by
this Act, not less than $150,000,000 shall be made available
for the Prevention and Stabilization Fund to be allocated
according to the following table and subject to section 7019 of
this Act:
PREVENTION AND STABILIZATION FUND
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account/Program Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Economic Support Fund............................... $90,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement. 15,000
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 15,000
Related Programs...................................
Peacekeeping Operations............................. 12,500
Foreign Military Financing Program.................. 17,500
-------------------
Total, Prevention and Stabilization Fund........ $150,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unarmed civilian protection.--The Committee directs the
Secretary of State, in consultation with the USAID
Administrator, to provide funds for use of unarmed civilian
protection organizations and evaluate the potential use of such
organizations to provide direct physical protection to civilian
populations, to strengthen the local non-violent peacekeeping
capacity of communities currently experiencing or at risk of
violent conflict, and to assist United States-funded
stabilization efforts. The Secretary shall consult with the
Committees on Appropriations on such programs.
Youth.--Of the funds provided for the Prevention and
Stabilization Fund, not less than $2,500,000 shall be made
available for to support activities implemented by youth civil
society organizations and youth peace building implementers in
regions impacted by extremism.
Section 7067 (Debt-for-Development)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
regarding debt-for-development and debt-for-nature exchanges.
Section 7068 (Extension of Consular Fees and Related
Authorities)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
extending certain consular fees and related authorities.
Section 7069 (Rescission)
This section includes language modified from the prior year
rescinding $20,000,000 in unobligated balances from prior year
appropriations for the Peace Corps.
Section 7070 (Management of International Transboundary
Water Pollution)
This section includes new language regarding water
management in the United States-Mexico border region.
Section 7071 (Waiver Authority)
This section includes new language regarding United States
participation in international organizations.
The Committee notes that the United Nations Educational,
Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is involved in a
variety of activities that advance United States interests,
including mitigating the impact of COVID-19 on education
systems, women and girls' empowerment, protecting cultural
heritage, Holocaust education, and recommending ethical
standards for artificial intelligence. Therefore, the Committee
includes the authority and funding necessary to resume United
States annual contributions to UNESCO. At the same time, the
Committee directs the Secretary of State and the United States
Ambassador to the United Nations to continue efforts to deter
the UN and its specialized agencies from recognizing the
Palestinian Authority as a member-state outside of an agreement
negotiated between Israel and the Palestinian Authority.
Section 7072 (Assistance for Foreign Nongovernmental
Organizations)
This section includes new language regarding restrictions
on foreign nongovernmental organizations.
Section 7073. (Ukraine Oversight)
Subsection (b) requires notifications for assistance for
Ukraine to include for each program notified: (1) total funding
appropriated for such program, by account and fiscal year; (2)
funding that remains unobligated for such programs; (3) funding
that is obligated but unexpended for such program; and (4)
funding committed, but not yet notified for such program.
House of Representatives Reporting Requirement
The following materials are submitted in accordance with
various requirements of the Rules of the House of
Representatives:
Full Committee Votes
Pursuant to the provisions of clause 3(b) of rule XIII of
the House of Representatives, the results of each roll call
vote on an amendment or on the motion to report, together with
the names of those voting for and those against, are printed
below.
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
Statement of General Performance Goals and Objectives
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(4) of rule XIII of the Rules of the
House of Representatives, the following is a statement of
general performance goals and objectives for which this measure
authorizes funding: The Committee on Appropriations considers
program performance, including a program's success in
developing and attaining outcome-related goals and objectives,
in developing funding recommendations.
Rescissions
Pursuant to clause 3(f)(2) of rule XIII of the Rules of the
House of Representatives, the following table is submitted
describing the rescissions recommended in the accompanying
bill:
Peace Corps........................................... $20,000,000
Transfers of Funds
Pursuant to clause 3(f)(2) of rule XIII of the Rules of the
House of Representatives, the following list includes the
transfers of funds included in the accompanying bill:
In title I, under Diplomatic Programs, language is included
to transfer funds to Emergencies in the Diplomatic and Consular
Service for emergency evacuations and rewards, and to transfer
funds to the Capital Investment Fund.
In title I, under Emergencies in the Diplomatic and
Consular Service, language is included to transfer funds to
Repatriation Loans Program.
In title I, under International Boundary and Water
Commission--Construction, language is included to transfer
funds to Salaries and Expenses.
In title III, under United States Emergency Refugee and
Migration Assistance Fund, language is included to transfer
funds in excess of the limitation carried in underlying
authority to Migration and Refugee Assistance.
In title III, under Peace Corps, language is included to
transfer funds to the Foreign Currency Fluctuations Account.
In title VI, under the United States International
Development Finance Corporation, language is included to
transfer funds to the Program Account.
Under title VII, language is included under section 7009 to
transfer funds under title I for the Department of State and
the United States Agency for Global Media.
Under title VII, language is included under section 7009 to
transfer funds under title III for the United States
International Development Finance Corporation.
Under title VII, language is included under section 7009 to
transfer funds under Millennium Challenge Corporation to United
States International Development Finance Corporation.
Under title VII, language is included under section 7034 to
transfer funds to Protection of Foreign Missions and Officials
from unobligated balances of expired funds under Diplomatic
Programs for extraordinary protection.
Under title VII, language is included under section 7041 to
transfer funds under Foreign Military Financing Program to an
interest-bearing account in the Federal Reserve Bank of New
York.
Under title VII, language is included under section 7043(c)
to transfer funds under International Narcotics Control and Law
Enforcement; Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and
Related Programs; and Foreign Military Financing Program under
such heading.
Under title VII, language is included under 7057 to
transfer funds provided for UNFPA to Global Health Programs.
Under title VII, language is included under section 7058 to
authorize the transfer of funds between accounts under title
III to respond to a Public Health Emergency of International
Concern.
Under title VII, language is included under section 7065 to
transfer funds from the program account to funds under
Operating Expenses in title II.
Under title VII, language is included under section 7066 to
transfer funds under Economic Support Fund; International
Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement; Non-proliferation, Anti-
terrorism, Demining and Related Programs; Peacekeeping
Operation; and Foreign Military Financing Program to the
Prevention and Stabilization Fund. Language is also included to
transfer funds under Economic Support Fund to the Department of
the Treasury.
Under title VII, language is included under section 7069 to
transfer funds under Administration of Foreign Affairs and
discretionary unobligated balances under such heading to the
Consular and Border Security Programs.
Disclosure of Earmarks and Congressionally Directed Spending Items
Pursuant to clause 9 of rule XXI of the Rules of the House
of Representatives, neither the bill nor this report contain
any congressional earmarks, limited tax benefits, or limited
tariff benefits as defined in clause 9 of rule XXI of the Rules
of the House of Representatives.
Compliance With Rule XIII, Cl. 3(e) (Ramseyer Rule)
In compliance with clause 3(e) of rule XIII of the Rules of
the House of Representatives, changes in existing law made by
the bill, as reported, are shown as follows (existing law
proposed to be omitted is enclosed in black brackets, new
matter is printed in italics, existing law in which no change
is proposed is shown in roman):
FOREIGN OPERATIONS, EXPORT FINANCING, AND RELATED PROGRAMS
APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 1990
* * * * * * *
TITLE V--GENERAL PROVISIONS
* * * * * * *
establishing categories of aliens for purposes of refugee
determinations
Sec. 599D. (a) In General.--In the case of an alien who is
within a category of aliens established under subsection (b),
the alien may establish, for purposes of admission as a refugee
under section 207 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, that
the alien has a well-founded fear of persecution on account of
race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social
group, or political opinion by asserting such a fear and
asserting a credible basis for concern about the possibility of
such persecution.
(b) Establishment of Categories.--
(1) For purposes of subsection (a), the Attorney
General, in consultation with the Secretary of State
and the Coordinator for Refugee Affairs, shall
establish--
(A) one or more categories of aliens who are
or were nationals and residents of an
independent state of the former Soviet Union or
of Estonia, Latvia, or Lithuania and who share
common characteristics that identify them as
targets of persecution in that state on account
of race, religion, nationality, membership in a
particular social group, or political opinion,
(B) one or more categories of aliens who are
or were nationals and residents of Vietnam,
Laos, or Cambodia and who share common
characteristics that identify them as targets
of persecution in such respective foreign state
on such an account; and
(C) one or more categories of aliens who are or were
nationals and residents of the Islamic Republic or Iran
who, as members of a religious minority in Iran, share
common characteristics that identify them as targets of
persecution in that state on account of race, religion,
nationality, membership in a particular social group,
or political opinion.
(2)(A) Aliens who are (or were) nationals and
residents of an independent state of the former Soviet
Union or of Estonia, Latvia, or Lithuania and who are
Jews or Evangelical Christians shall be deemed a
category of alien established under paragraph (1)(A).
(B) Aliens who are (or were) nationals of an
independent state of the former Soviet Union or of
Estonia, Latvia, or Lithuania and who are current
members of, and demonstrate public, active, and
continuous participation (or attempted participation)
in the religious activities of, the Ukrainian Catholic
Church or the Ukrainian Orthodox Church, shall be
deemed a category of alien established under paragraph
(1)(A).
(C) Aliens who are (or were) nationals and residents
of Vietnam, Laos, or Cambodia and who are members of
categories of individuals determined, by the Attorney
General in accordance with ``Immigration and
Naturalization Service Worldwide Guidelines for
Overseas Refugee Processing'' (issued by the
Immigration and Naturalization Service in August 1983)
shall be deemed a category of alien established under
paragraph (1)(B).
(3) Within the number of admissions of refugees
allocated for each of fiscal years 1990, 1991, and 1992
for refugees who are nationals of the Soviet Union
under section 207(a)(3) of the Immigration and
Nationality Act (and within the number of such
admissions allocated for each of fiscal years 1993,
1994, 1995, and 1996 for refugees who are nationals of
the independent states of the former Soviet Union,
Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania under such section) and
within the number of such admissions allocated for each
of fiscal years 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998,
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007,
2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016,
2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, [and 2022] 2022, and 2023
for refugees who are nationals of the independent
states of the former Soviet Union, Estonia, Latvia, and
Lithuania under such section, notwithstanding any other
provision of law, the President shall allocate one
thousand of such admissions for such fiscal year to
refugees who are within the category of aliens
described in paragraph (2)(B).
(c) Written Reasons for Denials of Refugee Status.--Each
decision to deny an application for refugee status of an alien
who is within a category established under this section shall
be in writing and shall state, to the maximum extent feasible,
the reason for the denial.
(d) Permitting Certain Aliens Within Categories to Reapply
for Refugee Status.--Each alien who is within a category
established under this section and who (after August 14, 1988,
and before the date of the enactment of this Act) was denied
refugee status shall be permitted to reapply for such status.
Such an application shall be determined taking into account the
application of this section.
(e) Period of Application.--
(1) Subsections (a) and (b) shall take effect on the
date of the enactment of this Act and shall only apply
to applications for refugee status submitted before
October 1, [2022] 2023.
(2) Subsection (c) shall apply to decisions made
after the date of the enactment of this Act and before
October 1, [2022] 2023.
(3) Subsection (d) shall take effect on the date of
the enactment of this Act and shall only apply to
reapplications for refugee status submitted before
October 1, [2022] 2023.
adjustment of status for certain soviet and indochinese parolees
Sec. 599E. (a) In General.--The Attorney General shall adjust
the status of an alien described in subsection (b) to that of
an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence if the
alien--
(1) applies for such adjustment,
(2) has been physically present in the United States
for at least 1 year and is physically present in the
United States on the date the application for such
adjustment is filed,
(3) is admissible to the United States as an
immigrant, except as provided in subsection (c), and
(4) pays a fee (determined by the Attorney General)
for the processing of such application.
(b) Aliens Eligible for Adjustment of Status.--The benefits
provided in subsection (a) shall only apply to an alien who--
(1) was a national of an independent state of the
former Soviet Union or of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania,
Vietnam, Laos, or Cambodia, and
(2) was inspected and granted parole into the United
States during the period beginning on August 15, 1988,
and ending on September 30, [2022] 2023, after being
denied refugee status.
(c) Waiver of Certain Grounds for Inadmissibility.--The
provisions of paragraphs (4), (5), and (7)(A) of section 212(a)
of the Immigration and Nationality Act shall not apply to
adjustment of status under this section and the Attorney
General may waive any other provision of such section (other
than paragraph (2)(C) or subparagraph (A), (B), (C), or (E) of
paragraph (3)) with respect to such an adjustment for
humanitarian purposes, to assure family unity, or when it is
otherwise in the public interest.
(d) Date of Approval.--Upon the approval of such an
application for adjustment of status, the Attorney General
shall create a record of the alien's admission as a lawful
permanent resident as of the date of the alien's inspection and
parole described in subsection (b)(2).
(e) No Offset in Number of Visas Available.--When an alien is
granted the status of having been lawfully admitted for
permanent residence under this section, the Secretary of State
shall not be required to reduce the number of immigrant visas
authorized to be issued under the Immigration and Nationality
Act.
* * * * * * *
----------
EMERGENCY WARTIME SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2003
* * * * * * *
TITLE I
WAR-RELATED APPROPRIATIONS
* * * * * * *
CHAPTER 5--BILATERAL ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE
* * * * * * *
LOAN GUARANTEES TO ISRAEL
During the period beginning March 1, 2003, and ending
[September 30, 2023] September 30, 2028, loan guarantees may be
made available to Israel, guaranteeing 100 percent of the
principal and interest on such loans, the principal amount, any
part of which is to be guaranteed, not to exceed
$9,000,000,000, of which up to $3,000,000,000 may be issued
prior to October 1, 2003, or thereafter and of which
$3,000,000,000 may be issued subsequent to September 30, 2004:
Provided, That such guarantees shall constitute obligations, in
accordance with the terms of such guarantees, of the United
States and the full faith and credit of the United States is
hereby pledged for the full payment and performance of such
obligations: Provided further, That if less than the full
amount of guarantees authorized to be made available is issued
prior to [September 30, 2023] September 30, 2028, the authority
to issue the balance of such guarantees shall extend to the
subsequent fiscal year: Provided further, That guarantees may
be issued under this section only to support activities in the
geographic areas which were subject to the administration of
the Government of Israel before June 5, 1967: Provided further,
That the amount of guarantees that may be issued shall be
reduced by an amount equal to the amount extended or estimated
to have been extended by the Government of Israel during the
period from March 1, 2003, to the date of issue of the
guarantee, for activities which the President determines are
inconsistent with the objectives and understandings reached
between the United States and the Government of Israel
regarding the implementation of the loan guarantee program:
Provided further, That the President shall submit a report to
Congress no later than September 30 of each fiscal year during
the pendency of the program specifying the amount calculated
under the preceding proviso and that will be deducted from the
amount of guarantees authorized to be issued in the next fiscal
year: Provided further, That the interest rate for loans
guaranteed under this heading may include a reasonable fee to
cover the costs and fees incurred by the borrower in connection
with this program or financing under this heading in the event
the borrower elects not to finance such costs or fees out of
loan principal: Provided further, That no appropriations under
this heading are available for the subsidy costs for these loan
guarantees: Provided further, That the Government of Israel
will pay the cost, as defined in section 502 of the Federal
Credit Reform Act of 1990, as amended, including any non-
payment exposure risk, associated with the loan guarantees
issued in any fiscal year, on a pro rata basis as each
guarantee is issued during that year: Provided further, That
all fees (as defined in section 601(e) of Public Law 102-391)
associated with the loan guarantees shall be paid by the
Government of Israel to the Government of the United States:
Provided further, That funds made available for assistance to
Israel under chapter 4 of part II of the Foreign Assistance Act
of 1961, as amended, may be utilized by the Government of
Israel to pay such fees to the United States Government:
Provided further, That the President shall determine the terms
and conditions for issuing guarantees, taking into
consideration
the budgetary and economic reforms undertaken by Israel:
Provided further, That if the President determines that these
terms and conditions have been breached, the President may
suspend or terminate the provision of all or part of the loan
guarantees not yet issued under this heading.
* * * * * * *
----------
UNITED NATIONS PARTICIPATION ACT OF 1945
* * * * * * *
Sec. 9. The Secretary of State may, under such regulations as
he shall prescribe, and notwithstanding section 3648 of the
Revised Statutes (31 U.S.C. 529) and section 5536 of title 5,
United States Code:
(1) Make available to the Representative of the
United States to the United Nations and the Deputy
Permanent Representative of the United States to the
United Nations living quarters leased or rented by the
United States (for periods not exceeding ten years) and
allowances for unusual expenses incident to the
operation and maintenance of such living quarters
similar to those and to be considered for all purposes
as authorized by section 22 of the Administrative
Expenses Act of 1946, as amended by section 311 of the
Overseas Differentials and Allowances Act.
(2) Make available in New York to no more than [30]
41 foreign service employees of the staff of the United
States Mission to the United Nations, other
representatives, and no more than two employees who
serve at the pleasure of the Representative, living
quarters leased or rented by the United States (for
periods not exceeding ten years). The number of
employees to which such quarters will be made available
shall be determined by the Secretary and shall reflect
a significant reduction over the number of persons
eligible for housing benefits as of the date of
enactment of this provision. No employee may occupy a
unit under this provision if the unit is owned by the
employee. The Secretary shall require that each
employee occupying housing under this subsection
contribute to the Department of State a percentage of
his or her base salary, in an amount to be determined
by the Secretary of State toward the cost of such
housing. The Secretary may reduce such payments to the
extent of income taxes paid on the value of the leased
or rented quarters any payments made by employees to
the Department of State for occupancy by them of living
quarters leased or rented under this section shall be
credited to the appropriation, fund, or account
utilized by the Secretary of State for such lease or
rental or to the appropriation, fund, or account
currently available for such purpose.
(3) provide such allowance as the Secretary considers
appropriate, to each Delegate and Alternate Delegate of
the United States to any session of the General
Assembly of the United Nations who is not a permanent
member of the staff of the United States Mission to the
United Nations, in order to compensate each such
Delegate or Alternate Delegate for necessary housing
and subsistence expenses incurred by him with respect
to attending any such session.
(4) The Inspector General shall review the program
established by this section no later than December 1989
and periodically thereafter with a view to increasing
cost savings and making other appropriate
recommendations.
* * * * * * *
----------
FOREIGN ASSISTANCE ACT OF 1961
* * * * * * *
PART I
Chapter 1--Policy; Development Assistance Authorizations
* * * * * * *
SEC. 104D ELIGIBILITY FOR ASSISTANCE.
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, regulation, or
policy, in determining eligibility for assistance under
sections 104, 104A, 104B, and 104C, a foreign nongovernmental
organization--
(1) shall not be ineligible for such assistance
solely on the basis of health or medical services,
including counseling and referral services, provided by
such organization with non-United States Government
funds if such services--
(A) do not violate the laws of the country in
which they are being provided; and
(B) would not violate United States Federal
law if provided in the United States; and
(2) shall not be subject to requirements relating to
the use of non-United States Government funds for
advocacy and lobbying activities other than those that
apply to United States nongovernmental organizations
receiving assistance under this part.
* * * * * * *
Changes in the Application of Existing Law
Pursuant to clause 3(f)(1)(A) of rule XIII of the Rules of
the House of Representatives, the following statements are
submitted describing the effect of provisions in the
accompanying bill that directly or indirectly change the
application of existing law.
Language is included in various parts of the bill to
continue ongoing activities in fiscal year 2023 that require
annual authorization or additional legislation, which to date
has not been enacted. The bill includes provisions that place
limitations on the use of funds in the bill or change existing
limitations and that might under some circumstances be
construed as changing the application of existing law. The bill
includes a number of provisions that have been virtually
unchanged for many years, which are technically considered
legislation. The bill provides that several of the
appropriations shall remain available for obligation beyond the
current fiscal year. In all cases it is deemed desirable to
carry such language in order to provide for orderly
administration of such programs and effective use of funds. In
various places in the bill, the Committee recommendation
continues the prior year practice of designating amounts within
appropriation accounts in order to fund specific programs and
has adjusted some designations.
The bill contains general provisions and other language
that have been carried in the bill in past years that include
limitations and conditions on funding provided in the Act.
Additional changes in the fiscal year 2023 bill, which may
be construed as changing existing law, are as follows:
Title I
Under Diplomatic Programs, language modified from the prior
year providing transfer authority to other accounts within
Administration of Foreign Affairs; limitations on certain
programs, offices, and activities; designating the availability
and use of certain fees and transfers from other agencies; and
conditioning the obligation of certain funds made available for
security training.
Under Office of Inspector General, language carried in the
prior year notwithstanding section 209(a)(1) of the Foreign
Service Act of 1980 as it relates to post inspections.
Under Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs, language
designating amounts for certain programs and activities.
Under Embassy Security, Construction, and Maintenance,
language carried in the prior year placing limitations on the
uses of funds and restricting representation expenses.
Under Emergencies in the Diplomatic and Consular Service,
language carried in the prior year permitting the transfer of
not to exceed $1,000,000 to Repatriation Loans Program Account.
Under Repatriation Loans Program Account, language carried
in the prior year directing that costs shall be defined as in
section 502 of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 and capping
total loan principle.
Under Contributions to International Organizations,
language similar to the prior year requiring submission to the
Committees on Appropriations of the United Nations biennial
budget, limiting the use of funds, and establishing a number of
notification and reporting requirements.
Under Contributions for International Peacekeeping
Activities, language similar to the prior year limiting the use
of funds and establishing a number of notification and
reporting requirements. Additional language included allowing
amounts appropriated to Contributions for International
Peacekeeping Activities to be made available above the amount
authorized in section 404(b)(2) of the Foreign Relations
Authorization Act Fiscal Years 1994 and 1995.
Under International Boundary and Water Commission, United
States and Mexico and American Sections, International
Commissions, language carried in the prior year providing a
limitation on the amount available for representation expenses.
Under International Fisheries Commissions, language carried
in the prior year providing authority to pay United States
expenses in advance, pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 3324.
Under International Broadcasting Operations, language
carried in the prior year setting limitations on funds
available for certain expenses and receipts, requiring the
United States Agency for Global Media to make funds available
to expand unrestricted access to information on the Internet,
requiring a review of certain programs, restricting
representation expenses, requiring notifications.
Under The Asia Foundation, language similar to the prior
year designating funds for certain purposes.
Under United States Institute of Peace, language similar to
the prior year related to the period of availability.
Under Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Program, language
carried in the prior year limiting the use of funds relating to
compensation.
Under East-West Center, language similar to the prior year
designating funds for certain purposes.
Under National Endowment for Democracy, language similar to
the prior year setting an extended period of availability.
Under Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage
Abroad, language carried in the prior year allowing the
Commission to procure certain services notwithstanding
paragraph (3) of section 312304(b) of Public Law 113-287 during
fiscal year 2023 and requiring notification.
Under United States Commission on International Religious
Freedom, language similar to the prior year placing a
limitation on representation expenses.
Under Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe,
Salaries and Expenses, language carried in the prior year
limiting representation expenses.
Under Congressional-Executive Commission on the People's
Republic of China and United States-China Economic and Security
Review Commission, language carried in the prior year placing a
limitation on representation expenses.
Under United States-China Economic and Security Review
Commission, language carried in the prior year incorporating by
reference several provisos relating to personnel and financial
management authorities that were carried in the Department of
State, Foreign Operations, and Related Appropriations Act,
2010.
Title II
Under Operating Expenses, language similar to the prior
year limiting financing of construction or entering into
leases, allowing transfers of funds, and restricting
representation and entertainment expenses.
Under Capital Investment Fund, language carried in the
prior year requiring notifications.
Title III
Under Global Health Programs, language similar to the prior
year requiring direct apportionment to agencies, designating
the use of funds, requiring notifications, and setting a cap on
administrative expenses.
Under International Disaster Assistance, language carried
in the prior year regarding apportionment.
Under Transition Initiatives, language carried in the prior
year designating the use of funds, requiring a report prior to
the initiation or termination of a country program, requiring
prior consultations, and allowing the use of additional funds
in this Act for the same purposes as funds under this heading
following consultation.
Under Complex Crises Found, language carried in the prior
year requiring the direct apportionment of funding to USAID and
providing notwithstanding authority.
Under Democracy Fund, language carried in the prior year
providing assistance for the promotion of democracy globally
through the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor,
Department of State, and the Bureau for Development, Democracy,
and Innovation, United States Agency for International
Development.
Under Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia,
language carried in the prior year providing notwithstanding
authority, transfer authority, and related notification
requirements, designating coordination responsibilities,
certain payments, and designating certain funds for purposes of
administrative authorities.
Under Migration and Refugee Assistance, language similar to
the prior year designating amounts for refugees resettling in
Israel.
Under United States Emergency Refugee and Migration
Assistance Fund, language carried in the prior year providing
certain transfer authority to Migration and Refugee Assistance.
Under Peace Corps, language modified from the prior year
limiting representation expenses, requiring consultations,
allowing the Director to transfer funds to help mitigate
exchange rate losses, and placing limitations on certain
activities.
Under Millennium Challenge Corporation, language similar to
the prior year placing a cap on administrative expenses,
establishing certain funding conditions and notification
requirements, and limiting and restricting entertainment and
representation allowances.
Under Inter-American Foundation, language carried in the
prior year limiting representation expenses.
Under United States African Development Foundation,
language similar to the prior year allowing for the investment
of project funding by grantees, limiting the use of interest
earned, allowing certain building leases, and requiring a
report.
Under International Affairs Technical Assistance, language
carried in the prior year designating funds for certain
purposes.
Under Debt Restructuring, language carried in the prior
year providing funds for debt restructuring programs. Language
is included for providing funds for the Debt Service Suspension
Initiative and the Common Framework.
Under Tropical Forest and Coral Reef Conservation, language
carried in the prior year providing funds for tropical forest
and coral reef conservation programs and an extended period of
availability.
Title IV
Under International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement,
language carried in the prior year designating funding for
certain training, giving the Department of State the authority
to provide excess property to a foreign country, subject to
notification, waiving a section of the Foreign Assistance Act,
subject to notification, and requiring notification for certain
transfers.
Under Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining, and
Related Programs, language carried in the prior year
designating the use of funds, providing authorities for funds,
and establishing certain funding conditions and notification
requirements.
Under Peacekeeping Operations, language carried in the
prior year designating the use of funds, providing certain
authorities, establishing prohibitions for the use of funds,
and requiring notifications.
Under International Military Education and Training,
language carried in the prior year allowing certain civilian
personnel to receive training and limiting entertainment
allowances.
Under Foreign Military Financing Program, language similar
to the prior year designating the use of funds, requiring
consultations and notifications, establishing requirements for
the disbursement and transfer of certain funds, establishing
limitations and conditions on funds, and limiting
representation and entertainment expenses.
Title V
Under International Organizations and Programs, language
similar to the prior year providing contributions to
international organizations.
Under Global Environment Facility, language carried in the
prior year is included providing funds designated for certain
purposes.
Title VI
Under Export-Import Bank of the United States, Program
Account, language carried in the prior year allowing for
certain expenditures and setting limitations on funds.
Under Export-Import Bank of the United States,
Administrative Expenses, language carried in the prior year
limiting representation expenses, allowing for the collection
of certain fees, providing administratively determined pay
authority, and requiring notifications.
Under Export-Import Bank of the United States, Program
Budget Appropriations, language carried in the prior year
providing funds for the cost of direct loans, loan guarantees,
insurance, and tied-aid grants.
Under Export-Import Bank of the United States, Receipts
Collected, language carried in the prior year requiring
sufficient fees to cover costs.
Under United States International Development Finance
Corporation, Corporate Capital Account, language carried in the
prior year making funds available to carry out the activities
described in the BUILD Act of 2018.
Under United States International Development Finance
Corporation, Program Account, language similar to the prior
year is included to carry out the activities described in the
BUILD Act of 2018.
Under Trade and Development Agency, language carried in the
prior year restricting representation and entertainment
allowances and designating the use of funds.
Title VII
Sec. 7001 includes language carried in the prior year
regarding allowances and differentials.
Sec. 7002 includes language carried in the prior year
requiring agencies to provide quarterly reports on the
cumulative balances of any unobligated funds.
Sec. 7003 includes language carried in the prior year
requiring that consulting service contracts shall be a matter
of public record.
Sec. 7004 includes language similar to the prior year with
respect to the construction and use of diplomatic facilities,
setting limitations, expanding notification and oversight
requirements, and placing conditions and restrictions on
certain funds. Further direction concerning notification and
oversight of diplomatic facilities is included under Embassy
Security, Construction, and Maintenance.
Sec. 7005 includes language carried in the prior year
regarding certain personnel actions and the authority to
transfer funds between appropriations accounts.
Sec. 7006 includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting the use of funds in this Act for publicity or
propaganda purposes within the United States not otherwise
authorized by law.
Sec. 7007 includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting assistance for certain governments.
Sec. 7008 includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting assistance for countries whose duly elected head of
government is deposed by military coup or decree, or a coup or
decree in which the military plays a decisive role; requiring a
determination; and providing a waiver under certain conditions.
Sec. 7009 includes language modified from the prior year
setting limitations and conditions on transfers between
appropriations accounts and requiring audits of certain
transfers.
Sec. 7010 includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting first-class travel, setting certain limitations on
computer networks, the promotion of tobacco, and representation
and entertainment expenses.
Sec. 7011 includes language carried in the prior year
regarding the availability of funds appropriated by this Act.
Sec. 7012 includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting assistance for countries in default and allowing
exceptions in certain circumstances.
Sec. 7013 includes language carried in the prior year
withholding assistance to a country where such assistance is
subject to taxation, unless the Secretary of State makes
certain determinations.
Sec. 7014 includes language carried in the prior year
regarding the reservation of funds and the designation of
certain funding levels.
Sec. 7015 includes language similar to the prior year
establishing the notification requirements for the obligation
of certain funds made available by this Act.
Sec. 7016 includes language modified from the prior year
concerning public posting of reports and documents, records
management, and related cybersecurity protections.
Sec. 7017 includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting the use of funds for programs in contravention of
this Act.
Sec. 7018 includes language modified from the prior year
prohibiting funding for involuntary sterilization.
Sec. 7019 includes language similar to the prior year
regarding compliance with: (1) funding directives in certain
tables in the accompanying report; and (2) reporting directives
in such report.
Sec. 7020 includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting the use of funds in this Act to make a multi-year
pledge unless such pledge meets the requirements of section
7066 of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and
Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2019 (division F of Public
Law 116-6).
Sec. 7021 includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting assistance for governments that support
international terrorism.
Sec. 7022 includes language carried in the prior year
regarding authorization requirements.
Sec. 7023 includes language carried in the prior year
defining the terms ``program, project, and activity''.
Sec. 7024 includes language carried in the prior year
regarding certain authorities for the Peace Corps, Inter-
American Foundation, and the United States African Development
Foundation.
Sec. 7025 includes language carried in the prior year
relating to commerce, trade, and surplus commodities.
Sec. 7026 includes language carried in the prior year
regarding the requirement that separate accounts be established
for cash transfers and assistance that generates local
currencies and establishing certain conditions on the use of
those funds.
Sec. 7027 includes language carried in the prior year
regarding assistance through nongovernmental organizations and
assistance provided under the Food for Peace Act.
Sec. 7028 includes language modified from the prior year
regarding disability programs.
Sec. 7029 includes language modified from the prior year
regarding: evaluations; social and environment safeguards; the
compensation level of the United States executive director to
each international financial institution (IFI); human rights
promotion; fraud and corruption; beneficial ownership;
whistleblower protections; and grievance mechanisms.
Sec. 7030 includes language carried in the prior year
making funds available to advance the adoption of security
communications networks and counter the adoption of insecure
networks and services.
Sec. 7031 includes language carried in the prior year
regarding management of direct assistance to governments,
budget transparency of recipient countries, corruption and
human rights violations, and the foreign assistance website.
Sec. 7032 contains language modified from the prior year
regarding democracy programs funded in this Act.
Sec. 7033 includes language carried from the prior year on
assistance regarding international religious freedom.
Sec. 7034 includes language similar to the prior year
granting or extending certain special authorities and
limitations relating to funds made available by this Act.
Sec. 7035 includes language modified from the prior year
related to assistance, authorities, limitations, and
notifications regarding law enforcement and security matters.
Sec. 7036 includes language modified from the prior year
establishing certain limitations on assistance that may impact
jobs in the United States.
Sec. 7037 includes language carried in the prior year
establishing limitations on the use of funds in support of a
Palestinian state.
Sec. 7038 includes language carried in the prior year
restricting assistance to the Palestinian Broadcasting
Corporation.
Sec. 7039 includes language carried in the prior year
placing conditions on assistance for the West Bank and Gaza.
Sec. 7040 includes language carried in the prior year
placing limitations on any assistance for the Palestinian
Authority and regarding Hamas.
Sec. 7041 includes language modified from the prior year
regarding policies and countries in the Middle East and North
Africa.
Sec. 7042 includes language modified from the prior year
regarding assistance for Africa.
Sec. 7043 includes language modified from the prior year
containing limitations, directives on assistance, and
authorities for diplomatic and development activities and
programs in East Asia and the Pacific.
Sec. 7044 includes language modified from the prior year
containing limitations, directives, and authorities for
diplomatic and development activities and programs in South and
Central Asia and for regional programs.
Sec. 7045 includes language similar to the prior year
directing assistance levels, limitations, and conditions
regarding assistance for certain countries in Latin America and
the Caribbean.
Sec. 7046 includes language modified from the prior year
regarding Europe and Eurasia.
Sec. 7047 includes language similar to the prior year
regarding programs to counter Russian influence and aggression.
Sec. 7048 includes language modified from the prior year
relating to conditions on funds for the UN and other
international organizations.
Sec. 7049 includes language carried in the prior year
regarding authority for the President to draw down certain
funds to support war crimes tribunals or commissions.
Sec. 7050 includes language modified from the prior year
directing that funds be made available for programs to promote
internet freedom globally and establishing certain limitations
and conditions on the use of such funds.
Sec. 7051 includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting funds for the use of torture.
Sec. 7052 includes language carried in the prior year
relating to aircraft transfer and coordination.
Sec. 7053 includes language carried in the prior year
relating to unpaid parking fines and real property taxes owed
by foreign governments.
Sec. 7054 includes language carried in the prior year
regarding the International Monetary Fund.
Sec. 7055 includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting funds for a country that does not cooperate in the
extradition to the United States of certain individuals.
Sec. 7056 includes language carried in the prior year
establishing restrictions on enterprise funds.
Sec. 7057 includes language modified from prior year
regarding assistance provided to the United Nations Population
Fund.
Sec. 7058 includes language modified from the prior year
regarding global health activities.
Sec. 7059 includes language modified from the prior year
regarding programs that support gender equality.
Sec. 7060 includes language modified from the prior year
regarding assistance for programs related to basic education,
higher education, food security and agriculture development,
microenterprise, programs to combat trafficking in persons,
reconciliation, and water and sanitation.
Sec. 7061 includes language modified from the prior year
regarding United States bilateral and multilateral environment
programs.
Sec. 7062 includes language modified from the prior year
requiring operating and spend plans for funds appropriated by
this Act.
Sec. 7063 includes language carried in the prior year
concerning consultation, notification, and reporting
requirements involving any agency reorganization.
Sec. 7064 includes language carried in the prior year
regarding management of the Department of State including
financial management, personnel levels, and information
technology.
Sec. 7065 includes language modified from the prior year
regarding management of USAID including personnel levels and
hiring authorities.
Sec. 7066 includes language modified from the prior year
related to assistance to regions impacted by extremism and
conflict.
Sec. 7067 includes language carried in the prior year
regarding debt-for-development and debt-for-nature exchanges.
Sec. 7068 includes language modified from the prior year
extending certain consular fees and related authorities.
Sec. 7069 includes language modified from the prior year
rescinding $20,000,000 in unobligated balances from prior year
appropriations from Peace Corps.
Sec. 7070 includes new language authorizing certain water
management activities in the United States-Mexico border
region.
Sec. 7071 includes new language regarding United States
participation in international organizations.
Sec. 7072 includes new language regarding restrictions on
foreign nongovernmental organizations.
Appropriations Not Authorized by Law
Pursuant to clause 3(f)(1)(B) of rule XIII of the Rules of
the House of Representatives, the following table lists the
appropriations in the accompanying bill which are not
authorized by law for the period concerned:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Appropriations in
Agency/Activity Last Year Authorization Last Year of Appropriations in
Authorized Level Authorization the Bill
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of State/ 2003.............. $5,290,390,000.... $5,874,914,000.... $13,092,944,000
Administration of Foreign
Affairs.
Department of State/Embassy 2022.............. $1,983,149,000.... $1,983,149,000.... $1,957,821,000
Security, Construction and
Maintenance.
Department of State/ 2003.............. $1,529,702,000.... $1,672,000,000.... $3,457,239,000
International Organizations.
Department of State/ 2003.............. $71,385,000....... $57,730,000....... $182,050,000
International Commissions.
U.S. Agency for Global Media 2003.............. $644,486,000...... $599,560,000...... $862,000,000
(formerly Broadcasting Board of
Governors).
Department of State/Related 2003.............. $72,000,000....... $69,986,000....... $407,469,000
Programs.
United States Institute of Peace 2014.............. Such sums as may $37,000,000....... $54,000,000
be necessary.
USAID/Operating Expenses........ 1987.............. $387,000,000...... $340,600,000...... $1,743,350,000
USAID/Capital Investment Fund... None.............. NA................ NA................ $263,504,000
USAID/Inspector General......... 1987.............. $21,750,000....... $21,000,000....... $80,500,000
Global Health Programs (see note Population (1987); Population Population $4,581,000,000
below). Health and ($290,000,000); ($234,625,000); (includes not
Disease Health and Health and less than
Prevention Disease Disease $760,000,000 for
(1987); Child Prevention Prevention Population)
Survival Fund ($180,000,000); ($166,762,000);
(1987). Child Survival Child Survival
Fund Fund (75,000,000).
($75,000,000).
Global Health Programs: HIV/AIDS
Development Assistance (see note 2013 Agriculture; $48,000,000,000 $5,720,499,000 $6,395,000,000
below). (1987) Education over 5 years Agriculture $4,769,787,000
(1987); Energy Agriculture ($693,613,000); (program levels
and selected ($760,000,000); Education too difficult to
development Education ($155,000,000); determine due to
activities (1987). ($180,000,000); Energy and changing
Energy and selected definitions of
selected development programs since
development activities last authorized)
activities ($149,990,000).
($207,000,000).
International Disaster 2018.............. $2,794,184,000.... $2,696,534,000.... $4,395,000,000
Assistance.
Transition Initiatives.......... None.............. NA................ NA................ $93,000,000
Democracy Fund.................. None.............. NA................ NA................ $345,700,000
Assistance for Europe, Eurasia 1993.............. $410,000,000...... N/A............... $850,334,000
and Central Asia.
Migration and Refugee Assistance 2003.............. $820,000,000...... $781,884,000...... $3,700,000,000
Peace Corps..................... 2003.............. $365,000,000...... $295,069,000...... $430,500,000
Millennium Challenge Corporation 2005.............. Such sums as may $1,488,000,000.... $915,000,000
be necessary.
Inter-American Foundation....... 1993.............. $31,000,000....... $30,960,000....... $47,000,000
United States African 1987.............. $3,872,000........ $6,500,000........ $43,000,000
Development Foundation.
Department of the Treasury, 1999.............. $5,000,000........ $1,500,000........ $38,000,000
International Affairs Technical
Assistance.
Economic Support Fund........... 1987.............. $3,800,000,000.... $3,555,000,000.... $4,128,268,000
International Narcotics Control 1994.............. $171,500,000...... $100,000,000...... $1,450,000,000
and Law Enforcement.
Nonproliferation, Anti- 2003.............. $226,200,000...... NA................ $920,247,000
terrorism, Demining and Related
Programs (see note below).
Peacekeeping Operations......... 1999.............. $83,000,000....... $76,500,000....... $460,759,000
International Military Education 2003.............. $85,000,000....... $79,480,000....... $112,925,000
and Training.
Foreign Military Financing...... 2003.............. $4,107,000,000.... $6,104,632,000.... $6,053,049,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: Programs recommended herein under ``Global Health Programs'' were last authorized under a different
account structure than that recommended in this bill; the account structure included a number of functional
accounts, as described above.
Note: Programs recommended herein under ``Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related Programs''
include some major programs for which authorizations of appropriations were provided for fiscal year 2002;
these programs include $73,000,000 authorized for antiterrorism assistance and $142,000,000 authorized for
nonproliferation activities. In addition, some programs now in this account were previously in accounts which
had authorizations of appropriations in prior years.
Comparison With the Budget Resolution
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(2) of rule XIII of the Rules of the
House of Representatives and section 308(a)(1)(A) of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974, the following table compares
the levels of new budget authority provided in the bill with
the appropriate allocation under section 302(b) of the Budget
Act.
[In millions of dollars]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
302(b) Allocation This Bill
---------------------------------------------------------------
Budget Budget
Authority Outlays Authority Outlays
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comparison of amounts in the bill with Committee
allocations to its subcommittees Subcommittee
on State, Foreign Operations, and Related
Programs
Discretionary............................... 64,575 69,000 64,575\1\ 68,823
Mandatory................................... 159 159 159 159
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\Includes outlays from pnor-year budget authority.
NOTE--The amounts in this report do not include $500
million in estimated outlays from provisions in this bill that
are designated as being for an emergency requirement pursuant
to section 1(e) of H. Res. 1151 (117th Congress) Consistent
with the Congressional Budget Act of 1974, in the House of
Representatives such amounts do not count against the
Committee's allocation.
Five Year Outlay Projections
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(2) of rule XIII and section
308(a)(1)(B) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974, the
following table contains five-year projections associated with
the budget authority provided in the accompanying bill as
provided to the Committee by the Congressional Budget Office.
[In millions of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outlays
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Projection of outlays associated with the
recommendations:
2023............................................. \1\24,795
2024............................................. 16,371
2025............................................. 10,536
2026............................................. 5,881
2027 and future years............................ 6,550
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\Excludes outlays from prior-year budget authority.
Financial Assistance to State and Local Governments
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(2) of rule XIII and section
308(a)(1)(C) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974, the
Congressional Budget Office has provided the following
estimates of new budget authority and outlays provided by the
accompanying bill for financial assistance to State and local
governments.
[In millions of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Budget Authority Outlays
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Financial assistance to State and 0 \1\0
local governments for 2023.......
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\Excludes outlays from prior-year budget authority.
Program Duplication
No provision of this bill establishes or reauthorizes a
program of the Federal Government known to be duplicative of
another Federal program, a program that was included in any
report from the Government Accountability Office to Congress
pursuant to section 21 of Public Law 111-139, or a program
related to a program identified in the most recent Catalog of
Federal Domestic Assistance.
Committee Hearings
Pursuant clause 3(c)(6) of rule XII, the following hearings
were used to develop or consider the State, Foreign Operations
and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2023.
The Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related
Programs held an oversight hearing on April 6, 2022, entitled
``U.S. International Assistance to Combat Narcotics
Trafficking''. The Subcommittee received testimony from:
James Walsh, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary,
Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement
Affairs, Department of State
The Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related
Programs held a budget hearing on April 28, 2022, entitled
``Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Request for the Department of
State''. The Subcommittee received testimony from:
The Honorable Antony Blinken, Secretary, Department
of State
The Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related
Programs held a budget hearing on May 11, 2022, entitled
``Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Request for the United States Agency
for International Development''. The Subcommittee received
testimony from:
The Honorable Samantha Power, Administrator, United
States Agency for International Development
The Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related
Programs held a budget hearing on May 17, 2022, entitled
``Fiscal Year 2023 Member Day Hearing.'' The Subcommittee
received oral testimony and/or written testimony from:
The Honorable Ed Case, Member of Congress
The Honorable Steve Cohen, Member of Congress
The Honorable Jim Costa, Member of Congress
The Honorable Veronica Escobar, Member of Congress
The Honorable John Garamendi, Member of Congress
The Honorable Sylvia R. Garcia, Member of Congress
The Honorable Kaiali'i Kahele, Member of Congress
The Honorable Tom Malinowski, Member of Congress
The Honorable James P. McGovern, Member of Congress
The Honorable Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen, Member
of Congress
The Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related
Programs held a budget hearing on June 8, 2022, entitled
``Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Request for the United Nations
(UN)''. The Subcommittee received testimony from:
The Honorable Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S.
Ambassador to the United Nations
Comparative Statement of New Budget (Obligational) Authority
The following table provides a detailed summary, for each
department and agency, comparing the amounts recommended in the
bill with fiscal year 2021 enacted amounts and budget estimates
presented for fiscal year 2022:
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
MINORITY VIEWS
We thank the Chairs of the Full Committee and the
Subcommittee for crafting a State, Foreign Operations, and
Related Programs Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2023 that
includes several priorities that support our national security
and advance United States interests. Unfortunately, the fifteen
percent increase included in the bill is far too much given
record-high national debt and inflation. It is also based on a
topline funding level that only the Majority has agreed to, and
resources have been allocated to many misguided priorities that
do not prioritize national security or reflect today's global
reality. In addition, the removal of longstanding provisions in
the bill to protect unborn children has resulted in one of the
most extreme bills reported from this Committee.
We appreciate that $3.3 billion in the Foreign Military
Financing Program was included for our great ally, Israel, and
that the bill continues support for other key partners around
the globe. In addition, the bill's focus on Pacific Island
partners as part of our efforts to counter China's malign
influence is a welcome step. We also are pleased that the bill
maintains robust funding for embassy security to help ensure
the safety of our people and facilities overseas.
We were pleased the Majority agreed to address in the
Manager's Amendment several issues important to our Members,
such as prohibiting funds to the Wuhan Institute of Virology,
reinserting a notification requirement regarding detainees held
at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and supporting programs to hold
Russian officials accountable for war crimes committed in
Ukraine.
We also were glad that amendments offered by our Members to
ensure the American taxpayer is not footing the bill for
controversial spending were passed by voice vote. These
include: an amendment offered by Mr. Womack to prohibit funds
from Contributions for International Peacekeeping Activities to
pay for the procurement of Russian equipment in United Nations
peacekeeping missions; an amendment offered by Mr. Diaz-Balart
to prohibit funds to implement an agreement with Iran relating
to their nuclear program unless the program is approved by
Congress and to prohibit funds to revoke the designation of the
Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a Foreign Terrorist
Organization; an amendment offered by Mr. Reschenthaler to
prohibit funds to the EcoHealth Alliance for programs in China;
and another amendment by Mr. Reschenthaler to prohibit funds to
the United Nations Human Rights Council's Commission of Inquiry
that has demonstrated its deeply anti-Israel agenda. Finally,
an amendment offered by Mr. Cline to provide robust oversight
requirements for assistance going to Ukraine also passed by
voice vote.
In other areas, stark policy differences remain. Some of
the priorities Republicans tried to address were rejected by
the Majority, including: continuing longstanding pro-life
protections; prioritizing security assistance for Taiwan;
reducing domestic energy costs; reining in unchecked spending
on international climate finance projects; restoring
longstanding conditions on funding to the United Nations; and
continuing our unwavering commitment to supporting Israel.
Mr. Diaz-Balart offered an amendment to prohibit funds to
upgrade the Palestinian Affairs Unit to serve as the unofficial
United States consulate to the Palestinians in Jerusalem. The
amendment was defeated by voice vote.
Mr. Calvert offered a budget-neutral amendment to provide
Taiwan with $450,000,000 in Foreign Military Financing Program
funds, increase Foreign Military Financing Program funding
within the Countering People's Republic of China (PRC)
Influence Fund from $50,000,000 to $100,000,000, and decrease
the Economic Support Fund account by $500,000,000. Following
Russia's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, the attention of the
world has been drawn to the strategic vulnerability of Taiwan
to military coercion or aggression by the People's Liberation
Army. These funds would reduce that vulnerability for our
partners in the Indo-Pacific. The amendment was defeated 24-31,
but deterring communist China's aggression remains a top
priority for Republicans.
Mr. Moolenaar offered an amendment that would prohibit
funds from being used to shut down the Line 5 pipeline that
runs from Canada through Michigan and supplies energy to the
Midwest. Despite record-breaking gas prices and bipartisan
support for the amendment, it was defeated 25-30.
Mr. Diaz-Balart offered an amendment to restore important
conditions on the United Nations that have been carried in the
bill for many years. The amendment would withhold funds from
the United Nations Human Rights Council until the Secretary of
State certifies that the Council is taking significant steps to
remove Israel as a permanent agenda item, in addition to other
requirements. It also would require, prior to obligation of
funds, that the Secretary report on whether the United Nations
Relief and Works Agency is meeting certain requirements to
ensure funds are not misused or diverted to terrorists. Despite
the need for these important measures, the amendment was
defeated 23-32. Our Members will remain vigilant in our
oversight of the United Nations.
Mrs. Hinson offered an amendment to restore the
longstanding pro-life protections in the bill, including the
Helms language that prohibits funds from being used to pay for
abortion, Kemp-Kasten language on coercive abortion,
requirements for voluntary family planning, and striking a
provision that permanently prohibits implementation of the
Mexico City Policy. Republican Members supported this amendment
because these provisions have been critically important in
protecting the sanctity of life and maintaining bipartisan
support of global health programs over the last several
decades. The amendment was defeated 23-32, but the fight to
protect the most basic pro-life protections will continue.
Ms. Letlow offered another pro-life amendment to strike the
funding increase mandated for the United Nations Population
Fund (UNFPA) and for family planning programs and to insert a
funding prohibition for UNFPA given that the organization
violates the most basic respect for human life through its
support for coercive abortion and forced sterilization. The
amendment was defeated 24-32, but Republicans were unified in
their concerns about funding for UNFPA.
Finally, Mr. Cline offered an amendment to strike
$1,600,000,000 for the Green Climate Fund, citing it as a
significant example of misguided spending priorities in the
bill. Questions regarding the oversight and management of the
organization were acknowledged even by current Treasury
Secretary Janet Yellen; however, the amendment still was
defeated by the Majority.
In closing, we remain concerned about the spending levels
and partisan riders in this bill that could jeopardize
enactment of final legislation. We want to work with the
Majority as we proceed through the legislative process, so the
many bipartisan issues of great national importance in this
bill will receive the support they deserve.
Kay Granger.
Harold Rogers.
[all]