Urging The Congressional Pacific Islands Caucus To Reintroduce And Advocate For The Passage Of The "engage The Pacific Act.
Impact
The Engage the Pacific Act includes provisions for establishing a Committee on Engagement with Civil Society Organizations in the Pacific Islands and calls for a comprehensive communications strategy in the region. It aims to enhance professional development and educational opportunities for Pacific Island citizens through scholarships. By advocating for the passage of this act, the resolution seeks to facilitate better cooperation between the U.S. and Pacific nations, thereby reinforcing strategic ties and stability in the region.
Summary
HCR159 is a House Concurrent Resolution from the State of Hawaii urging the Congressional Pacific Islands Caucus to reintroduce and advocate for the passage of the Engage the Pacific Act. The resolution emphasizes the importance of strengthening engagement with Pacific Islands, which are seen as critical allies within the geopolitically significant Asia-Pacific region. It acknowledges the various challenges these islands face, including natural disasters and threats to democracy, and underscores the need for renewed commitment by the United States government to address these issues.
Contention
Despite the act's intentions, there are underlying concerns regarding the effectiveness of U.S. foreign policy in the Pacific Islands. The resolution points out that the 118th Congress previously considered the Engage the Pacific Act but did not succeed in passing it, raising questions about Congressional commitment to the region's challenges. Noteworthy contention may arise from potential political opposition or differing views on how best to support and engage with Pacific Island nations.
Requesting The Governor To Establish A 2023 Asia-pacific Economic Cooperation Hawaii Delegation Team To Participate In The 2023 Asia-pacific Economic Cooperation Events In Seattle And San Francisco.
Requesting The Department Of Education To Convene A Working Group To Develop A Written Plan For Every Public School Elementary, Middle, And High School To Provide A Unit Of Instruction In Asian American And Pacific Islander History As Part Of Their Required Curriculum, Commencing With The 2024-2025 School Year.
Urging The Department Of Transportation To Work With The City And County Of Honolulu To Plan And Implement Options For Alternative Ingress And Egress Routes In Pacific Palisades.