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US HB562
Bill
Status
1/20/2025
Primary Sponsor
Ed Case
Click for details
AI Summary
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Requires the President to submit a "Strategy for Pacific Islands Partnership" every 4 years starting January 2027, covering U.S. goals, regional threats, security plans, and infrastructure investment for 14 Pacific Island nations including Fiji, Palau, Marshall Islands, and Papua New Guinea
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Authorizes $270 million annually for fiscal years 2026-2033 to expand U.S. diplomatic presence, staffing, and programming across Pacific Islands, including establishing a senior State Department official for Compacts of Free Association and extending diplomatic immunities to the Pacific Islands Forum
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Creates multiple development programs including the Pacific Islands TRADES Program ($10 million/year for workforce training), Indo-Pacific Media Advancement Program ($4 million/year for press freedom), and Ambassador's Self-Help Small Grants Program ($650,000/year for community projects)
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Authorizes security assistance to build capacity of Pacific Islands police forces, coast guards, and militaries for maritime security, counter-trafficking, disaster response, and combating illegal fishing through existing programs like Foreign Military Financing and International Military Education and Training
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Directs investment in climate-resilient infrastructure, digital connectivity, cybersecurity, public health systems, and ocean management while coordinating with allies including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and Taiwan to counter foreign influence in the region
Legislative Description
BLUE Pacific Act Boosting Long-term U.S. Engagement in the Pacific Act
International affairs
Last Action
Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committees on Natural Resources, and Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
1/20/2025