Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2023
Impact
The passage of HJR96 would strengthen the fiscal and programmatic agreements the United States holds with the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. This includes the provision of educational grants and the expansion of health services, ensuring that American nationals and residents in these nations have rights comparable to their counterparts in the U.S. The bill aims to facilitate coordination in delivering these services, which are vital for the continued development and stability of the Freely Associated States.
Summary
HJR96, titled the 'Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2023', seeks Congressional approval of the 2023 Agreements which amend the existing Compacts of Free Association between the United States and the Freely Associated States. This includes fiscal procedures and agreements regarding grants provided for education and health services. The resolution incorporates modernized requirements into the Compact, updating provisions concerning educational support and health care availability for residents of these island nations. The amendments are considered crucial for ensuring that commitments made by the United States continue to be met satisfactorily.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HJR96 appears to be largely positive among legislative proponents who argue it solidifies existing relationships and commitments to the Freely Associated States. Supporters assert that the measure is essential for regional stability and provides a structured framework to address the challenges faced by these nations. However, there may be some degree of concern regarding the implications of continued U.S. financial support and how these funds will be managed, highlighting the importance of transparency and accountability in foreign aid.
Contention
Despite the favorable outlook, discussions may reveal contention around the long-term implications of this continued partnership, particularly regarding financial sovereignty and dependence on U.S. aid among these nations. Critics of such agreements often emphasize the need for the Freely Associated States to develop their own sustainable economic policies, while advocates push for maintaining significant ties due to strategic and humanitarian reasons. Additionally, tensions could arise around the allocation of funds and whether the objectives of the Compact meet the evolving needs of the island nations.
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Countering Communist China Act Stop CCP Fentanyl Act Countering Atrocities through Currency Accountability Act of 2024 Sanctioning Supporters of Slave Labor Act DATA Act Deterring America’s Technological Adversaries Act DITCH Act Dump Investments in Troublesome Communist Holdings Act ENABLERS Act Establishing New Authorities for Businesses Laundering and Enabling Risks to Security Act STOP CCP Act Sanctioning Tyrannical and Oppressive People within the Chinese Communist Party Act Disclosing Investments in Foreign Adversaries Act of 2024 PARSA Protecting Americans’ Retirement Savings Act Preventing Adversaries from Developing Critical Capabilities Act
Related
Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2024 Department of Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Act, 2024 Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024
Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2024 Department of Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Act, 2024 Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2024
Countering Communist China Act Stop CCP Fentanyl Act Countering Atrocities through Currency Accountability Act of 2024 Sanctioning Supporters of Slave Labor Act DATA Act Deterring America’s Technological Adversaries Act DITCH Act Dump Investments in Troublesome Communist Holdings Act ENABLERS Act Establishing New Authorities for Businesses Laundering and Enabling Risks to Security Act STOP CCP Act Sanctioning Tyrannical and Oppressive People within the Chinese Communist Party Act Disclosing Investments in Foreign Adversaries Act of 2024 PARSA Protecting Americans’ Retirement Savings Act Preventing Adversaries from Developing Critical Capabilities Act
Expressing support for the protection of COFA islanders residing in Texas, reaffirming their rights afforded under the Compacts of Free Association, and recognizing March 18, 2025, as COFA Day in Texas.
Formally apologizing for the nuclear legacy of the United States in the Republic of the Marshall Islands and affirming the importance of free association between the Government of the United States and the Government of the Marshall Islands.
Celebrating The Ties Between Hawaii And The Freely Associated States And Urging The President Of The United States And United States Congress To Appoint A Lead Negotiator To Revitalize And Finalize The Stalled Renegotiation Of The Compacts Of Free Association Prior To The Compacts' Expiration.