[House Report 116-444]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
116th Congress Report
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
2d Session 116-444
======================================================================
STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS BILL,
2021
_______
July 13, 2020.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the
State of the Union and ordered to be printed
_______
Mrs. Lowey of New York, from the Committee on Appropriations, submitted
the following
R E P O R T
together with
MINORITY VIEWS
[To accompany H.R. 7608]
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,
2021, 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
11
Capital Investment Fund............................ 6
20
Office of Inspector General........................ 6
20
Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs......... 7
21
Representation Expenses............................ 8
24
Protection of Foreign Missions and Officials....... 8
24
Embassy Security, Construction, and Maintenance.... 8
25
Emergencies in the Diplomatic and Consular Service. 9
27
Repatriation Loans Program Account................. 10
27
Payment to the American Institute in Taiwan........ 10
27
International Center, Washington, District of
Columbia....................................... 11
28
Payment to the Foreign Service Retirement and
Disability Fund................................ 11
28
International Organizations:
Contributions to International Organizations....... 11
28
Contributions for International Peacekeeping
Activities..................................... 13
31
International Commissions:
International Boundary and Water Commission, United
States and Mexico.............................. 16
32
American Sections, International Commissions....... 17
33
International Fisheries Commissions................ 17
33
Related Agency..................................... 18
34
United States Agency for Global Media...... 18
34
International Broadcasting Operations.. 18
35
Broadcasting Capital Improvements...... 20
38
Related Programs................................... 21
38
The Asia Foundation........................ 21
38
United States Institute of Peace........... 21
38
Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue
Trust Fund............................. 21
39
Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Program..... 22
39
Israeli Arab Scholarship Program........... 22
39
East-West Center........................... 23
39
National Endowment for Democracy........... 23
40
Other Commissions.................................. 24
41
Commission for the Preservation of
America's Heritage Abroad.............. 24
41
United States Commission on International
Religious Freedom...................... 24
41
Commission on Security and Cooperation in
Europe................................. 25
41
Congressional-Executive Commission on the
People's Republic of China............. 25
41
United States-China Economic and Security
Review Commission...................... 25
42
Title II--United States Agency for International
Development:
Funds Appropriated to the President................ 26
42
Operating Expenses......................... 26
42
Capital Investment Fund.................... 27
45
Office of Inspector General................ 28
45
Title III-- Bilateral Economic Assistance:
Funds Appropriated to the President:............... 28
45
Global Health Programs..................... 28
45
Development Assistance..................... 31
51
International Disaster Assistance.......... 31
58
International Humanitarian Assistance......
60
Transition Initiatives..................... 32
60
Complex Crises Fund........................ 33
60
Economic Support and Development Fund......
61
Economic Support Fund...................... 33
61
Democracy Fund............................. 35
64
Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central
Asia................................... 36
65
Department of State:............................... 38
66
Migration and Refugee Assistance........... 38
66
United States Emergency Refugee and
Migration Assistance Fund.............. 39
70
Independent Agencies:.............................. 39
70
Peace Corps................................ 39
70
Millennium Challenge Corporation........... 41
72
Inter-American Foundation.................. 42
72
United States African Development
Foundation............................. 42
73
Department of the Treasury:........................ 44
73
International Affairs Technical Assistance. 44
73
Debt Restructuring......................... 44
73
Title IV--International Security Assistance:
Department of State:............................... 45
74
International Narcotics Control and Law
Enforcement............................ 45
74
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining
and Related Programs................... 47
76
Peacekeeping Operations.................... 48
78
Funds Appropriated to the President:............... 50
79
International Military Education and
Training............................... 50
79
Foreign Military Financing Program......... 50
80
Title V--Multilateral Assistance:
Funds Appropriated to the President:............... 54
82
International Organizations and Programs... 54
82
International Financial Institutions............... 54
83
Global Environment Facility................ 54
84
Contribution to the International Bank for
Reconstruction and Development......... 55
84
Contribution to the International
Development Association................ 56
85
Contribution to the Asian Development Fund. 56
85
Contribution to the African Development
Bank................................... 56
85
Contribution to the African Development
Fund................................... 57
85
Contribution to the International Fund for
Agricultural Development............... 57
85
Contribution to the North American
Development Bank....................... 57
86
Title VI--Export and Investment Assistance:
Export-Import Bank of the United States............ 58
86
United States International Development Finance
Corporation.................................... 61
87
Trade and Development Agency....................... 65
90
Title VII--General Provisions:
Title VIII--Coronavirus Pandemic Preparedness and Response
Emergency Funding:
Department of State:............................... 296
137
Diplomatic Programs........................ 296
137
Office of Inspector General................ 296
137
United States Agency for International Development:
Funds Appropriated to the President................ 297
138
Operating Expenses......................... 297
138
Office of Inspector General................ 297
138
Global Health Programs..................... 298
138
Development Assistance..................... 300
138
International Disaster Assistance.......... 301
138
Economic Support Fund...................... 301
138
Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central
Asia................................... 302
139
Department of State:............................... 302
139
Migration and Refugee Assistance........... 302
139
Independent Agencies:.............................. 303
139
Inter-American Foundation.................. 303
139
United States African Development
Foundation............................. 303
139
Multilateral Assistance:
Funds Appropriated to the President:............... 304
139
International Organizations and Programs... 304
139
General Provisions......................... 304
140
Title IX--Middle East Partnership for Peace Act of 2020:
SUMMARY OF COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
The Committee recommendation for fiscal year 2021 for the
activities under the jurisdiction of the Subcommittee on State,
Foreign Operations, and Related Programs totals $55,850,000,000
in new non-emergency discretionary budget authority, which,
excluding FY 2020 United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA)
and COVID-19 emergency supplemental funding of $2,717,000,000,
is $1,165,000,000 above the fiscal year 2020 enacted level and
$11,139,276,000 above the fiscal year 2021 request.
Recognizing a continuing need in fiscal year 2021, the
Committee provides $8,000,000,000 designated as Overseas
Contingency Operations/Global War on Terrorism (OCO/GWOT)
pursuant to the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control
Act of 1985 (BBEDCA) which is the same as the fiscal year 2020
enacted level. Such funds are contained under the headings in
titles I through IV of this Act. The Committee continues to
direct that such OCO/GWOT funds are to be used to complement
base requirements and not be limited to regional restrictions
or to specific operations in countries in conflict, or areas of
instability and violence. The Committee intends that OCO/GWOT
resources are to be used for, but not limited to, activities
that maximize efforts with respect to security, stabilization,
and peacekeeping programs; humanitarian activities; and counter
narcotics, counterterrorism and counterinsurgency efforts.
In addition, the recommendation includes $10,018,550,000 in
emergency funding for coronavirus preparedness, response, and
relief under title VIII. Combined with the $55,850,000,000 in
base and OCO/GWOT new budget authority, the total for the
State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs bill is
$65,868,550,000 in fiscal year 2021.
SUMMARY TABLE: AMOUNTS IN NEW BUDGET AUTHORITY
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FY 2021 Budget FY 2021 Committee
Title FY 2020 Enacted Request Recommendation
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Title I--Department of State and Related Agency........ 16,565,282,000 13,875,658,000 16,344,337,000
Title II--United States Agency for International 1,663,046,000 1,591,747,000 1,678,026,000
Development...........................................
Title III--Bilateral Economic Assistance............... 25,961,989,000 19,623,490,000 26,945,921,000
Title IV--International Security Assistance............ 9,013,947,000 7,729,655,000 9,015,197,000
Title V--Multilateral Assistance....................... 2,082,280,000 1,481,244,000 2,041,319,000
Title VI--Export and Investment Assistance............. -22,800,000 345,928,000 -99,800,000
Title VII--General Provisions.......................... -578,744,000 63,000,000 -75,000,000
Title VII--Coronavirus Pandemic Preparedness and n/a 0 10,018,550,000
Response Emergency Funding............................
United States, Mexico, and Canada Agreement 215,000,000 n/a n/a
Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2019 (P.L. 116-113)..
Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Emergency 1,250,000,000 n/a n/a
Supplemental (P.L. 116-123)...........................
Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES 1,252,000,000 n/a n/a
Act) (P.L. 116-136)...................................
--------------------------------------------------------
Total.............................................. 57,402,000,000 44,710,722,000 65,868,550,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RESULTS, OVERSIGHT, TRANSPARENCY, AND ACCOUNTABILITY
The diplomatic engagement and foreign assistance accounts
funded in this Act support vital development programs that save
lives and address the root causes of suffering, forced
migration, and conflict. The Committee recognizes that an
effective foreign assistance program must set transparent goals
and measure progress toward those goals in tangible ways.
Sufficient resource levels are provided to measure and collect
results. Data-driven results should be the yardstick for
measuring the success of United States assistance programs. To
this end, effective foreign aid programming must consider the
host country context, especially government policies that
affect sectors in which United States assistance operates. It
must also consider the private sector, including foreign
capital and trade flows, as well as assistance provided by
other donors, both official and unofficial.
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 directs agencies to
provide information on the reduction of printing and
reproduction costs in the congressional budget justification
(CBJ) for fiscal year 2022 including cost savings achieved in
fiscal year 2021 because of such efforts. In addition, 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 and agencies under
the jurisdiction of this Act to include the following
information in its fiscal year 2022 budget justification:
expenditures for fiscal year 2021 and expected expenditures for
fiscal year 2022, 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 disaggregated 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. Additional
notification requirements are added in fiscal year 2021 to
ensure appropriate Congressional oversight of funds.
The Committee emphasizes that all reports are required to
be completed in the timeframe noted in each respective
directive. Moreover, the Committee expects that the conditions
associated with funding appropriated by this Act shall be
accomplished in the manner as directed in the report.
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 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.
BUDGET JUSTIFICATION MATERIALS
The Committee notes pursuant to 31 U.S.C. 1105 the
President is required to submit a budget estimate to Congress
not later than the first Monday in February of each year. The
Committee is concerned with the supporting information provided
by the Department of State and the timeliness of the
Department's documents. While OMB presents the budget volumes
in a manner which meets the statutory deadline, the supporting
information from the Department is provided months later and
often without meaningful and relevant budget information. The
late submission of this supporting material undermines the
ability of the Committees on Appropriations to conduct a
thorough and detailed review of the President's budget request.
The Committee notes with great displeasure that the
Secretary of State continues to ignore the requirements of
section 7061(e)(1) of the fiscal year 2020 Act and section
653(a) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (FAA). The Foreign
Assistance Appendix for fiscal year 2021 was not received until
March 27, 2020, 47 days after the release of the President's
fiscal year 2021 budget and the fiscal year 2019 653(a) report,
due March 19, 2019, was not received until after the end of
such fiscal year. This is unacceptable and lessens the efficacy
of the resources provided for vital national security
activities.
Additionally, the Committee is aware that OMB and the
National Security Council (NSC) are unnecessarily involved in
the production and review of foreign assistance funding and
policy decisions and needlessly hinder the execution of
programming. The Committee remains concerned with the inability
of the Department of State to deliver the 653(a) report within
the 30-day time period mandated by the FAA after enactment of
an appropriation. The Committee has included in section 7019(c)
a limitation on any deviation of funding until the 653(a)
report is provided. The Committee encourages the Secretary to
request a change in the underlying authorization if additional
time is necessary to produce this essential document.
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 2021 Department of State, Foreign Operations, and
Related Programs Appropriations Act, and prior Acts, during
their periods of availability. The Committee is hopeful that
the extraordinary action included in section 7019(c) will
reinforce the Secretary of State, as the designated arbiter in
the Executive Branch regarding foreign policy and foreign
assistance funding, in addressing the deficiencies in meeting
these Congressional directives.
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 recommendation continues to provide OCO/GWOT
funds with enduring funds to offer a transparent accounting of
the resources needed to fund United States foreign policy and
national security interests.
The Committee continues to redirect development and most
democracy and governance activities to the Development
Assistance or Democracy Fund accounts, and away from the
shorter-term diplomatic-political initiatives better suited to
the Economic Support Fund account. The recommendation seeks to
provide a greater distinction between, and protection of, long-
term development, health, democracy and governance from
geopolitical upheaval, ensuring that conditioning of aid or
changing political leadership in recipient countries does not
negatively affect programs, projects and activities that
primarily benefit the most vulnerable.
The recommendation also proposes language to reverse the
President's Mexico City Policy and modify the unnecessary
restrictions on family planning and health funding but does not
change any of the 14 provisions in existing law carried by
prior Acts that prohibit United States assistance from being
used to fund abortions abroad. The Committee has moved all
family planning language provisions, formerly under the Global
Health Programs (GHP) account and in various sections in prior
Acts, to the Global Health general provision (section 7068) in
this Act.
The Committee recommendation provides additional support to
multilateral efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in this
and prior Acts. The recommendation also strengthens
conservation and environment programs, and it continues funding
for adaption and renewable energy programs at prior year
levels.
The Committee continues to be concerned with the timely
obligation and prudent expenditure of resources. The Committee
notes that accounts with a two-year period of availability do
not begin planning for programs until the end of year one and
often do not entail significant obligations or expenditures
until late in the second year, immediately before expiration.
As a result, large obligations are made late in the fiscal year
into broad bilateral agreements or ``strategic agreements''
with no intent to expend or program such funding in an
expeditious manner. This is not consistent with congressional
intent. Therefore, the Committee recommendation includes a
limitation on the authorities contained in section 7011 of this
Act, reducing the de-obligation/re-obligation period of
availability from 4 years to 2 years.
The Committee recommendation includes new language in
section 7011(b) and (c) that would extend the period of
availability to 90 days from the date on which the availability
of such funds would expire if the President proposes a
rescission within 60 days of the initial expiration of
availability, and requires that no additional conditions or
limitations not carried in this Act may preclude timely
apportionment and obligation of resources.
The tables in the report within the appropriations headings
in titles III through VI 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.
DIPLOMATIC SECURITY AND STAFFING RESOURCES
The Committee continues to prioritize the security of
diplomatic and development staff and the facilities where they
work by providing $6,071,348,000, for Embassy Security,
Construction, and Maintenance and Worldwide Security
Protection, which is $692,176,000 above the President's
request.
The recommendation provides sufficient resources to
maintain the Department of State and USAID's Foreign Service
Officer Corps and Civil Service workforce to levels achieved at
the end of calendar year 2016. The Committee emphasizes
resources are available for requisite training, support, and
security costs associated with these positions. Only a strong
and capable Department of State and USAID, with well-staffed
embassies and missions, can effectively represent the interests
of the United States abroad.
MULTILATERAL COOPERATION
The Committee recommendation affirms support for
multilateral organizations to expand and extend the influence
of the United States and maximize resources, enhancing the
value of the tax dollars appropriated. The Committee recognizes
that international multilateral programs are central to
achieving United States strategic objectives overseas. Disease,
displacement, conflict, disasters, terrorism, and economic
strife threaten the security, safety, and well-being of
Americans at home and abroad. Multilateral cooperation saves
lives, alleviates suffering, maintains our global leadership,
and helps open global market opportunities. The Committee
believes that investing in these areas builds resilience and
promotes stability that is essential to advancing American
interests while leveraging other donor funds. The Committee is
alarmed by the Administration's continued ``go it alone''
approach to foreign assistance, which creates costly,
duplicative, and untested parallel delivery and implementation
mechanisms. The Committee notes this is fiscally irresponsible
management of tax dollars.
GLOBAL HEALTH
As we have seen in the COVID-19 pandemic, all global health
is interrelated, and the safety of United States citizens is
dependent on the strength of every nations' global health
system. The world's health systems are only as strong as the
weakest link. The Committee proposes to take a holistic
approach to global health recognizing the importance of strong
health systems in low- and middle-income countries as necessary
to the sustainment of global health success and progress in
preventing and responding to public health emergencies,
emerging health threats, and communicable diseases. This
includes voluntary family planning, reproductive health,
maternal health, and prevention, screening, diagnosis, and
treatment of infectious and non-communicable diseases. Success
in one area of global health supports progress against other
diseases. The Committee remains deeply concerned with the
Administration's reductionist approach to health services as
evidenced by attaching expanded Mexico City limitations on all
global health funding. This policy undermines vital life-saving
programs and is incongruent with the outcomes this bill aspires
to achieve: safer births, lowering of maternal and infant
mortality rates, less unwanted pregnancies, and fewer
abortions. These outcomes lead to healthier family units,
stronger communities, increased development and economic
growth, and less vulnerability to extremist activities.
HUMAN RIGHTS
The Committee remains committed to the protection and
promotion of human rights and the preservation of dignity of
all people including those most vulnerable and marginalized.
The Committee provides funding to advance this mission by
targeting a range of basic human rights including, but not
limited to, food security, health, education, freedom from
discrimination, freedom of expression, and physical security.
At a time when malign forces and actors take advantage of
vulnerable situations and people to erode human rights, create
fear, and centralize corrupt power, the United States must
exert leadership globally to foster more tolerance and
compassion and uphold our core values. None of the funds made
available by this Act may be awarded to any organization,
program or activity that discriminates on the basis of age,
disability, sex, race, color, national origin, religion, gender
identity, or sexual orientation.
FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT
The Committee notes that the Commerce, Justice, Science,
and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2021 directs the
Attorney General to establish a training program to cover the
use of force and de-escalation, racial profiling, implicit
bias, and procedural justice, to include training on the duty
of Federal law enforcement officers to intervene in cases where
another law enforcement officer is using excessive force, and
make such training a requirement for Federal law enforcement
officers. The Committee further notes that the Department and
agencies funded by this Act employ Federal law enforcement
officers and are Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers
partner organizations. The Committee directs the Department and
agencies to adopt and follow the training program established
by the Attorney General, and to make such training a
requirement for its Federal law enforcement officers. The
Committee further directs the Department and agencies to brief
the Committees on Appropriations on their efforts relating to
training not later than 90 days after the Attorney General has
established such a training program.
In addition, the Committee directs the Department and
agencies, to the extent that such Department and agencies have
not already done so, to submit their use of force data to the
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)'s National Use of Force
Data Collection database. The Committee further directs the
Department and agencies to brief the Committees on
Appropriations not later than 90 days after enactment of this
Act on their current efforts to tabulate and submit its use of
force data to the FBI.
SECURITY PROGRAMS
The Committee notes with concern increasing attacks on
democratic principles, disregard of the rule of law, and a
weakening of respect for human and civil rights. The operations
of agencies involved in diplomacy and development, and the
programs carried out overseas in coordination with local
implementers, are critical components of our national security
framework, but it is all part of a complete approach that
includes all three aspects of United States global leadership:
diplomacy, development, and security. It is in this vein the
Committee continues its focus on supporting programs that are
critical to the national security interests of the United
States and remains committed to the security of our allies and
partners.
The Committee recommendation includes continued support for
critical allies such as Israel, Jordan, Mexico, Colombia, and
India, as well as Ukraine, Georgia, and the Baltic allies who
are on the front line in opposition to renewed Russian
aggression. The security and stability of our allies directly
affect the United States.
Security assistance efforts worldwide counter violent
extremism, terrorism, narcotics trafficking, poaching, and
weapons proliferation. Security programs support law
enforcement, judicial reform, border control, peacekeeping,
demining, weapons destruction, and rule of law efforts. The
Committee notes that lawless societies often serve as breeding
grounds for extremist ideologies and individuals. Working in
cooperation with allied countries and multilateral
organizations, our investments in security actors overseas
strengthen the global influence of the United States and yield
great dividends over time.
The Committee believes the funds provided by this Act are
essential for addressing the challenges facing America's
national security. The Committee recommendation prioritizes
strategic investments in diplomacy, development and security.
By providing sufficient resources to the Department of State,
the United States Agency for International Development (USAID),
and other international agencies under the jurisdiction of this
Subcommittee, the Committee believes such aid will reduce
global poverty, strengthen democratic political systems, and
create greater political and economic stability in the 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 $12,429,669,000 for such
activities in fiscal year 2021, of which $3,105,309,000 is
designated for OCO/GWOT. Of the total amount provided,
$12,270,769,000 is appropriated as discretionary funds by this
Act and $158,900,000 is appropriated as mandatory funds
pursuant to the Foreign Service Act of 1980. The budget request
does not seek funding for OCO/GWOT.
Embassy security.--The Committee recommendation provides
$6,071,348,000 for embassy security, which is the same as the
fiscal year 2020 enacted level and $692,176,000 above the
fiscal year 2021 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........................ $4,095,899
Embassy Security, Construction, and Maintenance...... 1,975,449
------------------
Total, Embassy Security.......................... 6,071,348
------------------------------------------------------------------------
DIPLOMATIC PROGRAMS
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level\1\..................... $9,125,687,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 8,489,887,000
Committee recommendation\2\........................... 9,188,195,000
Change from enacted level......................... +62,508,000
Change from request............................... +698,308,000
\1\The fiscal year 2020 enacted level includes $2,626,122,000 under this
heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
\2\The fiscal year 2021 recommendation includes $2,626,122,000 under
this heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
The Committee recommendation includes $9,188,195,000 for
Diplomatic Programs, including up to $4,095,899,000 for
Worldwide Security Protection (WSP). Of this amount,
$2,626,122,000 is designated for OCO/GWOT.
In addition, the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response
Supplemental Appropriations Act (Public Law 116-123) included
$264,000,000 and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic
Security Act (CARES Act) (Public Law 116-136) included
$324,000,000 for Diplomatic Programs to prevent, prepare for,
and respond to coronavirus, including for evacuation expenses,
emergency preparedness, maintaining consular operations and
other operations and maintenance requirements related to
coronavirus.
Funds made available under this heading are allocated in
the following manner:
Human resources.--The Committee recommendation includes
$2,999,725,000 for human resources, of which $543,687,000 is
for WSP. Funds support American salaries at overseas and
domestic United States diplomatic missions. The Committee
recommendation includes sufficient funds above the enacted
level to continue on-board permanent Foreign Service and Civil
Service at not less than fiscal year 2016 levels.
Overseas programs.--The Committee recommendation includes
$1,840,143,000 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 the Department of State to create and
fill not less than 100 mid-level Foreign Service Officer
positions (grades FS-03, FS-02, and FS-01) at overseas posts in
fiscal year 2021.
Diplomatic policy and support.--The Committee
recommendation includes $774,882,000 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
$3,573,445,000 for security programs, of which $3,552,212,000
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.
Consular and Border Security Program
In addition to the funds appropriated under this heading,
additional funds will become available through currently
authorized fees and surcharges, as well as proposed extensions
of expiring fees and surcharges, if authorized, for the
Consular and Border Security Program. These funds will support
the passport and visa program and maintain consular operations
that protect United States citizens overseas, safeguard
security interests of the United States, facilitate entry of
legitimate travelers, and foster economic growth.
Visa adjudication.--The Committee urges the Department of
State to prioritize visa adjudication for individuals invited
to the United States by a member of Congress for official
business.
The Committee is concerned with reports of B1/B2 visa
adjudication interview wait times that exceed over ten days and
encourages the Department of State to establish standards for
this service, while ensuring that security and other advisory
opinion requests are clear and complete. The Committee includes
further language under Report in this heading.
Report
Visa adjudication.--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, identifying
each consular post with B1/B2 visa adjudication interview wait
times exceeding 10 days on average in any month in fiscal year
2020, factors contributing to increased wait times, and an
action plan to address such factors.
Worldwide Security Protection
The Committee recommendation includes $4,095,899,000 for
WSP, of which, $2,626,122,000 is designated for OCO/GWOT.
Within the total, $543,687,000 is for Human Resources and
$3,552,212,000 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 recommendation includes not less than the
$54,000,000 requested for the purchase, installation,
maintenance, and related support mechanisms necessary for the
deployment of High Definition Secure Video Systems (HDSVS)
worldwide and an increase of $18,000,000 for 110 new agents and
14 other Diplomatic Security personnel to address critical
overseas vacancies and alleviate current demands on annual
Temporary Duty Security Special Agents working to protect
overseas missions.
Within the amount provided for WSP, the Committee
recommendation includes the increase of $4,000,000 requested
for the Bureau of Medical Services to support 14 new positions.
Additionally, funding is included for the Directorate of
Operational Medicine which has responsibility for contingency
medical preparedness, the Department's biocontainment
evacuation response, the capability to support short-notice
transnational deployment of security and crisis response teams,
and to evacuate COM personnel from posts in crisis.
The Committee has concerns that the Department of State
continues to be at risk and a top target for foreign government
hackers. In order to prevent potential cyber intrusions by
unauthorized devices connected to agency networks and to
protect the Personally Identifiable Information of Department
employees, the Committee directs the Department to maintain an
accurate list of Information Technology (IT) assets. The
Committee recognizes the importance of maintaining accurate IT
lists and the implementation of basic cybersecurity standards,
so that sensitive data is not compromised.
Other Matters
Artificial intelligence.--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 artificial
intelligence technologies. The Committee includes further
language under Reports in this heading.
Child abduction and access.--The Committee recognizes that
the Goldman Act (Public Law 113-150) is a valuable tool in
securing the return of abducted American citizen children
transported abroad. The Committee directs the Secretary of
State to pressure countries to cooperate in the resolution of
such cases and to count all unresolved cases against a country
whether or not the case occurred before the country's accession
to the Hague Convention. Further, the Committee directs the
Secretary to take one or more of actions 4 through 8 contained
in section 202(d) of the Goldman Act if actions 1 through 3
have already been taken and the country continues a pattern of
noncompliance as described in the Act. The Committee expects
the Secretary of State to comply with the detailed
justification requirements when making use of the waiver in
section 204 of such Act, specifically the reason, if any, for
why actions 4 through 8 under subsection (d) are not being
taken and should consider taking further actions described in
section 201(b) for unresolved cases of more than one year.
Combating Anti-Semitism.--The Committee recommendation
includes not less than $500,000 for the Office to Monitor and
Combat Anti-Semitism as authorized by the Global Anti-Semitism
Review Act of 2004 (Public Law 108-332). The Committee
recognizes the important work of the Special Envoy to Monitor
and Combat Anti-Semitism given the rise of anti-Semitism and
the increase in anti-Semitic incidents around the world. The
Committee directs the Secretary of State to ensure the Office
of the Special Envoy has sufficient resources and staff.
Designation of Foreign Terrorist Organizations.--The
Committee recognizes the Bureau for Counterterrorism's recent
designation of an international white nationalist group as a
Foreign Terrorist Organization and notes the important role
this designation plays in United States law enforcement efforts
to better track and prosecute domestic terrorists who provide
material support to such groups. The Committee directs the
Department to expeditiously conduct a thorough examination of
extremist nationalist groups abroad to determine if they should
be designated as Foreign Terrorist Organizations and report
back to the Committees on Appropriations of any findings.
Directorate of Operational Medicine.--The Committee
recommendation includes funds for training and readiness
exercises to protect the health of Federal employees stationed
overseas.
Electronic health records.--The Committee supports the
development of an electronic health records systems for the
Department of State and directs that such system should be
interoperable with other Federal government health records
systems to the maximum extent possible.
Evidence-based policy and evaluations.--The Committee notes
the importance of evidence-based policymaking and evaluations
as detailed in Public Law 115-435, the Foundations for
Evidence-based Policymaking Act. The Committee directs the
Secretary of State, in consultation with the USAID
Administrator, to the maximum extent practicable, to include
evidence of effectiveness as a factor for all competitive and
non-competitive contracts, grants and cooperative agreements at
the Department of State and USAID. The Committee includes
further language under Reports in this heading.
Global Engagement Center (GEC).--The Committee continues to
support the work of 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 China, Russia, Iran and extremists 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 7061 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 2021. The Committee
understands that the Inspector General has reported on
deficiencies in the GEC's management of grants (AUD-MERO-20-
26). The Committee directs the leadership of the GEC to report
not later than 90 days after the enactment of this Act to the
appropriate congressional committees on efforts to remedy this
situation.
Global Magnitsky Act.--The Committee recommendation
includes funds at not less than prior year levels for
enforcement of the Global Magnitsky Act.
Holocaust issues.--The Committee recognizes the important
work of the Office of Holocaust Issues and directs the
Secretary of State to ensure the Office has funding consistent
with prior years 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.
International religious freedom.--The Committee is pleased
that the Department of State, through the Office of
International Religious Freedom, is working to advance
religious freedom programs and initiatives as a critical
component of United States diplomatic efforts, pursuant to the
International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA) of 1998. The
Committee encourages the Secretary of State to consider
elevating the position of the Ambassador-at-Large for Religious
Freedom within the organizational structure of the Department
of State.
The Committee recognizes that the steady growth of
religious persecution and decline of religious freedom around
the world highlight the need to have United States diplomats
trained to understand and advocate for religious freedom, as
required by IRFA. The Committee recommendation includes up to
$600,000 to continue the development of religious freedom
training curriculum pursuant to Section 103 of the Frank R.
Wolf International Religious Freedom Act (Public Law 114-281).
The Committee supports the United States Helsinki
Commission and the Office of International Religious Freedom's
On the Road to Inclusion program and efforts by Department of
State to encourage representative governance and advance social
inclusion and social cohesion in European societies, and
includes funds under this heading to expand the program to up
to 12 cities in Europe in fiscal year 2021.
Non-proliferation and arms control.--The Committee
recommendation includes funding at not less than prior year
levels for the Bureau for Arms Control and Verification and the
Bureau for International Security and Nonproliferation. The
Committee includes further language under Reports in this
heading.
Notification of repatriation flights.--The Committee
directs the Department of State to notify members of Congress
when repatriation flights are planned to land in their
respective congressional districts.
Monitoring and combating trafficking in persons.--The
Committee recommendation includes $16,000,000 for the Office to
Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, as authorized by the
Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, as amended. Funds
are provided to ensure the Office can fulfill the statutory
mandates, including to support the coordination of the
President's Interagency Task Force and Senior Policy Operating
Group, deployment of rapid response teams, production of the
Trafficking in Persons Report, implementation of child
protection compacts, diplomatic engagement and technical
assistance, and management and oversight of assistance
appropriated in this Act to combat trafficking in persons.
The Committee directs the Secretary of State to post the
National Human Trafficking Resources Center hotline, email
address, and website information in all United States embassies
and consulates in areas where visa applications are processed.
The Committee recommendation includes funding for the Global
Human Trafficking Hotline.
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. The Committee expects the
Department to comply with the requirements of the Javits-
Wagner-O'Day Act. The Committee includes further language under
Reports in this heading.
Staff care and resilience.--The Committee is concerned
about the health impacts on State Department employees working
in high-stress environments such as conflict and post-conflict
zones. The Committee supports State Department efforts to
provide staff care and resilience tools to its employees. The
Committee includes further language under Reports in this
heading.
State Partnership Program.--The Committee believes the
National Guard State Partnership Program strengthens security
and disaster response cooperation between the United States and
nations participating in the partnership and builds
professionalism and respect for civilian control of the
military. The Committee expects the Department of State and the
Department of Defense to continue to inform United States
Embassy officials and foreign governments about the value of
the State Partnership Program, including the objectives of the
program, examples of successful engagements, and COM and
Combatant Commander requests for the program.
Special Envoy for UN Integrity.--The Committee
recommendation includes funds for the Special Envoy for UN
Integrity and supports the efforts of this new position.
Transboundary watersheds.--The Committee recommendation
includes $500,000 for the Bureau of Oceans and International
Environmental and Scientific Affairs for leading an interagency
working group, which has been tasked with identifying the gaps
and limitations within the Memoranda of Understanding between
British Columbia and Alaska, Washington, Idaho, and Montana,
relating to British Columbia mining within United States-
British Columbia transboundary watersheds.
United States citizens' deaths overseas.--Section 204(c) of
Public Law 107-228, the Foreign Relations Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 2003, 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 Department shall include the age and gender of
the deceased and, when available, specific details on the site
and circumstances of the incident.
Vacancies in ambassadorships and senior leadership
positions.--The Committee is concerned with continued high
vacancy rates in senior leadership positions in the Department
and ambassadorships overseas. The Committee includes further
language under Reports in this heading.
Western Hemisphere Affairs.--The Committee supports steps
taken by the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs to promote
stable democracies throughout the region through racial and
ethnic equality initiatives, including coordinating and
implementing the joint action plans developed with the
governments of Colombia and Brazil. The Committee directs the
Secretary of State to expand the programs of the Race,
Ethnicity, and Social Inclusion Unit in the Bureau for Western
Hemisphere Affairs to additional regions. The Committee
includes further language under Reports in this heading.
Workforce diversity.--The Committee recommendation includes
funding 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, such as the Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs
Fellowship and Charles B. Rangel International Affairs
programs. 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.
Reports
Artificial intelligence.--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, detailing a plan to establish exchanges and partnerships
between the United States and its allies to create standards
for artificial intelligence technologies.
Evidence-based policy and evaluations.--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 the implementation of the Foundations for Evidence-
based Policymaking Act (Public Law 115-435).
Foreign Affairs Security Training Center (FASTC).--The
Committee recognizes FASTC's critical importance to ensure the
safety of Federal personnel stationed overseas. The Committee
directs the Secretary of State, not later than 45 days after
enactment of this Act, to submit to the Committees on
Appropriations a report detailing training costs, including the
costs associated with transporting personnel to the facility
and per diem to house trainees offsite. Such report shall also
include a review of options to house trainees closer to the
facility, including, after consultation with the Secretary of
Defense, the Privatized Army Lodging Program, and the
viability, cost, and benefit of each option.
Cyber capabilities and licensing.--The Committee is
concerned about the Directorate of Defense Trade Control's
(DDTC) current licensing mechanisms for cyber capabilities. The
Committee directs the DDTC to report to the appropriate
congressional committees, not later than 90 days after
enactment of this Act, on cybertools and capabilities
licensing, including licensing screening and approval
procedures as well as compliance and enforcement mechanisms.
The report shall include any enforcement actions taken in the
current calendar year.
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.
Non-proliferation and arms control.--Not later than 90 days
after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall
report to the appropriate congressional committees on the roles
and responsibilities of staffing in the Bureaus for Arms
Control and Verification and International Security and
Nonproliferation.
Pacific Island presence.--The Committee notes the
importance of a strong United States diplomatic and development
presence in the Pacific Islands to confront regional
challenges. 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 United States diplomatic and
development presence in the Pacific Islands to include an
assessment of a need for additional posts and missions in the
region and a strategy to fill such gaps.
Procurement.--Not later than 90 days after enactment of
this Act, the Secretary of State shall report to the Committees
on Appropriations on the percentage of goods and services
acquired by the Department of State from small businesses,
including small businesses owned and controlled by socially and
economically disadvantaged individuals and faith-based
organizations.
Staff care and resilience.--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 a plan to provide mental health services to
employees exposed to high threat and high stress environments
to include pre-service screening and in-country monitoring. The
report shall include the estimated costs of providing such
services.
Vacancies in ambassadorships and senior leadership
positions.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State to
submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees,
not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, and every
quarter thereafter until the end of the fiscal year, on the
Ambassador, Assistant Secretary, and Undersecretary positions
that are vacant, the status of filling such positions, and the
number of positions being filled in an ``acting'' capacity.
Such report shall also include an assessment of the impact of
such vacancies, and efforts underway to fill these positions
permanently.
The Committee directs the Secretary of State to submit a
report to the appropriate congressional committees, not later
than 45 days after enactment of this Act, on the status of
implementing the recommendations contained in the Government
Accountability Office (GAO) report 19-220 entitled,
``Integrated Action Plan Could Enhance Efforts to Reduce
Persistent Overseas Foreign Service Vacancies.''
Western Hemisphere Affairs.--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 the Race, Ethnicity, and
Social Inclusion Unit in the Bureau for Western Hemisphere
Affairs and how this initiative has been expanded to additional
regions.
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 and results of such
initiatives.
Funds in this Act under this heading are allocated
according to the following table and are subject to sections
7015 and 7061 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....................... [33,960]
Cultural Antiquities Task Force...................... 1,500
Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
Human Rights Vetting............................. [10,000]
Atrocities Prevention Training................... [500]
Implementation of Global Magnitsky Human Rights [500]
Accountability Act..............................
Special Advisor for International Disability [1,000]
Rights..........................................
Special Envoy for the Human Rights of LGBTI [500]
Persons.........................................
Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs
Office of the Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues. [750]
Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs
Office of Terrorism Financing and Economic [6,100]
Sanctions Policy................................
Implementation of Global Magnitsky Human Rights [500]
Accountability Act..............................
Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and 41,859
Scientific Affairs..................................
Office of Oceans and Polar Affairs............... [5,121]
[of which, Special Representative for the Arctic [438]
Region].........................................
Bureau of Political-Military Affairs
Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement.......... [3,609]
Office of International Religious Freedom............ 9,000
Religious freedom curriculum development......... [600]
Office of the Legal Advisor
Document Review Unit............................. [2,889]
Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons.. 16,000
Office of the Secretary
Office of Global Women's Issues.................. [10,000]
Office of the Special Presidential Envoy for [1,250]
Hostage Affairs.................................
Special Coordinator for Tibetan Issues........... [1,000]
Office to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism....... [500]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
CAPITAL INVESTMENT FUND
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level....................... $139,500,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request............................. 256,695,000
Committee recommendation............................. 137,500,000
Change from enacted level........................ -2,000,000
Change from request.............................. -119,195,000
The Committee recommendation includes $137,500,000 for
Capital Investment Fund. As a result of the COVID-19 crisis,
the recommendation assumes a strategic pause in the Department
of State's plan to rebalance expedited passport fees (EPF) and
transition all EPF funding out of the Capital Investment Fund
to Consular and Border Security Programs.
Funds provided are in addition to an estimated $202,495,000
in EPF, for a total of $339,995,000 in fiscal year 2021 support
for the Information Technology Strategic Plan of the Department
of State.
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level\1\.................... $145,729,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request............................. 141,416,000
Committee recommendation\2\.......................... 145,729,000
Change from enacted level........................ 0
Change from request.............................. +4,313,000
\1\The fiscal year 2020 enacted level includes $54,900,000 under this
heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
\2\The fiscal year 2021 recommendation includes $54,900,000 under this
heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
The Committee recommendation includes $145,729,000 for
support of the oversight personnel and activities of the Office
of Inspector General (OIG) at the Department of State. Of this
amount, $54,900,000 is provided for the Special Inspector
General for Afghan Reconstruction (SIGAR) and is designated for
OCO/GWOT.
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.
Wuhan repatriation flight assessment.--The Committee
directs the Office of Inspector General to conduct an
assessment of diplomatic evacuation flights from Wuhan, China
in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Such assessment shall
include: (1) interagency coordination; (2) coordination with
state and local officials; (3) communication with the general
public; and (4) planned screening and quarantine protocols. The
assessment shall include recommendations for the Department of
State to improve operations in future pandemic responses.
EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMS
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level....................... $730,700,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request............................. 310,000,000
Committee recommendation............................. 741,700,000
Change from enacted level........................ +11,000,000
Change from request.............................. +431,700,000
The Committee recommendation includes $741,700,000 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.
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 Speakers program. The
Committee recommendation includes not less than $15,000,000
under this heading for the American Spaces program and directs
not less than $4,000,000 be made available for the United
States Speakers Program from funds made available under
Diplomatic Programs for public diplomacy. The Committee directs
the Secretary of State to consult with the Committees on
Appropriations not later than 60 days after the date of
enactment of this Act on the use of funds made available by
this Act for American Spaces and the United States Speakers
Program.
Citizen Exchange Program.--The Committee recommendation
includes $116,860,000 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.
Civil Society Exchange Program.--The Committee recommends
$5,000,000 for the Civil Society Exchange Program, consistent
with the prior year level, to provide civil society activists,
particularly in underrepresented populations, with the tools,
networks, and resources to address local challenges. During
fiscal year 2021, 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.
Pawel Adamowicz Exchanges.--The Committee is concerned
about growing political divide and social unrest in Central
Europe. Particularly troubling was the murder in January 2019
of human rights leader and the Mayor of Gdansk, Poland, Pawel
Adamowicz. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to make
available up to $1,000,000 from funds under this heading for
the Civil Society Exchange Program to conduct exchanges to
honor the legacy of Mayor Adamowicz and to empower the next
generation of democratic and human rights leaders in Central
Europe, including in Poland.
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.
Fulbright Program.--The Committee recommendation includes
$277,000,000 for the Fulbright Program. Active in over 160
countries, the program provides exchange opportunities to
create and sustain mutual understanding between students,
scholars, teachers, and professionals in the United States and
those from other countries.
Fulbright English Teaching in Africa.--Of the funds
appropriated under this heading for the Fulbright Program, not
less than $5,000,000 shall be made available to expand United
States support for English language education through the
Fulbright English Language Teaching Program in Africa. English
language skills enable countries and individuals to more fully
realize the benefits of global commerce, and enables access to
technology, science, and innovation. As the youth of America
are a key component to American soft power and the best
embodiment of United States ideals and culture, the expansion
of the State Department's English teaching efforts in Africa
will make a lasting and profound impact on the United States
diplomatic and development efforts in Africa.
Global TechGirls Program.--Of the funds appropriated under
this heading, $5,000,000 shall be made available to expand the
TechGirls Program globally to empower secondary school girls to
pursue higher education and careers in science, technology,
engineering and math (STEM) through hands-on skill development.
The Secretary of State is directed to include the participation
of girls from regions covered by the existing TechGirls program
and to prioritize the participation of girls from low income
countries globally. Exchange activities shall include
interactive technology camps with American peers in the United
States, site visits to technology-based companies, leadership
and action planning workshops, discussions on STEM education
and careers, community service opportunities, job shadowing,
intercultural collaboration, and weekend American family
homestays. Upon returning home, participants should be
encouraged to assist in providing technology training to their
peers. The Secretary of State is directed to consult with the
Committees on Appropriations on the implementation of the
program not less than 30 days after enactment of this Act.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities.--The
Committee includes $2,000,000 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.
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.
Professional Fellows Program.--The Committee is concerned
that the ongoing consolidation and restructuring of the
Professional Fellows Program will result in a loss of program
effectiveness, geographic diversity, and participant
experiences. The Committee notes that this significant
consolidation and restructuring effort is being implemented
without prior consultation with, or notification of, the
Committees on Appropriations. The Committee directs the
Secretary of State to implement the Professional Fellows
Program in a manner consistent with Department of State Notice
ECA-ECAPEC-17-025, March 1, 2017, during fiscal year 2021 and
prior years.
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 2021 operating plan.
Young Leaders Initiatives.--The Committee recommendation
includes $34,400,000 for the Young Leaders Initiatives,
including not less than the 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.
Section 7061 of this Act requires 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 2021.
Funds made available under this heading are allocated in
the following manner and are subject to the requirements of
sections 7015 and 7061 of this Act.
EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMS
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Program/Activity Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Academic Programs
Fulbright Program................................ 277,000
Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Program [5,000]
in Africa...................................
Global Academic Exchanges........................ 62,960
Special Academic Exchanges....................... 17,875
Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship [16,000]
Program.....................................
Subtotal, Academic Programs...................... 357,835
Professional and Cultural Exchanges
International Visitor Leadership Program......... 104,000
Citizen Exchange Program......................... 116,860
Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange............ [4,125]
Global TechGirls Program..................... [5,000]
Special Professional and Cultural Exchanges.......... 5,700
J. Christopher Stevens Virtual Exchange...... [5,000]
------------------
Subtotal, Professional and Cultural Exchanges........ 226,560
Special Initiatives
Young Leaders Initiatives........................ 34,400
Countering State disinformation and pressure..... 12,000
Civil society exchange program................... 5,000
------------------
Subtotal, Special Initiatives.................... 51,400
Program and Performance.............................. 9,050
Activities Transferred to Exchanges from IIP-PA 27,855
Merger..............................................
Exchanges Support.................................... 69,000
------------------
Total, Educational and Cultural Exchanges........ 741,700
------------------------------------------------------------------------
REPRESENTATION EXPENSES
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $7,212,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 7,413,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 7,415,000
Change from enacted level......................... +203,000
Change from request............................... +2,000
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 this appropriation.
PROTECTION OF FOREIGN MISSIONS AND OFFICIALS
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $30,890,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 25,900,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 30,890,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +4,990,000
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(i) 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 2020 enacted level\1\..................... $1,975,449,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 1,683,760,000
Committee recommendation\2\........................... 1,975,449,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +291,689,000
\1\The fiscal year 2020 enacted level includes $424,087,000 under this
heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
\2\The fiscal year 2021 recommendation includes $424,287,000 under this
heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
The Committee recommendation includes $1,975,449,000 for
Embassy Security, Construction, and Maintenance, of which
$424,287,000 is designated for OCO/GWOT. Within the amount
provided, $1,205,649,000 is for Worldwide Security Upgrades
(WSU) and $769,800,000 is for repair, construction, and
operations.
Worldwide Security Upgrades.--The Committee recommendation
includes $1,205,649,000 for Worldwide Security Upgrades, of
which $424,287,000 is designated as OCO/GWOT. The Committee
recommendation for WSU is $263,989,000 above the fiscal year
2021 request.
Within the funds made available for WSU, $1,085,649,000
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 $1,303,104,000 in CSCS and MCS program
contributions from other agencies and available consular fees,
will provide a total of $2,388,753,000 in fiscal year 2021 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.
Other repair and construction.--The Committee
recommendation includes $100,276,000 for other repair and
construction. These funds support the repair, rehabilitation,
improvement, and upgrade of diplomatic facilities around the
world.
Operations.--The Committee recommendation includes
$669,524,000 for Operations, which is $27,424,000 above the
request. 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 7061 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 2021 for operations,
maintenance, and construction, and an accounting of the actual
and anticipated proceeds of sales or gifts for all projects in
fiscal year 2020.
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 submit a report to the
Committees on Appropriations at the end of each fiscal quarter
on such contingency savings.
Project reports.--The Secretary of State is directed to
submit biannual reports on the Beirut Embassy, Mexico City
Embassy, New Delhi Embassy, Erbil Consulate, and Jakarta
Embassy 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 2020 enacted level........................ $7,885,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 7,885,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 7,885,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... 0
The Committee recommendation includes $7,885,000 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 2020 enacted level........................ $1,300,000
Fiscal Year 2021 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 2020 enacted level........................ $31,963,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 26,312,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 31,963,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +5,651,000
The Committee recommendation includes $31,963,000 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 consular upgrades and special projects 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 2020 enacted level........................ $743,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 743,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 2,743,000
Change from enacted level......................... +2,000,000
Change from request............................... +2,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $2,743,000 for site
security and routine maintenance and repairs to public spaces
of the International Center, Washington, D.C.
The Committee recommendation includes increased funding for
the repair and maintenance of the International Center
infrastructure including street repaving, general repair and
replacement of sidewalks and walkways, and the repair and
replacement of existing perimeter fencing, as necessary.
PAYMENT TO THE FOREIGN SERVICE RETIREMENT AND DISABILITY FUND
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $158,900,000
Fiscal Year 2021 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 2020 enacted level\1\..................... $1,473,806,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 966,224,000
Committee recommendation\2\........................... 1,505,928,000
Change from enacted level......................... +32,122,000
Change from request............................... +539,704,000
\1\The fiscal year 2020 enacted level includes $96,240,000 designated
under this heading for Overseas Contingency Operations.
\2\The fiscal year 2021 recommendation includes $96,240,000 designated
under this heading for Overseas Contingency Operations.
The Committee recommendation includes $1,505,928,000 for
Contributions to International Organizations, of which
$96,240,000 is designated for OCO/GWOT, and requires that not
later than 30 days after enactment of this Act not less than
$118,949,000 and $53,909,000 be disbursed to the World Health
Organization and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization,
respectively. Unless otherwise provided for in this Act or
another provision of law, and with the exception of
organizations from which the United States has withdrawn, this
Act assumes the payment of the full United States assessment at
each respective organization funded under this heading.
Transparency and accountability.--This Act continues the
transparency and accountability reporting requirements under
section 7048(a) from prior years. However, the Committee
recommendation does not include the 15 percent withholding and
certification requirement included in prior years due to
improvements by international organizations in meeting such
requirements and the Administration's substantial delays in
submitting the report in prior years, which has resulted in
untenable delays in the payment of United States assessments.
Pursuant to section 7048(b), the Committee continues to
support prior year prohibitions on paying for any United States
delegation or contribution to any specialized agency, body, or
commission of the United Nations (UN) if such an agency, body,
commission, or organization is chaired by government that
provides support for international terrorism.
Anti-Israel bias at the United Nations.--The Committee
remains concerned about continued anti-Israel bias at the
United Nations and supports the withholding of a proportionate
share of the costs to entities deemed to be anti-Israel, which
in the past have included the Division for Palestinian Rights
in the Department of Political Affairs; the Committee on the
Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People;
and the Special Committee to Investigate Israeli Practices
Affecting the Human Rights of the Palestinian People and Other
Arabs of the Occupied Territories. The Committee includes
further language under Reports in this heading.
UN Human Rights Council.--Pursuant to section 7048(c),
funds shall be made available to the UN Human Rights Council
(UNHRC) unless the Secretary of State determines and reports to
the Committees on Appropriations that participation in the
Council does not serve the national interest of the United
States and that the Council is not taking significant steps to
remove Israel as a permanent agenda item nor taking actions to
ensure integrity in the election of members to such Council.
The Committee remains concerned about the credibility and
effectiveness of UNHRC and notes with disappointment the
ascension to UNHRC of countries with poor human rights records.
The Committee is also concerned with the continued,
disproportionate focus of UNHRC on Israel and its anti-Israel
bias. The Committee continues to disapprove of UNHRC resolution
A/HRC/31/L.39, which is counterproductive to achieving peace
between Israel and the Palestinians. The Committee includes
further language under Reports in this heading.
Capital projects.--The operating plan submitted pursuant to
section 7061 of this Act for funds made available under this
heading shall include information on capital projects.
Universal Postal Union.--The Committee is concerned with
the continued 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 work 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 consult with the
Committees on Appropriations on steps being taken to address
these concerns.
Pursuant to section 7053 of this Act, the Committee
recommendation includes prior year language relating to unpaid
parking fines and real property taxes owed by foreign
governments.
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 identification of the agencies and
entities where such bias has been demonstrated in the past.
Such report may accompany the annual report submitted pursuant
to section 4(a) of Public Law 79-264 on United States
participation in the United Nations.
Credits.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State to
report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later than May
1, 2021, and 30 days after the end of fiscal year 2021, on any
credits attributable to the United States, including from the
United Nations Tax Equalization Fund, and provide updated
fiscal year 2021 and fiscal year 2022 assessment costs
including offsets from available credits and updated foreign
currency exchange rates. The Committee directs the Secretary of
State to notify the Committee on Appropriations when 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 7061 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.
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.
United Nations and United States companies.--The Committee
directs the Department of State and United States Ambassador to
the United Nations to ensure American manufacturers and
suppliers are not being unfairly excluded or discriminated
against through procurement processes and are being fairly
treated. Not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act,
the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the Committees
on Appropriations with regard to the procurement processes at
UN organizations.
Withholdings.--Pursuant to section 7048(f), the Secretary
of State shall report to the Committees on Appropriations, not
later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, detailing the
amounts of funds available to any organization, department,
agency, or program within the UN system that are withheld due
to any provision of law. The report shall include any time
additional funds are withheld.
CONTRIBUTIONS FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACEKEEPING ACTIVITIES
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level\1\..................... $1,526,383,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 1,079,200,000
Committee recommendation\2\........................... 1,456,314,000
Change from enacted level......................... -70,069,000
Change from request............................... +377,114,000
\1\The fiscal year 2020 enacted level includes $988,656,000 under this
heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
\2\The fiscal year 2021 recommendation includes $705,994,000 under this
heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
The Committee recommendation includes $1,456,314,000 for
Contributions for International Peacekeeping Activities, of
which $705,994,000 is designated for OCO/GWOT. The Committee
remains concerned about the growing arrears owed to the United
Nations, projected to exceed a total of over $1 billion for
fiscal years 2017 to 2020. The Committee has included under
this heading authority for the Secretary of State to exceed the
25 percent statutory peacekeeping cap, and notes resources from
peacekeeping credits and prior year carryover will be available
during fiscal year 2021 to exceed the 25 percent statutory cap
and limit accumulation of additional arrears. The Committee
provides funding to pay assessed expenses and arrears for the
UN 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.
Other requirements.--The Committee recommendation continues
language carried in prior years making funds available for
peacekeeping activities unless the Secretary of State
determines that American manufacturers and suppliers are not
being provided equal procurement opportunities, and also
continues language prohibiting funds for any peacekeeping
mission that involves United States Armed Forces under the
command and control of a foreign national unless certain
requirements have been met.
Trafficking in persons and sexual exploitation and abuse.--
The Committee recommendation includes language carried in prior
years prohibiting funds unless the Secretary of State certifies
and reports to the Committees on Appropriations on a
peacekeeping mission-by-mission basis that the 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, 2021, and 30 days after the end of fiscal year 2021, on any
credits attributable to the United States, including those
resulting from United Nations peacekeeping missions or the
United Nations Tax Equalization Fund, and provide updated
fiscal year 2021 and fiscal year 2022 assessment costs
including offsets from available credits.
International Commissions
INTERNATIONAL BOUNDARY AND WATER COMMISSION, UNITED STATES AND MEXICO
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $85,070,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 98,770,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 98,770,000
Change from enacted level......................... +13,700,000
Change from request............................... 0
The Committee recommendation includes a total of
$98,770,000 for International Boundary and Water Commission
(IBWC), United States and Mexico, including $49,770,000 for
Salaries and Expenses and $49,000,000 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.
Carrizo cane eradication.-- The Committee includes an
additional amount of up to $10,000,000 to improve the
effectiveness of the IBWC's mechanical efforts to control and
eradicate carrizo cane from the banks and floodplain of the Rio
Grande River. The Secretary of State, in consultation with the
United States Commissioner to the IBWC, is directed to report
to the Committees on Appropriations, not later than 60 days
after enactment of this Act, on the intended uses of funds for
such purposes and shall also include in such report a
description of IBWC coordination with federal, state, local
entities, and with other stakeholders.
The Committee is concerned with the high number of grazing
leases recently terminated by the International Boundary and
Water Commission (IBWC), at the U.S.-Mexico border. Between
2009 and 2017, 78 grazing leases with ranchers on floodplain
property have been terminated, with over a hundred ranchers
being given notices to vacate this year. These leases
facilitate a cost-effective way for the IBWC to maintain
property and clear vegetation along the Rio Grande, while
benefiting the local agricultural industry.
Therefore, the Committee provides $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 Committee, within 60 days of the passage of this Act, on
progress made in this regard.
Report
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 facilitate a
resolution, and to submit a report to the Committees on
Appropriations, not later than 45 days after enactment of this
Act, with respect to steps taken prior to such enactment and
steps planned during fiscal year 2021 to achieve a resolution.
AMERICAN SECTIONS, INTERNATIONAL COMMISSIONS
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $15,008,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 10,661,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 15,008,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +4,347,000
The Committee recommendation includes $15,008,000 for
American Sections, International Commissions, of which
$10,802,000 is for the International Joint Commission (IJC).
Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Adaptive Management
Committee.--The Committee includes funding consistent with the
prior year level for the IJC's Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River
Adaptive Management Committee for Phase II of their expedited
review of IJC's Plan 2014.
Report
Boundary Waters Treaty.--The Committee supports the 1909
Boundary Waters Treaty. The Committee recommendation includes
funding to allow the IJC to evaluate and monitor water quality
in the Rainy River Drainage Basin to prevent violations of the
Boundary Waters Treaty. The IJC is directed to report to the
Committees on Appropriations not later than 90 days after
enactment of this Act on the status of such efforts.
INTERNATIONAL FISHERIES COMMISSIONS
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $62,718,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 34,676,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 60,718,000
Change from enacted level......................... -2,000,000
Change from request............................... +26,042,000
The Committee recommendation includes $60,718,000 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 7061 of this Act.
INTERNATIONAL FISHERIES COMMISSIONS
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Commission/Activity Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Great Lakes Fisheries Commission..................... 44,682
of which, Grass Carp............................. [1,000]
Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission.............. 1,750
Pacific Salmon Commission............................ 6,185
International Pacific Halibut Commission............. 4,582
Other Marine Conservation............................ 3,519
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Great Lakes Fishery Commission (GLFC).--The Committee
recommendation includes not less than $36,990,000 for
operations, sea lamprey control requirements, and fishery
research, for the Great Lakes. The recommendations 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.
Pacific Salmon Commission.--The Committee recommendation
includes a total of $6,185,000 for the United States share of
the costs of carrying out the Pacific Salmon Treaty, and
$1,750,000 for the last half of the United States contribution
to the Mark-Selective Fishery Fund.
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 Unites States' strategy in the Arctic.
RELATED AGENCY
United States Agency for Global Media
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $810,396,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 637,252,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 637,252,000
Change from enacted level......................... -173,144,000
Change from request............................... 0
The Committee recommendation includes $637,252,000 to carry
out United States international communications activities and
operations overseen by the United States Agency for Global
Media (USAGM), formerly known as the Broadcasting Board of
Governors, of which $632,732,000 is for International
Broadcasting Operations and $4,520,000 is for Broadcasting
Capital Improvements.
INTERNATIONAL BROADCASTING OPERATIONS
The Committee recommendation includes $632,732,000 for
International Broadcasting Operations, which is the same as the
request.
In order to better support the policy of the United States
to promote the right of freedom of opinion and expression,
including the right to receive and impart information and ideas
through any media, the International Broadcasting Act of 1994
streamlined United States international media entities into
what is now the USAGM. The reorganization and consolidation,
along with subsequent amendments to the Act, achieved important
reforms and economies to strengthen the capability of the
United States to use media to support the free exchange of news
and information in a rapidly changing international
environment, especially among peoples living under repressive
regimes. A central theme set forth in the standards and
principles portion of the Act is that the work of USAGM and its
entities be vigilant in maintaining a strong firewall between
the work of its entities and grantees and any political
influence by federal and other government officials. The
statutory firewall and highest standards of professional
journalism are further described in part 531 of title 22, Code
of Federal Regulations.
However, recent action by the USAGM Chief Executive Officer
(CEO) to summarily dismiss senior Agency officials and entity
heads, including the head of the Voice of America (VOA) office
of the standards editor, raise serious questions about the
Agency's commitment to maintaining the firewall and upholding
the highest standards of professional journalism. For this
reason, and until the Committee is assured that Agency
leadership will uphold longstanding principles of independent
journalism described in part 531 of title 22, Code of Federal
Regulations, the Committee recommendation includes $632,732,000
for International Broadcasting Operations, which is the same as
the budget request and $165,964,000 below fiscal year 2020. The
Committee will continue to review actions of the USAGM as the
appropriations process for fiscal year 2021 proceeds and
reassess Agency funding actions and requirements prior to the
conclusion of such process.
International Broadcasting Operations (IBO) funds the
operating, programming, and engineering costs of the Agency,
including 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 7061 of this Act:
INTERNATIONAL BROADCASTING OPERATIONS
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Entities/Grantees Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Federal Entities
International Broadcasting Bureau................ 42,800
Voice of America................................. 191,559
Office of Cuba Broadcasting...................... 12,973
Technology, Services and Innovation.............. 152,347
------------------
Subtotal, Federal Entities................... 399,679
Independent Grantee Organizations:
Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.................. 87,261
Radio Free Asia.................................. 39,519
Middle East Broadcasting Networks................ 96,773
Open Technology Fund............................. 9,500
------------------
Subtotal, Grantees........................... 233,053
------------------
Total, International Broadcasting 632,732
Operations..............................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Committee recommendation includes the requirements
that: (1) any significant modifications to USAGM broadcast
hours previously justified to Congress, including changes to
transmission platforms, for all USAGM language services shall
be subject to the regular notification procedures of the
Committees on Appropriations; (2) funds appropriated under this
heading are made available in accordance with part 531 of title
22 Code of Federal Regulations, as in effect on June 11, 2020;
(3) the CEO notify the Committees on Appropriations within 15
days of any determination by the CEO that any of its broadcast
entities provides an open platform for international terrorists
or those who support international terrorism, or is in
violation of the principles and standards set forth in
subsections (a) and (b) of section 303 of the United States
International Broadcasting Act of 1994 or part 531 of title 22,
Code of Federal Regulations, as in effect on June 11, 2020; and
(4) not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act the
Inspector General for the Department of State and USAGM conduct
a financial and performance audit and issue a report on
compliance by the Agency with the part 531 of title 22, Code of
Federal Regulations.
Balkans.--The Committee supports continuation of RFE/RL
broadcasting to the Balkans.
Central and Eastern Europe.--The Committee is deeply
concerned with significant media 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 facilitates the rise of
corruption. The Committee commends RFE/RL for restarting
critical language services in such countries. The Committee
supports RFE/RL programming in Central and Eastern Europe,
including coverage in rural areas and through the Hungarian
language services.
China and other East Asia and the Pacific.--The Committee
supports the implantation by the USAGM of a Global China
Strategy with the aim of: (1) enhancing access to fact-based,
timely, and engaging news and information through the Mandarin,
Tibetan, Uyghur, and Cantonese language services of VOA and RFA
by increasing programming and breaking through the Government's
information firewall; (2) combating China's growing
disinformation efforts globally; (3) building resilient,
independent media through support of training and collaboration
with vulnerable independent media organizations in markets
targeted by China; and (4) developing technologies to combat
censorship and overcome surveillance by governments seeking to
restrict access to safe and uncensored news and information.
Such efforts should also include the production of content for
affiliate partners in both the Asian and African continents, as
well as additional distribution channels within the refugee
camps and refugee populations in Bangladesh, Libya, and Kenya
with a focus on woman, girls, and youth.
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 supports the work of the Uyghur Service of
RFA, including the daily radio broadcast digital content and
social media operations and original reporting.
The USAGM shall include detailed information concerning the
allocation of the funds for a Global China Strategy in the
program plan required by section 7061(a) of this Act.
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.
Countering Russian disinformation.--The Committee supports
efforts to counter Russia's aggressive disinformation and
propaganda campaign, particularly through the development of
effective Russian language programming. The Committee notes
that USAGM's Current Time, a 24/7 Russian language digital
television network, is intended to provide Russian speakers
around the world with truthful, independent journalism. The
Committee includes further language under Report in this
heading.
Latin America.--The Committee supports the programming and
activities of the Latin America Division of VOA begun in fiscal
year 2019. The Committee expects USAGM to continue the focus on
countries such as Venezuela and Nicaragua, where authoritarian
governments censor news coverage and access to independent
media is restricted.
Office of Cuba Broadcasting.--The Committee recommendation
provides $12,973,000 for OCB radio and TV Marti, which is the
same as the fiscal year 2021 request.
Open Technology Fund.--The Committee recommendation
includes $9,500,000 for the OTF, which is the same as the
request. In September 2019, OTF was incorporated as an
independent non-profit organization and became a USAGM non-
federal entity. Repressive regimes, such as China, Iran, and
Venezuela are deploying new advanced censorship and
surveillance technologies that are designed to stifle dissent,
track minorities, and manipulate content online. The mission of
OTF is to advance internet freedom in these repressive
environments by supporting the research, development,
implementation, and maintenance of technologies that provide
secure and uncensored access to USAGM's content through a free
and open internet.
Section 7050(c) requires the USAGM CEO to submit to the
Committees on Appropriations a spend plan for funds made
available for programs to promote Internet freedom globally as
enumerated under such section. Such spend plan shall detail
amounts planned for programs and activities of OTF.
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 the fiscal year 2021 program plan required by section 7061
of this Act.
Ukrainian Service.--The Committee supports continuation of
the work of the Ukrainian service of VOA, which is carried by
29 national and regional TV stations in Ukraine.
VOA Pakistan.--The Committee supports VOA initiating a
Sindhi language service and expects the spend plan required by
section 7061 of this Act include details on the planned amount
for such service.
Report
Russian language program.--Not later than 45 days after
enactment of this Act, the USAGM shall report to the Committees
on Appropriations on the allocation by entity and activity of
the funds made available under this heading for Current Time
and other Russian language programming.
BROADCASTING CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
The Committee recommendation includes $4,520,000 for
broadcasting capital improvements.
RELATED PROGRAMS
The Asia Foundation
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $19,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 0
Committee recommendation.............................. 20,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... +1,000,000
Change from request............................... +20,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $20,000,000 for The
Asia Foundation for combating misinformation and online fraud
through innovative uses of technology, promoting internet
connectivity in the Asia-Pacific region, and re-opening
programming in the Pacific islands. The Committee
recommendation does not assume the closure of The Asia
Foundation (TAF) as proposed by the fiscal year 2021 request.
The Committee directs 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 CBJ
for fiscal year 2022 detailing total revenue and support by
category for fiscal year 2020 and projected for fiscal year
2021.
United States Institute of Peace
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $45,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 15,740,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 45,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +29,260,000
The Committee recommendation includes $45,000,000 for
United States Institute of Peace.
The Committee notes that, in addition to appropriated
funds, 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 2022 on the amount of
funds received from other Federal agencies and the amount of
revenue generated from fees and reimbursable agreements.
Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue Trust Fund
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $245,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 250,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 250,000
Change from enacted level......................... +5,000
Change from request............................... 0
The Committee recommends an appropriation for fiscal year
2021 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 2021 are projected to total $250,000.
Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Program
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $270,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 209,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 209,000
Change from enacted level......................... -61,000
Change from request............................... 0
The Committee recommends an appropriation for fiscal year
2021 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 2021 are projected to total
$209,000.
Israeli Arab Scholarship Program
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $124,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 119,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 119,000
Change from enacted level......................... -5,000
Change from request............................... 0
The Committee recommends an appropriation for fiscal year
2021 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 2021 are projected to
total $119,000.
East-West Center
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $16,700,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 0
Committee recommendation.............................. 19,700,000
Change from enacted level......................... +3,000,000
Change from request............................... +19,700,000
The Committee recommendation includes $19,700,000 for East-
West Center to promote people-to-people engagement in the Asia
Pacific region and the United States through cooperative study,
training, and research. The Committee recommendation does not
assume closure of the East-West Center as proposed by the
fiscal year 2021 request.
National Endowment for Democracy
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $300,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 67,275,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 300,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +232,725,000
The Committee recommendation includes $300,000,000 for
National Endowment for Democracy. Of this amount, $195,840,000
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 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 7061(a) of this Act.
Central and Eastern Europe.--The Committee is concerned by
the erosion of democracy and furthering of malign Russian and
Chinese influences in Central and Eastern Europe and encourages
the NED to prioritize programming to counter such malign
influences in the region.
Tibetan communities.--The Committee recommendation includes
funding at not less than prior year levels 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 2020 enacted level........................ $675,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 642,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 642,000
Change from enacted level......................... -33,000
Change from request............................... 0
The Committee recommendation includes $642,000 for
Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad,
as authorized.
United States Commission on International Religious Freedom
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $4,500,000
Fiscal Year 2021 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 the
United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, as
authorized by title II of the IRFA of 1998.
Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe
SALARIES AND EXPENSES
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $2,579,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 2,579,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 2,908,000
Change from enacted level......................... +329,000
Change from request............................... +329,000
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 2020 enacted level........................ $2,250,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 2,250,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 2,250,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... 0
The Committee recommendation includes $2,250,000 for the
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 2020 enacted level........................ $3,500,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 4,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 4,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... +500,000
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 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 2020 enacted level........................ $1,377,246,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 1,311,866,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 1,364,526,000
Change from enacted level......................... -12,720,000
Change from request............................... +52,660,000
The Committee recommendation includes $1,364,526,000 for
Operating Expenses.
In addition, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic
Security Act (CARES Act) (Public Law 116-136) included
$95,000,000 for Operating Expenses to prevent, prepare for, and
respond to coronavirus.
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 for not less than
1,600 permanent Civil Service staff and 1,850 permanent Foreign
Service Officers, restoring USAID personnel to fiscal year 2016
levels.
Funds in this Act under this heading are allocated
according to the following table and are subject to sections
7015 and 7061 of this Act:
OPERATING EXPENSES
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Program/Activity Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Overseas Operations:
Field Missions................................... 505,316
Salaries and Benefits, U.S. Direct Hire personnel 299,623
------------------
Subtotal, Overseas Operations................ 804,939
Washington Support:
Washington Bureaus and Offices................... 105,673
Salaries and Benefits, U.S. Direct Hire personnel 391,561
------------------
Subtotal, Washington Support................. 497,234
Central Support:
Information Technology........................... 117,798
Rent and General Support......................... 131,224
Staff Training................................... 22,000
Personnel Support................................ 24,851
Other Agency Costs............................... 22,180
------------------
Subtotal, Central Support.................... 318,053
Total, Operating Expenses................ 1,620,226
of which, fiscal year 2021 1,364,526
appropriations......................
of which, from carryover and other 255,700
sources.............................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Civil Service and Foreign Service hiring.--The Committee
notes USAID's slow progress on hiring permanent civil service
employees and foreign service officers to the levels directed
in section 7064 of the Department of State, Foreign Operations,
and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2020. The Committee
directs the USAID Administrator to fund and hire personnel at
not less than these levels in fiscal year 2021 and fully
implement the agency's Strategic Workforce Plan.
Gender training.--The Committee directs the USAID
Administrator to ensure that appropriate staff are adequately
trained in conducting gender analysis of proposed programs,
able to mainstream gender considerations throughout project
design, and disaggregate impact through monitoring and
evaluation.
Human Rights Division.--The Committee recommendation
includes funding for the Human Rights Division and LGBTI
portfolio at not less than prior year levels.
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 awarding of a sole source contract or
other non-competitive grant or contract; raising the ceiling on
an existing Indefinite Quantity Contract (IQC); issuing a new
IQC; awarding an umbrella grant; or raising the ceiling on an
existing umbrella grant. 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.
Science and technology research.--The Committee notes
USAID's Public Access Plan on increasing access to the results
of federally-funded scientific research and directs the USAID
Administrator to include an update on such plan in the fiscal
year 2022 CBJ.
Staff care and resilience.--The Committee is concerned
about the health impacts on USAID employees working in high-
stress environments such as conflict and post-conflict zones.
The Committee supports USAID efforts to provide staff care and
resilience tools to its employees. The Committee includes
further language under Reports in this heading.
USAID personnel in Greenland.--The Committee directs the
USAID Administrator to consult with the Committees on
Appropriations prior to taking any action with respect to
future United States Direct Hire staffing assignments in
Greenland, including listing the position of Senior Development
Advisor in Greenland as an eligible assignment in any future
USAID Foreign Service bidding cycle.
Workforce diversity initiatives.--Funds appropriated under
this heading shall be made available to increase USAID
workforce diversity initiatives over prior year levels,
including for fellowships to promote diversity and excellence
in the Foreign Service, such as the Donald M. Payne
International Development Graduate Fellowship Program. The
Committee includes further language under Reports in this
heading.
Reports
Obligation reporting.--The Committee recognizes USAID's
efforts to increase the transparency of Operating Expense
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.
Overseas presence.-- The Committee directs the USAID
Administrator to provide to the Committees on Appropriations,
not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, a report
detailing the criteria used to determine USAID's overseas
presence and assigning Foreign Service Officers. Such report
shall include current overseas staffing gaps, including vacant,
validated positions by mission.
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 year
2020.
Staff care and resilience.--The Committee directs the USAID
Administrator to submit a report to the Committees on
Appropriations, not later than 45 days after enactment of this
Act, detailing a plan to provide mental health services to
employees exposed to high threat and high stress environments
to include pre-service screening and in-country monitoring. The
report shall include the estimated costs of providing such
services.
Strategic workforce plan.--The Committee directs the USAID
Administrator to provide to the Committees on Appropriations,
not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, and
annually thereafter, a comprehensive strategic workforce plan
to include proposed United States Direct Hire position levels
by overseas region, and bureau or independent office in
Washington, a discussion of major workforce drivers, and any
proposed changes to USAID's overseas presence for the next
three fiscal years.
Workforce diversity initiatives.--The Committee directs the
USAID Administrator 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 and results of such
initiatives.
CAPITAL INVESTMENT FUND
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $210,300,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 205,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 238,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... +27,700,000
Change from request............................... +33,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $238,000,000 for
Capital Investment Fund to fund the USAID Capital Security Cost
Sharing bill and information technology investments. The
recommendation includes increased funding for the fiscal year
2020 Capital Security Cost Sharing Bill. The Committee notes
that USAID must submit an operating plan to the Committees on
Appropriations as required in section 7061(a) of this Act.
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $75,500,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 74,881,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 75,500,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +619,000
The Committee recommendation includes $75,500,000 for
Office of Inspector General and directs the OIG to submit its
annual audit plan within the first quarter of fiscal year 2021.
In addition, the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response
Supplemental Appropriations Act (Public Law 116-123) included
$1,000,000 for the Office of Inspector General for oversight of
activities of USAID to prevent, prepare for, and respond to
coronavirus.
TITLE III--BILATERAL ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE
Funds Appropriated to the President
GLOBAL HEALTH PROGRAMS
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $9,092,450,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 5,997,966,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 9,156,975,000
Change from enacted level......................... +64,525,000
Change from request............................... +3,159,009,000
The Committee recommendation includes $9,156,975,000 for
Global Health Programs.
In addition, the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response
Supplemental Appropriations Act (Public Law 116-123) included
$435,000,000 for Global Health Programs to prevent, prepare
for, and respond to coronavirus, including other requirements
related to the consequences of coronavirus.
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............................ 850,000
of which, Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus.......... 2,000
of which, Polio.................................. 61,000
of which, The GAVI Alliance...................... 290,000
Nutrition (USAID).................................... 145,000
of which, Iodine Deficiency Disorder............. 2,500
of which, Micronutrients......................... 33,000
Vitamin A (non-add).......................... [22,500]
Vulnerable Children.................................. 24,000
of which, Blind Children......................... 3,500
HIV/AIDS (USAID)..................................... 330,000
of which, Microbicides........................... 45,000
HIV/AIDS (Department of State)....................... 5,930,000
of which, Global Fund to Fight HIV/AIDS, Malaria 1,560,000
and Tuberculosis................................
of which, Joint U.N. Programme on HIV/AIDS 45,000
[UNAIDS]........................................
Family Planning and Reproductive Health.............. 585,475
Other Infectious Diseases (USAID).................... 1,292,500
of which, Global Health Security................. 125,000
of which, Malaria................................ 755,000
of which, Tuberculosis........................... 310,000
Global TB Drug Facility (non-add)............ [15,000]
of which, Neglected Tropical Diseases/Other 102,500
Public Health Threats...........................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
USAID Global Health Programs
The Committee recommendation includes $3,226,975,000 for
USAID global health programs to be directly apportioned to
USAID.
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 and
progress in preventing and responding to non-communicable
diseases, including cancer. The Committee directs the USAID
Administrator and the Global AIDS Coordinator to ensure that
not less than 10% of each program line in the ``Global Health
Programs'' table 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 frontline health workers, particularly at
the community level, as part of their strategy to prevent child
and maternal deaths and build sustainable health systems. USAID
should pursue strategies to increase the availability of safe
surgeries in contexts without water or electricity. The
Committee recognizes the important role of the World Health
Organization (WHO) in building the capacity of country health
systems and emergency preparedness.
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.
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.
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.
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 the following health issues: children with hydrocephalus;
children with autism; and neurological disorders, including
Alzheimer's disease and dementia.
Polio.--The Committee provides funding under this heading
for global programs to combat and eradicate polio and notes
that global polio eradication programs are also funded by the
CDC. In addition, the Committee recognizes the important role
of the WHO in the elimination of polio.
Reproductive health and voluntary family planning.--The
Committee recommendation includes $750,000,000 for reproductive
health and voluntary family planning in section 7068 of this
Act. The recommendation continues, unchanged in section 7066 of
this Act, the restrictions carried in prior years under section
7018 on the use of any funds for abortion as a method of family
planning or to motivate or coerce any person to practice
abortion.
The Committee recognizes that information and assistance
for women and families interested in healthy timing and spacing
of pregnancies can enhance maternal and child health and
improve the chances of survival of women and children. The
Committee urges USAID to prioritize voluntarism and informed
choice in expanding the reach and impact of family planning
programs by providing counseling, education, and services on a
full range of modern and effective contraceptive methods.
Furthermore, the Committee urges USAID to promote the awareness
and use of Internet-based technology that supports fertility-
awareness methods of family planning that are proven effective.
Research.--The Committee encourages USAID to include
efforts to find new diagnostic and treatment tools for
tuberculosis and effective, affordable contraceptives in their
research agenda. The Committee includes further language under
Reports in this heading.
Tuberculosis(TB).--The Committee recommendation includes
funding to combat drug-susceptible and drug-resistant
tuberculosis and recognizes the important role of the WHO in
this effort. The USAID Administrator is directed to consult
with the Committees on Appropriations regarding the use of
funds in this Act for such purposes. The USAID Administrator
shall also consult with the Committees on Appropriations on
plans for a new United States Government action plan to combat
TB drug resistance in all forms.
Vaccines.--The Committee notes USAID's investments in
malaria and HIV/AIDS vaccine development and 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 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. Furthermore, the Committee directs the USAID
Administrator to consult with the Committees on Appropriations
on amounts proposed for vaccine development for fiscal year
2021.
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 Action Plan on
Children in Adversity (APCA). 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. The
Committee directs the USAID Administrator to regularly update
the Committee on APCA implementation.
Reports, USAID
Global health security and emerging health threats.--The
Committee recommendation includes funds to promote global
health security and to address emerging health threats
overseas. Not later than 30 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 Committee directs that such report
shall be updated and submitted to the Committees on
Appropriations every 90 days until the funds are obligated.
Health systems.--The USAID Administrator and United States
Global AIDS Ambassador are directed to send to the Committees
on Appropriations, not later than 120 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% directive. The report
should include a description on how USAID and OGAC are
designing these integrated efforts by operating unit and the
expected result of this integration on improved performance of
country health systems.
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. The report should be publicly
available and track progress towards the 2025 World Health
Assembly global targets on stunting, wasting, anemia, and
breastfeeding.
Research.--The Committee directs the USAID Administrator to
continue the annual report on health-related research, which is
important for transparency and oversight of the agency's work
on global health research, to be submitted not later than 45
days after enactment of this Act and posted on a public
website.
HIV/AIDS Prevention and Treatment
The Committee recommendation includes a total of
$6,260,000,000 to fight HIV/AIDS. Of this amount, the Committee
recommendation includes $5,930,000,000 to be directly
apportioned to the Department of State.
The Committee recommends that OGAC prioritize pregnant
women within programs to prevent and treat HIV and expects OGAC
to continue efforts to provide HIV positive pregnant women
services to prevent mother-to-child transmission, including
targeted testing strategies and adherence support through
breastfeeding. Additionally, 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. 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.
For PEPFAR, sustainability means that a country has the
services, systems, and resources to effectively and efficiently
control the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The Committee notes that a
country-by-country assessment of sustainability and the
country-specific obstacles to sustainability have not been
included in the annual report as directed and directs PEPFAR to
correct this in the upcoming report.
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.
The Committee notes there was no request for programs to
diagnose or treat cervical cancer, and the Committee directs
that no funds be reprogrammed from multilateral organizations
for such purpose.
Global Fund.--The Committee recommendation includes
$1,560,000,000 for the second installment of the sixth
replenishment of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis,
and Malaria. The Committee notes that this amount shall be
fully obligated for this second 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. The Committee includes further
language under Reports in this heading.
Key populations.--The Committee expects that key
populations are a priority in PEPFAR's prevention and treatment
strategies to include countering stigma and discrimination of
lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersex (LGBTI)
persons. The Committee includes further language under Reports
in this heading.
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 in order to advance 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 2021.
Programs for vulnerable children.--The Committee encourages
OGAC to continue to align existing programs for vulnerable
children with the goals and objectives of APCA 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.
Reports, OGAC
Global Fund.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State
to report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later than
90 days after enactment of this Act, on the Global Fund's
progress on the following: (1) maintaining transparency,
including the publication of the Global Fund OIG reports on a
public website; (2) providing sufficient resources and policies
for an independent OIG; (3) publication of regular audits and
investigations of financial, programmatic, and reporting
aspects of the Global Fund, its grantees, recipients, and Local
Fund Agents; and (4) enforcement of policies which reflect best
practices for the protection of whistleblowers.
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.
Pediatric treatment.--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 PEPFAR's current and planned activities to: (1) reduce
new HIV infections in children and adolescents; (2) link HIV-
positive children and adolescents to the most effective
treatment regimens and retain them in care; and (3) mitigate
the impact of HIV/AIDS on children and adolescents in HIV-
affected communities.
DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $3,400,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request\1\........................... 0
Committee recommendation.............................. 3,800,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... +400,000,000
Change from request............................... +3,800,000,000
\1\The fiscal year 2021 request proposes to consolidate funds under this
heading and Economic Support Fund.
The Committee recommendation includes $3,800,000,000 for
Development Assistance. Programs funded by this account should
be directed for long-term development programs to build the
resilience and stability of communities and support broad-based
economic growth. The Committee's 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]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Country/Program Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Africa:
Cameroon......................................... 4,000
Central Africa Republic.......................... 3,000
Liberia.......................................... 65,500
Malawi higher education.......................... 10,000
Niger............................................ 22,000
Somalia.......................................... 60,000
Sudan............................................ 15,000
Counter-Lord's Resistance Army Program........... 10,000
East Asia and the Pacific:
Burma............................................ 45,000
Vietnam Education Foundation Act................. 10,000
Near East
Morocco.......................................... 10,000
Refugee Scholarships............................. 8,000
South and Central Asia:
Bangladesh labor programs........................ 3,000
Sri Lanka........................................ 20,000
Western Hemisphere:
Barbados and Eastern Caribbean................... 2,000
Haiti............................................ 51,000
of which, reforestation.......................... 8,500
Global Programs:
Combating Child Marriage......................... 15,000
Community Development Fund....................... 80,000
Countering Chinese Influence Fund................ 37,500
Development Innovation Ventures.................. 23,000
Disability Programs.............................. 12,500
Feed the Future Innovation Labs.................. 55,000
Global Crop Diversity Trust...................... 5,500
Ocean Freight Reimbursement Program.............. 1,500
Office of Education.............................. 50,000
Trade Capacity Building.......................... 18,000
USAID Advisor for Indigenous Peoples Issues...... 4,250
Low Cost Eyeglasses Pilot Program................ 3,500
Victims of Torture............................... 12,000
Wheelchairs...................................... 5,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Agriculture
The Committee recommendation includes not less than
$1,005,600,000 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 recognizes the
importance of biofortification as a part of the Global Food
Security Strategy and urges continued support for such efforts.
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 recognizes the importance of building and scaling
local entrepreneurial networks that directly serve smallholder
farmers and supports further development of such efforts in
Africa, including through partnerships with United States land-
grant universities focused on irrigation and agricultural
intensification.
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. The
USAID Administrator, in consultation with the Secretary of
Agriculture, should pursue ways to collaborate to improve rural
development including education, research, and markets in
agriculture-dependent countries in the model of the Farmer-to-
Farmer program. The Committee intends that funds provided to
countries for food security and agricultural development should
be made available at levels not less than the prior fiscal
year, particularly for countries with high levels of food
insecurity, and encourages USAID to consider expanding Feed the
Future Target Countries.
Agricultural research.--The Committee recommendation
includes not less than $142,200,000 for the research
initiatives of the Bureau for Food Security, of which
$55,000,000 is for the Feed the Future Innovation Labs.
Research programs should prioritize smallholder agricultural
productivity by developing new crop, water mitigation, and
livestock and production system technologies that improve
yields, profitability and nutritional quality of foods, as well
as addressing emerging pest, disease, and environmental threats
to food security in areas where hunger, extreme poverty and
inadequate nutrition persist. The Committee directs that the
request level for the research and development initiatives be
designated in the CBJ for fiscal year 2022.
Market-based social enterprises.--The Committee supports
the work of market-based social enterprises, and encourages
USAID to continue partnering with organizations that engage
with small-holder farmers or other beneficiaries in cost-
sharing programs to reduce the cost of program administration.
Economic Growth
Illegal, unreported, unregulated (IUU) fishing.--The
Committee encourages USAID to support efforts to combat IUU
fishing by building the capacity of countries to adopt
sustainable fisheries management and seafood import monitoring
programs.
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.
The Committee supports funding consistent with prior years to
support the programs and activities of the Office of Private
Capital and Microenterprise.
Trade capacity building.--The Committee continues to
support capacity building activities, specifically on labor 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 bring
workers into the formal economy. The Committee includes further
direction under Reports in this heading.
Education
American Schools and Hospitals Abroad (ASHA).--The
Committee recommendation includes not less than $30,000,000 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 for 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 believes basic education
should be a key component of the United States Government
strategy in developing countries. The Committee recommendation
includes not less than $975,000,000 for basic education
programs in this Act. The Committee includes further language
under Reports in this heading.
The Committee encourages USAID to build local capacity and
leadership development in the education sector and ensure all
children gain the foundational skills essential to success.
Basic education funds should also be used for secondary
education activities and to prioritize girls education which is
critical to their future economic empowerment and United States
foreign policy objectives. The Committee encourages the USAID
Administrator to continue the deployment of inclusive education
methodologies, and to develop tools to guide its staff and
implementing partners in these practices to ensure access to
school for all children including those with disabilities.
The Committee believes that schools can be centers of
learning and development for an entire community and expects
programs in other sectors to be integrated with educational and
school feeding programs as much as possible. USAID should
prioritize technical assistance for local governments to foster
communities of learning and encourage recipient countries and
other donors to pursue comprehensive development efforts to
support these programs. The Committee recommends USAID consider
school-based eye health programs to help ensure access to
eyeglasses for children.
Higher education.--The Committee recommendation includes
not less than $235,000,000 for assistance for higher education
in an open and competitive manner. The recommendation includes
funds for partnerships between higher education institutions in
the United States and Malawi focused on innovation and economic
growth. The Committee expects these investments to leverage
other opportunities to increase access to higher education,
governance, and economic growth in Malawi. The Committee notes
the important role United States universities have played in
advancing recent innovations in e-learning and encourages the
growth of these programs to expand access to higher education
in other countries.
The Committee commends USAID for its engagement with United
States universities to solve the world's most challenging
development problems, including through the Feed the Future
Innovation Labs and the Higher Education Solutions Network.
The Committee supports funds for higher education programs
in the Western Hemisphere. The Committee notes that reaching
underserved populations in Latin America and the Caribbean 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 in
the region.
Environment.--The Committee supports efforts to address
changes in the environment that are impacting global stability
and United States national security. Additional resources for
forest protection and restoration can assist in avoiding the
most catastrophic effects of climate change. USAID and the
Department of State shall include reforestation and grasslands
restoration in the design and planning of environmental and
food security activities where appropriate utilizing both
bilateral and multilateral mechanisms. The Committee directs
the Secretary of State to monitor illegal timber harvesting in
partner countries and to discourage such activities if they are
found.
The Committee supports important conservation work in
Africa including diverse national parks, community
conservancies and programs against wildlife trafficking. The
Committee is interested in assuring that American investments
in these efforts are secure and that the richness of programs
supporting biodiversity are properly funded. The Committee
directs the USAID Administrator to conduct a review of current
needs and make recommendations for funding levels that can
sustain this work for people and ecosystems.
The Committee supports continued funding of great apes and
Indonesian orangutan conservation at not less than prior year
levels.
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.
Environment funds provided to other Federal agencies should
be transferred not later than 30 days after enactment of this
Act and may be made prior to the requirements of sections 7015
and 7061 having been met.
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 AND ENERGY PROGRAMS
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account/Program Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Andean Amazon........................................ 23,500
Brazilian Amazon..................................... 15,000
Central Africa Regional Program for the Environment.. 43,000
Great Apes........................................... 40,000
Guatemala/Belize..................................... 5,500
Lacey Act............................................ 3,500
United States Fish and Wildlife Service.............. 6,000
of which, migratory bird conservation............ 1,500
of which, endangered sea turtles................. 150
United States Forest Service......................... 7,000
Ocean Plastic Pollution.............................. 5,000
Toxic Chemicals...................................... 7,000
Waste Recycling...................................... 7,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Countries
Cameroon.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State and
USAID Administrator to support inclusive dialogue in Anglophone
and Francophone regions of Cameroon and consult with the
Committees on Appropriations on the uses of funds made
available by this Act for Cameroon.
Haiti.--The Committee notes that, despite significant
investments in the country's development, Haiti remains among
the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere. The Secretary
of State and USAID Administrator shall consult with the
Committees on Appropriations on a strategy to address
governance, economic opportunities, rule of law including
border control, and social services in Haiti to improve social
cohesion and make United States assistance more effective. The
Committee includes further information under Reports in this
heading.
Kenya conservation programs.--The Committee supports
conservation programs in East Africa, with particular emphasis
on the unique needs of northern Kenya and the Maasai Mara, to
help: (1) scale-up wildlife conservation in the critical target
ecosystems which fall outside national protected area in Kenya;
(2) advance economic opportunity, strengthen governance and
conflict-resolution and combat wildlife trafficking through
community conservancies across Kenya; (3) strengthen the
national policy and regulatory framework to cement conservation
as a recognized and protected land use; and (4) create a
community conservation field-based training center to
systematically engage government and community partners from
across Africa to advance the community conservation model.
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.
Somalia.--The Committee supports increased funding for
Somalia to support the formation of legitimate, durable
institutions, capacity building, and economic development that
will enhance peace and stability in the country. Particular
attention should be given to youth programs.
Global Programs
Development innovation.--The Committee supports evidence-
based mechanisms that leverage United States investments to
advance development innovation, including through the use of
flexible instruments to support the development of local
entrepreneurs and businesses.
Gender.--The Committee is encouraged by the prioritization
of women's economic empowerment and directs the USAID
Administrator to include in these efforts improved access to
education and health services, elimination of regulatory
barriers, and support for entrepreneurship opportunities. The
Committee encourages all programs funded by this Act to improve
the disaggregation of monitoring and evaluation data to better
assess the impact of programming on women and girls. The
Committee includes further information under Reports in this
heading.
New partners.--The Committee supports USAID's efforts to
find additional opportunities to work with new partners 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.
Indigenous peoples.--The Committee recommendation includes
funding for grants and other activities administered by the
USAID Advisor for Indigenous Peoples Issues, including programs
to improve access to information, including digitally.
Reconciliation programs.--The Committee recommendation
provides funds under this heading to support people-to-people
reconciliation programs that bring together individuals of
different ethnic, religious, and political backgrounds from
areas of civil strife and war, which shall include
reconciliation activities between Israelis and Palestinians.
Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).--The Committee
recommendation includes not less than $450,000,000 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 the rapid urbanization
of countries in the developing world and USAID should give
special consideration to urban WASH projects. The Committee
expects these programs to include robust monitoring and
evaluation and directs USAID to consult with the Committees on
Appropriations on these efforts.
The Committee notes that access to adequate water,
sanitation, and hygiene is a critical component of disease
prevention. The Committee supports greater integration of WASH
services with nutrition and health programs, which reinforces
priority actions identified in the USAID Water and Development
Strategy and Multi-Sectoral Nutrition Strategy. The Committee
notes that a lack of access to toilets, adequate sanitation,
and hygiene products impacts women and girls in particular and
recommends USAID address this issue in the design of WASH
programs. The USAID Administrator shall consult with the
Committees on Appropriations on improving waste management of
non-reusable menstrual hygiene products and encourages the
Global Development Lab to undertake research and development of
safe, effective waste management for such products. 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.
The Committee encourages the USAID Administrator to utilize
American standards in the design and implementation of relevant
development programs, such as water and sanitation projects.
USAID is directed to consult with the Committees on
Appropriations on the use of such standards in the design and
implementation of development programs.
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. The report should be posted on a publicly
available website.
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,
marital status, and disability when practicable and
appropriate. The report should also include funds made
available over the prior year to maintain education access for
children in emergencies and conflict.
Disability Rights Report.--The Committee directs the
Secretary of State, in consultation with the USAID
Administrator, not later than 90 days after enactment of this
Act, to submit a report to the appropriate congressional
committees detailing the strategy, funding, and other resources
necessary to mainstream disability rights throughout the
Department of State and USAID. The report should include
disability inclusion training for relevant civil service and
foreign service personnel; the number of full-time staff
devoted to disability inclusion; an accounting of efforts to
mainstream disability rights throughout Department of State and
USAID programming as well as disability-specific programming;
and any policy, programming, or human resources gaps to
mainstreaming disability rights throughout Department of State
and USAID activities.
Gender.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State and
USAID Administrator, not later than 90 days after enactment of
this Act, to jointly submit to the Committees on Appropriations
a detailed implementation plan of all activities in support of
the Women's Global Development and Prosperity Initiative
including focus countries and planned metrics.
Haiti.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State, not
later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, to submit to
the appropriate congressional committees a report on the steps
taken by the United States to address the cholera epidemic in
Haiti and further the recovery of cholera victims and their
families.
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 2021.
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. The report should also include
recommendations for how USAID could improve its management of
investments in this area, including through targeted program
definitions.
INTERNATIONAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level\1\..................... $4,395,362,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request\2\........................... 0
Committee recommendation\3\........................... 4,395,362,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +4,395,362,000
\1\The fiscal year 2020 enacted level includes $1,733,980,000 under this
heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
\2\The Fiscal Year 2021 request includes $5,968,000,000 under a new
heading, ``International Humanitarian Assistance.''
\3\The fiscal year 2021 recommendation includes $1,733,980,000 under
this heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
The Committee recommendation includes $4,395,362,000 for
International Disaster Assistance, of which $1,733,980,000 is
designated for OCO/GWOT.
In addition, the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response
Supplemental Appropriations Act (Public Law 116-123) included
$300,000,000 and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic
Security Act (CARES Act) (Public Law 116-136) included
$258,000,000 for International Disaster Assistance to prevent,
prepare for, and respond to coronavirus.
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 encourages 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, in order to avoid further delays in the
provision of lifesaving humanitarian assistance.
Air transport.--The Committee recognizes the critical need
to provide swift humanitarian aid in the immediate aftermath of
a disaster to save lives and ease suffering. The Committee
encourages USAID to assess the efficacy of air drop technology
for large-scale humanitarian aid delivery for quicker response
time. The Committee notes that this technology can be critical
particularly in humanitarian crises where there are limited
transportation options for aid delivery.
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.
The Committee recognizes that children are particularly
vulnerable to the psychological impacts of conflict and forced
displacement. The Committee encourages the prioritization of
interventions to assist children recovering from trauma, those
in fragile contexts, those experiencing developmental delays or
disabilities, and children on the move.
Ethnic and religious minorities.--The Committee
recommendation includes funds under this heading for support of
humanitarian assistance for displaced, vulnerable, and
persecuted ethnic and religious minorities to: (1) facilitate
the implementation of an immediate, coordinated, and sustained
response; (2) enhance protection of conflict victims; (3)
improve access to secure locations for obtaining humanitarian
and resettlement services; and (4) build resilience and help
reestablish livelihoods for displaced and persecuted persons in
their communities of origin.
Primary health care.--The Committee urges the USAID
Administrator to ensure that funds made available under this
heading for humanitarian relief are allocated in a manner that
appropriately assesses and prioritizes the primary healthcare
needs of those displaced and needing care.
Venezuelan migrants.--The Committee urges the USAID
Administrator to press other donor countries to make more
substantial commitments to help Colombia and other neighboring
countries deal with the influx of migrants who have fled
Venezuela.
INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $0
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 5,968,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 0
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... -5,968,000,000
The Committee recommendation does not include the funding
proposed in the fiscal year 2021 request for International
Humanitarian Assistance. The Committee does not support the
consolidation of all overseas humanitarian assistance into a
single account. As in prior years, funds for such assistance
are provided under International Disaster Assistance and
Migration and Refugee Assistance.
TRANSITION INITIATIVES
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $92,043,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 112,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 92,043,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... -19,957,000
The Committee recommendation includes $92,043,000 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).
The Committee directs OTI to submit a report to the
Committees on Appropriations summarizing new, ongoing, and
completed country programs implemented by OTI in fiscal year
2021, including programs supported with transferred funds,
subject to the reporting requirements of the Committees on
Appropriations.
COMPLEX CRISES FUND
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $30,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 0
Committee recommendation.............................. 30,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +30,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $30,000,000 for the
Complex Crises Fund, which shall be apportioned to USAID not
later than 60 days after enactment of this Act. The Committee
notes the notification procedures required by the Global
Fragility Act and the inclusion of the Committees on
Appropriations in such requirement.
Programs funded under this heading should encourage the
inclusive and meaningful participation of youth in
peacebuilding and conflict prevention, management, and
resolution, as well as post-conflict relief and recovery
efforts.
ECONOMIC SUPPORT AND DEVELOPMENT FUND
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $0
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 5,925,600,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 0
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... -5,925,600,000
The Committee does not recommend funds under this heading
as proposed in the fiscal year 2021 budget request.
ECONOMIC SUPPORT FUND
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $3,045,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request\1\........................... 0
Committee recommendation.............................. 3,344,407,000
Change from enacted level......................... +299,407,000
Change from request............................... +3,344,407,000
\1\The fiscal year 2021 request proposes to consolidate funds under this
heading and Development Assistance.
The Committee recommendation includes $3,344,407,000 for
Economic Support Fund.
In addition, the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response
Supplemental Appropriations Act (Public Law 116-123) included
$250,000,000 for Economic Support Fund to prevent, prepare for,
and respond to coronavirus, including other requirements
related to the consequences of coronavirus.
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
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Africa
Niger............................................ 4,000
Sudan............................................ 10,000
West Africa Anti-Slavery......................... 2,000
East Asia and the Pacific:
Burma............................................ 50,000
Vietnam dioxin removal........................... 20,000
Middle East and North Africa:
Lebanon.......................................... 112,500
of which, scholarships....................... 12,000
Middle East Partnership Initiative scholarship 20,000
program.........................................
Middle East Regional Cooperation................. 5,000
Morocco.......................................... 10,000
Near East Regional Democracy..................... 55,000
South and Central Asia:
Sri Lanka........................................ 20,000
Western Hemisphere:
Cuba democracy................................... 20,000
Caribbean Energy Security Initiative............. 3,000
Organization of American States.................. 5,000
Global Programs:
Ambassador-at-Large for Global Women's Issues.... 10,000
Arctic Council................................... 1,000
Atrocities Prevention (sec. 7034(c))............. 2,500
Conflict and Stabilization Operations............ 2,500
Countering Chinese Influence Fund................ 40,000
Family Planning/Reproductive Health (USAID)...... 164,525
House Democracy Partnership...................... 1,900
Implementation of Public Law 99-415.............. 5,000
Information Communication Technology Training.... 1,000
Prevention and Stabilization Fund................ 65,000
UN Resident Coordinator System................... 23,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Committee provides additional direction on programs in
Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, East Asia and the
Pacific, and South and Central Asia 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 Regional Cooperation (MERC).--The Committee
supports continued funding for the MERC program to facilitate
research collaboration in the Middle East, including between
Israelis and Palestinians.
Syria.--The Committee recommendation includes $40,000,000
for non-lethal stabilization assistance for Syria, including
$7,000,000 for emergency medical and rescue response and
chemical weapons use investigations.
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
Combating violent extremism.--USAID shall consult with the
Committees on Appropriations on the utilization of locally-led
programs developed to address the underlying causes of violent
extremism and promote sustainable development in communities
recently liberated from or particularly vulnerable to extremist
organizations such as Boko Haram.
Cybersecurity.--The Committee supports capacity building
aimed at improving cybersecurity overseas and countering malign
activity online.
Diplomatic Progress Fund.--The Committee recommendation
does not include the requested amount for a Diplomatic Progress
Fund.
Independent media.--The Committee continues to support
assistance for independent media, including in Afghanistan,
Burma, Cambodia, Ukraine, Venezuela, Pakistan, Central America,
and Africa.
Public diplomacy and countering disinformation.--The
Committee recommendation includes $208,144,000 under this
heading for public diplomacy and countering disinformation,
particularly programs and activities to counter the growing
influence and disinformation of China and Russia. Such
activities shall include support for the development and
dissemination of news and information that is reliable and
authoritative, accurate, objective, and comprehensive and of
technologies that improve free and open access to such
information, especially in China, Russia, and other countries
where the government restricts such access.
Within the funds provided above for public diplomacy and
countering disinformation, the following amounts shall be
allocated for the activities listed in the following table and
at not less than the designated amounts, subject to section
7019 of this Act.
PUBLIC DIPLOMACY & COUNTERING DISINFORMATION
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Activity Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Countering Chinese Influence......................... 48,465
of which, expanded news and information in 7,000
Mandarin........................................
of which, expanded news and information in 2,500
Cantonese.......................................
of which, expanded news and information 2,000
concerning and for ethnic Uyghurs...............
of which, expanded news and information in 2,000
Tibetan dialects................................
Countering Russian Influence......................... 21,254
of which, expanded news and information to the 2,000
Balkans.........................................
of which, expanded news and information to 1,500
Central and Eastern Europe......................
of which, expanded news and information for 8,500
Russian speakers................................
of which, expanded news and information to 3,000
Ukraine.........................................
Pakistan
expanded news and information for Sindhi language 2,000
speakers in Pakistan............................
Western Hemisphere
expanded news and information for Central and 2,500
Latin America...................................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
In addition, the Committee recommendation includes
authority for the Secretary of State to transfer amounts
available under this heading for public diplomacy and
countering disinformation to support international
communication activities and to make grants for support of
radio, Internet, and television broadcasting entities of the
USAGM to carry out the purposes of such funds. Prior to the
exercise of any such transfer authority, the Secretary is
required to certify to the appropriate congressional committees
that in programming such funds the receiving entity will adhere
to the statutory firewall and highest standards of professional
Journalism described in part 531 of title 22, Code of Federal
Regulations, as in effect on June 11, 2020. Such funds are also
subject to prior consultation with, and the regular
notification procedures of, the Committees on Appropriations.
Funds appropriated under this heading for global internet
freedom are designated in the table under section 7050.
USAID Humanitarian Demining.--The Committee recommends
funding consistent with prior years for USAID's Humanitarian
Demining program.
DEMOCRACY FUND
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $273,700,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 0
Committee recommendation.............................. 323,700,000
Change from enacted level......................... +50,000,000
Change from request............................... +323,700,000
The Committee recommendation includes $323,700,000 for
Democracy Fund. Of the funds provided, $218,450,000 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 $105,250,000 shall be for the Center of Excellence
on Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance (DRG) at USAID.
Funds included under this heading were requested under
Economic Support and Development Fund. The Committee
recommendation realigns most global democracy activities from
Economic Support Fund and places them under this heading.
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................... 10,000
of which, International Religious Freedom........ 20,000
of which, Promotion of Disability Rights......... 3,000
Bureau for Democracy, Conflict, and Humanitarian
Assistance, USAID:
of which, Global Labor Program................... 12,500
of which, Protection of LGBTI Persons............ 6,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual human rights reports.--The Committee directs the
Department of State to include in its annual country human
rights reports descriptions of official government
discrimination of LGBTI persons.
Global Labor Program.--The Committee directs the USAID
Administrator to consult with the Committees on Appropriations
on any modifications or restructuring to the Global Labor
Program prior to the obligation of funds, and that such funds
are also subject to the regular notification procedures of the
Committees on Appropriations.
Independent media.--The Committee encourages the Department
of State and USAID to strengthen independent media programs,
including the promotion of internet freedom, especially in
areas where independent information sources are increasingly
under threat.
Report
Additional resources.--The Committee directs DRL at the
Department of State and DRG at USAID to jointly submit a report
to the Committees on Appropriations, not later than 45 days
after enactment of this Act, on the planned use of additional
resources.
ASSISTANCE FOR EUROPE, EURASIA AND CENTRAL ASIA
Fiscal Year 2019 enacted level........................ $770,334,000
Fiscal Year 2020 request.............................. 0
Committee recommendation.............................. 770,334,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +770,334,000
The Committee recommendation includes $770,334,000 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/Program Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Countering Russian Influence Fund.................... 85,000
Georgia.............................................. 88,025
Ukraine.............................................. 255,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cyprus.--The Committee notes that no funds were requested
for Cyprus, 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.
Cybersecurity assistance to Ukraine, Georgia, and other
partners.--The Committee remains concerned by the Russia
Federation's cyber-attacks against Ukraine, Georgia, and other
security partners and allies in Europe and Eurasia. The
Committee directs the Secretary of State to prioritize funding
provided under this heading to assist our partners in improving
their cybersecurity capabilities and resilience to hybrid
threats and information warfare, including through both
bilateral assistance and assistance through multilateral
initiatives to counter such threats.
Eastern Mediterranean Partnership joint dialogues.--The
recommendation includes $2,000,000 under this heading, to be
made available until expended, and to be transferred to the
Economic Support Fund, to establish an annual joint dialogue in
the United States with Israel, Greece, and Cyprus. The dialogue
shall be conducted on an annual basis and shall support the
joint declaration signed by the Secretary of State on March 21,
2019 to ``increase regional cooperation; to support energy
independence and security; and to defend against external
malign influences in the Eastern Mediterranean and the broader
Middle East.'' The dialogues shall also support successful
implementation of the Eastern Mediterranean Partnerships
Security and Partnership Act (title II of Division J of Public
Law 116-94). The dialogues shall include the participation of
career government personnel, including both foreign service and
non-foreign service personnel, of the Departments of State,
Defense and Energy and their counterparts in the Governments of
Israel, Greece, and Cyprus. Officials from other United States
Government agencies and departments, and their respective
counterparts, may also participate in the dialogues, as
appropriate. The funds specified by this Act shall be made
available to pay for the costs of hosting the dialogues,
including costs incurred by the governments of Israel, Greece,
Cyprus for participation by officials of such governments.
Energy security for United State allies and partners.--The
Committee recognizes that energy security is essential for
United States national security and the security of our
European allies. The Committee directs the Secretary of State
and USAID Administrator to prioritize financing for alternative
sources of energy to Europe, particularly green technologies,
support energy sector reforms, and to coordinate with the CEO
of the United States International Development Finance
Corporation with respect to support of the Three Seas
Initiative.
Research and training.--The Committee directs the Secretary
of State to provide $3,000,000 for programs pursuant to section
7034(e) of this Act for research and training authorized by the
Soviet-Eastern European Research and Training Act of 1983.
Report
Standards and protocols on countering cybersecurity
incidents.--The Committee notes that in July of 2016 the North
Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) recognized cyberspace as a
domain of operations in which NATO must defend itself as it
does in other operational domains. The Committee directs the
Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of
Defense, to report to the Committees on Appropriations not
later than 180 days after enactment of this Act on common NATO
standards and protocols for countering cybersecurity incidents.
Department of State
MIGRATION AND REFUGEE ASSISTANCE
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level\1\..................... $3,432,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request\2\........................... 299,214,000
Committee recommendation\3\........................... 3,432,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +3,132,786,000
\1\The fiscal year 2020 enacted level includes $1,521,355,000 under this
heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
\2\The fiscal year 2021 request includes funds for overseas refugee
assistance under a new International Humanitarian Assistance account.
\3\The fiscal year 2021 recommendation includes $1,521,355,000 under
this heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
The Committee recommendation includes $3,432,000,000 for
Migration and Refugee Assistance, of which $1,521,355,000 is
designated for OCO/GWOT.
In addition, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic
Security Act (CARES Act) (Public Law 116-136) included
$350,000,000 for Migration and Refugee Assistance to prevent,
prepare for, and respond to coronavirus.
Of the funds made available under this heading, the
Committee recommendation includes not less than $35,000,000 to
respond to small-scale emergency humanitarian requirements.
Burmese refugees.--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 ethnic cleansing and other attacks.
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 ensure that
protection is integrated across other humanitarian sectors.
Ethnic and religious minorities.--The Committee
recommendation includes funds under this heading for support of
humanitarian assistance for vulnerable and persecuted refugees
from ethnic and religious minorities to: (1) facilitate the
implementation of an immediate, coordinated, and sustained
response; (2) enhance protection of conflict victims; (3)
improve access to secure locations for obtaining humanitarian
and resettlement services; and (4) build resilience and help
reestablish livelihoods for displaced and persecuted persons in
their communities of origin.
Humanitarian law and armed conflict.--The Committee remains
concerned over an increasing trend in violations of
international humanitarian law in armed conflict and the lack
of accountability for such violations. These violations include
attacks on children, other civilians, and humanitarian workers;
attacks on civilian infrastructure such as schools, hospitals,
and food and water systems; and continued denial of
humanitarian access to populations in need in Yemen, Syria,
Iraq, South Sudan, and Venezuela.
Mexico.--The Committee recommendation includes sufficient
funds under this heading to continue assistance to enhance the
capacity of the Mexican Commission of Assistance to Refugees to
process asylum applications of refugees in Mexico.
Refugees in the Middle East.--The Committee encourages the
Secretary of State and the USAID Administrator, as appropriate,
to ensure that the diplomatic and assistance needs of countries
in the region offering safe haven to Syrian refugees are being
addressed, including through assistance to host communities.
Resettlement in Israel.--The Committee recommendation
includes $5,000,000 for refugees from the former Soviet Union,
Eastern Europe, and other refugees resettling in Israel, which
is the same as the request and similar to language carried in
prior years.
Sanitation facilities.--The Committee encourages the Bureau
of Population, Refugees, and Migration to place a special
emphasis on the provision of safe and secure access to
sanitation facilities for refugees, with a focus on women and
girls and vulnerable populations.
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
deplores the increasing repression of the Tibetan people and is
concerned that Nepalese officials have handed over Tibetan
refugees to Chinese border authorities, in contravention of
Nepal's international obligations to protect refugees fleeing
persecution. The Committee supports efforts by the Secretary of
State to work with the Government of Nepal to provide safe
transit for Tibetan refugees and legal protections to Tibetans
residing in Nepal.
Unaccompanied refugee minors.--The Committee supports the
resettlement of unaccompanied refugee minors (URM) and expects
the Secretary of State to continue to provide robust support
for the present and future resettlement of these children,
including those who have fled ethnic cleansing and other forms
of persecution. The Committee notes that URM are among those
refugee nationalities and categories whose admission is listed
as part of the fiscal year 2020 Presidential Determination. The
Committee is deeply concerned about reports that the United
States Refugee Admissions Program is no longer accepting
resettlement referrals from the United Nations High
Commissioner for Refugees and nongovernmental organizations
(NGOs), including for URM. The Committee expects that funding
appropriated under this heading will continue to support
resettlement of qualifying URM.
United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund.--
Established in 2005, the United Nations Central Emergency
Response Fund (CERF) pools contributions from donors around the
world into a single fund allowing humanitarian responders to
deliver life-saving assistance that is targeted to meet the
most urgent, life-saving needs. Funds are provided for: (1)
rapid response grants to provide support when a new crisis
hits, when an existing emergency deteriorates significantly, or
in response to time-critical needs; and (2) underfunded
emergency grants for critical needs in underfunded and often
protracted crises. Given the uncertainty of the course and
impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially on refugees, other
displaced persons, and host communities in the Middle East and
Africa, the Committee encourages the Secretary of State to
provide immediate support for the CERF from funds available
under this heading.
United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).--The
Committee remains concerned over the continued suspension of
United States support for UNRWA. After nearly 70-years of
United States contributions, which had been on average one-
third of UNRWA's annual budget, the suspension of assistance
has left UNRWA struggling to raise the funds needed to deliver
basic humanitarian services. The continued withholding of
United States assistance in the absence of an alternative
operational, humanitarian organization will only lead to higher
rates of poverty, fuel extremism, and further reduce the
prospects for peace. The Committee further notes that UNRWA's
operations are independent and not under the authority of
governing entities in the West Bank, Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, or
Jordan.
Pursuant to section 7048(d), funds appropriated under this
heading shall be made available to UNRWA unless the Secretary
of State determines and reports to the Committees on
Appropriations that UNRWA is violating certain policies related
to neutrality, impartiality, prohibiting weapons in their
facilities, regular inspections, educational materials,
financial transparency, and auditing practices.
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 deal with the influx of migrants who have
fled Venezuela.
Reports
United Nations Relief and Works Agency.--The Committee is
concerned that the Department of State has not submitted the
report required under section 7048 of House Report 116-78. The
Committee directs the Department to immediately provide the
report required in the FY 2020 House report. Further, the
Committee directs that, not later than 45 days after enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to
the Committees on Appropriations detailing the rationale behind
the determination by the Department of State to maintain the
suspension of assistance to UNRWA. Such a report shall also
contain a detailed comparison of UNRWA's human development and
humanitarian services for each of the seven decades of UNRWA's
operation, to include: (1) the number of Palestinians receiving
services in UNRWA health facilities, including child survival
and maternal mortality rates, vaccination rates, and
availability of needed medical supplies, including
contraception; (2) living conditions, including the number of
UNRWA-built temporary housing, long-term housing, and camps;
(3) the number of UNRWA-operated schools and the total number
of students enrolled in school, disaggregated by age, sex, and
education level (pre-primary, primary, secondary, post-
secondary/non-higher education, vocational training and higher
education); (4) graduation versus drop-out rates from all
UNRWA-operated schools, disaggregated by age, sex, and
education level; and (5) job placement rates following
completion of higher education versus unemployment rates,
disaggregated by age and sex.
United States Refugee Admissions Program.--Not later than
180 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State,
after consultation with the heads of other relevant Federal
agencies, shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations a
report on the United States Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP).
Such report shall identify, on a fiscal year basis, the number
of refugees in the USRAP pipeline who are: (1) awaiting an
interview with the United States Citizenship and Immigration
Services (USCIS); (2) pending security clearance after a USCIS
interview; (3) cleared for admission into the United States;
and (4) awaiting departure. The report shall also specify the
average processing times, disaggregated by the applicant's
nationality, of each step listed above. Finally, the report
shall include an assessment of the impact that the extended
moratorium of refugee arrivals had on the refugees already
vetted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in the
pipeline. The report shall be submitted in unclassified form,
but may include a classified annex.
Urban refugee protection.--The Committee recognizes that
many refugees do not reside in camps and, as a result, have
special protection needs. Not later than 90 days after
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall report to
the Committees on Appropriations on the status of the
Principles for Refugee Protection in Urban Areas of the Bureau
of Population, Refugees, and Migration, Department of State.
UNITED STATES EMERGENCY REFUGEE AND MIGRATION ASSISTANCE FUND
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $100,000
Fiscal Year 2020 request.............................. 0
Committee recommendation.............................. 100,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +100,000
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.
The Committee is aware that for the past three years, the
President has not utilized funds in the United States Emergency
Refugee and Migrant Assistance Fund. The Committee does not
support the Administration's multiple attempts to eliminate
this emergency Presidential drawdown account. The Committee
urges the President to make use of the account.
Independent Agencies
PEACE CORPS
(INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS)
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $410,500,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 401,200,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 410,500,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +9,300,000
The Committee recommendation includes $410,500,000 for
Peace Corps, of which $6,330,000 is for the Office of the
Inspector General.
In addition, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic
Security Act (CARES Act) (Public Law 116-136) included
$88,000,000 for Peace Corps to prevent, prepare for, and
respond to coronavirus, including for evacuation expenses.
The Committee recommendation for Peace Corps will provide
support for Americans serving as volunteers throughout the
world, including volunteer safety and security operations. The
Committee recommendation continues the ban on the use of funds
for abortion, with certain exceptions, and requires an
operating plan pursuant to section 7061 of this Act.
Notification and consultation requirements.--The Committee
notes that Peace Corps failed to meet the pre-consultation
requirements for the proposed closure of the United States-
China Friendship Volunteer Program. The Committee
recommendation continues the requirement that the Peace Corps
must consult with and notify the Committees on Appropriations
prior to any decisions to open, close, significantly reduce, or
suspend a domestic or overseas office or country program. The
Committee includes further language under Reports in this
heading.
Volunteer evacuations and redeployment.--The Committee
recognizes the unprecedented decision to evacuate more than
7,000 United States Peace Corps volunteers and staff serving
overseas in response to the coronavirus outbreak and commends
the Peace Corps for its response to ensure the safety of all
volunteers and staff. The Committee directs the Director of the
Peace Corps to continue recruitment activities and allow former
volunteers that were evacuated due to the coronavirus pandemic
to reapply in an expedited fashion to ensure a rapid
redeployment of volunteers once host country conditions are
safe to do so. The Committee includes further language under
Reports in this heading.
United States-China Friendship Volunteer Program.--The
Committee recognizes that the United States-China Friendship
Volunteer Program, established by President George H.W. Bush in
1989, is one of the only remaining people-to-people programs
between the United States and the People's Republic of China.
The program provides an opportunity for United States citizens
to learn Chinese, teach English to Chinese students, and share
American values and customs despite strained relationships
between the two countries. The Committee notes that many former
volunteers have gone on to careers with the Department of
State, USAID, and the private sector as a result of the
language skills and in-depth knowledge of China gained during
their service, demonstrating the long-term value of the
program. Therefore, the Committee recommendation does not
include funding in this Act or prior Acts for the permanent
closure of the United States-China Friendship Volunteer
Program.
Reports
Feminine hygiene products.--The Committee directs the
Director of the Peace Corps to provide to the Committees on
Appropriations, not later than 90 days after enactment of this
Act, a strategy to ensure that all Peace Corps volunteers who
need feminine hygiene products have access to them, regardless
of country of service. Such strategy shall take into
consideration the availability of feminine hygiene products for
purchase locally, their price, and the cultural norms
surrounding menstruation.
Notification and consultation requirements.--The Committee
directs the Director of the Peace Corps to submit a report to
the Committees on Appropriations annually listing all decisions
made during the fiscal year to change the status of offices or
country programs and the justifications for such decisions,
subject to the reporting procedures of the Committees on
Appropriations.
Overseas presence.-- The Committee directs the Director of
the Peace Corps to provide to the Committees on Appropriations,
not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, a report
detailing the criteria used to determine Peace Corps overseas
presence, including factors used to determine when to open or
close a program and assigning volunteers to host countries.
Such report shall contain proposed standard operating
procedures and standardized criteria to determine when Peace
Corps should open or close a program overseas. The Director of
the Peace Corps shall consult with the Committees on
Appropriations on the format of such report.
Volunteer evacuations and redeployment.--The Committee
directs the Director of the Peace Corps to provide to the
Committees on Appropriations, not later than 45 days after
enactment of this Act, a strategy to rapidly redeploy
volunteers and staff to host countries evacuated due to the
coronavirus pandemic once it is safe to do so. Such strategy
shall include proposals for the expedited recruitment of
volunteers, application waivers for former volunteers evacuated
due to the coronavirus pandemic, criteria to determine when
volunteers and staff can be redeployed safely to host
countries, and the costs associated with such redeployment.
MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE CORPORATION
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $905,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 800,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 905,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +105,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $905,000,000 for
Millennium Challenge Corporation. The Committee recommendation
includes a limitation of $112,000,000 for administrative
expenses and not more than $100,000 may be for representational
expenses.
Funding included for administrative expenses is made
available until September 30, 2026.
Deobligation notification.--Consistent with section 7015(c)
of this Act, the reobligation of funds deobligated by the
Millennium Challenge Corporation (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.
Disinformation campaigns.--The Committee notes recent
disinformation campaigns launched against proposed MCC compacts
in the Indo-Pacific region. The Committee directs the Chief
Executive Officer (CEO) of the MCC to develop a strategy to
counter disinformation efforts in the region.
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
2021.
INTER-AMERICAN FOUNDATION
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $37,500,000
Fiscal Year 2020 request.............................. 3,850,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 41,500,000
Change from enacted level......................... +4,000,000
Change from request............................... +37,650,000
The Committee recommendation includes $41,500,000 for
Inter-American Foundation. The Committee recommendation does
not assume the consolidation of the Inter-American Foundation
(IAF) into USAID, as proposed by the fiscal year 2021 request.
The Committee applauds the work of the IAF in supporting
community-led solutions for building resiliency to disasters
and extreme weather changes and assisting small farming
operations in the eastern Caribbean, while advancing United
States priorities in the region. The Committee supports the
IAF's commitment to expanding its investments in the eastern
Caribbean.
The bill directs that funds appropriated under this heading
be made available for programs and activities in El Salvador,
Guatemala, and Honduras.
Within the increase recommended for fiscal year 2021,
sufficient funds are available to support a pilot exchange
program between indigenous IAF grantees and Native American
tribes.
The Committee notes that section 7061(a) of this Act
requires an operating plan for funds made available under this
heading.
UNITED STATES AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $33,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 4,660,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 33,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +28,340,000
The Committee recommendation includes $33,000,000 for
United States African Development Foundation. The Committee
recommendation does not assume the consolidation of the United
States African Development Foundation (USADF) into USAID, as
proposed by the fiscal year 2021 request.
The Committee encourages the USADF to explore cooperation
with African diaspora entities in the United States.
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 7061(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 2020 enacted level........................ $30,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 33,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 33,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... +3,000,000
Change from request............................... 0
The Committee recommendation includes $33,000,000 for
International Affairs Technical Assistance by the Department of
the Treasury. The operating and spend plans required under
section 7061 of this Act shall include estimated program and
administrative costs by fiscal year of appropriation.
DEBT RESTRUCTURING
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $15,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 78,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 78,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... +63,000,000
Change from request............................... 0
The Committee recommendation includes $78,000,000 for Debt
Restructuring. Of the funds provided, $63,000,000 shall be to
support United States bilateral debt restructuring and relief
for Somalia as part of the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries
(HIPC) Initiative.
Tropical Forest Conservation Act.--The Committee supports
debt-for-nature programs through the Tropical Forest
Conservation Act, and the recommendation assumes funding equal
to prior year levels for this purpose.
TITLE IV--INTERNATIONAL SECURITY ASSISTANCE
Department of State
INTERNATIONAL NARCOTICS CONTROL AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $1,391,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 1,010,280,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 1,391,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +380,720,000
The Committee recommendation includes $1,391,000,000 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 (sec. 7034(c))................. 2,500
Colombia............................................. 189,000
Combating wildlife trafficking....................... 50,000
Countering Chinese Influence Fund.................... 50,000
Countering Russian Influence Fund.................... 50,000
Critical Flight Safety Program....................... 18,000
of which, health monitoring systems.............. 12,500
Cybercrime and intellectual property rights.......... 10,000
Demand reduction..................................... 15,000
Egypt................................................ 2,000
Georgia.............................................. 5,700
International Law Enforcement Academy................ 35,000
International Organized Crime........................ 68,150
Inter-Regional Aviation Support...................... 47,230
of which, sensor upgrades........................ 10,000
Mexico............................................... 100,000
Programs to end modern slavery....................... 25,000
Prevention and Stabilization Fund.................... 10,000
Tunisia.............................................. 13,000
Ukraine.............................................. 30,000
Security assistance programs for the West Bank....... 75,000
Security Force Professionalization (sec. 7035(a)).... 3,000
State Western Hemisphere Regional.................... 202,500
of which, Caribbean Basin Security Initiative.... 35,000
of which, Central America Regional Security 155,000
Initiative......................................
[Costa Rica]................................. 32,500
Combatting Trafficking in Persons.................... 45,000
of which, Office to Combat Trafficking in Persons 36,000
[Child Protection Compacts].................. [5,000]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Combatting wildlife trafficking.--The Committee includes
$50,000,000 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 for transfer of title of aircraft to support
anti-poaching activities.
Critical Flight Safety Program.--The Committee
recommendation provides $18,000,000 for the Critical Flight
Safety Program, including $12,500,000 for Health Monitoring
System Cockpit and Voice Flight Data Recorders for UH-60
aircraft. The Committee believes these enhancements are
critical to the safety, readiness, and reliability of the
aircraft. The Committee directs that such funds shall be
awarded on a competitive basis.
Cybercrime and intellectual property rights.--The Committee
recommendation supports the efforts of United States Government
agencies to build the capacity of partner nations to combat
cybercrime and strengthen law enforcement in the area of
intellectual property rights, including through the placement
of Intellectual Property Law Enforcement Coordinators. The
Committee notes the spend plan requirements contained in
section 7061(b) apply to such funds.
Demand reduction.--The Committee directs that $15,000,000
be made available 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.
Diplomatic Progress Fund.--The Committee recommendation
does not include the requested amount for a Diplomatic Progress
Fund.
DNA forensic technology.--The Committee recommendation
provides not less than $10,000,000 under this heading for DNA
forensic technology programs to combat human trafficking in
Central America and Mexico. Such funds are to be derived from
funds provided under this heading for CARSI and for assistance
for 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.
Ecuador.--The Committee recommendation includes funding at
the amount included in the budget request for Ecuador.
Inter-regional aviation support.--The Committee
recommendation includes $47,230,000 for Inter-regional Aviation
Support. Within the total, $10,000,000 is provided to procure,
upgrade, and install U.S. manufactured and assembled electro-
optical/infra-red sensors onto INL rotary-wing aircraft. The
Committee notes the Department has sought information on these
capabilities in prior years. The Committee further notes that
such capabilities could significantly improve day/night
operations, safety and security for INL helicopter operations
in challenging environments, and the performance of search and
rescue, counterterrorism, and counternarcotics missions. The
Committee directs that funds for such purpose shall be made
available through an open and competitive process.
Global crime and drugs policy.--The Committee
recommendation provides $7,000,000 for activities to mobilize
global institutions to combat factors that contribute to the
opioid crisis and other drug and transnational criminal
organization threats.
Global Magnitsky Act.--The Committee recommendation
includes funds under this heading for expenses incurred by the
Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs
for Global Magnitsky Act implementation, and directs the
Secretary of State to consult with the Committees on
Appropriations on the use of funds for such purposes.
International Law Enforcement Academies (ILEA).--The
Committee recommendation provides $35,000,000 for ILEA to
support regional law enforcement training. The Committee also
expects ILEA to continue coursework to address wildlife
poaching and trafficking.
International Organized Crime.--The Committee
recommendation provides $68,150,000 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 7061(b) apply to
such funds.
Opioids.--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 People's Republic of China (PRC); and (5)
global demand reduction programs.
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
United States 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.
Peru.--The Committee recommendation includes funding at the
amount included in the budget request for Peru.
NON-PROLIFERATION, ANTI TERRORISM, DEMINING AND RELATED PROGRAMS
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $895,750,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 753,550,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 897,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... +1,250,000
Change from request............................... +143,450,000
The Committee recommendation includes $897,000,000 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 programs:
Nonproliferation and Disarmament Fund............ 30,000
Export Control and Related Border Security....... 67,000
International Atomic Energy Agency............... 94,800
Anti-terrorism programs:
Anti-terrorism Assistance........................ 182,000
Counterterrorism financing....................... 12,500
Counterterrorism Partnerships Fund............... 84,500
Conventional weapons destruction..................... 247,050
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonproliferation programs.--The Committee includes
$304,800,000 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 directs
the Secretary of State to report to the Committees on
Appropriations not later than 45 days after enactment of this
Act on the Office of Cooperative Threat Reduction's (CTR)
monitoring and evaluation of programs, including CTR's use of
evaluation metrics.
The Committee recommendation includes a voluntary
contribution of $94,800,000 to the International Atomic Energy
Agency (IAEA) to support programs that promote nuclear
safeguards, nuclear safety and security, the responsible use of
nuclear energy, and the peaceful uses of nuclear technologies.
Anti-terrorism programs.--The Committee recommendation
includes $335,150,000 for anti-terrorism programs, including
$182,000,000 for the Anti-terrorism Assistance Program, which
provides counterterrorism law enforcement training to partner
countries.
Conventional Weapons Destruction.--The Committee
recommendation includes $247,050,000 for Conventional Weapons
Destruction programs, of which $40,000,000 is for programs in
Laos. The recommendation also includes additional funds above
the prior year level for increased demining activities in
Angola, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Vietnam and other countries with
unmet humanitarian demining requirements. The Committee directs
the Secretary of State to consult with the Committees on
Appropriations with respect to the allocation of funds above
the fiscal year 2020 level prior to submitting the 653(a)
report.
The Committee recognizes the urgent demining need in Yemen.
The Committee directs the Secretary of State to conduct an
assessment of the humanitarian demining needs and requirements
in Yemen.
In addition, the Committee continues to support the
Department of State's demining activities in Colombia,
Cambodia, and Ukraine.
Prevention and Stabilization Fund.--The Committee
recommendation includes $10,000,000 for the Prevention and
Stabilization Fund.
Report
Biological threats.--The Committee directs the Secretary of
State, in consultation with the USAID Administrator, to report
to Committees on Appropriations not later than 90 days after
the enactment of this Act on Department of State and USAID
programs, including staffing and foreign assistance, for
countering emerging biological threats. If necessary, the
report may be submitted in classified form.
PEACEKEEPING OPERATIONS
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level\1\..................... $457,348,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 290,000,000
Committee recommendation\2\........................... 457,348,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +167,348,000
\1\The fiscal year 2020 enacted level includes $325,213,000 under this
heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
\2\The fiscal year 2021 recommendation includes $325,213,000 under this
heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
The Committee recommendation includes $457,348,000 for
Peacekeeping Operations, of which $325,213,000 is designated
for OCO/GWOT. 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:
Central African Republic......................... 8,000
Democratic Republic of the Congo................. 3,000
Liberia.......................................... 1,000
Somalia.......................................... 208,108
South Sudan...................................... 20,000
Africa Regional.................................. 51,240
Near East:
Multinational Force and Observers................ 31,000
Political-Military Affairs:
Global Peacekeeping Operations Initiative........ 71,000
of which, modernization of training [10,000]
infrastructure..............................
Prevention and Stabilization Fund................ 15,000
Security Force Professionalization (Sec 7035(a)). 3,000
Trans-Sahara Counterterrorism Partnership........ 40,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Africa Regional.--The Committee recommendation includes
$51,240,000 for Africa Regional, including $17,500,000 for the
Partnership for Regional East Africa Counterterrorism,
$8,400,000 for Africa Conflict Stabilization and Border
Security, $2,000,000 for Africa Military Education Program,
$3,000,000 for the Africa Maritime Security Initiative, and
$17,500,000 for Africa Regional Counterterrorism.
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.
Global Peace Operations Initiative.--The Committee
recommendation includes not less than $71,000,000 for the
Global Peace Operations Initiative (GPOI), including not less
than $10,000,000 to support current modernization efforts for
GPOI training infrastructure. The Committee directs the
Secretary of State to prioritize the modernization and upgrade
of training infrastructure within the funds made available to
the Peace Operations Capacity Building Division.
Illicit charcoal exports.--The Committee is concerned with
continued reports suggesting that the United Nations ban on
charcoal exports from Somalia is not being fully enforced and
directs the Secretary of State to report to the Committees on
Appropriations, not later than 45 days after enactment of this
Act, about the efforts of regional security partners to enforce
the ban and to hold accountable any of their own soldiers or
officers implicated in the facilitation of illicit trafficking
that finances al-Shabaab. The Committee also directs the
Secretary to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on
potential additional steps that could be taken to support the
ban.
Near East.--The Committee recommendation includes
$31,000,000 for the Multinational Force and Observers Mission
(MFO) in the Sinai. The Committee directs that funds made
available above the level of the United States contribution are
intended to address ongoing force protection requirements and
emerging needs to protect and sustain the MFO mission in the
Sinai. 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. The
Committee opposes any effort to weaken United States support
for the MFO and directs that no funds shall be provided to
withdraw troops from the MFO without the explicit consent and
prior approval of the appropriate congressional committees.
Somalia.--Consistent with prior years, the Committee
recommendation includes funds under this heading for the UN
Support Office for the African Union Mission in Somalia
(UNSOS), instead of under Contributions for International
Peacekeeping Activities.
Report Rapid DNA Technology.--The Committee directs the
Secretary of State to report to the Committees on
Appropriations not later than 45 days after enactment of this
Act on the potential effectiveness of deploying rapid DNA
testing as a component of sexual assault prevention programs in
international peacekeeping missions.
Funds Appropriated to the President
INTERNATIONAL MILITARY EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $112,925,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 104,925,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 112,925,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +8,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $112,925,000 for
International Military Education and Training (IMET). The
Committee recognizes the challenges facing the Departments of
State and Defense to obligate IMET funding provided in fiscal
year 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic and is temporarily
extending availability of fiscal year 2021 IMET to two-years.
The Committee encourages the Department of State and the
Department of Defense to use all means at their disposal to
ensure funds do not expire prior to obligation.
The Committee recommendation includes IMET funding
specified for Mexico under Section 7045 of this report.
The Committee notes that 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.
FOREIGN MILITARY FINANCING PROGRAM
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level\1\..................... $6,156,924,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 5,570,900,000
Committee recommendation\2\........................... 6,156,924,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +586,024,000
1The fiscal year 2020 enacted level includes $511,909,000 under this
heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
2The fiscal year 2021 recommendation includes $511,909,000 under this
heading designated for Overseas Contingency Operations.
The Committee recommendation includes $6,156,924,000 for
Foreign Military Financing Program (FMF), of which $511,909,000
is designated for OCO/GWOT.
The Committee recommendation continues prior year language
allowing the Secretary of State to expedite the procurement of
defense articles or services for foreign security forces,
following consultation with, and notification of, the
Committees on Appropriations.
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
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Central Asia:
Central Asia Regional............................ 20,000
East Asia and the Pacific:
Countering Chinese Influence Fund................ 45,000
Europe and Eurasia:
Countering Russian Influence Fund................ 150,000
Estonia.......................................... 11,400
Georgia.......................................... 35,000
Latvia........................................... 11,400
Lithuania........................................ 11,400
Ukraine.......................................... 115,000
Near East:
Israel........................................... 3,300,000
Egypt............................................ 1,300,000
Jordan........................................... 425,000
Western Hemisphere:
Colombia......................................... 38,525
Costa Rica....................................... 7,500
Mexico........................................... 7,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Department of Defense programs and funding notifications.--
Section 7015(d) includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting funding appropriated by this Act or prior Acts to
support or continue certain programs initially funded by the
Department of Defense, unless the Secretary of State, in
consultation with the Secretary of Defense and in accordance
with the regular notification procedures of the Committees on
Appropriations, submits a justification to such Committees.
East Asia and the Pacific.--The Committee remains concerned
about the military modernization of the 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. The Secretary should also work with the
Secretary of Defense to prioritize the provision of excess
defense articles applicable to maritime security missions to
countries in the region, as appropriate.
Effectiveness of military assistance.--The Committee
encourages the Secretary of State to make funds available under
this heading for the general costs of administering military
assistance and sales for the purpose increasing the efficiency
and effectiveness of programs authorized by Chapter 2 of the
Arms Export Control Act.
FMF administration.--Section 7035(c) includes a withholding
of $25,000,000 until the Defense Security Cooperation Agency,
jointly with the Department of State, submits to the Committees
on Appropriations the budget justification and classified
appendices for the Foreign Military Financing Program.
Israel.--The Committee recommendation includes
$3,300,000,000 in grants for military assistance to Israel,
which is the same as the budget request. The Committee notes
that the recommendation fully funds the third year of the ten-
year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the United
States and Israel. The Committee further 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 recognizes that the United States-Israel
partnership is integral to United States national security
interests in the region and supports the continuation of the
MOU framework negotiated by the Obama Administration to
strengthen the strategic partnership to the benefit of both the
United States and Israel. The Committee emphasizes the
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 that Israel maintains the flexibility
under the MOU to purchase jet fuel from the United States.
Section 7035(b) includes language carried in the prior year
designating an amount for the Special Defense Acquisition Fund.
The Committee supports the use of this fund to transfer
precision guided munitions and related defense articles and
services to reserve stocks for Israel and the transfer of such
stocks as necessary for Israel's legitimate self-defense.
Lebanon.--The Committee recommendation includes language in
section 7041(e) 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) will 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(e) 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 Committees includes further language under Reports
in this heading.
Pacific Islands.--The Committee recommends funds for
security assistance under title IV for the Pacific Islands, as
described under Section 7043 of this report.
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 2020 enacted level........................ $390,500,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 0
Committee recommendation.............................. 390,500,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +390,500,000
The Committee recommendation includes $390,500,000 for
International Organizations and Programs (IO&P). The Committee
directs that funds made available under this heading in this
Act shall be allocated and allotted within 60 days after
enactment of this Act.
The Committee recommendation does not support the
elimination of the International Organizations and Programs
account, as proposed in the President's budget request. The
Committee intends to use multilateral assistance as a resource
multiplier to advance the shared goals of the United States
government and international organizations.
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.................. 32,000
OAS Development Assistance Programs.................. 4,500
Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy 50
and Armed Robbery Against Ships in Asia.............
UN Capital Development Fund.......................... 1,100
UN Children's Fund................................... 139,000
of which, Combating female genital mutilation [5,000]
programs........................................
UN Democracy Fund.................................... 3,500
UN Development Program............................... 81,550
UN Environment Program............................... 7,000
UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change/UN 10,000
Framework Convention on Climate Change..............
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights................ 14,500
of which, Honduras............................... [1,000]
of which, Colombia............................... [1,000]
of which, Guatemala.............................. [1,000]
UN Human Settlements Program......................... 700
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 Population Fund................................... 55,500
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............................................. 10,000
World Meteorological Organization.................... 1,000
World Trade Organization Technical Assistance........ 600
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Funds appropriated under this heading shall be 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 recommendation includes $23,000,000 to
support the United Nations Resident Coordinator System under
Economic Support Fund.
The Committee recommends $9,500,000 for the Organization of
American States (OAS). Under this heading, $4,500,000 is
provided to OAS Development Assistance Programs for programs to
strengthen democracy. Additionally, $5,000,000 is provided
under Economic Support Fund for programs to promote and protect
human rights, of which not less than $500,000 is for the Office
of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression.
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.
International Financial Institutions
Global Agriculture Food Security Program.--The Committee
recommendation does not include an appropriation for a
contribution to the Global Agriculture Food Security Program
(GAFSP), which has remaining balances available from prior
appropriations Acts for such contribution. The Secretary of the
Treasury shall continue the 2012 pledge to provide to GAFSP one
dollar for every two dollars in contributions from other
donors, utilizing such prior year balances.
GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT FACILITY
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $139,575,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 0
Committee recommendation.............................. 139,575,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +139,575,000
The Committee recommendation includes $139,575,000 for the
Global Environment Facility subject to the regular notification
procedures of the Committees on Appropriations. Funds should
remain available and be fully disbursed no later than September
30, 2022. The Committee expects $136,563,000 shall be available
only for the third installment of the seventh replenishment of
Global Environment Facility (GEF).
Review of strategy and implementation plan.--The Committee
recommends the United States representative on the GEF Council
to encourage the GEF to review its strategy and implementation
plan, focusing on mitigating factors that undermine the self-
sufficiency of local populations, and strengthen communication
of outcomes with relevant stakeholders.
Report
Status of disbursement.--The Committee directs the
Secretary of the Treasury to submit a report to the Committees
on Appropriations on the status of appropriated funds to the
GEF and provide a timeline for the obligation and disbursement
of any funds that have yet to be obligated or disbursed. The
report shall be provided on a quarterly basis until funds for
the second and third installments of the seventh replenishment
are completely disbursed.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE INTERNATIONAL BANK FOR RECONSTRUCTION AND
DEVELOPMENT
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $206,500,000
Fiscal Year 2021 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 2020 enacted level........................ $1,097,010,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 1,001,400,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 1,001,400,000
Change from enacted level......................... -95,610,000
Change from request............................... 0
The Committee recommendation includes $1,001,400,000 for
Contribution to the International Development Association.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE ASIAN DEVELOPMENT FUND
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $47,395,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 47,395,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 47,395,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... 0
The Committee recommendation includes $47,395,000 for
Contribution to the Asian Development Fund.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT BANK
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $0
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 54,648,752
Committee recommendation.............................. 54,649,000
Change from enacted level......................... +54,649,000
Change from request............................... +248
The Committee recommendation includes $54,649,000 for
Contribution to the African Development Bank.
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 2020 enacted level........................ $171,300,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 171,300,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 171,300,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... 0
The Committee recommendation includes $171,300,000 for
Contribution to the African Development Fund.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE INTERNATIONAL FUND FOR AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $30,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 0
Committee recommendation.............................. 30,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +30,000,000
The Committee recommendation includes $30,000,000 for
Contribution to the International Fund for Agricultural
Development. This is the third of three installments in support
of the eleventh replenishment for the International Fund for
Agricultural Development (IFAD).
Twelfth replenishment.--The Committee commends IFAD on its
work alleviating food insecurity in poor and fragile countries
and remains committed to supporting the upcoming twelfth
replenishment of IFAD.
CONTRIBUTION TO THE NORTH AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT BANK
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $0
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 0
Committee recommendation.............................. 0
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... 0
No funds were requested in the President's budget request,
and none are provided in this Act for a Contribution to the
North American Development Bank.
The Committee notes the United States-Mexico-Canada
Agreement Implementation Act (Public Law 116-113) included
$215,000,000 for a Contribution to the North American
Development Bank to provide financing for environmental
infrastructure projects implemented on both sides of the U.S.-
Mexico border.
LIMITATION ON CALLABLE CAPITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS
The Committee recommendation includes not to exceed
$1,020,000,000 for Limitation on Callable Capital
Subscriptions.
TITLE VI--EXPORT AND INVESTMENT ASSISTANCE
Export-Import Bank of the United States
INSPECTOR GENERAL
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $5,700,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 5,200,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 5,700,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +500,000
The Committee recommendation includes $5,700,000 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 2021.
ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $110,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 100,946,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 110,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +9,054,000
The Committee recommendation includes $110,000,000 for
Administrative Expenses and does not include funds for a
subsidy appropriation. The Committee reinstitutes a provision
providing administratively determined pay authority to the
Export-Import Bank (EXIM) for the recruitment and retention of
experts with hard-to-find expertise. The Committee expects that
EXIM's current policy for administratively determined pay that
Members of the Board of Directors and political appointees are
ineligible to receive such pay continues and directs any
changes to such policy be subject to prior consultation with
the Committees on Appropriations.
Public health emergency.--The President of EXIM shall
consult with the Secretary of Health and Human Services to
evaluate EXIM's support of businesses exporting critical
products during a public health emergency.
Reports
Distribution of engagement.--The Committee directs the
President of EXIM to enhance its outreach and engagement to
areas of the United States and its territories that have
received disproportionately less engagement and financing
support from EXIM, as well as to women- and 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, assessing the
geographic distribution of EXIM's outreach, engagement, and
export finance.
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 and
gender.
United States International Development Finance Corporation
INSPECTOR GENERAL
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $2,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 2,000,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 2,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... 0
The Committee recommendation includes $2,000,000 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 2021.
Assessment report.--The Committee directs the OIG to submit
a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later than
120 days after enactment of this Act, assessing the integration
and efficiency of policies, procedures, and processes of the
United States International Development Finance Corporation
(DFC). Such report shall also include whether the DFC is
maximizing its resources, such as equity and hybrid financing
respectively, to further the purposes described under section
1412 of the BUILD Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-254).
CORPORATE CAPITAL ACCOUNT
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $299,000,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 833,677,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 311,000,000
Change from enacted level......................... +12,000,000
Change from request............................... -522,677,000
The Committee recommendation includes $311,000,000 for the
Corporate Capital Account for the DFC. Within that amount,
$131,000,000 is provided for administrative expenses, which may
also be available for other direct costs and project-specific
transaction costs; $180,000,000 is available for Program budget
which may be used for equity financing; credit subsidy and the
program cost, including technical assistance projects, which
shall be transferred to the Program Account.
Administratively determined pay.--The Committee expects
that the DFC will continue utilizing administratively
determined pay for the recruitment and retention of experts
with hard-to-find expertise and that Members of the Board of
Directors and political appointees are ineligible to receive
such pay.
Budget request.--The Committee directs the Chief Executive
Officer (CEO) of the DFC to include in the CBJ for fiscal year
2022 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. The CEO of the
DFC shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the
format of the confidential annex.
Contribution to Capital Security Cost Sharing program.--The
Committee directs the CEO of the DFC to make a contribution to
the Capital Security Cost Sharing program for any personnel
under COM Authority in fiscal year 2021, consistent with the
requirements of section 7004 of this Act and title 22 United
States Code 4865 note.
Guidelines and criteria for equity financing.--The
Committee notes the submission on May 28, 2020 of the
guidelines and criteria for equity financing required under
this heading in the Department of State, Foreign Operations,
and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2020. The Committee
directs the CEO of the DFC to consult with the Committees on
Appropriations on the application of such guidelines and
criteria prior to entering into any obligation under equity
authority. Further, the Committee directs the CEO of the DFC to
consult with the appropriate congressional committees prior to
any proposed changes to such guidelines and criteria.
Prioritization for development impact.--The Committee
directs the DFC to comply with section 1411 of the BUILD Act of
2018 (Public Law 115-254) and prioritize projects with a
significant potential for advancing United States development
priorities, especially in lower- and lower-middle income
countries.
Publication of certification.--The Committee directs the
CEO of the DFC to publish on the public website of the DFC each
instance a certification is made to the appropriate
congressional committees, not later than 45 days after such
certification is made, with regard to a project authorized
under the exception provided by section 2004(e) of H.R. 1865
(Public Law 116-94), or under section 1412(c)(2) of the BUILD
Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-254).
Three Seas Initiative.--The Committee supports
strengthening energy and infrastructure security through the
Three Seas Initiative and expects the DFC to work in
coordination with the Department of State and USAID to advance
alternative sources of energy and conduct appropriate oversight
of funds.
Reports
Assessment on DFC Activities under the Defense Production
Act.--The Committee directs the Government Accountability
Office to submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations,
not later than September 30, 2021, on DFC activities conducted
under sections 302 and 303 of the Defense Production Act of
1950, as amended, pursuant to Executive Order 13922. Such
report shall include whether such transactions are impacting
the DFC in carrying out its core mission and purpose as
described under the BUILD Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-254); how
the DFC is allocating and coordinating resources to carry out
its core mission in addition to implementing and overseeing
activities pursuant to Executive Order 13922; whether the
agency is charging costs, including oversight costs such as
monitoring and evaluation, to process and implement such
transactions to the appropriate accounts; and what impact DFC
activities under Executive Order 13922 have made in responding
to the COVID-19 pandemic.
DFC transactions under the Defense Production Act.--The
Committee recognizes the extraordinary circumstances that the
DFC has faced during fiscal year 2020 and remains supportive of
the BUILD Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-254). However, the
Committee is deeply concerned about the ability of the DFC, in
the nascent stages of its development, to simultaneously adjust
to its new mandate and authorities and implement the
requirements of Executive Order 13922.
The Committee directs the CEO of the DFC to submit a report
to the Committees on Appropriations, not later than 60 days
after enactment of this Act, on the implementation of Executive
Order 13922 that shall include the following: (1) a detailed
summary of each transaction conducted under the authority of
sections 302 and 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as
amended, including a description and justification of each
transaction that includes the amount, type of assistance, and
subsidy costs; (2) how the DFC ensures compliance of such
transactions with the requirements of the Federal Credit Reform
Act of 1990 (FCRA) and applicable sections of OMB Circular A-
11, including a justification for the use of FCRA in
determining the budgetary costs of transactions authorized by
Executive Order 13922; and (3) the DFC's administrative
structures and policies for implementing and overseeing
activities required by Executive Order 13922, including an
organizational chart showing direct and indirect reporting
relationships involved in the implementation of Executive Order
13922 and a description of the cost allocation methodology that
determines how staffing and other costs, including any costs
for monitoring and evaluation, are attributed to the correct
appropriations account.
Equity agreements.--The Committee directs the CEO of the
DFC to submit written reports to the Committees on
Appropriations, not later than 90 days after enactment of this
Act, and quarterly thereafter until September 30, 2021, for
each equity agreement and hybrid financing agreement, which
shall include the following: (1) a description of each
agreement or project, including its development impact, and how
such agreement meets the criteria established by the DFC for
use of equity financing; (2) the amount of DFC-invested equity
or hybrid financing and projected returns over the life of the
investment; (3) details regarding investors and partners,
income level of country, project sector, and deal structuring;
and (4) the contribution and impact to local economic
conditions and long-term development and foreign policy goals
in the region.
Investment funds.--The Committee directs the CEO of the DFC
to provide written reports to the Committees on Appropriations
on a semi-annual basis, including the following for each
investment fund: (1) the identity, selection process, and
professional background of current and past managers; (2) the
fees and compensation currently provided to senior management;
and (3) the amount of guarantees and actual investments made at
the end of the previous six months.
Investment in the Pacific Islands.--The Committee urges the
DFC to prioritize investments in the Pacific Island countries,
especially investments that support minority- and women-owned
businesses and promote woman's economic empowerment. The
Committee directs the CEO of the DFC to submit a report to the
Committees on Appropriations, not later than 90 days after
enactment of this Act, on a strategy to increase DFC
investments in the Pacific Islands. Such report shall include
the challenges to increasing investment, measures to overcome
such limitations, and the expected impact of such projects on
regional development and economic growth.
Status report.--The Committee directs the CEO of the DFC to
submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later
than 90 days after enactment of this Act, providing an update
on the continued operationalization of the DFC and the progress
of newly established programs such as equity financing, hybrid
financing, and technical assistance. Such report shall also
include an update on monitoring and evaluation mechanisms and
the new Impact Quotient (IQ) scoring system; coordination on
development policy within the agency including between the
Office of Development Policy and the Chief Development Officer
and other entities as appropriate; and the maintenance of
strong linkages with the Department of State and USAID
including through the use of transferred funds.
Support for minority-owned businesses.--The Committee
directs the CEO of the DFC 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 and gender.
Transparency and accountability.--The Committee directs the
CEO of the DFC to submit a report, not later than 90 days after
enactment of this Act, to the appropriate congressional
committees on steps taken to comply with section 4(a)(2), and
implement the guidelines described in section 3(b), of the
Foreign Aid Transparency and Accountability Act of 2016 (Public
Law 114-191).
PROGRAM ACCOUNT
The Committee recommendation includes a limitation of
$80,000,000 on amounts paid to, or transferred into, this
account for the cost of direct and guaranteed loans.
Trade and Development Agency
Fiscal Year 2020 enacted level........................ $79,500,000
Fiscal Year 2021 request.............................. 12,105,000
Committee recommendation.............................. 79,500,000
Change from enacted level......................... 0
Change from request............................... +67,395,000
The Committee recommendation includes $79,500,000 for Trade
and Development Agency. The Committee recommendation does not
assume the closure of operations for the United States Trade
and Development Agency (USTDA), as proposed by the fiscal year
2021 request.
Grant effectiveness.--The Committee directs the Director of
USTDA to ensure that evidence of effectiveness is a requirement
for all competitive and non-competitive grant awards.
Report
Support for minority-owned businesses.--The Committee
directs the Director of 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 and gender.
TITLE VII--GENERAL PROVISIONS
The Committee recommends the following new, revised and
retained provisions:
Section 7001 (Allowances and Differentials) includes
language carried in the prior year regarding allowances and
differentials.
Section 7002 (Unobligated Balances Report) 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) includes language
carried in the prior year requiring that consulting service
contracts shall be a matter of public record.
Section 7004 (Diplomatic Facilities) 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.
During fiscal year 2021, the Secretary of State shall
continue to submit to the Committees on Appropriations the
reports in the manner required by section 7004(h) of the
Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs
Appropriations Act, 2019 (division F of Public Law 116-96),
except that the submission timeframe for such reports shall be
biannually.
Section 7005 (Personnel Actions) 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)
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) includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting assistance for the governments of Cuba, North
Korea, Iran, and Syria.
Section 7008 (Coups d'Etat) includes language modified from
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) 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, 2021, detailing all
of the transfers to another United States government agency
made pursuant to sections 632(a) and 632(b) of the FAA
including 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.
Section 7010 (Prohibition and Limitation on Certain
Expenses) 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) includes language
modified from the prior year regarding the availability of
funds appropriated by this Act.
Section 7012 (Limitation on Assistance to Countries in
Default) 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) includes language modified from the prior year
withholding assistance to a country where such assistance is
subject to taxation, unless the Secretary of State makes
certain determinations, and updating a reporting requirement.
The Committee notes the reports required by subsection (b)
of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related
Programs Appropriations Acts for fiscal years 2018, 2019, and
2020 have not been submitted and directs the Secretary of State
to submit the report expeditiously.
Section 7014 (Reservations of Funds) includes language
carried in the prior year regarding the reservation of funds
and the designation of certain funding levels.
Section 7015 (Notification Requirements) 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.
Subsection (e) has been modified from prior years. The
Committee was forced to include a more limited provision due to
the excessive abuse of the human health and welfare waiver by
this Administration. The Committee notes that this provision
has been included in law, either as a proviso or a subsection,
unchanged since fiscal year 1992, and used judiciously by four
previous Administrations.
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; (3) a copy of the
administrative agreement between the international financial
institution and the United States; and (4) whether direct
government assistance will be provided by the trust fund and
specific risk mitigation and anti-corruption steps are being
taken by the trust fund.
Section 7016 (Document Requests, Records Management, and
Related Cybersecurity Protections) includes language carried in
the prior year concerning public posting of reports and
documents, records management, and related cybersecurity
protections.
Section 7017 (Use of Funds in Contravention of this Act)
includes language carried in the prior year prohibiting funds
for programs in contravention of this Act.
Section 7018 (Debt-for-Development) includes language
carried in the prior year regarding debt-for-development and
debt-for-nature exchanges.
Section 7019 (Allocations and Reports) 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) includes language
modified from 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) includes language carried
in the prior year prohibiting assistance for governments that
support international terrorism.
Section 7022 (Authorization Requirements) includes language
carried in the prior year regarding authorization requirements.
Section 7023 (Definition of Program, Project, and Activity)
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) 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)
includes language carried in the prior year relating to
commerce, trade, and surplus commodities. The Committee directs
the USAID Administrator to ensure that assistance provided to
develop foreign agriculture sectors does not adversely affect
American small businesses.
Section 7026 (Separate Accounts) 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) includes language
carried in the prior year regarding assistance through
nongovernmental organizations and assistance provided under the
Food for Peace Act.
Section 7028 (Local Competition) includes language carried
in the prior year conditioning funds provided to local
organizations through limited competitions.
Report
Limited competition.--Not later than 45 days after the end
of fiscal year 2021, the USAID Administrator shall report to
the appropriate congressional committees on all awards in
excess of $3,000,000 and sole source awards in excess of
$2,000,000 subject to limited or no competition for local
entities.
Section 7029 (International Financial Institutions)
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; and
whistleblower protections.
Pursuant to subsection (d), the Committee directs the
Secretary of the Treasury to instruct the United States
executive director of each IFI to promote human rights in
accordance with the following criteria 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), 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.
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 45 days after
enactment of this Act, on steps taken in fiscal year 2020 by
the United States executive directors and the international
financial institutions 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 45 days after enactment of this Act, on steps taken in
fiscal year 2020 by the United States executive directors and
the international financial institutions consistent with
subsection (f) compared to the previous fiscal year. Such
report should also include an assessment of the pilot program
conducted by the World Bank on beneficial ownership to be
completed at the end of the World Bank's fiscal year 2020.
Section 7030 (Rescissions) includes language modified from
the prior year rescinding $75,000,000 in unobligated balances
from prior year appropriations, of which $45,000,000 is from
Economic Support Fund and $30,000,000 is from International
Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement. No funds may be
rescinded from amounts previously designated as an emergency
requirement or for Overseas Contingency Operations/Global War
on Terrorism.
Section 7031 (Financial Management and Budget Transparency)
includes language modified from 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
2022 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.
The report required by subsection (c)(4) shall be put in
unclassified form on the State Department website.
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) contains language
modified from the prior year regarding democracy programs
funded in this Act. The Committee recommendation includes not
less than $2,400,500,000 in assistance for democracy programs.
The Committee directs the Director of the Office of Foreign
Assistance and the relevant Bureaus at the Department of State
to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on funding
attributed to meet the requirements of this section, including
with respect to the definition provided in subsection (c).
For the purposes of subsection (d), ``demonstration of a
commitment to democracy and the rule of law'' should be
determined by the Secretary of State or the USAID
Administrator.
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.
Subsection (h) directs that $20,000,000 be made available
to support and protect civil society activists and journalists
who have been threatened, harassed, or attacked. The Committee
expects the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator to
continue to prioritize programs that protect journalists and
advance press freedom.
The Committee supports continued investments in programs
that enhance the technical capacity of countries to prepare for
and manage elections, train political parties, educate voters,
and enhance transparency and accountability.
The Committee continues support for programs by the
Department of State and USAID that promote freedom of
expression through independent media and internet freedom.
The Committee continues support for programs by the
Department of State and USAID that promote the rule of law.
Priority for assistance should be given to countries
transitioning to democracy, regressing from democratic values,
and countering violent extremism as well as fragile states.
The Committee urges the Department of State to consider
allocating more funding for civil society and investigative
journalism programs to combat corruption, including through the
Global Anti-Corruption Consortium.
The Committee supports continued assistance for democracy
and governance programs and activities to support emerging
democracies throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
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.
The Committee supports the Bureau of Democracy, Human
Rights, and Labor and encourages the Department of State to
continue prior year funding levels.
Reports
Legislative strengthening.--The Committee supports efforts
to engage parliamentarians and parliamentary organizations in
support of democratic norms and values. The Committee directs,
not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, the
Department of State and USAID, in consultation with the
National Endowment for Democracy, to consult with, and report
to, the Committees on Appropriations on expanding such efforts.
The Committee continues to direct the USAID Administrator to
coordinate and support legislative strengthening programs in
countries where the House Democracy Partnership is actively
engaged.
Prior approval.--Pursuant to subsection (e), the Committee
continues language that organizations receiving assistance for
democracy programs shall not be subject to prior approval by
the government of any foreign country and directs the Secretary
of State, in coordination with the USAID Administrator, to
submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later
than 90 days after enactment of this Act, detailing steps taken
by the Department of State and USAID to comply with this
requirement.
Section 7033 (International Religious Freedom) includes
language modified from 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.
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.
The Committee recommendation includes funding for programs
that protect vulnerable and persecuted minorities, including to
investigate the persecution of such minorities by governments
and non-state actors, and for the public dissemination of
information collected on such persecution, including on the
Department of State website.
The Committee remains concerned for ethnic and religious
minorities, including Christians, Yezidis, Rohingya, and other
groups across the globe that have been victims of mass
atrocities, ethnic cleansing, and genocide. The Committee
recognizes the benefits of existing psychosocial support
programs coordinated by the Department of State and USAID for
these groups and individuals and supports the expansion of
these programs. Furthermore, the Committee encourages the
prioritization of psychosocial support programs to benefit
religious and ethnic minorities affected by ISIS, including
trauma therapy and care for children and survivors of sexual
slavery, as well as other highly vulnerable populations
worldwide.
Section 7034 (Special Provisions) includes language
modified from the prior year granting certain special
authorities and limitations relating to funds made available by
this Act.
Subsection (c) makes funds available for the prevention of
atrocities. The Committee notes that the Under Secretary for
Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights remains vacant.
This position should be filled expeditiously, and the
individual serving in an acting capacity shall be responsible
for the strategic policy direction and policy oversight of
atrocity prevention funds until such time. These funds are
subject to the regular notification procedures of the
Committees on Appropriations.
Subsection (e)(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.). The Committee
recommendation includes not less than $3,000,000 for such
program.
Subsection (e)(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.
For the purposes of subsection (f), 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 (l)(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. The Committee includes
further language concerning the Lautenberg program in this
section under Report.
Subsection (l)(11) provides for a 1-year extension of the
Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program and for an
additional 4,000 SIVs. The Committee reaffirms its commitment
to Iraqi and Afghan partners and notes its continuing concern
that SIV applicants face extended delays in visa processing,
especially in security vetting. The Committee also notes that
federal law requires that all government-controlled steps in
the SIV process should be completed within nine months of the
applicant submitting an initial application.
Subsection (o) makes funds available for the Local Works
program. The Committee directs USAID to consider funding to
marginalized groups, such as youth-led organizations, in such
program.
Report
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 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020.
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 by fiscal year.
Section 7035 (Law Enforcement and Security) includes
language modified from the prior year related to assistance,
authorities, limitations, and notifications regarding law
enforcement and security matters.
Subsection (c)(3) withholds $25,000,000 until the Defense
Security Cooperation Agency, jointly with the Department of
State, submits to the Committees on Appropriations the budget
justification for Foreign Military Financing Program for fiscal
years 2021 and 2022, including the accompanying classified
appendices.
Report
Military bases.--The Secretary of State is directed to
submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later
than 45 days after enactment of this Act, on countries that
host a Russian or Chinese military base. Such report may be
submitted in a classified manner if necessary.
Section 7036 (Arab League Boycott of Israel) continues
language carried in the prior year related to the Arab League
Boycott of Israel.
The Committee is concerned about international efforts to
stigmatize and isolate Israel through the boycott, divestment,
and sanctions (BDS) movement. The Committee directs, as part of
the annual report to Congress on the Arab League Boycott of
Israel, 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.
Section 7037 (Palestinian Statehood) 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) includes language carried in the
prior year restricting assistance to the Palestinian
Broadcasting Corporation.
Section 7039 (Assistance for the West Bank and Gaza)
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) 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) includes
language modified from the prior year regarding policies and
countries in the Middle East and North Africa.
Egypt.--Subsection (a) is modified from the prior year.
Funds for Egypt are allocated according to the following table
and subject to section 7019 of this Act:
EGYPT
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Economic Support Fund................................ 125,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 2,000
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 3,000
Related Programs....................................
International Military Education and Training........ 1,800
Foreign Military Financing Program................... 1,300,000
------------------
Total............................................ 1,431,800
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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,
should continue to be a core objective of United States policy.
Withholding.--The Secretary of State shall withhold 20
percent 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. A national security waiver is
included in this Act. However, five percent of such withheld
funds is excluded from the waiver and shall only be made
available for obligation if the Secretary of State determines
and reports to the Committees on Appropriations that the
Government of Egypt has provided fair and commensurate
compensation to American citizen, April Corley, for severe
injuries sustained during an attack on her tour group by
Egyptian armed forces on September 13, 2015. In addition, the
Committee notes that the funds subject to the five percent
withholding shall not be transferred to the interest-bearing
account until a final settlement has been reached.
Pursuant to subsection (a)(2), up to $40,000,000 of the
funds made available for assistance for Egypt should be made
available for higher education programs, including $15,000,000
for scholarships for Egyptian students with high financial need
to attend not-for-profit institutions of higher education in
Egypt. Such institutions must meet standards equivalent to
those required for United States institutional accreditation by
a regional accrediting agency recognized by the United States
Department of Education. 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 unless
the Secretary of State certifies and reports that Egypt is
meeting the conditions of section 7041(a)(2).
The Committee encourages the USAID Administrator to
implement programs that assist orphans and vulnerable children
in Egypt, including children from religiously diverse
populations.
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.
The Committee encourages the Department of State to
prioritize the security of energy infrastructure in the Sinai,
including increasing economic development programs,
particularly for Bedouin communities.
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 similar to 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. In carrying out such
purposes, the Secretary of State shall work with the Government
of Iraq to ensure security forces reflect the ethno-sectarian
makeup of the areas in which they operate by integrating local
populations into such forces.
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, the
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 7061(b) of this Act.
The Committee remains concerned about the lack of security
and the safe return of displaced Iraqi ethnic and religious
minorities, including Christians, Yezidis, and other groups who
have been victimized by genocide, to their ancestral homelands
in the Nineveh Plain, Tel Afar, and Sinjar areas of Iraq.
Support for such individuals and communities should, to the
maximum extent practicable, take into account the unique needs
and security requirements necessary for safe repatriation. The
Committee includes stabilization and recovery assistance to
support the safe return of displaced religious and ethnic
minorities to their communities in Iraq.
The Committee recommends that USAID continue funding for
stabilization and long-term economic viability of northern
Iraq. Contracts should preference local entities as
appropriate. The Committee supports efforts to increase parity
in assistance for Nineveh and Sinjar.
The Committee urges the inter-agency working group
dedicated to religious and ethnic minorities in Iraq to
redouble their efforts to ensure that such populations can stay
in, or return to, their homeland. The Committee notes that
security remains the primary barrier to such efforts and
directs the Secretary of State to continue working with the
Government of Iraq and the Kurdish Regional Government to
develop a plan for the survivability of all religious
minorities in consultation with civil society partners and
affected communities in both Iraq and the KRI.
The Committee notes the psychosocial barriers resulting
from the trauma of years of war and conflict on Iraqi
communities hinder reconciliation efforts in many regions. The
Committee supports efforts by USAID, in partnership with vetted
local nationals, to foster communications and on-the-ground
activities designed to create the social safety and cohesion
necessary for communities to reject violent extremism and
overcome trauma.
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 those of 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.
The Committee urges the State Department to encourage the
relevant Iraqi authorities to explore options for improving the
transportation infrastructure in northern Iraq, including
examining the feasibility of re-opening the international
airport in Mosul, Iraq.
Jordan.--Subsection (d) includes language similar to the
prior year designating funding levels for Jordan. The Committee
recommendation includes not less than $1,525,000,000 for
assistance for Jordan. Funds for Jordan are allocated according
to the following table and subject to section 7019 of this Act:
JORDAN
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Economic Support Fund................................ 997,400
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 13,600
Related Programs....................................
International Military Education and Training........ 4,000
Foreign Military Financing Program................... 425,000
Development Assistance............................... 85,000
------------------
Total............................................ 1,525,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 Department of State should continue to support
critical economic aid and to provide the assistance needed to
ensure Jordan's ongoing stability, including to strengthen
Jordan's borders with Iraq and Syria and to help mitigate the
impact of hosting large numbers of refugees.
Lebanon.--Subsection (e) continues similar language to the
prior year.
The Committee supports assistance for Lebanon at levels
consistent with the prior fiscal year, given the rising
economic challenges facing Lebanon and much of the region as
well as ongoing conflict and instability.
Funds made available under Foreign Military Financing
Program for assistance for Lebanon may only be made available
to professionalize the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) and to
strengthen border security and combat terrorism, including
training and equipping the LAF to secure Lebanon's borders,
interdicting arms shipments, preventing the use of Lebanon as a
safe haven for terrorist groups, and to implement United
Nations Security Council Resolution 1701. The LAF has been a
necessary partner in combating the influence of Hezbollah and
other terrorist groups.
Libya.--Subsection (f) includes similar language from the
prior year regarding monitoring, oversight, and control of any
assistance.
Morocco.--Subsection (g) includes similar language from the
prior year. 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 Secretary of State to strengthen this
partnership to defeat terrorism and violent extremist groups,
namely in the Sahel region, as well as to counter Iran's malign
influence in the region.
Saudi Arabia.--Subsection (h) includes language carried in
the prior year prohibiting the Government of Saudi Arabia from
receiving funds under International Military Education and
Training.
The Committee urges the Secretary of State to consider
barring from entry into the United States, pursuant to section
7031(c) of this Act, the individuals listed in the assessment
by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI)
who carried out, participated in, or were otherwise responsible
for the murder of Jamal Khashoggi at the Consulate of the
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Istanbul, Turkey on October 2, 2018.
Syria.--Pursuant to subsection (i)(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.
Subsection (i)(2) prohibits the use of any assistance for
Syria: (1) to support or otherwise legitimize the government of
Iran, foreign terrorist organizations, or a proxy of Iran in
Syria; and (2) to further the strategic objectives of the
Government of the Russian Federation that threaten or undermine
United States national security interest. In addition, pursuant
to subsection (i)(2)(C), such funds should not be used in areas
controlled by the Assad government.
In consultation with the appropriate congressional
committees, the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator may
exempt the following activities from the limitation of
subsection (i)(2)(C): (1) projects administered by local
organizations that reflect the aims, needs, and priorities of
local communities in Syria; and (2) projects that meet basic
human needs in Syria, including drought relief; assistance to
refugees, internally displaced persons, and conflict victims;
the distribution of food and medicine; and the provision of
health services.
The Committee directs that funds shall be made available
for assistance to organizations in Syria, only on an open and
competitive basis, to continue to strengthen the capability of
Syrian civil society organizations to address the immediate and
long-term needs of the Syrian people in a manner that supports
the sustainability of such organizations in implementing
Syrian-led humanitarian and development programs. Such funds
shall be administered by the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights,
and Labor of the Department of State.
The Committee remains concerned about the lengthy
displacement of Syrians and the ongoing burden they face, as
well as the continued strain Syrian refugees are placing on
host communities in Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq, among
other countries. The Committee urges the Department of State to
continue to: (1) assist host countries to expand their national
systems to accommodate refugee needs; (2) increase host country
capacity to deliver basic services to their own citizens; (3)
strengthen the ability of local government institutions to
respond to the refugee influx; (4) employ policies and programs
to close gaps in distribution of need-based aid to at-risk
minority populations; (5) ensure that refugees have freedom of
movement, ability to pursue legal status in host countries,
meaningful access to economic opportunity and essential
services, and access to asylum and resettlement; and (6)
support returns only if they are safe, dignified, and
voluntary, consistent with the principle of non-refoulement.
Tunisia.--Subsection (j) includes language carried in the
prior year related to funding levels for Tunisia. Funds for
Tunisia are allocated according to the following table and
subject to section 7019 of this Act:
TUNISIA
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Development Assistance............................... 40,000
Economic Support Fund................................ 45,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 13,000
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 6,100
Related Programs....................................
International Military Education and Training........ 2,300
Foreign Military Financing Program................... 85,000
------------------
Total............................................ 191,400
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Committee notes that a stable and viable democratic
Tunisia is critical to regional security. The Committee
supports the government of Tunisia's efforts to continue
improving the security situation in the country, democratic
governance, and economic reform.
West Bank and Gaza.--Subsection (k) includes similar
language carried in the prior year regarding assistance for the
West Bank and Gaza.
The Committee recommendation includes $225,000,000 under
Economic Support Fund from this and prior Acts for humanitarian
and development programs in the West Bank and Gaza that help
address the needs of the Palestinian people, which may include
support for UNRWA. Such funds are subject to the conditions on
assistance of this Act and of section 1004(a) of the Taylor
Force Act (title X of division S of Public Law 115-141). In
accordance with the exceptions in the Taylor Force Act, the
Committee directs that assistance be made available for the
East Jerusalem Hospital Network, for wastewater projects, and
for any other program, project, or activity that provides
vaccination to children.
Pursuant to subsection (k)(4), the Committee recommendation
includes up to $50,000,000 for private sector partnerships for
the West Bank and Gaza should such funds be authorized.
Israelis and Palestinians.--The Committee reaffirms its
commitment to supporting United States actions that promote
peace between Israel and the Palestinians. The Committee
further reaffirms the long-standing bipartisan support for a
negotiated two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian
conflict, and that a lasting two-state solution is essential to
the achievement of long-term peace and stability in the broader
region. The Committee urges both sides to refrain from
unilateral steps that may jeopardize the eventual possibility
of a two-state solution and threaten to push the parties even
farther from the negotiating table.
The Committee notes with concern that the Administration
has not programmed the $75,000,000 appropriated under Economic
Support Fund in the Department of State, Foreign Operations,
and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2020. The Committee
directs that the fiscal year 2020 funds are to be notified and
obligated in addition to funds appropriated in the fiscal year
2021 Act.
Yemen.--Subsection (l) includes funds under Economic
Support Fund for stabilization efforts in Yemen. Additionally,
funds are made available under International Disaster
Assistance and Migration and Refugee assistance to continue the
provision of humanitarian assistance.
Reports
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: (1) advance democracy and human rights in
Egypt, including to govern democratically and protect religious
minorities and the rights of women, which are in addition to
steps taken during the previous calendar year for such
purposes; (2) 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; (3) release
political prisoners and provide detainees with due process of
law; (4) hold Egyptian security forces accountable, including
officers credibly alleged to have violated human rights; (5)
investigate and prosecute cases of extrajudicial killings and
forced disappearances; (6) provide regular access for United
States officials to monitor assistance in areas where the
assistance is used; (7) adhere to the separation of powers and
the rule of law, including constitutional limits on elected
office and the role of the military in governance; and (8)
comply with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2270 and
other such resolutions regarding North Korea.
Military restructure.--The Committee directs that not later
than 45 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of
State shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations on
any plan to restructure military assistance for Egypt.
End-use monitoring.--Not later than 180 days after
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in consultation
with the Secretary of Defense, shall submit to the appropriate
congressional committees a report on Egypt's compliance with
end-user monitoring agreements for the use of United States
military equipment in the Sinai, as identified in the GAO
report ``U.S. Government Should Strengthen End-Use Monitoring
and Human Rights Vetting for Egypt'' (April 2016).
American citizens.--The Committee notes with concern the
treatment of human rights defenders and political prisoners
held in Egypt and denounces the death of American citizen
Mustafa Kassem following years of unjust imprisonment. The
Committee directs the Secretary of State, not later than 45
days after enactment of this Act, to 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 detained
American citizens from Egypt.
Religious freedom.--The Secretary of State shall submit a
report to the appropriate congressional committees on the steps
the Egyptian Government is taking to ensure proper treatment
and justice for Christian communities in Egypt. The report
shall include information on church restoration, Christian
participation in government, a history of persecution against
Egyptian Christians, and the status of Egyptian Christians
being held in detention by the government.
Subsection (b)--Iran
Sanctions.--Pursuant to subsection (b)(2), 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.
Security forces.--The Committee is concerned that the use
of militias, instead of full-time professional Iraqi Security
Forces, may be hindering the return of families to the Ninewa
Plain region of Iraq and may be facilitating infiltration of
the area by groups supported by the government of Iran. 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 efforts to integrate ethnic
minorities in northern Iraq into the security forces. Such
report shall include the number of such persons integrated into
community police or similar forces.
United Nations Development Program (UNDP).--Not later than
45 days after enactment of this Act, the USAID Administrator
shall update the report on the status of the modified agreement
between USAID and UNDP regarding assistance to Iraqis,
particularly religious and ethnic minorities, to enable them to
return to their homes in areas liberated from ISIS. One aim of
the modified agreement was to ensure that the United States
contribution will help the populations of liberated areas in
Ninewa Province resume normal lives by restoring community-
prioritized services such as water, electricity, sewage,
health, and education. The Committee continues to support
assistance to religious and ethnic minorities, to the maximum
extent practicable, through indigenous aid and security
organizations on the ground that have a proven track record of
supporting local communities.
Subsection (e)--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
(UNSCR) 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.
United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).--The
Committee is concerned about UNIFIL's ability to fulfill its
mandate in southern Lebanon to assist the Lebanese Armed Forces
in establishing an area free of any armed personnel, assets and
weapons other than those of the government and of UNIFIL. Not
later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the Committee
directs the Secretary of State to submit a report to the
Committees on Appropriations assessing UNIFIL's efforts to
detect tunnels built by Hezbollah in the south of Lebanon and
the steps the Secretary of State and the United States
Ambassador to the United Nations are taking to urge the
Security Council to sanction Hezbollah for violations of UNSCR
1701. The report should also include an assessment of whether
UNIFIL is complying with its new requirement to increase its
visible presence in southern Lebanon and oversee the LAF's
accelerated deployment in southern Lebanon.
Subsection (i)--Syria
Refugees.--The Committee is concerned about the safety of
Syrian refugees who have returned, or may return, to Syria. Not
later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary
of State shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations a
report detailing the dangers Syrian refugees face and what the
United States, the United Nations, other nations, and
international partners are doing to alleviate suffering and
secure the safety of returning refugees.
Humanitarian assistance.--The Committee directs USAID to
ensure humanitarian and other foreign assistance for Syrian
stabilization and reconstruction efforts is focused in
democratic Syria or areas of Syria not under the Assad regime's
control. The Secretary of State and USAID Administrator shall
submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees,
not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, containing
a detailed assessment on the delivery of humanitarian
assistance to Syria, which shall include the following: (1) the
challenges of access to areas of Syria controlled by the
Government of Syria or associated forces for purposes of
providing United States humanitarian assistance, including
assistance funded through multilateral institutions and
international governmental organizations; (2) where such United
States humanitarian assistance has been able to be delivered in
such areas; (3) a description of where such United States
humanitarian assistance has been denied access in such areas;
(4) how the United States Government is working to improve
access to such areas; (5) the roles and responsibilities of
United States allies and partners and other countries in the
region in ensuring access to such areas; (6) how such United
States humanitarian assistance and implementing partners of
such assistance are monitored and evaluated; (7) the major
challenges that the United States faces in monitoring such
United States humanitarian assistance and how the United States
is working to overcome such challenges; and (8) the strategy of
the United States to deliver humanitarian assistance to areas
of Syria controlled by the Government of Syria or associated
forces and in which the Government of Syria or associated
forces is impeding access to such areas.
Yemen
Humanitarian needs.--The Committee remains concerned about
the significant humanitarian needs in Yemen and the lack of
consistent access to allow relief to be provided. Not later
than 45 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 that
addresses delivery of humanitarian assistance, including: (1)
access for humanitarian organizations to deliver assistance;
(2) the capacity of Yemeni ports to receive commercial and
humanitarian goods; (3) other impediments to the delivery of
assistance to populations in need; and (4) the conditions
required to transition from humanitarian assistance to longer-
term development assistance. The Committee also recognizes the
importance of fuel to alleviating the humanitarian crisis,
including access into all Red Sea ports, which are critical
lifelines for the Yemeni population.
Section 7042 (Africa) 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.
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.
Boko Haram.--The Committee notes with concern the ongoing
attacks on civilians by Boko Haram. The Committee encourages
USAID to address the unique needs of these victims, especially
women and girls, in its programming and assist in their
reintegration into communities.
Central African Republic.--The Committee encourages the
Secretary of State to provide robust support for the upcoming
elections in the Central African Republic recognizing the
importance of the country to the security and stability of the
region.
Pursuant to subsection (c), the Committee provides
$3,000,000 for a contribution for the Special Criminal Court.
The recommendation directs these funds to victim and witness
protection, investigative missions, and assistance for
documentation, evidence management, prosecution, and
specialized training.
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.
Nigeria.--The Committee encourages the Secretary of State
to continue negotiations with the United Nations and the
Government of Nigeria on a handover protocol requiring children
apprehended by Nigerian security forces be transferred to
civilian child protection authorities expeditiously and to
publicly call on the Nigerian Government to finalize,
implement, and allow international oversight of such protocol.
Sahel.--The Committee notes with concern the increasing
terrorist attacks and violence against civilians in the Sahel
region. The Committee welcomes the appointment of a Special
Envoy at the Department of State to lead the diplomatic
strategy and advance interagency efforts to address the crisis.
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; 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.
Report
Sudan.--Pursuant to subsection (g), the Committee
recommendation includes modified language regarding Sudan and
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 actions being taken by the United
States to support the transitional government of Sudan to
reform the economy, support civilian institutions and
elections, and provide social services.
Section 7043 (East Asia and the Pacific) 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 funds be made available to: (1) promote rural economic
development including through microfinance programs; (2)
increase opportunities for foreign direct investment by
strengthening rule of law, transparency, and accountability;
and (3) investigate and document allegations of ethnic
cleansing and other gross human rights violations in Burma,
including those committed against Rohingya people in Rakhine
State.
The United States Chief of Mission in Burma, in
consultation with the Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human
Rights, and Labor at the Department of State, shall be
responsible for democracy and human rights programs in Burma.
The Committee expects that any new programs and activities
initiated in fiscal year 2021 in Burma shall be subject to
prior consultation with the appropriate congressional
committees.
Cambodia.--The Committee recommendation includes language
modified from the prior year containing directives on
assistance and a determination on providing assistance to the
Government of Cambodia, which includes a new condition on
cessation of violence and harassment of civil society and the
political opposition in Cambodia.
Hong Kong.--The Committee is concerned by the Government of
the PRC's passage of a new national security law that further
undermines the autonomy and rule of law of Hong Kong and erodes
the freedoms of the people of Hong Kong. The Committee supports
Hong Kong's autonomy and the fundamental rights of its people
that are protected under Hong Kong Basic Law, including the
rights to freedom of speech, of the press and of publication,
and to peacefully assemble and demonstrate. The Committee
recommendation includes funds at not less than prior year
levels for democracy programs for Hong Kong.
Indo-Pacific Strategy and the Countering Chinese Influence
Fund.--The Committee believes that the United States is an
enduring Pacific power, and preserving a free and open Indo-
Pacific is a core interest of the United States. The Committee
recommendation includes funding for the Countering Chinese
Influence Fund to counter the strategic influence of the
People's Republic of China that challenges the core tenets of
international peace, security, and collaboration through
destabilizing activities such as illegal construction,
militarization, and economic coercion.
The Committee supports the Department of State's efforts to
monitor malign Chinese influence around the world and
encourages the Secretary of State to coordinate a whole-of-
government response.
The Committee recommendation supports the Global
Cooperation and Training Framework, which serves as a platform
to support public health, law enforcement, disaster relief,
energy cooperation, women's empowerment, cyber security, media
literacy, and good governance.
The Committee supports the Asia EDGE initiative and
encourages the Department of State to continue prior year
funding levels.
The Committee supports the Digital Connectivity and
Cybersecurity Partnership and encourages the Department of
State to continue prior year funding levels.
The Committee encourages the promotion of secure wireless
technologies and directs the Secretary of State and Secretary
of the Treasury to increase partner engagement at international
bodies, including international financial institutions, that
set standards for 5th and future generation telecommunications
infrastructure.
The Committee is concerned about Chinese efforts to expand
the use of their state-owned and state-sponsored 5G next
generation technologies and urges the Department of State,
USAID, and the DFC to focus on economic development projects
that counter Chinese influence and use of their technology
especially in Africa and South America.
Laos.--The Committee recommendation does not include funds
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.
North Korea.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State
to 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 titles III and IV to strengthen maritime security
and combat transnational crime, improve healthcare, mitigate
and adapt to environment challenges, reduce disaster risk,
promote economic development, and strengthen democratic
governance.
People's Republic of China (PRC).--The Committee encourages
the Secretary of State to coordinate with the Department of
Justice to determine whether Chinese nationals associated with
Confucius Institutes operating on American college campuses
qualify as foreign agents working on behalf of the Government
of the PRC and to review all active Confucius Institutes for
compliance with visa regulations and practices.
Philippines.--Pursuant to the determination required by
subsection (f)(2)(A), the Secretary shall take into
consideration whether the Government of the Philippines is
taking effective steps to promote human rights and strengthen
accountability mechanisms through: (1) establishing the rule of
law and a judicial system capable of investigating and
prosecuting army personnel who are credibly alleged to have
committed or abetted extrajudicial executions, forced
disappearances, and other gross violations of human rights; (2)
strengthening government institutions working to eliminate such
crimes; (3) implementing a policy of promoting army personnel
who demonstrate professionalism and respect for human rights;
and (4) monitoring that the Armed Forces of the Philippines and
paramilitary groups under its control are not engaging in acts
of intimidation or violence against journalists, human rights
defenders, indigenous persons, labor and civic leaders and
activists, and critics of the government. The required report
shall include a detailed justification for such determination.
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.
South Korea.--The Committee urges the Secretary of State to
engage in good faith negotiations with the Government of South
Korea for a fair and equitable five-year Special Measures
Agreement.
Timor-Leste.--The Committee directs the Department of State
and USAID to assess the impact of major Chinese investment in
the Tasi Mane project in Timor-Leste on United States strategic
interests and to consult with the appropriate congressional
committees on mitigating negative impacts.
Vietnam.--The Committee recommendation does not include
funds 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.
Reports
Subsection (c)--Indo-Pacific Strategy and the Countering Chinese
Influence Fund
Chinese misinformation.--The Committee is concerned by
Chinese misinformation efforts against the United States in the
Indo-Pacific region and directs the Secretary of State, in
coordination with the USAID Administrator, to submit a report
to the appropriate congressional committees, not later than 45
days after enactment of this Act, on United States efforts to
counter such narratives.
Indo-Pacific climate security.--The Committee directs the
Secretary of State, in consultation with the USAID
Administrator and other relevant agencies, to develop and
submit an Indo-Pacific climate security report to the
Committees on Appropriations not later than 90 days after
enactment of this Act. Such report shall include an assessment
of how climate impacts the Indo-Pacific Strategy and its
implementation in the long-term and a plan on how to mitigate
such impacts through diplomatic, security, and development
engagements including the utilization of additional resources.
Maritime security.--The Committee is concerned by continued
unauthorized Chinese fishing boat incursions in the Indo-
Pacific region and 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 use of funds provided
under titles III and IV for maritime security activities to
counter unauthorized Chinese fishing boat incursions and how
such activities support the strategy on strengthening maritime
security in the Indo-Pacific region.
Subsection (e)--People's Republic of China
Uighur human rights.--The Committee directs the Secretary
of State, in consultation with 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 the human
rights situation of the Uighur people and other ethnic Muslim
minorities within the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region and
Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region of the PRC. Such report shall
address PRC efforts to repress ethnic Muslim minorities and
provide an assessment of the activities of international
financial institutions in such autonomous regions.
Subsection (f)--Philippines
Security forces.--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, 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.
Visiting Forces Agreement.--The Committee directs the
Secretary of State to submit a report to the appropriate
congressional committees, not later than 45 days after
enactment of this Act, on the potential impacts on United
States interests and subsequent next steps if the Government of
Philippines officially withdraws from or renegotiates the 1999
Visiting Forces Agreement.
Section 7044 (South and Central Asia) 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 recognizes the fragile nature
of the United States peace agreement with the Taliban and the
uncertainty of ongoing intra-Afghan negotiations. The Committee
directs the Secretary of State to ensure the meaningful
inclusion of Afghan women in the peace process and to
prioritize the rights of women and girls in any intra-Afghan
political settlement.
The Committee notes the critical importance of continued
support for higher education programs in Afghanistan. The
Committee directs the Secretary of State to continue funding
for American-style co-educational higher education institutions
in Kabul, including for the costs of security and operations
and the establishment of an endowment for such institutions.
Bangladesh.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State
and USAID Administrator to prioritize humanitarian assistance
to help displaced Rohingya who have fled from Burma to
Bangladesh.
The Committee directs that funds made available by this Act
for assistance for Bangladesh include programs to improve labor
conditions in readymade garment, shrimp, and fish industries.
India.--The Committee is concerned with the deterioration
of human rights and religious freedoms in India, including in
Jammu and Kashmir, and the recent addition of religion as a
factor in the naturalization process.
Pakistan.--The Committee recommendation includes funding
under titles III and IV for Pakistan pursuant to the terms and
conditions of section 7044(c) of the Department of State,
Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act,
2019.
Sri Lanka.--The Committee is concerned about the recent
actions of newly elected and appointed government officials in
Sri Lanka and the roll-back of UN commitments with respect to
United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution (A/HCR/RES/30/1)
of October 2015.
The Committee recommendation continues limitations on
assistance for Sri Lanka and requires the Secretary of State to
determine and report to the Committees on Appropriations that
the government is taking certain actions to uphold human
rights, resolve cases of missing persons, and promote
reconciliation between ethnic and religious groups, prior to
the obligation of funds.
The Committee directs that programming for Sri Lanka shall
be subject to the regular notification procedures of the
Committees on Appropriations.
Regional programs.--The Committee recommendation supports
border stabilization and development programs between
Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the Central Asian countries.
Reports
Subsection (a)--Afghanistan
Personnel.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State to
submit a report, in classified form if necessary, not later
than 30 days after enactment of this Act and every 90 days
thereafter until September 30, 2021, to the Committees on
Appropriations detailing by agency the number of personnel
present in Afghanistan under COM authority per section 3927 of
title 22, United States Code, at the end of the 90 day period
preceding the submission of such report. The report shall also
include the number of locally employed staff and contractors
supporting United States Embassy operations in Afghanistan
during the reporting period.
Peace negotiations.--The Committee directs the Secretary of
State to submit a report, in classified form if necessary, not
later than 30 days after enactment of this Act and every 90
days until September 30, 2021, to the Committees on
Appropriations detailing the status of intra-Afghan peace
negotiations. Such report shall contain information regarding
impacts to foreign assistance programs and the presence of
diplomatic and development personnel in Afghanistan.
SIVs.--The Committee recommendation includes continued
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
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.
Subsection (b)--Bangladesh
Human rights.--The Committee 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 extent to
which the government of Bangladesh is supporting human rights;
implementing policies to protect freedom of expression,
association, and religion, as well as due process of law; and
ensuring free, fair, and participatory elections.
India
Human rights.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State
to submit a report, not later than 90 days after enactment of
this Act, to the Committees on Appropriations on what steps the
Department of State has taken to address the deterioration of
human rights and religious freedom in India and a strategy to
engage the government of India on these issues. Such report
shall also contain the extent to which the Government of India
is supporting human rights and implementing policies to protect
freedom of expression, association, and religion, as well as
due process of law.
Subsection (d)--Pakistan
Child marriage.--The Committee is concerned with recent
court rulings regarding child marriage in Pakistan. The
Committee directs the Secretary of State to submit a report,
not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, to the
Committees on Appropriations detailing current laws and
practices regarding child marriage and what steps the
Department of State has taken to address this human rights
issue.
Subsection (f)--Regional Programs
Democratic values.--The Committee is concerned with the
deterioration of secular, democratic values in South Asian
countries whose strengths have included respect for minority
religious groups. The Committee directs the Secretary of State
to submit a report, not later than 90 days after enactment of
this Act, to the appropriate congressional committees on the
status of religious freedom and democratic values in the
countries of South Asia.
Section 7045 (Latin America and the Caribbean) includes
language modified from the prior year regarding programs and
funding for countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.
The Committee directs the Department of State to ensure
that any assistance provided to the governments of Guatemala,
Honduras, El Salvador, Mexico, non-governmental organizations,
or international organizations for operations in Mexico and
Central America is utilized to advance health and development,
strengthen protections, and uphold the rule of law and not for
the purpose of justifying the implementation of programs that
limit access to protection in the United States, including any
Asylum Cooperative Agreements.
Bolivia.--The Committee directs that none of the funds
appropriated by this Act and made available for assistance for
Bolivia be used to impede free, fair, and peaceful elections in
Bolivia.
Brazil.--The Committee expresses concern over the current
situation in Brazil. The Committee directs the Secretary of
State to press the government of Brazil to implement effective
measures to halt extrajudicial killings by Brazilian state
security agents, investigate and prosecute the killings of
activists, comply with international human rights norms, and
ensure the stability and support of the legislative and
judicial branches of government.
The Committee is concerned about reports that the safety
and wellbeing of indigenous peoples and Afro-Brazilian
communities are being adversely impacted by the Growth in the
America's Initiative. The Committee directs the Secretary of
State to urge participating countries to consult with affected
indigenous peoples and communities, as required under
international law, and to take appropriate steps to mitigate
any environmental and human rights impacts of such initiative,
particularly as it impacts the Amazon.
Central America.--Pursuant to subsection (a), not less than
$519,885,000 of the funds appropriated by this Act shall be
made available for assistance for countries in Central America,
of which not less than $420,790,000 shall be for assistance for
El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. Such funds shall be
prioritized for programs and activities that address the key
factors that contribute to the migration of unaccompanied,
undocumented minors to the United States, and such funds shall
be made available for global health, humanitarian, development,
democracy, border security, and law enforcement programs,
including for the prevention of violence against women and
girls and to combat corruption and impunity. Assistance for
Central America shall be allocated according to the following
table and in accordance with section 7019 of this Act:
ASSISTANCE FOR CENTRAL AMERICA
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Country/Program/Activity Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Development Assistance:
El Salvador...................................... 70,000
of which, National Commission for the Search 1,000
of Persons Disappeared in the Context of the
Armed Conflict..............................
Guatemala........................................ 65,650
Honduras......................................... 65,140
Nicaragua........................................ 10,000
of which, Democracy and Rule of Law.......... 10,000
USAID Central America Regional................... 4,860
------------------
Subtotal, Development Assistance......... 215,650
Economic Support Fund:
State Western Hemisphere Regional Central America 115,000
Regional Security Initiative....................
------------------
Subtotal, Economic Support Fund.......... 115,000
Combating Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (non-add, [20,000]
Development Assistance/Economic Support Fund).......
Inter-American Foundation............................ 10,000
of which, Northern Triangle...................... 10,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement:
State Western Hemisphere Regional Central America 155,000
Regional Security Initiative....................
of which, Sec. 7045(a) Offices of Attorneys 45,000
General & other entities and activities to
combat corruption and impunity..............
of which, Costa Rica......................... 32,500
------------------
Subtotal, International Narcotics 155,000
Control and Law Enforcement.........
------------------
Subtotal--Central America Regional Security 270,000
Initiative (non-add)........................
[CARSI, Northern Triangle]............... [210,000]
Nonproliferation, Antiterrorism, Demining and Related
Programs:
Panama........................................... 500
------------------
Subtotal, Nonproliferation, Antiterrorism, 500
Demining and Related Program................
International Military Education and Training:
Costa Rica....................................... 725
Other Central America............................ 3,110
------------------
Subtotal, International Military Education 3,835
and Training................................
Foreign Military Financing Program:
Belize........................................... 1,000
Costa Rica....................................... 7,500
El Salvador...................................... 0
Guatemala........................................ 0
Honduras......................................... 0
Panama........................................... 2,000
State Western Hemisphere Regional................ 9,400
------------------
Subtotal, Foreign Military Financing Program. 19,900
------------------
Total, Central America................... 519,885
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Committee notes with concern that the Administration
redirected a majority of funds appropriated in fiscal year 2018
for assistance for El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras and has
failed to obligate the majority of funds appropriated for such
assistance in fiscal year 2019. Delay in the delivery of such
assistance undermines United States national security interest
in addressing the conditions that lead to poverty, violence,
and migration in the region. The Committee directs the
Secretary of State and USAID Administrator to obligate and
expend funds appropriated by this Act, and prior Acts, without
delay.
Funds made available for assistance for Central America
under Development Assistance and Economic Support Fund shall
include support for poverty and violence reduction efforts,
such as community-driven development, rural development for
small scale and subsistence farmers, and programs targeting at-
risk youth.
Pursuant to subsection (a)(1)(A), not less than $45,000,000
shall be for support of offices of Attorneys General to combat
corruption and impunity in such countries, particularly special
prosecutorial units dedicated to anti-corruption, money
laundering, financial crimes, human rights crimes, asset
forfeitures, and criminal analysis. In addition, such funds
shall be for support of other entities to combat corruption and
impunity provided they are autonomous and able to actively
assist in the investigation and prosecution of high-level
cases. Within the total, not less than $10,000,000 shall be
provided through USAID to civil society organizations for
efforts to increase government oversight and advance human
rights and anti-corruption initiatives in Guatemala, Honduras,
and El Salvador, not less than $3,000,000 should be made
available for support of the special Prosecutor's Against
Impunity (FECI) in Guatemala, not less than $500,000 shall be
made available to the Guatemalan Human Rights Ombudsman's
Office (Procuraduria de los Derechos Humanos), and not less
than $3,500,000 should be made available for support of the
Specialized Prosecutor's Unit Against Networks of Corruption
(UFERCO), including for support of international advisors.
Within the funds provided for assistance for El Salvador,
the recommendation includes not less than $1,000,000 for
support of the National Commission for the Search of Persons
Disappeared during the Armed Conflict in El Salvador. Section
7034(b)(2) of this Act directs that not less than $10,000,000
shall be made available for DNA forensic technology to combat
human trafficking in Central America and Mexico.
The Committee recommendation includes not less than
$20,000,000 for programs in the Northern Triangle to: (1)
create and expand primary and secondary school-based and
community-based sexual and gender-based violence prevention
programming; (2) enhance the capacity of police, judicial
systems, and child protection systems to identify, investigate,
and prosecute cases of sexual and gender-based violence and
protect survivors through increased personnel, equipment,
geographic coverage, and training; and (3) create and expand
locally available medical, mental health, legal services, and
shelters for sexual and gender-based violence survivors in
rural and urban areas. Additionally, such funds should only
support those governments and agencies where evidence shows
that officials are committed to accountable, civilian policing
and support broad institutional reforms that can have a
positive effect on the policing structure, including evidence-
based initiatives to improve police capacity to prevent
violence, investigate crimes, including those of sexual and
gender-based violence, and enhance community relations.
Pursuant to subsection (a)(2)(A), 50 percent of the
assistance for each of the central governments of El Salvador,
Guatemala, and Honduras made available under Economic Support
Fund and under title IV of this Act shall be withheld from
obligation until the Secretary of State certifies and reports
to the appropriate congressional committees that such
government is: (1) combating corruption and impunity, including
prosecuting corrupt government officials; (2) implementing
reforms, policies, and programs to increase transparency and
strengthen public institutions; (3) protecting the rights of
civil society, opposition political parties, and the
independence of the media; (4) providing effective and
accountable law enforcement and security for its citizens, and
upholding due process of law; (5) implementing policies to
reduce poverty and promote equitable economic growth and
opportunity; (6) supporting the independence of the judiciary
and of electoral institutions; (7) improving border security;
(8) combating human smuggling and trafficking and countering
the activities of criminal gangs, drug traffickers, and
transnational criminal organizations; and (9) informing its
citizens of the dangers of the journey to the southwest border
of the United States.
In making a certification pursuant to subsection (a)(2)(A)
of this section concerning the governments of El Salvador,
Guatemala, and Honduras, the Secretary of State shall consider
the following: relating to clause (i), whether such government
is: cooperating with commissions against corruption and
impunity and with regional human rights entities; increasing
the capacity and independence of the judiciary and the Office
of the Attorney General; and investigating and prosecuting in
the civilian justice system government personnel who are
credibly alleged to be corrupt or to have violated human
rights; relating to clause (ii), whether such government is:
implementing tax reforms that increase government revenue and
transparency in the tax collection system, resolving commercial
disputes, including but not limited to the confiscation of real
property and the timely payment of amounts owed to United
States entities, and supporting the independence and growing
capacity of the judiciary and the Office of the Attorney
General, including on matters pertaining to upholding rule of
law and ensuring due process in adjudication of tax matters;
relating to clause (iii), whether such government is:
protecting the rights of political opposition parties and other
members of civil society to operate without interference;
relating to clause (iv), whether such government is: creating a
professional, accountable civilian police force and ending the
role of the military in internal policing; and strengthening
customs agencies; relating to clause (v), whether such
government is: supporting programs to reduce poverty, expand
education and vocational training for at-risk youth, creating
jobs, and promoting equitable economic growth, particularly in
areas contributing to large numbers of migrants; and relating
to clause (vii), whether such government is: improving the
capacity to detect and prevent illegal migration, human
smuggling and trafficking, and trafficking of illicit drugs and
other contraband.
The Committee also urges the Secretary of State to work
with Northern Triangle governments on improving the
effectiveness of legal mechanisms to issue timely reimbursement
of tax refunds owed to United States business 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 to other countries in Latin America and the
Caribbean, subject to the regular notification procedures of
the Committees on Appropriations.
Subsection (a)(2)(D) directs that none of the funds
appropriated under Foreign Military Financing Program be made
available for assistance for El Salvador, Guatemala, or
Honduras.
The Committee recommendation maintains the special
notification requirement for assistance for El Salvador,
Guatemala, and Honduras and directs that such notifications:
(1) indicate whether funds will support current or new
programs, the central government of such country, or an
international financial institution; (2) describe the cost-
matching arrangements; and (3) describe how programs align with
the Strategy and the plan for monitoring and evaluation,
including the program and context indicators for each program
described in the notification.
The Committee is concerned about the length of time it has
taken in prior years for the Department of State to submit the
spend plan required for assistance for Central America and take
the other steps necessary to obligate funds in a timely manner,
particularly with respect to funds not subject to the
withholding pursuant to subsection (a)(2)(A). The Committee
directs the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator to
submit such spend plan within 90 days of enactment of this Act.
Such spend plan shall include details on assistance for El
Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras with specific objectives and
benchmarks for the use of such assistance, including what
metrics will be used to measure success.
Not later than 30 days after enactment of this Act, the
Secretary of State shall provide to the appropriate
congressional committees any Asylum Cooperative Agreement
between the United States and the governments of El Salvador,
Guatemala, and Honduras, including the basis for the
determination that such agreement meets mandated legal
requirements, such as the asylum seekers have access to a full
and fair procedure for determining a claim to asylum.
The Committee recommendation includes $10,000,000 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. The Committee notes that any assistance for
Nicaragua is subject to the notification requirements of
section 7015 of this Act.
The Committee is concerned with the expropriation of land
in border forest communities, which often is linked to narco-
ranching and the laundering of illicit proceeds from
trafficking. The Committee urges the Secretary of State to work
with Northern Triangle governments to strengthen the capacity
and geographic reach of local judicial, prosecutorial,
investigatory, wildlife law enforcement and park rangers in
border forest communities and protected areas as a means of
protecting the rights of indigenous and forest communities and
to halting corruption within governments.
The Committee notes 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 that was
developed pursuant to the directive in House Report 116-78,
including funds for support of scientific investigation,
heritage conservation, law enforcement, and sustainable
tourism.
Colombia.--The Committee recognizes the longstanding
partnership between the United States and Colombia. The
Committee acknowledges the strategic importance of Colombia and
notes the improvements made in the everyday lives of the
Colombian people over the last two decades and looks forward to
the continued partnership and to building on the progress made
in recent years with the adoption of the peace accords. The
Committee also commends the Government and people of Colombia
for their longstanding support of Venezuelan migrants.
Pursuant to subsection (b), not less than $457,253,000 of
the funds appropriated by this Act shall be made available for
assistance for Colombia, of which not less than $207,328,000 is
from funds under Development Assistance and Economic Support
Fund and shall be apportioned directly to USAID. 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............................... 61,000
of which, Biodiversity........................... 11,500
Economic Support Fund................................ 146,328
of which, Afro-Colombian and indigenous 25,000
communities.....................................
of which, Human Rights........................... 12,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 189,000
of which, Rule of Law and Human Rights........... 36,000
[Justice Sector Institutional Strengthening & [19,000]
Reform].........................................
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 21,000
Related Programs....................................
International Military Education and Training........ 1,400
Foreign Military Financing Program................... 38,525
------------------
Total........................................ 457,253
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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; (2)
assist communities impacted by significant refugee, internally
displaced, or migrant populations; (3) conduct a unified
campaign against narcotics trafficking, organizations
designated as foreign terrorist organizations pursuant to
section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C.
1189), and other criminal or illegal armed groups; (4) assist
farmers in eradicating and replacing coca as agreed to in the
peace accord; (5) promote 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; (7) enhance 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.
The Committee recommendation includes $146,328,000 under
Economic Support Fund for assistance for Colombia, of which not
less than $25,000,000 is for support of Afro-Colombian and
indigenous communities and not less than $12,000,000 is for
human rights programming, including not less than $500,000 for
the Commission for the Clarification of Truth, Co-Existence and
Non-Repetition and not less than $300,000 for the National Unit
to Search for the Disappeared.
The Committee recommendation includes $189,000,000 under
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement for
assistance for Colombia. Within that amount, the Committee
recommendation provides not less than $36,000,000 for rule of
law and human rights activities, of which not less than
$6,500,000 is for support of key Colombian entities responsible
for investigating and prosecuting human rights violations,
including support for the relevant units of the Office of
Attorney General, such as the Human Rights Unit, the Special
Unit for the Dismantling of Organizations and Criminal Conduct
Responsible for Homicides and Massacres, and regional
prosecutors.
Pursuant to subsection (b)(2)(A), 20 percent of the funds
appropriated under International Narcotics Control and Law
Enforcement and made available for assistance for Colombia may
be obligated only after the Secretary of State determines and
reports to the Committees on Appropriations that the Colombian
government is continuing to implement a national whole-of-
government counternarcotics strategy intended to reduce by 50
percent cocaine production and coca cultivation levels in
Colombia by 2023 and such program is not in violation of the
2016 peace accord between the Government of Colombia and the
Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia.
The Committee directs the Secretary of State to ensure that
eradication programs supported by funds appropriated by this
Act be designed and executed in compliance with any
requirements of the Constitutional Court of Colombia and within
the framework and provisions of the peace accords, 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.
Pursuant to subsection (b)(2)(B), 20 percent of the funds
appropriated under the heading Foreign Military Financing
Program and made available for assistance for Colombia may be
obligated only after the Secretary of State determines and
reports to the Committees on Appropriations that: (1) the
Special Jurisdiction for Peace and other judicial authorities
are taking effective steps to hold accountable perpetrators of
gross violations of human rights in a manner consistent with
international law, including for command responsibility; (2)
the government of Colombia is taking effective steps to
dismantle illegal armed groups and to reduce threats and
attacks against human rights defenders and other civil society
activists, Afro-Colombian and indigenous community leaders,
trade unionists, and journalists, and judicial authorities are
making quantifiable strides in effectively prosecuting those
responsible for such threats and attacks; (3) the government of
Colombia is taking effective steps to protect Afro-Colombian
and indigenous communities and is respecting their rights and
territory; (4) senior military officers responsible for
ordering, committing, and covering up cases of false positives
are being held accountable, including removal from active duty
if found guilty through criminal or disciplinary proceedings;
and (5) the Government of Colombia has investigated and is
taking steps to hold accountable Government officials credibly
alleged to have directed, authorized, or conducted illegal
surveillance of political opponents, government officials,
journalists, and human rights defenders, including the use of
assets provided by the United States for combating
counterterrorism and counternarcotics for such purposes.
The Secretary of State, in consultation with the USAID
Administrator, shall continue to submit a multi-year spend plan
in a manner consistent with prior year requirements.
The Committee supports funds for reforestation programs in
Colombia, including through partnerships with organizations
that have focused expertise in such activities.
Cuba.--The Committee recommendation includes $20,000,000
under Economic Support Fund for support of democracy building,
human rights, and civil society initiatives in Cuba.
Haiti.--Subsection (c) continues language from the prior
year concerning assistance for Haiti. The Committee is greatly
concerned by civil unrest in Haiti. The Committee expects the
Secretary of State and USAID Administrator to support dialogue
aimed at resolving the political crisis and ensuring that
upcoming elections are transparent and inclusive. In addition,
the Committee supports thorough and independent investigations
into corruption allegations and reported human rights
violations, including extrajudicial killings.
The Committee urges the Secretary of State to work with the
Governments of Haiti and the Dominican Republic to develop a
strategy for enhancing border security, including through
assistance provided for such countries under this Act, and to
keep the Committees on Appropriations informed on its
development.
Mexico.--The Committee recommendation provides $159,910,000
for assistance for Mexico. Such funds are allocated according
to the following table and subject to section 7019 of this Act:
MEXICO
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Development Assistance............................... 10,000
Economic Support Fund................................ 40,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 100,000
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 1,160
Related Programs....................................
International Military Education and Training........ 1,750
Foreign Military Financing Program................... 7,000
------------------
Total, Mexico.................................... 159,910
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Funds made available for assistance for Mexico shall be
prioritized to support capacity-building in Mexican security
and justice sector institutions to combat and prosecute
transnational criminal organizations and to keep citizens and
communities safe on both sides of the border, including for
justice reform, promotion of good governance, protection of
human rights, and implementation of crime and violence
prevention programs. The Committee also recognizes that the
United States and Mexico face difficult challenges in securing
the shared border while also facilitating the efficient flow of
commerce and trade and supports efforts to enhance United
States-Mexico trade and investment.
The Committee believes that efforts to address these
challenges could be strengthened through the development of
common or complementary approaches in areas of mutual interest
such as border security and law enforcement. The Committee
urges the Department of State, in coordination with other
relevant Federal agencies, to explore new opportunities for
cooperation with Mexican authorities, including training
opportunities by state and local law enforcement entities in
the United States, including an increased coordination of
inbound enforcement activities that target the trafficking of
United States origin weapons, ammunition, explosives, and
illegal proceeds at shared land ports of entry.
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 bilateral 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.
The Committee is concerned with the deteriorated human
rights conditions at the border of the United States and Mexico
due to migrant flows. The Committee notes the international
expertise of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
and encourages the Department of State and the United States
Mission to the United Nations to strengthen coordination with
the Commissioner to boost regional cooperation, alleviate
inhumane conditions, and strengthen human rights along the
southern border.
The Caribbean.--Pursuant to subsection (d), not less than
$74,800,000 of the funds appropriated by this Act shall be for
the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI). CBSI assists
the nations of the Caribbean in improving their capacity to
combat transnational crime and violence, increase public safety
and security, promote social justice through police and justice
sector reform, anti-corruption programs and at-risk youth
programs, and to address the regional instability caused by
years of devastating natural disasters. Funds for CBSI are
allocated according to the following table, subject to section
7019 of this Act, and should be viewed as minimum amounts
necessary to support the Initiative in fiscal year 2021:
CARIBBEAN BASIN SECURITY INITIATIVE
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Economic Support Fund................................ 32,300
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 35,000
Foreign Military Financing Program................... 7,500
Total, CBSI...................................... 74,800
Strengthening Resilience to Natural Disasters [10,000]
(titles III and IV).............................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Within the funds provided for CBSI, the Committee
recommendation includes not less than $10,000,000 to strengthen
resilience to emergencies and disasters in the Caribbean.
The Committee further directs that funds appropriated under
Global Health Programs and Development Assistance be made
available for assistance for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean
at not less than amounts provided in fiscal year 2020.
The Committee is concerned by reports of discrimination
against LGBTI persons in Jamaica. According to the 2018 Human
Rights Report for Jamaica issued by the Department of State,
Jamaican law does not extend antidiscrimination protections to
persons based on sexual orientation, gender identity or
expression, or sex characteristics. The Department also
reported that Jamaican government agencies had taken part in
discriminatory acts. The Committee urges the Secretary of State
to engage with the Government of Jamaica to reform
discriminatory laws and to cease discriminatory acts against
Jamaicans who are LGBTI.
Venezuela.--Subsection (e)(1) provides that not less than
$30,000,000 be made available for programs to promote democracy
and the rule of law in Venezuela. 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
notes that Venezuela is subject to the notification
requirements of section 7015 of this Act.
Subsection (e)(2) directs that funds appropriated under
title III of this Act and prior Acts be made available for
assistance for communities in countries supporting or otherwise
impacted by refugees from Venezuela, including Colombia, Peru,
Ecuador, Curacao, and Trinidad and Tobago.
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 notes that between fiscal
years 2017-2019 over $472,000,000 was made available by the
Department of State and USAID for support of the Venezuelan
humanitarian response from funds appropriated under such
headings.
Other Latin America and the Caribbean
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
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 2010 through 2020, and integrate
such information into the ForeignAssistance.gov website, as
appropriate.
El Salvador.--The Committee continues the directive
included in House Report 116-78 that the Secretary of State
work with the relevant Federal departments and agencies, as
appropriate, to assist the judicial authorities of El Salvador
in the investigation and prosecution of those responsible for
the El Mozote massacre, including the identification and
provision of related documents, correspondence, reproductions
of Salvadoran documents, and other similar materials from
January 1981 to January 1983. The Committee directs that not
later than 30 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary
report to the Committees on Appropriations on the status of the
release of documents by all relevant Federal departments and
agencies to Salvadoran judicial authorities, including the
Salvadoran presiding judge investigating and prosecuting the El
Mozote massacre case, which 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.
Corrupt officials.--Not later than 90 days after enactment
of this Act, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the
Secretary of the Treasury, shall submit to the appropriate
congressional committees a report to include the following: (1)
the names of senior government officials in Honduras,
Guatemala, and El Salvador who are known to have committed or
facilitated acts of grand corruption or narcotics trafficking;
(2) the names of elected officials in Honduras, Guatemala, and
El Salvador who are known to have received campaign funds that
are the proceeds of narco-trafficking or other illicit
activities in the last 2 years; and (3) the names of
individuals in Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador who are
known to have facilitated the financing of political campaigns
in any of the Northern Triangle countries with the proceeds of
narco-trafficking or other illicit activities in the last 2
years. The report shall describe, for each individual, what
steps have been taken, and are planned to be taken, and an
assessment of whether to impose sanctions pursuant to the
Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act (22 U.S.C.
2656 note). The report should also explain, where appropriate,
why sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights
Accountability Act were not imposed. Such report shall be
submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified
annex.
Cuba
Strategy update.--The Committee directs the Secretary of
State to submit to the Committees on Appropriations a report,
not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, on steps
taken during fiscal year 2020 to implement the comprehensive
strategy on Cuba policy directed in House Report 116-78,
including how such strategy is: (1) avoiding negative impacts
on American businesses, including providing certainty for
United States businesses legally operating in Cuba; and (2)
supports the growth of a Cuban private sector independent of
government control. Additionally, the report shall update
progress towards returning staffing levels at the United States
Embassy in Havana to previous levels and an update on the
impact of the staffing reductions on embassy operations
instituted in prior years, including visa processing.
Mexico
Comprehensive strategy.--Not later than l80 days after
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in coordination
with the USAID Administrator, shall develop a multi-year
strategy for the Merida Initiative that will: (1) address how
to leverage investment from the Mexican Government; (2)
incorporate lessons learned from twelve years of Merida
programming; and (3) connect local-level progress to macro-
level trends by establishing realistic goals to reduce violence
and impunity in Mexico. Included in the strategy shall be a
joint monitoring and evaluation (M&E) plan for both the
Department of State and USAID for programs, projects, or
activities implemented as part of the Merida Initiative. Also
included shall be any plans for assistance for the Mexican
National Guard. Such strategy and M&E plan shall be submitted
to the appropriate congressional committees.
Mexico human rights.--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. Additionally,
the report shall discuss how assistance under the Merida
program contributed to the objectives above.
Mexican highways.--The Secretary of State shall provide a
report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later than 180
days after enactment of this Act, detailing its progress,
findings, and any other relevant information with regard to the
incidents of robbery, kidnapping, carjacking, extortion, and
homicide of passenger and cargo vehicles on major highways in
Mexico that connect to ports of entry along the United States
Mexico border as well as the implementation of Mexico's Plan
Carreteras Seguras (Safe Highways Pilot program).
United States citizen minors in Mexico.--Not later than 180
days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall
submit to the Committees on Appropriations a report on United
States citizen minors living in Mexico. Such report shall
include: (1) the number of United States citizen minors living
in Mexico; (2) the services (such as educational, medical, and
other services as determined by the Secretary) such minors need
and the difficulty of accessing such services; (3)
documentation (including apostilled birth certificates and
school records) required by such minors to obtain such
services; and (4) the steps that the United States Embassy and
consulates in Mexico are taking to address the needs of such
United States citizen minors, including steps to facilitate
apostilled birth certificates for such minors.
Subsection (d)--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 2010 through 2020, and
integrate such information into the ForeignAssistance.gov
website, as appropriate.
Other Report
Mais Medicos program.--The Committee directs the Secretary
of State to review and report to the Committees on
Appropriations, not later than 90 days after enactment of this
Act, on allegations that doctors and medical personnel
participating in the Mais Medicos Program were denied fair
compensation for their services, subjected to restrictions on
movements by their Government, and had their families subjected
to retaliation if they left the program. Such report shall
assess the veracity of each of the allegations, the role of the
Pan American Health Organization in the program, including any
financial benefit, whether there is evidence of participants
being subjects of surveillance by foreign intelligence
agencies, and whether program participants were subjected to
forced labor by their Government.
Section 7046 (Europe and Eurasia) includes language
modified from the prior year regarding Europe and Eurasia.
Georgia.--The Committee recommends not less than
$132,025,000 be made available from funds in this Act for
assistance for Georgia. Such funds are allocated according to
the following table and subject to section 7019 of this Act:
GEORGIA
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia...... 88,025
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 5,700
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 1,100
Related Programs....................................
International Military Education and Training........ 2,200
Foreign Military Financing Program................... 35,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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. Ongoing threats by the Russian government
underscore the importance of continuing United States foreign
assistance to former communist countries, including Georgia, in
their continued efforts in areas of democracy and the rule of
law.
Pursuant to subsection (a)(2), 15 percent of the funds made
available under Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia
for direct assistance to the central Government of Georgia may
not be obligated until the Secretary of State determines and
reports to the Committees on Appropriations that such
government is taking effective steps to strengthen democratic
institutions, combat corruption and ensure that the rule of law
in the private sector is consistent with international
recognized standards. The Committee notes and applauds the
adoption of constitutional amendments to establish a
proportional representation system on June 29, 2020, enacted as
a result of an agreement among a majority of Georgian political
parties.
The Secretary shall, in making the determination with
respect to whether the Government of Georgia is taking
effective steps to strengthen democratic institutions in
Georgia, consider whether such government is: (1) effectively
implementing electoral reform; (2) respecting the independence
of the judiciary, including from legislative or executive
interference; (3) effectively implementing the necessary
policies to ensure accountability and transparency, including
unfettered access to public information; (4) protecting the
rights of civil society, opposition political parties, and the
independence of the media; and (5) limiting the informal
influence of oligarchs over functions of government and the
application of laws and regulations.
Moldova.--The Committee recommends not less than the prior
year enacted level for overall assistance to Moldova and
directs that such assistance prioritize democracy assistance,
good governance, justice sector independence, civil society,
and protecting independent media.
Ukraine.--The Committee recommends that not less than
$453,000,000 be made available from funds in this Act, for
assistance for Ukraine to be allocated according to the
following table, subject to section 7019 of this Act:
UKRAINE
[Budget authority in thousands of dollars]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account Budget Authority
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia...... 255,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 30,000
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 15,000
Related Programs....................................
International Military Education and Training........ 2,900
Foreign Military Financing Program................... 115,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The bill includes additional assistance for Ukraine under
Global Health Programs.
The Committee supports the Ukrainian parliament's anti-
corruption reforms and efforts to further democratic progress
in Ukraine. The Committee understands that such reforms require
technical expertise and non-partisan legislative support and
directs the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator to
assist in the development of a non-partisan legislative office
to conduct research and analysis in support of the Rada.
The Committee continues to support efforts to boost
economic opportunity for smallholder Ukrainian farmers, medium-
sized efficient producers, and rural women. The Committee is
concerned that prohibitive financing rates for these producers
hamper Ukraine's agricultural development and economic
security. The Committee encourages the USAID Administrator to
expand the availability of credit, including through
microfinance, to increase productivity and marketability of
Ukrainian smallholder agricultural products.
The Committee supports the Department of State and USAID's
efforts to strengthen cooperation with Ukraine on veterans'
issues including bolstering psychosocial, health, and
reintegration programs. The Committee directs the Secretary of
State to facilitate exchanges and people-to-people ties between
groups with veteran care experience in the United States,
including Ukrainian diasporic groups, and Ukrainian medical
veteran affairs professionals.
Section 7047 (Countering Russian Influence and Aggression)
includes language modified from the prior year regarding
programs to counter Russian influence and aggression.
Subsection (b) prohibits funds in this Act for the central
government of a country that the Secretary of State determines
and reports has taken affirmative steps to support the Russian
annexation of Crimea or other territory in Ukraine. The
Secretary may waive the prohibition if it is in the national
interest.
Subsection (c) continues the prohibition of funds in this
Act for the central government of a country that the Secretary
of State determines and reports has recognized the independence
of, or has established diplomatic relations with, the Russian-
occupied Georgian territories of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali
Region/South Ossetia. The Secretary may waive the prohibition
if it is in the national interest. The Committee notes that the
Assad regime in Syria recognized such territories in May 2018.
Countering Russian Influence Fund.--The Committee
recommends that not less than $290,000,000 be made available
from funds in this Act for the 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...... 85,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 50,000
International Military Education and Training........ 5,000
Foreign Military Financing Program................... 150,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Subsection (e) specifies that not less than $20,000,000 of
the funds made available under Assistance for Europe, Eurasia
and Central Asia shall be made available to strengthen
democracy and civil society in Central Europe, including for
transparency, independent media, rule of law, minority rights,
and programs to combat anti-Semitism.
Section 7048 (United Nations) 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 following transparency and accountability
standards: (1) posting on a publicly available website,
consistent with privacy regulations and due process, regular
financial and programmatic audits of such organization,
department, or agency, and providing the United States
Government with necessary access to such financial and
performance audits; (2) effectively implementing and enforcing
policies and procedures which reflect best practices for the
protection of whistle-blowers from retaliation, including best
practices for: (A) protection against retaliation for internal
and lawful public disclosures; (B) legal burdens of proof; (C)
statutes of limitation for reporting retaliation; (D) access to
independent adjudicative bodies, including external
arbitration; and (E) results that eliminate the effects of
proven retaliation; and (3) effectively implementing and
enforcing policies and procedures on the appropriate use of
travel funds, including restrictions on first-class and
business-class travel.
Section 7049 (War Crimes Tribunals) 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) includes language
modified from the prior year directing that not less than
$68,000,000 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,
$9,500,000 are from funds appropriated under International
Broadcasting Operations and $58,500,000 are from funds
appropriated under title III of this Act. Funds made available
under title III 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................................ 35,025
of which, Near East Regional Democracy........... 16,750
Democracy Fund....................................... 17,500
of which, Department of State.................... 14,000
of which, United States Agency for International 3,500
Development.....................................
Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia......
-------------5,975
Subtotal, Global Internet Freedom, Title III..... 58,500
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 bypass Internet blocking, filtering,
and other censorship techniques used by authoritarian
governments.
Section 7051 (Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or
Degrading Treatment or Punishment) includes language carried in
the prior year prohibiting funds for the use of torture.
Section 7052 (Aircraft Transfer, Coordination, and Use)
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) includes language carried in the prior
year relating to unpaid parking fines and real property taxes
owed by foreign governments.
Section 7054 (International Monetary Fund) includes
language carried in the prior year regarding the International
Monetary Fund.
Section 7055 (Extradition) 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 (Impact on Jobs in the United States) includes
language modified from the prior year establishing certain
limitations on assistance that may impact jobs in the United
States.
The Committee encourages the Export-Import Bank and the DFC
to weigh the impact on jobs in the United States in addition to
environmental concerns when considering the approval of power-
generation projects abroad.
Section 7057 (Disability Programs) includes language
modified from the prior year regarding disability programs.
Section 7058 (Enterprise Funds) includes language carried
in the prior year establishing restrictions on enterprise
funds.
Section 7059 (Gender Equality) includes language modified
from the prior year regarding programs that support gender
equality.
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.
Adolescent girl education.--The Committee encourages the
Department of State to continue support for public-private
partnerships that empower adolescent girls to pursue further
education in the science, technology, engineering, art, and
mathematics (STEAM) fields, including the Women in Science
Girls STEAM Camp and the Alumni Thematic International Exchange
Series.
Women in security training.--The Committee remains
concerned about the under representation of women in
peacekeeping operations and International Military Education
and Training programs and encourages the Department of State to
ensure that funds appropriated by this Act are utilized to
ensure greater participation and opportunities for women.
Online safety.--The Committee is concerned about women's
safety online and recommends funding for programs 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 directs that, not later than 45 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 programs
supported by the Department of State and USAID on women's
leadership, gender-based violence, and women at risk of
extremism and the fulfillment of the requirements of this
section. In addition, the report shall include the use of funds
provided by this Act to support United States government
efforts to empower women as equal partners in conflict
prevention, peace building, transitional processes, and
reconstruction efforts in countries affected by conflict or in
political transition, and to ensure the equitable provision of
relief and recovery assistance to women and girls.
Gender-based violence in humanitarian settings.--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 response mechanisms; and of existing models to address
such violence, such as Safe from the Start.
Section 7060 (Sector Allocations) includes language
modified from the prior year regarding assistance for programs
related to basic education, higher education, environment, food
security and agriculture development, microenterprise, programs
to combat trafficking in persons, reconciliation, and water and
sanitation.
Basic education.--Of the funds made available by subsection
(a)(1)(B), $100,000,000 is included for the Global Partnership
for Education and $25,000,000 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.
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.
Environment.--Pursuant to subparagraph (c)(2)(B), 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 encourages 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 recognizes the severity of poaching in Africa
and the destabilizing effect it has on regional security,
including by providing a significant source of financing for
armed groups with links to transnational organized crime and
terrorism. Funds should also be made available to expand
wildlife trafficking programs in Central and South America to
strengthen law enforcement and site-based conservation and
anti-poaching measures. Consideration should be given to cross-
border programs, such as between Guatemala and Mexico. Funds
for wildlife trafficking should be used to improve port and
border security at key transit points; promote community-based
approaches for wildlife protection; and support programs to
reduce consumer demand.
Based on the CARPE model, the Committee supports continuing
and expanding transnational approaches throughout sub-Saharan
Africa, including the Okavango River Basin. Funds made
available to implement the Delta Act (Public Law 115-353)
should focus on the headwaters of the Okavango Delta which
originate in Angola and should integrate demining efforts,
public private partnerships for conservation, prevention of
wildlife trafficking and development of eco-tourism.
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 of 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 2022 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.
The Committee directs the Department of State, in
particular the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental
and Scientific Affairs, to continue fostering scientific
dialogue and technical exchange on climate issues.
National Parks and Protected Areas.--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 re-source 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.
Pursuant to subsection (f), $67,000,000 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,
$45,000,000 is included under International Narcotics Control
and Law Enforcement. The Committee directs that $5,000,000 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 113-94.
The Committee notes an additional $16,000,000 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.
In addition to funds made available pursuant to subsection
(f), the Committee includes $25,000,000 under International
Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement to support programs to
end modern slavery.
Reports
Basic education obligations.--Pursuant to subsection
(a)(1), the Committee directs that not later than 30 days after
enactment of this Act and quarterly thereafter until September
30, 2020, 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.
Food security.--The Committee directs the USAID
Administrator to submit a report to the Committees on
Appropriations not later than 45 days after enactment of this
Act and every 90 days thereafter until September 30, 2021,
detailing the funds obligated, as well as obligated, but
unexpended, balances for food security-related activities
funded under International Disaster Assistance and Development
Assistance.
Resources to combat human trafficking.--Pursuant to
subsection (f), the Committee directs that, not later than 45
days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in
consultation with the USAID Administrator, submit a report to
the Committees on Appropriations on obligations and
expenditures of all fiscal year 2020 funds managed by the
Department of State and USAID to combat human trafficking and
forced labor. The report shall include funding by program,
project, and activity and describe the management structure at
the Department of State and USAID used to program such funds.
Section 7061 (Budget Documents) includes language modified
from the prior year requiring operating and spend plans for
funds appropriated by this Act.
Section 7062 (Reorganization) includes language carried in
the prior year concerning consultation, notification, and
reporting requirements involving any agency reorganization.
Section 7063 (Department of State Management) includes
language carried in the prior year regarding management of the
Department of State including financial management, personnel
levels, and information technology.
Section 7064 (United States Agency for International
Development Management) includes language carried in the prior
year regarding management of USAID including personnel levels
and hiring authorities.
Adaptive Personnel Project.--The Committee recommendation
does not include funding for USAID's proposed Adaptive
Personnel Project under Operating Expenses nor does it
authorize the use of program funds for such purposes. The
Committee directs the USAID Administrator to consult with and
notify the Committees on Appropriations prior to the use of any
new hiring authority that requires the approval of the Office
of Personnel Management.
Section 7065 (Stabilization and Development in Regions
Impacted by Extremism and Conflict) includes language modified
from the prior year related to assistance to regions impacted
by extremism and conflict.
Subsection (a) reflects the enactment of the Global
Fragility Act of 2019 (title V of division J of Public Law 116-
94) and specifies funds for the Prevention and Stabilization
Fund rather than, as in prior years, the Relief and Recovery
Fund.
Prevention and Stabilization Fund.--The Committee
recommendation provides that, from amounts made available by
this Act, up to $100,000,000 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:............................... 65,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement:. 10,000
Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 10,000
Related Programs:...................................
Peacekeeping Operations:............................. 15,000
Total, Prevention and Stabilization Fund......... 100,000
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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.
Section 7066 (Prohibition on Funding for Abortions and
Involuntary Sterilization) includes language carried in the
prior year prohibiting funding for abortions and involuntary
sterilization.
Section 7067 (United Nations Population Fund) includes
language modified from the prior year regarding assistance
provided to UNFPA and to address women's health. In exercising
the direction in subsection (b), consideration should be given
to allocating assistance to populations and geographic areas
affected by the decision to reprogram funds.
Section 7068 (Global Health Activities) includes language
modified from the prior year regarding global health
activities; providing certain authorities to better prepare
for, and respond to, emerging health threats; and consolidates
other global health requirements previously carried under other
sections of the bill. The Committee recognizes the unique role
of the WHO in the implementation of the International Health
Regulations and the monitoring of, and response to, public
health emergencies of international concern.
Report
Review.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State and
USAID Administrator, in coordination with other relevant
agencies, to conduct a review of the international response to
the COVID-19 pandemic not later than 45 days after enactment of
this Act. The review shall detail lessons learned from the
international response and make recommendations for ways to
improve the sharing of global best practices. The outcome of
such review shall be shared with the appropriate congressional
committees and include how the United States government is
incorporating these best practices and lessons learned into
current and future outbreak response policies and guidance and
what regulatory and legislative changes are necessary to
improve pandemic preparedness and response in the future.
Section 7069 (Assistance for Foreign Nongovernmental
Organizations) includes new language regarding restrictions on
foreign nongovernmental organizations.
Section 7070 (Designation) includes language designating
funding in this Act as OCO/GWOT requirement only if the
President subsequently designates such amounts. The Committee
notes that funds designated as OCO/GWOT are included under the
relevant headings.
TITLE VIII--CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE EMERGENCY
FUNDING
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Administration of Foreign Affairs
DIPLOMATIC PROGRAMS
The Committee recommendation includes an additional
$955,000,000 for Diplomatic Programs for necessary expenses to
prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus. Such funds
remain available until September 30, 2022 and are made
available as an emergency requirement pursuant to section
251(b)(2)A)(i) of BBEDCA.
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
The Committee recommendation includes an additional
$4,400,000 for Office of Inspector General for oversight of
funds made available to the Department of State to prevent,
prepare for, and respond to coronavirus. Such funds remain
available until September 30, 2022 and are made available as an
emergency requirement pursuant to section 251(b)(2)A)(i) of
BBEDCA.
UNITED STATES AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Funds Appropriated to the President
OPERATING EXPENSES
The Committee recommendation includes an additional
$105,000,000 for Operating Expenses to prevent, prepare for,
and respond to coronavirus and for other operations and
maintenance requirements related to the consequences of
coronavirus. Such funds remain available until September 30,
2022 and are made available as an emergency requirement
pursuant to section 251(b)(2)A)(i) of BBEDCA.
OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL
The Committee recommendation includes an additional
$3,000,000 for Office of Inspector General for oversight of
funds made available to the United States Agency for
International Development to prevent, prepare for, and respond
to coronavirus. Such funds remain available until September 30,
2022 and are made available as an emergency requirement
pursuant to section 251(b)(2)A)(i) of BBEDCA.
BILATERAL ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE
Funds Appropriated to the President
GLOBAL HEALTH PROGRAMS
The Committee recommendation includes an additional
$2,500,000,000 for Global Health Programs for necessary
expenses to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus.
Such funds remain available until September 30, 2022 and are
made available as an emergency requirement pursuant to section
251(b)(2)A)(i) of BBEDCA.
DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE
The Committee recommendation includes an additional
$900,000,000 for Development Assistance for necessary expenses
to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus. Such funds
remain available until September 30, 2022 and are made
available as an emergency requirement pursuant to section
251(b)(2)A)(i) of BBEDCA.
INTERNATIONAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE
The Committee recommendation includes an additional
$1,125,000,000 for International Disaster Assistance for
necessary expenses to prevent, prepare for, and respond to
coronavirus. Such funds remain available until expended and are
made available as an emergency requirement pursuant to section
251(b)(2)A)(i) of BBEDCA.
ECONOMIC SUPPORT FUND
The Committee recommendation includes an additional
$1,500,000,000 for Economic Support Fund for necessary expenses
to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus, including
to address related economic and stabilization requirements.
Such funds remain available until September 30, 2022 and are
made available as an emergency requirement pursuant to section
251(b)(2)A)(i) of BBEDCA.
ASSISTANCE FOR EUROPE, EURASIA AND CENTRAL ASIA
The Committee recommendation includes an additional
$500,000,000 for Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central
Asia for necessary expenses to prevent, prepare for, and
respond to coronavirus, including to address related economic
and stabilization requirements. Such funds remain available
until September 30, 2022 and are made available as an emergency
requirement pursuant to section 251(b)(2)A)(i) of BBEDCA.
Department of State
MIGRATION AND REFUGEE ASSISTANCE
The Committee recommendation includes an additional
$1,125,000,000 for Migration and Refugee Assistance for
necessary expenses to prevent, prepare for, and respond to
coronavirus. Such funds remain available until expended and are
made available as an emergency requirement pursuant to section
251(b)(2)A)(i) of BBEDCA.
Independent Agencies
INTER-AMERICAN FOUNDATION
The Committee recommendation includes an additional
$10,000,000 for Inter-American Foundation for necessary
expenses to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus.
Such funds remain available until September 30, 2022 and are
made available as an emergency requirement pursuant to section
251(b)(2)A)(i) of BBEDCA.
UNITED STATES AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION
The Committee recommendation includes an additional
$10,000,000 for United States African Development Foundation
for necessary expenses to prevent, prepare for, and respond to
coronavirus. Such funds remain available until September 30,
2022 and are made available as an emergency requirement
pursuant to section 251(b)(2)A)(i) of BBEDCA.
MULTILATERAL ASSISTANCE
Funds Appropriated to the President
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND PROGRAMS
The Committee recommendation includes an additional
$1,281,150,000 for International Organizations and Programs for
necessary expenses to prevent, prepare for, and respond to
coronavirus and to support the United Nations Global
Humanitarian Response Plan COVID-19 for voluntary contributions
to the United Nations and International Organizations
including, the World Health Organization, the United Nations
Children's Fund, and the United Nations Development Program.
Such funds remain available until September 30, 2022 and are
made available as an emergency requirement pursuant to section
251(b)(2)A)(i) of BBEDCA.
GENERAL PROVISIONS--THIS TITLE
Section 8001 (Transfers and Limitations) includes language
applying certain transfer authority and limitations from
section 402 of the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response
Supplemental Appropriations Act (division A of Public Law 116-
123).
Section 8002 (Reimbursement Authority) includes language
providing authority to use funds appropriated under certain
accounts in this title to reimburse such accounts for
obligations incurred to prevent, prepare for, and respond to
coronavirus.
Section 8003 (Reporting Requirements) includes language
applying the reporting requirements of section 406(b) of the
Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental
Appropriations Act, 2020 (division A of Public Law 116-123) to
funds appropriated in this title.
Section 8004 (Contribution Authority) includes language
applying to funds appropriated in this title under Global
Health Programs and Economic Support Fund the authority of
section 404 of the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response
Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2020 (division A of Public Law
116-123) to make such funds available as contributions to
international organizations.
Section 8005 (Repatriation Loans Program Account) includes
language amending section 21005 of the Emergency Appropriations
for Coronavirus Health Response and Agency Operations (division
B of Public Law 116-136) concerning the Repatriation Loans
Program Account to increase the loan volume limitation for
fiscal year 2020 from ``$5,563,619'' to ``$15,463,619''.
Section 8006 (Consular Services) includes language amending
section 21009 of the Emergency Appropriations for Coronavirus
Health Response and Agency Operations (division B of Public Law
116-136) extending through fiscal year 2021 the authority to
utilize certain passport and immigrant visa surcharges for
consular services.
Section 8007 (Definition) includes language defining the
term ``coronavirus'' for the purposes of this title.
Section 8008 (Designation) includes language designating
funding in this title as emergency requirement only if the
President subsequently designates such amounts.
TITLE IX--MIDDLE EAST PARTNERSHIP FOR PEACE ACT OF 2020
Amends Chapter 4 of Part II of the Foreign Assistance Act
of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2346 et seq.) by adding a new section 535
(People-To-People Partnership For Peace Fund), establishes a
joint investment for peace initiative, and authorizes
$50,000,000 for each of the first five fiscal years after the
date of enactment of the Middle East Partnership for Peace Act
of 2020.
House of Representatives Reporting Requirement
The following materials are submitted in accordance with
various requirements of the Rules of the House of
Representatives:
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:
Economic Support Fund................................. $45,000,000
International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement... 30,000,000
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.
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 United States Agency for Global Media
International Broadcasting Operations, language is included to
transfer funds from the USAGM Buying Power Maintenance account
to International Broadcasting Operations.
In title III, under Economic Support Fund, language is
included to transfer funds to the International Broadcasting
Operations for international communications activities.
In title III, under Assistance for Eastern Europe, Eurasia
and Central Asia, language is included to transfer funds to
Economic Support Fund for joint dialogues in support of the
Eastern Mediterranean Partnership.
In title III, under United States Emergency Refugee and
Migration Assistance Fund, language is included to transfer
funds to Migration and Refugee Assistance in excess of the
limitation carried in underlying authority.
In title III, under Peace Corps, language is included to
transfer funds to the Foreign Currency Fluctuations Account and
to transfer funds to other departments and agencies.
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 Peacekeeping Operations and Foreign
Military Financing Program that are designated Overseas
Contingency/Global War on Terrorism to such funds under such
headings.
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 7035 to
transfer funds under Peacekeeping Operations and Foreign
Military Financing Program to Global Security Contingency Fund.
Under title VII, language is included under section 7044 to
transfer funds under Diplomatic Programs to any other
appropriation of any department of agency of the United States
Government to support operations and assistance in Afghanistan.
Under title VII, language is included under section 7064 to
transfer funds from the program account to funds under
Operating Expenses in title II.
Under title VII, language is included under section 7065 to
transfer funds under Economic Support Fund, International
Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement, Non-proliferation, Anti-
terrorism, Demining and Related Programs, Peacekeeping
Operations, and Foreign Military Financing Program to the
Prevention and Stabilization Fund.
Under title VII, language is included under section 7067 to
transfer funds provided for UNFPA to Global Health Programs.
Under title VII, language is included under section 7068(b)
to authorize the transfer of funds between accounts under title
III to respond to a Public Health Emergency of International
Concern.
Under title VIII, language is included under section 8001
allowing transfers between and among accounts appropriated
under title VIII.
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, [and 2020] 2020, and 2021 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, [2020] 2021.
(2) Subsection (c) shall apply to decisions made
after the date of the enactment of this Act and before
October 1, [2020] 2021.
(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, [2020] 2021.
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, [2020] 2021, 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.
* * * * * * *
----------
AFGHAN ALLIES PROTECTION ACT OF 2009
* * * * * * *
DIVISION F--DEPARTMENTS OF LABOR, HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, AND
EDUCATION, AND RELATED AGENCIES APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2009
* * * * * * *
TITLE VI--
AFGHAN ALLIES PROTECTION ACT OF 2009
* * * * * * *
SEC. 602. PROTECTION FOR AFGHAN ALLIES.
(a) Appropriate Committees of Congress Defined.--In this
section, the term ``appropriate committees of Congress''
means--
(1) the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on
Foreign Relations, and the Committee on the Judiciary
of the Senate; and
(2) the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on
Foreign Affairs, and the Committee on the Judiciary of
the House of Representatives.
(b) Special Immigrant Status for Certain Afghans.--
(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (3), the
Secretary of Homeland Security, or, notwithstanding any
other provision of law, the Secretary of State in
consultation with the Secretary of Homeland Security,
may provide an alien described in subparagraph (A),
(B), or (C) of paragraph (2) with the status of a
special immigrant under section 101(a)(27) of the
Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(27)),
if the alien--
(A) or an agent acting on behalf of the
alien, submits a petition for classification
under section 203(b)(4) of such Act (8 U.S.C.
1153(b)(4));
(B) is otherwise eligible to receive an
immigrant visa;
(C) is otherwise admissible to the United
States for permanent residence (excluding the
grounds for inadmissibility specified in
section 212(a)(4) of such Act (8 U.S.C.
1182(a)(4)); and
(D) clears a background check and appropriate
screening, as determined by the Secretary of
Homeland Security.
(2) Aliens described.--
(A) Principal aliens.--An alien is described
in this subparagraph if the alien--
(i) is a citizen or national of
Afghanistan;
(ii) was or is employed in
Afghanistan on or after October 7,
2001, for not less than 1 year, or, if
submitting a petition after September
30, 2015, for a period of not less than
2 years--
(I) by, or on behalf of, the
United States Government; or
(II) by the International
Security Assistance Force (or
any successor name for such
Force) in a capacity that
required the alien--
(aa) while traveling
off-base with United
States military
personnel stationed at
International Security
Assistance Force (or
any successor name for
such Force), to serve
as an interpreter or
translator for such
United States military
personnel; or
(bb) to perform
sensitive and trusted
activities for United
States military
personnel stationed at
International Security
Assistance Force (or
any successor name for
such Force);
(iii) provided faithful and valuable
service to an entity or organization
described in clause (ii), which is
documented in a positive recommendation
or evaluation, subject to subparagraph
(D), from the employee's senior
supervisor or the person currently
occupying that position, or a more
senior person, if the employee's senior
supervisor has left the employer or has
left Afghanistan; and
(iv) has experienced or is
experiencing an ongoing serious threat
as a consequence of the alien's
employment described in clause (ii).
(B) Spouse or child.--An alien is described
in this subparagraph if the alien--
(i) is the spouse or child of a
principal alien described in
subparagraph (A); and
(ii) is accompanying or following to
join the principal alien in the United
States.
(C) Surviving spouse or child.--An alien is
described in this subparagraph if the alien--
(i) was the spouse or child of a
principal alien described in
subparagraph (A) who had a petition for
classification approved pursuant to
this section or section 1059 of the
National Defense Authorization Act for
Fiscal Year 2006 (Public Law 109-163; 8
U.S.C. 1101 note) which included the
alien as an accompanying spouse or
child; and
(ii) due to the death of the
principal alien--
(I) such petition was revoked
or terminated (or otherwise
rendered null); and
(II) such petition would have
been approved if the principal
alien had survived.
(D) Approval by chief of mission required.--
(i) In general.--Except as provided
under clause (ii), a recommendation or
evaluation required under subparagraph
(A)(iii) shall be accompanied by
approval from the appropriate Chief of
Mission, or the designee of the
appropriate Chief of Mission, who shall
conduct a risk assessment of the alien
and an independent review of records
maintained by the United States
Government or hiring organization or
entity to confirm employment and
faithful and valuable service to the
United States Government prior to
approval of a petition under this
section.
(ii) Review process for denial by
chief of mission.--
(I) In general.--An applicant
who has been denied Chief of
Mission approval shall--
(aa) receive a
written decision that
provides, to the
maximum extent
feasible, information
describing the basis
for the denial,
including the facts and
inferences underlying
the individual
determination; and
(bb) be provided not
more than one written
appeal--
(AA) that
shall be
submitted not
more than 120
days after the
date that the
applicant
receives such
decision in
writing; and
(BB) that may
request
reopening of
such decision
and provide
additional
information,
clarify
existing
information, or
explain any
unfavorable
information.
(II) Afghan special immigrant
visa coordinator.--The
Secretary of State shall
designate, in the Embassy of
the United States in Kabul,
Afghanistan, an Afghan Special
Immigrant Visa Coordinator
responsible for overseeing the
efficiency and integrity of the
processing of special immigrant
visas under this section, who
shall be given--
(aa) sufficiently
high security clearance
to review information
supporting Chief of
Mission denials if an
appeal of a denial is
filed;
(bb) responsibility
for ensuring that an
applicant described in
subclause (I) receives
the information
described in subclause
(I)(aa); and
(cc) responsibility
for ensuring that every
applicant is provided a
reasonable opportunity
to provide additional
information, clarify
existing information,
or explain any
unfavorable information
pursuant to clause
(I)(bb).
(E) Evidence of serious threat.--A credible
sworn statement depicting dangerous country
conditions, together with official evidence of
such country conditions from the United States
Government, should be considered as a factor in
determination of whether the alien has
experienced or is experiencing an ongoing
serious threat as a consequence of the alien's
employment by the United States Government for
purposes of subparagraph (A)(iv).
(F) Representation.--An alien applying for
admission to the United States pursuant to this
title may be represented during the application
process, including at relevant interviews and
examinations, by an attorney or other
accredited representative. Such representation
shall not be at the expense of the United
States Government.
(3) Numerical limitations.--
(A) In general.--Except as provided in
subparagraph (C), the total number of principal
aliens who may be provided special immigrant
status under this section may not exceed 1,500
per year for each of the fiscal years 2009,
2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013.
(B) Exclusion from numerical limitations.--
Aliens provided special immigrant status under
this subsection shall not be counted against
any numerical limitation under sections 201(d),
202(a), or 203(b)(4) of the Immigration and
Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1151(d), 1152(a), and
1153(b)(4)).
(C) Carry forward.--
(i) Fiscal years 2009 through 2013.--
If the numerical limitation specified
in subparagraph (A) is not reached
during a given fiscal year, with
respect to fiscal year 2009, 2010,
2011, 2012, or 2013, the numerical
limitation specified in such
subparagraph for the following fiscal
year shall be increased by a number
equal to the difference between--
(I) the numerical limitation
specified in subparagraph (A)
for the given fiscal year; and
(II) the number of principal
aliens provided special
immigrant status under this
section during the given fiscal
year.
(ii) Fiscal year 2014.--If the
numerical limitation determined under
clause (i) is not reached in fiscal
year 2013, the total number of
principal aliens who may be provided
special immigrant status under this
subsection for fiscal year 2014 shall
be equal to the difference between--
(I) the numerical limitation
determined under clause (i) for
fiscal year 2013; and
(II) the number of principal
aliens provided such status
under this section during
fiscal year 2013.
(D) Additional fiscal year.--For fiscal year
2014, the total number of principal aliens who
may be provided special immigrant status under
this section may not exceed 3,000, except that
any unused balance of the total number of
principal aliens who may be provided special
immigrant status in fiscal year 2014 may be
carried forward and provided through the end of
fiscal year 2015, notwithstanding the
provisions of paragraph (C), except that the
one year period during which an alien must have
been employed in accordance with subsection
(b)(2)(A)(ii) shall be the period from October
7, 2001 through December 31, 2014, and except
that the principal alien seeking special
immigrant status under this subparagraph shall
apply to the Chief of Mission in accordance
with subsection (b)(2)(D) no later than
September 30, 2014.
(E) Special rule for end of calendar year
2014.--
(i) In general.--During the period
beginning on the date of the enactment
of this subparagraph and ending on
December 31, 2014, an additional 1,000
principal aliens may be provided
special immigrant status under this
section. For purposes of status
provided under this subparagraph--
(I) the period during which
an alien must have been
employed in accordance with
paragraph (2)(A)(ii) must
terminate on or before December
31, 2014;
(II) the principal alien
seeking special immigrant
status under this subparagraph
shall apply to the Chief of
Mission in accordance with
paragraph (2)(D) not later than
December 31, 2014; and
(III) the authority to
provide such status shall
terminate on December 31, 2014.
(ii) Construction.--Clause (i) shall
not be construed to affect the
authority, numerical limitations, or
terms for provision of status, under
subparagraph (D).
(F) Fiscal years [2015 through 2020] 2015
through 2021.--In addition to any unused
balance under subparagraph (D), for the period
beginning on the date of the enactment of this
subparagraph until such time that available
special immigrant visas under subparagraphs (D)
and (E) and this subparagraph are exhausted,,
the total number of principal aliens who may be
provided special immigrant status under this
section shall not exceed [22,500] 26,500. For
purposes of status provided under this
subparagraph--
(i) the period during which an alien
must have been employed in accordance
with paragraph (2)(A)(ii) must
terminate on or before [December 31,
2021] December 31, 2022
(ii) the principal alien seeking
special immigrant status under this
subparagraph shall apply to the Chief
of Mission in accordance with paragraph
(2)(D) not later than [December 31,
2021] December 31, 2022 and
(iii) the authority to issue visas
shall commence on the date of the
enactment of this subparagraph and
shall terminate on the date such visas
are exhausted.
(4) Application process.--
(A) In general.--Not later than 120 days
after the date of the enactment of the National
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014,
the Secretary of State and the Secretary of
Homeland Security, in consultation with the
Secretary of Defense, shall improve the
efficiency by which applications for special
immigrant visas under paragraph (1), are
processed so that all steps under the control
of the respective departments incidental to the
issuance of such visas, including required
screenings and background checks, should be
completed not later than 9 months after the
date on which an eligible alien submits all
required materials to complete an application
for such visa.
(B) Construction.--Nothing in this section
shall be construed to limit the ability of a
Secretary referred to in subparagraph (A) to
take longer than 9 months to complete those
steps incidental to the issuance of such visas
in high-risk cases for which satisfaction of
national security concerns requires additional
time.
(C) Prohibition on fees.--The Secretary of
Homeland Security or the Secretary of State may
not charge an alien described in subparagraph
(A), (B), or (C) of paragraph (2) any fee in
connection with an application for, or issuance
of, a special immigrant visa under this
section.
(5) Assistance with passport issuance.--The Secretary
of State shall make a reasonable effort to ensure that
an alien described in subparagraph (A), (B), or (C) of
paragraph (2) who is issued a special immigrant visa
pursuant to this subsection is provided with the
appropriate series Afghan passport necessary to enter
the United States.
(6) Protection of aliens.--The Secretary of State, in
consultation with the heads of other appropriate
Federal agencies, shall make a reasonable effort to
provide an alien described in subparagraph (A), (B), or
(C) of paragraph (2) who is seeking special immigrant
status under this subsection protection or to
immediately remove such alien from Afghanistan, if
possible, if the Secretary determines, after
consultation, that such alien is in imminent danger.
(7) Other eligibility for immigrant status.--No alien
shall be denied the opportunity to apply for admission
under this subsection solely because such alien
qualifies as an immediate relative or is eligible for
any other immigrant classification.
(8) Resettlement support.--A citizen or national of
Afghanistan who is granted special immigrant status
described in section 101(a)(27) of the Immigration and
Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(27)) shall be
eligible for resettlement assistance, entitlement
programs, and other benefits available to refugees
admitted under section 207 of such Act (8 U.S.C. 1157)
to the same extent, and for the same periods of time,
as such refugees.
(9) Adjustment of status.--Notwithstanding paragraph
(2), (7), or (8) of subsection (c) of section 245 of
the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1255),
the Secretary of Homeland Security may adjust the
status of an alien described in subparagraph (A), (B),
or (C) of paragraph (2) of this subsection or in
section 1244(b) of the Refugee Crisis in Iraq Act of
2007 (Public Law 110-181; 122 Stat. 397) to that of an
alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence under
subsection (a) of such section 245 if the alien--
(A) was paroled or admitted as a nonimmigrant
into the United States; and
(B) is otherwise eligible for special
immigrant status under--
(i)(I) this subsection; or
(II) such section 1244(b);
and
(ii) the Immigration and Nationality
Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.).
(10) Annual report on use of special immigrant
status.--
(A) Requirement.--Not later than 120 days
after the date of the enactment of this Act,
and annually thereafter, the Secretary of
Homeland Security shall submit to the
appropriate committees of Congress a report on
the number of citizens or nationals of
Afghanistan or Iraq who have applied for status
as special immigrants under this subsection or
section 1244 of the Refugee Crisis in Iraq Act
of 2007 (Public Law 110-181; 122 Stat. 396).
(B) Content.--Each report required by
subparagraph (A) submitted in a fiscal year
shall include the following information for the
previous fiscal year:
(i) The number of citizens or
nationals of Afghanistan or Iraq who
submitted an application for status as
a special immigrant pursuant to this
section or section 1244 of the Refugee
Crisis in Iraq Act of 2007 (Public Law
110-181; 122 Stat. 396),
disaggregated--
(I) by the number of
principal aliens applying for
such status; and
(II) by the number of spouses
and children of principal
aliens applying for such
status.
(ii) The number of applications
referred to in clause (i) that--
(I) were approved; or
(II) were denied, including a
description of the basis for
each denial.
(11) Report on improvements.--
(A) Requirement for report.--Not later than
120 days after the date of the enactment of the
John S. McCain National Defense Authorization
Act for Fiscal Year 2019, the Secretary of
State and the Secretary of Homeland Security,
in consultation with the Secretary of Defense,
shall submit to the appropriate committees of
Congress a report, with a classified annex, if
necessary.
(B) Contents.--The report required by
subparagraph (A) shall describe the
implementation of improvements to the
processing of applications for special
immigrant visas under this subsection,
including information relating to--
(i) enhancing existing systems for
conducting background and security
checks of persons applying for special
immigrant status, which shall--
(I) support immigration
security; and
(II) provide for the orderly
processing of such applications
without significant delay;
(ii) the financial, security, and
personnel considerations and resources
necessary to carry out this section;
(iii) the number of aliens who have
applied for special immigrant visas
under this subsection during each month
of the preceding fiscal year;
(iv) the reasons for the failure to
process any applications that have been
pending for longer than 9 months;
(v) the total number of applications
that are pending due to the failure--
(I) to receive approval from
the Chief of Mission;
(II) of U.S. Citizenship and
Immigration Services to
complete the adjudication of
the Form I-360;
(III) to conduct a visa
interview; or
(IV) to issue the visa to an
eligible alien;
(vi) the average wait times for an
applicant at each of the stages
described in clause (v);
(vii) the number of denials or
rejections at each of the stages
described in clause (v); and
(viii) the reasons for denials by the
Chief of Mission based on the
categories already made available to
denied special immigrant visa
applicants in the denial letter sent to
them by the Chief of Mission.
(12) Public quarterly reports.--Not later than 120
days after the date of the enactment of the National
Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2014, and
every 3 months thereafter, the Secretary of State and
the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation
with the Secretary of Defense, shall publish a report
on the website of the Department of State that
describes the efficiency improvements made in the
process by which applications for special immigrant
visas under this subsection are processed, including
information described in clauses (iii) through (viii)
of paragraph (11)(B).
(13) Report.--Not later than December 31, 2016, and
annually thereafter through January 31, 2021, the
Secretary of State and the Secretary of Homeland
Security, in consultation with the Secretary of
Defense, shall submit a report to the appropriate
committees of Congress containing the following
information:
(A) The occupations of aliens who--
(i) were provided special immigrant
status under subclause (I) or (II)(bb)
of paragraph (2)(A)(ii); and
(ii) were considered principal aliens
for such purpose.
(B) The number of appeals submitted under
paragraph (2)(D)(ii)(I)(bb) from application
denials by the Chief of Mission and the number
of those applications that were approved
pursuant to the appeal.
(C) The number of applications denied by the
Chief of Mission on the basis of derogatory
information that were appealed and the number
of those applications that were approved
pursuant to the appeal.
(D) The number of applications denied by the
Chief of Mission on the basis that the
applicant did not establish faithful and
valuable service to the United States
Government that were appealed and the number of
those applications that were approved pursuant
to the appeal.
(E) The number of applications denied by the
Chief of Mission for failure to establish the
one-year period of employment required that
were appealed and the number of those
applications that were approved pursuant to the
appeal.
(F) The number of applications denied by the
Chief of Mission for failure to establish
employment by or on behalf of the United States
Government that were appealed and the number of
those applications that were approved pursuant
to the appeal.
(G) The number of special immigrant status
approvals revoked by the Chief of Mission and
the reason for each revocation.
(H) The number of special immigrant status
approvals revoked by the Chief of Mission that
were appealed and the number of those
revocations that were overturned pursuant to
the appeal.
(14) Reports informing the conclusion of the afghan
special immigrant visa program.--Not later than June 1,
2016, and every six months thereafter, the Secretary of
Defense, in conjunction with the Secretary of State,
shall submit to the Committee on Armed Services and the
Committee on the Judiciary of the Senate and the
Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on the
Judiciary of the House of Representatives a report that
contains--
(A) a description of the United States force
presence in Afghanistan during the previous 6
months;
(B) a description of the projected United
States force presence in Afghanistan;
(C) the number of citizens or nationals of
Afghanistan who were employed by or on behalf
of the entities described in paragraph
(2)(A)(ii) during the previous 6 months; and
(D) the projected number of such citizens or
nationals who will be employed by or on behalf
of such entities.
(15) Sense of congress.--It is the sense of Congress
that the necessity of providing special immigrant
status under this subsection should be assessed at
regular intervals by the Committee on Armed Services of
the Senate and the Committee on Armed Services of the
House of Representatives, taking into account the scope
of the current and planned presence of United States
troops in Afghanistan, the current and prospective
numbers of citizens and nationals of Afghanistan
employed by or on behalf of the entities described in
paragraph (2)(A)(ii), and the security climate in
Afghanistan.
(c) Rule of construction.--Nothing in this section may be
construed to affect the authority of the Secretary of Homeland
Security under section 1059 of the National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006 (Public Law 109-163; 8
U.S.C. 1101 note).
----------
DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2005
* * * * * * *
TITLE X
OTHER MATTERS
* * * * * * *
CHAPTER 2--BILATERAL ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE
* * * * * * *
GENERAL PROVISIONS, THIS CHAPTER
Sec. 12001. (a)(1) Notwithstanding section 514 of the Foreign
Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2321h), the President may
transfer to Israel, in exchange for concessions to be
negotiated by the Secretary of Defense, with the concurrence of
the Secretary of State, any or all of the items described in
paragraph (2).
(2) The items referred to in paragraph (1) are armor,
artillery, automatic weapons ammunition, missiles, and other
munitions that--
(A) are obsolete or surplus items;
(B) are in the inventory of the Department of
Defense;
(C) are intended for use as reserve stocks for
Israel; and
(D) are located in a stockpile in Israel.
(b) The value of concessions negotiated pursuant to
subsection (a) shall be at least equal to the fair market value
of the items transferred. The concessions may include cash
compensation, services, waiver of charges otherwise payable by
the United States, and other items of value.
(c) Not later than 30 days before making a transfer under the
authority of this section, the President shall transmit a
notification of the proposed transfer to the Committees on
Foreign Relations and Armed Services of the Senate and the
Committees on International Relations and Armed Services of the
House of Representatives. The notification shall identify the
items to be transferred and the concessions to be received.
(d) No transfer may be made under the authority [of this
section after September 30, 2021.] of this section after
September 30, 2023.
* * * * * * *
----------
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) are permitted in the country in which
they are being provided; and
(B) would not violate United States 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.
* * * * * * *
TITLE XII--FAMINE PREVENTION AND FREEDOM FROM HUNGER
* * * * * * *
Chapter 2--Military Assistance
* * * * * * *
Sec. 514. Stockpiling of Defense Articles for Foreign
Countries.--(a) No defense article in the inventory of the
Department of Defense which is set aside, reserved, or in any
way earmarked or intended for future use by any foreign country
may be made available to or for use by any foreign country
unless such transfer is authorized under this Act or the Arms
Export Control Act, or any subsequent corresponding
legislation, and the value of such transfer is charged against
funds authorized under such legislation or against the
limitations specified in such legislation, as appropriate, for
the fiscal period in which such defense article is transferred.
For purposes of this subsection, ``value'' means the
acquisition cost plus crating, packing, handling, and
transportation costs incurred in carrying out this section.
(b)(1) The value of defense articles to be set aside,
earmarked, reserved, or intended for use as war reserve stocks
for allied or other foreign countries (other than for purposes
of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization or in the
implementation of agreements with Israel) in stockpiles located
in foreign countries may not exceed in any fiscal year an
amount that is specified in security assistance authorizing
legislation for that fiscal year.
(2)(A) The value of such additions to stockpiles of defense
articles in foreign countries shall not exceed $200,000,000 for
each of fiscal years 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019,
2020, [and 2021] 2021, 2022, and 2023.
(B) Of the amount specified in subparagraph (A) for a fiscal
year, not more than $200,000,000 may be made available for
stockpiles in the State of Israel.
(c) Location of Stockpiles of Defense Articles.--
(1) Limitation.--Except as provided in paragraph (2),
no stockpile of defense articles may be located outside
the boundaries of a United States military base or a
military base used primarily by the United States.
(2) Exceptions.--Paragraph (1) shall not apply with
respect to stockpiles of defense articles located in
the Republic of Korea, Thailand, any country that is a
member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, any
country that is a major non-NATO ally, or any other
country the President may designate. At least 15 days
before designating a country pursuant to the last
clause of the preceding sentence, the President shall
notify the congressional committees specified in
section 634A(a) in accordance with the procedures
applicable to reprogramming notifications under that
section.
(d) No defense article transferred from any stockpile which
is made available to or for use by any foreign country may be
considered an excess defense article for the purpose of
determining the value thereof.
* * * * * * *
CHAPTER 4--ECONOMIC SUPPORT FUND
* * * * * * *
SEC. 535 PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE PARTNERSHIP FOR PEACE FUND.
(a) Establishment.--Beginning on the date that is one year
after the date of enactment of this section, the Administrator
of the United States Agency for International Development is
authorized to establish a program to provide funding for
projects to help build the foundation for peaceful co-existence
between Israelis and Palestinians and for a sustainable two-
state solution. The program established under this subsection
shall be known as the ``People-to-People Partnership for Peace
Fund'' (referred to in this section as the ``Fund'').
(b) Eligibility for Support.--In providing funding for
projects through the Fund, the Administrator may provide
support for qualified organizations, prioritizing those
organizations that seek to build better cooperation between
Israelis and Palestinians, including Palestinian organizations,
Israeli organizations, and international organizations that
bring Israelis and Palestinians together.
(c) Additional Eligibility for Support.--In providing funding
for projects through the Fund, The Administrator may
additionally provide support to qualified organizations that
further shared community building, peaceful co-existence,
dialogue, and reconciliation between Arab and Jewish citizens
of Israel.
(d) Contributions.--The Administrator--
(1) is encouraged to work with foreign governments
and international organizations to leverage the impact
of United States resources and achieve the objectives
of this section; and
(2) is authorized to make and accept contributions
for the purposes of the Fund, consistent with
subsections (b) and (d) of section 635.
(e) Advisory Board.--
(1) Establishment.--The Administrator shall establish
an advisory board to make recommendations to the
Administrator regarding the types of projects that
should be funded through the Fund.
(2) Membership.--
(A) In General.--Subject to subparagraph (B),
the advisory board shall be composed of 13
members, none of whom may be Members of
Congress, who shall be appointed for renewable
periods of 3 years, as follows:
(i) One member appointed by the
Administrator, in consultation with the
Secretary of State.
(ii) One member appointed by the
chair, and one member appointed by the
ranking member, of the Committee on
Foreign Relations of the Senate.
(iii) One member appointed by the
chair, and one member appointed by the
ranking member, of the Committee on
Foreign Affairs of the House of
Representatives.
(iv) One member appointed by the
chair, and one member appointed by the
ranking member, of the Committee on
Appropriations of the Senate.
(v) One member appointed by the
chair, and one member appointed by the
ranking member, of the Committee on
Appropriations of the House of
Representatives.
(vi) One member appointed by the
majority leader, and one member
appointed by the minority leader, of
the Senate.
(vii) One member appointed by the
Speaker, and one member appointed by
the minority leader, of the House of
Representatives.
(B) International Participation.--The
Administrator may appoint up to 2 additional
members to the advisory board who are
representatives of foreign governments or
international organizations for renewable
periods of 3 years.
(C) Qualifications.--Members of the advisory
board shall have demonstrated regional
expertise and experience and expertise in
conflict mitigation and people-to-people
programs.
(D) Additional recommendations.--The
Administrator should consider the input and
recommendations from missions of the United
States Agency for International Development in
the region and mission directors when
considering types of projects.
* * * * * * *
----------
SECTION 7045 OF THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND
RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2020
(Public Law 116-94; division G)
latin america and the caribbean
Sec. 7045. (a) Central America.--
(1) Assistance.--
(A) Fiscal year 2020.--Of the funds
appropriated by this Act under titles III and
IV, not less than $519,885,000 [should] shall
be made available for assistance for Belize,
Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras,
Nicaragua, and Panama, including through the
Central America Regional Security Initiative:
Provided, That such assistance shall be
prioritized for programs and activities that
addresses the key factors that contribute to
the migration of unaccompanied, undocumented
minors to the United States and such funds
shall be made available for global health,
humanitarian, development, democracy, border
security, and law enforcement programs for such
countries, including for programs to reduce
violence against women and girls and to combat
corruption, and for support of commissions
against corruption and impunity, as
appropriate: Provided further, That not less
than $45,000,000 shall be for support of
offices of Attorneys General and of other
entities and activities to combat corruption
and impunity in such countries.
(B) Fiscal year 2019.--Of the funds
appropriated under titles III and IV of the
Department of State, Foreign Operations, and
Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2019
(division F of Public Law 116-6), not less than
$527,600,000 should be made available for
assistance for Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador,
Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama,
including through the Central America Regional
Security Initiative: Provided, That such funds
shall be made available subject to the
conditions in paragraph (2) of this subsection
and notwithstanding paragraphs (1) and (2) of
section 7045(a) of the Department of State,
Foreign Operations, and Related Programs
Appropriations Act, 2019 (division F of Public
Law 116-6).
(2) Northern triangle.--
(A) Limitation on assistance to certain
central governments.--Of the funds made
available pursuant to paragraph (1) under the
heading ``Economic Support Fund'' and under
title IV of this Act that are made available
for assistance for each of the central
governments of El Salvador, Guatemala, and
Honduras, 50 percent may only be obligated
after the Secretary of State certifies and
reports to the appropriate congressional
committees that such government is--
(i) combating corruption and
impunity, including prosecuting corrupt
government officials;
(ii) implementing reforms, policies,
and programs to increase transparency
and strengthen public institutions;
(iii) protecting the rights of civil
society, opposition political parties,
and the independence of the media;
(iv) providing effective and
accountable law enforcement and
security for its citizens, and
upholding due process of law;
(v) implementing policies to reduce
poverty and promote equitable economic
growth and opportunity;
(vi) supporting the independence of
the judiciary and of electoral
institutions;
(vii) improving border security;
(viii) combating human smuggling and
trafficking and countering the
activities of criminal gangs, drug
traffickers, and transnational criminal
organizations; and
(ix) informing its citizens of the
dangers of the journey to the southwest
border of the United States.
(B) Reprogramming If the Secretary is unable
to make the certification required by
subparagraph (A) for one or more of the
governments, such assistance for such central
government shall be reprogrammed for assistance
for other countries in Latin America and the
Caribbean, notwithstanding the minimum funding
requirements of this subsection and of section
7019 of this Act: Provided, That any such
reprogramming shall be subject to the regular
notification procedures of the Committees on
Appropriations.
(C) Exceptions.--The limitation of
subparagraph (A) shall not apply to funds
appropriated by this Act that are made
available for--
(i) the Mission to Support the Fight
Against Corruption and Impunity in
Honduras, the International Commission
Against Impunity in El Salvador, and
support of offices of Attorneys General
and of other entities and activities
related to combating corruption and
impunity;
(ii) programs to combat gender-based
violence;
(iii) humanitarian assistance; and
(iv) food security programs.
(b) Colombia.--
(1) Assistance.--Of the funds appropriated by this
Act under titles III and IV, not less than $448,253,000
shall be made available for assistance for Colombia:
Provided, That such funds shall be made available for
the programs and activities described under this
section in the explanatory statement described in
section 4 (in the matter preceding division A of this
consolidated Act).
(2) Withholding of funds.--
(A) Counternarcotics.--Of the funds
appropriated by this Act under the heading
``International Narcotics Control and Law
Enforcement'' and made available for assistance
for Colombia, 20 percent may be obligated only
after the Secretary of State certifies and
reports to the Committees on Appropriations
that the Government of Colombia is continuing
to implement a national whole-of-government
counternarcotics strategy intended to reduce by
50 percent cocaine production and coca
cultivation levels in Colombia by 2023.
(B) Human rights.--Of the funds appropriated
by this Act under the heading ``Foreign
Military Financing Program'' and made available
for assistance for Colombia, 20 percent may be
obligated only after the Secretary of State
certifies and reports to the Committees on
Appropriations that--
(i) the Special Jurisdiction for
Peace and other judicial authorities
are taking effective steps to hold
accountable perpetrators of gross
violations of human rights in a manner
consistent with international law,
including for command responsibility,
and sentence them to deprivation of
liberty;
(ii) the Government of Colombia is
taking effective steps to prevent
attacks against human rights defenders
and other civil society activists,
trade unionists, and journalists, and
judicial authorities are prosecuting
those responsible for such attacks; and
(iii) senior military officers
responsible for ordering, committing,
and covering up cases of false
positives are being held accountable,
including removal from active duty if
found guilty through criminal or
disciplinary proceedings.
(3) Exceptions.--The limitations of paragraph (2)
shall not apply to funds made available for aviation
instruction and maintenance, and maritime and riverine
security programs.
(4) Authority.--Aircraft supported by funds
appropriated by this Act and prior Acts making
appropriations for the Department of State, foreign
operations, and related programs and made available for
assistance for Colombia may be used to transport
personnel and supplies involved in drug eradication and
interdiction, including security for such activities,
and to provide transport in support of alternative
development programs and investigations by civilian
judicial authorities.
(5) Limitation None of the funds appropriated by this
Act or prior Acts making appropriations for the
Department of State, foreign operations, and related
programs that are made available for assistance for
Colombia may be made available for payment of
reparations to conflict victims or compensation to
demobilized combatants associated with a peace
agreement between the Government of Colombia and
illegal armed groups.
(c) Haiti.--
(1) Certification.--Funds appropriated by this Act
under the heading ``Economic Support Fund'' that are
made available for assistance for Haiti may not be made
available for assistance for the central Government of
Haiti unless the Secretary of State certifies and
reports to the Committees on Appropriations that such
government is taking effective steps, which are steps
taken since the certification and report submitted
during the prior year, if applicable, to--
(A) strengthen the rule of law in Haiti,
including by--
(i) selecting judges in a transparent
manner based on merit;
(ii) reducing pre-trial detention;
(iii) respecting the independence of
the judiciary; and
(iv) improving governance by
implementing reforms to increase
transparency and accountability,
including through the penal and
criminal codes;
(B) combat corruption, including by
implementing the anti-corruption law enacted in
2014 and prosecuting corrupt officials;
(C) increase government revenues, including
by implementing tax reforms, and increasing
expenditures on public services; and
(D) resolve commercial disputes between
United States entities and the Government of
Haiti.
(2) Haitian coast guard.--The Government of Haiti
shall be eligible to purchase defense articles and
services under the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C.
2751 et seq.) for the Coast Guard.
(3) Limitation.--None of the funds made available by
this Act may be used to provide assistance to the armed
forces of Haiti.
(d) The Caribbean.--Of the funds appropriated by this Act
under titles III and IV, not less than $60,000,000 shall be
made available for the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative.
(e) Venezuela.--
(1) Of the funds appropriated by this Act under the
heading ``Economic Support Fund'', not less than
$30,000,000 shall be made available for democracy
programs for Venezuela.
(2) Funds appropriated under title III of this Act
and prior Acts making appropriations for the Department
of State, foreign operations, and related programs
shall be made available for assistance for communities
in countries supporting or otherwise impacted by
refugees from Venezuela, including Colombia, Peru,
Ecuador, Curacao, and Trinidad and Tobago: Provided,
That such amounts are in addition to funds otherwise
made available for assistance for such countries,
subject to prior consultation with, and the regular
notification procedures of, the Committees on
Appropriations.
----------
EMERGENCY APPROPRIATIONS FOR CORONAVIRUS HEALTH RESPONSE AND AGENCY
OPERATIONS
(Public Law 116-136; division B)
DIVISION B--EMERGENCY APPROPRIATIONS FOR CORONAVIRUS HEALTH RESPONSE
AND AGENCY OPERATIONS
The following sums are hereby are appropriated, out of any
money in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated, for the
fiscal year ending September 30, 2020, and for other purposes,
namely:
* * * * * * *
TITLE XI
DEPARTMENT OF STATE
* * * * * * *
Sec. 21005. The Department of State, Foreign Operations, and
Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2020 (division G of Public
Law 116-94) is amended under the heading ``Emergencies in the
Diplomatic and Consular Service'' in title I by striking ``
$1,000,000'' and inserting in lieu thereof `` $5,000,000'' and
is further amended by striking ``$5,563,619'' in the second
proviso under the heading ``Repatriation Loans Program
Account'' and inserting in lieu thereof ``$15,563,619''.
* * * * * * *
Sec. 21009. Notwithstanding section 6(b) of the Department of
State Authorities Act of 2006 (Public Law 109-472; 120 Stat.
3556), during [fiscal year 2020] fiscal years 2020 and 2021,
passport and immigrant visa surcharges collected in any fiscal
year pursuant to the fourth paragraph under the heading
``Diplomatic and Consular Programs'' in the Department of State
and Related Agency Appropriations Act, 2005 (title IV of
division B of Public Law 108-447; 8 U.S.C. 1714) may be
obligated and expended for the costs of providing consular
services: Provided, That such funds should be prioritized for
United States citizen services: Provided further, That not
later than 90 days after the expiration of this authority, the
Secretary of State shall provide a report to the Committee on
Appropriations and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the
Senate and the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on
Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives detailing the
specific expenditures made pursuant to this authority: Provided
further, That the amount provided by this section is designated
by the Congress as being for an emergency requirement pursuant
to section 251(b)(2)(A)(i) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency
Deficit Control Act of 1985.
* * * * * * *
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 2021 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 2021 bill, which may
be construed as changing existing law, are as follows:
Title I
Under Diplomatic Programs, language carried in 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 similar to the prior year placing limitations on the
uses of funds and restricting representation expenses.
Under Emergencies in the Diplomatic and Consular Service,
language similar to the prior year permitting the transfer of
not to exceed $1,000,000 to Repatriation Loans Program Account.
Under Repatriation Loans Program Account, language similar
to 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. Appropriations for the
World Health Organization and the North Atlantic Treaty
Organization are specified.
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.
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, and
authorizing the transfer of funds from the Buying Power
Maintenance Account.
Under Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Program, language
carried in the prior year limiting the use of funds relating to
compensation.
Under National Endowment for Democracy, language carried in
the prior year designating funds for certain purposes.
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 2021 and requiring notification.
Under United States Commission on International Religious
Freedom, language carried in 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 carried in 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. New language is included designating
funds for the World Health Organization.
Under Development Assistance, language is included
requiring the direct apportionment of funding to USAID within
60 days of enactment of this Act.
Under International Disaster Assistance, language is
included requiring the direct apportionment of funding to USAID
within 60 days of enactment of this Act.
Under Transition Initiatives, language similar to the prior
year designating the use of funds, requiring a report prior to
the initiation 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 Economic Support Fund, new language is included
designating funds from this Act and prior Acts for programs in
the West Bank and Gaza. New language is also included
prohibiting funds designated for the Diplomatic Progress Fund.
New language is also included for public diplomacy and
countering disinformation.
Under Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia,
language modified from 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 small-scale emergency
humanitarian requirements and for refugees resettling in
Israel.
Under Peace Corps, language similar to 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. New language is
included designating funds for programs in El Salvador,
Guatemala, and Honduras.
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
similar to the prior year providing funds notwithstanding the
location of the performance of a personal service contract.
Under Debt Restructuring, language similar to the prior
year providing funds for debt restructuring programs. New
language is included providing funds for Somalia debt relief.
Title IV
Under International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement,
language carried in the prior year 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. New language is also
included prohibiting funds designated for the Diplomatic
Progress Fund.
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. New language is included regarding
the allocation and allotment for core contributions.
Under Global Environment Facility, language similar to the
prior year regarding obligation and disbursement of funds,
reporting requirements, and notifications from the Secretary of
the Treasury.
Under Contribution to the International Bank for
Reconstruction and Development, language carried similar to the
prior year regarding the United States share of the paid-in
portion of the increases in capital stock and the limitation on
callable capital subscriptions.
Under Contribution to the International Fund for
Agricultural Development, language similar to the prior year
regarding reporting on the obligation and disbursement of funds
by the Secretary of the Treasury.
Under Contribution to the North American Development Bank,
new language regarding the limitation on callable capital
subscriptions.
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, and requiring notifications. New language is
included regarding administratively determined pay authority.
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, language carried in the prior year making funds
available for the Office of Inspector General.
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, and limitation of
administrative expenses and representation expenses.
Under United States International Development Finance
Corporation, Program Account, language carried in the prior
year making funds available to carry out the activities
described in the BUILD Act of 2018 with the limitations
described in such Act.
Under Trade and Development Agency, language similar to 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 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.
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 the governments of Cuba, North
Korea, Iran, and Syria.
Sec. 7008 includes language modified from 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 modified from 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 modified from the prior year
withholding assistance to a country where such assistance is
subject to taxation, unless the Secretary of State makes
certain determinations, and updating a reporting requirement.
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 modified from the prior year
establishing the notification requirements for funds made
available by this Act.
Sec. 7016 includes language carried in 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 carried in the prior year
regarding debt-for-development and debt-for-nature exchanges.
Sec. 7019 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.
Sec. 7020 includes language modified from 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 carried in the prior year
conditioning funds provided to local organizations through
limited competitions.
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; and
whistleblower protections.
Sec. 7030 includes language modified from the prior year
rescinding $75,000,000 in unobligated balances from prior year
appropriations, of which $45,000,000 is from Economic Support
Fund and $30,000,000 is from International Narcotics Control
and Law Enforcement.
Sec. 7031 includes language modified from 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 modified from the prior year on
assistance regarding international religious freedom.
Sec. 7034 includes language modified from the prior year
granting or extending certain special authorities and
establishing conditions 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 continues language carried in the prior year
related to the Arab League Boycott of Israel.
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 modified from 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 modified from 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 not less than $68,000,000 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 modified from the prior year
establishing certain limitations on assistance that may impact
jobs in the United States.
Sec. 7057 includes language modified from the prior year
regarding disability programs.
Sec. 7058 includes language carried in the prior year
establishing restrictions on enterprise funds.
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, environment, 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
requiring operating and spend plans for funds appropriated by
this Act.
Sec. 7062 includes language carried in the prior year
concerning consultation, notification, and reporting
requirements involving any agency reorganization.
Sec. 7063 includes language carried in the prior year
regarding management of the Department of State including
financial management, personnel levels, and information
technology.
Sec. 7064 includes language carried in the prior year
regarding management of USAID including personnel levels and
hiring authorities.
Sec. 7065 includes language modified from the prior year
related to assistance to regions impacted by extremism and
conflict.
Sec. 7066 includes language carried in the prior year
prohibiting funding for abortions and involuntary
sterilization.
Sec. 7067 includes language modified from the prior year
regarding assistance provided to UNFPA and to address women's
health.
Sec. 7068 includes language modified from the prior year
regarding global health activities; providing certain
authorities to better prepare for, and respond to, emerging
health threats; and consolidates other global health
requirements previously carried under other sections of the
bill.
Sec. 7069 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.... $12,429,669,000
Administration of Foreign
Affairs.
Department of State/ 2003.............. $1,529,702,000.... $1,672,000,000.... $2,962,242,000
International Organizations.
Department of State/ 2003.............. $71,385,000....... $57,730,000....... $174,496,000
International Commissions.
U.S. Agency for Global Media 2003.............. $644,486,000...... $599,560,000...... $637,252,000
(formerly Broadcasting Board of
Governors).
Department of State/Related 2003.............. $72,000,000....... $69,986,000....... $285,278,000
Programs.
United States Institute of Peace 2014.............. Such sums as may $37,000,000....... $45,000,000
be necessary.
USAID/Operating Expenses........ 1987.............. $387,000,000...... $340,600,000...... $1,364,526,000
USAID/Capital Investment Fund... None.............. NA................ NA................ $238,000,000
USAID/Inspector General......... 1987.............. $21,750,000....... $21,000,000....... $75,500,000
Global Health Programs (see note Population (1987); Population Population $3,226,975,000
below). Health and ($290,000,000); ($234,625,000); (includes not
Disease Health and Health and less than
Prevention Disease Disease $750,000,000 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 2013.............. $48,000,000,000 $5,720,499,000.... $5,930,000,000
over 5 years.
Development Assistance (see note Agriculture; Agriculture Agriculture $3,800,000,000
below). (1987) Education ($760,000,000); ($693,613,000); (program levels
(1987); Energy Education Education too difficult to
and selected ($180,000,000); ($155,000,000); determine due to
development Energy and Energy and changing
activities (1987). selected selected definitions of
development development programs since
activities activities last authorized)
($207,000,000). ($149,990,000).
International Disaster 2018.............. $2,794,184,000.... $2,696,534,000.... $4,395,362,000
Assistance.
Transition Initiatives.......... None.............. NA................ NA................ $92,043,000
Democracy Fund.................. None.............. NA................ NA................ $323,700,000
Assistance for Europe, Eurasia 1993.............. $410,000,000...... NA................ $770,334,000
and Central Asia.
Migration and Refugee Assistance 2003.............. $820,000,000...... $781,884,000...... $3,432,000,000
Peace Corps..................... 2003.............. $365,000,000...... $295,069,000...... $410,500,000
Millennium Challenge Corporation 2005.............. Such sums as may $1,488,000,000.... $905,000,000
be necessary.
Inter-American Foundation....... 1993.............. $31,000,000....... $30,960,000....... $41,500,000
United States African 1987.............. $3,872,000........ $6,500,000........ $33,000,000
Development Foundation.
Department of the Treasury, 1999.............. $5,000,000........ $1,500,000........ $33,000,000
International Affairs Technical
Assistance.
Economic Support Fund........... 1987.............. $3,800,000,000.... $3,555,000,000.... $3,444,407,000
International Narcotics Control 1994.............. $171,500,000...... $100,000,000...... $1,391,000,000
and Law Enforcement.
Nonproliferation, Anti- 2003.............. $226,200,000...... NA................ $897,000,000
terrorism, Demining and Related
Programs (see note below).
Peacekeeping Operations......... 1999.............. $83,000,000....... $76,500,000....... $457,348,000
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.... $6,156,924,000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 subcommitties: Subcommittee
on State, Foreign Operations, and Related
Programs:
Discretionary............................... 47,850 50,500 \1\47,850 49,834
Mandatory................................... 159 159 \1\159 159
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\Includes outlay from prior-year budget authority.
NOTE.--Consistent with the funding recommended in the bill for overseas contingency operations/global war on
terrorism, in accordance with section 251(b)(2) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of
1985, and after the bill is reported to the House, the Chairman of the Committee on the Budget will provide a
revised section 302(a) allocation reflecting an additional $8,000 million in discretionary budget authority
and $2,019 million in associated outlays. That new allocation will eliminate the technical difference prior to
floor consideration.
In addition, the amounts in this report do not include $10,019 million in discretionary budget authority and
$1,034 million in associated outlays from amounts provided in this bill that are designated as being for
emergency requirements pursuant to section 251 of the Balanced Budget Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit
Congrol Act of 1985. Further, the amounts in this report do not include an additional $527 million in
discretionary outlays from such funding that was provided by the CARES Act (Public Law 116-136). 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 coutlays associated with the recommendations:
2021.................................................... ........... ........... \1\ 15,853
2022.................................................... ........... ........... ........... 14,562
2023.................................................... ........... ........... ........... 10,523
2024.................................................... ........... ........... ........... 5,953
2025 and future years................................... ........... ........... ........... 8,034
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\Excludes outlays from prior-year 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 \1\0 0
local governments for 2021.......
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\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
For the purposes of section 103(i) of H. Res. 6 of the
116th Congress--
The following hearings were used to develop or consider the
State, Foreign Operations and Related Agencies Appropriations
Act, 2021:
The Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Related
Agencies held a budget hearing on February 27, 2020, entitled
``Member Day Hearing.'' The Subcommittee received oral
testimony and/or written testimony from:
The Honorable Ed Case, Member of Congress
The Honorable Joaquin Castro, Member of Congress
The Honorable Judy Chu, Member of Congress
The Honorable Jim Costa, Member of Congress
The Honorable TJ Cox, Member of Congress
The Honorable Adriano Espaillat, Member of Congress
The Honorable Bill Foster, Member of Congress
The Honorable French Hill, Member of Congress
The Honorable Sheila Jackson Lee, Member of Congress
The Honorable James McGovern, Member of Congress
The Honorable Frank Pallone, Jr., Member of Congress
The Honorable Scott Perry, Member of Congress
The Honorable Adam Schiff, Member of Congress
The Honorable Brad Sherman, Member of Congress
The Honorable Abigail Spanberger, Member of Congress
The Honorable Jackie Speier, Member of Congress
The Honorable Ann Wagner, Member of Congress
The Honorable Ted Yoho, Member of Congress
The Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Related
Agencies held an oversight hearing on March 3, 2020, entitled
``United States Agency for International Development (USAID)
Budget Request for FY2021''. The Subcommittee received
testimony from:
The Honorable Mark Green, Administrator, U.S. Agency
for International Development
The Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Related
Agencies held an oversight hearing on March 4, 2020, entitled
``Export and Finance Agencies Budget Request for FY2021''. The
Subcommittee received testimony from:
Adam Boehler, Chief Executive Officer, U.S.
International Development Finance Corporation
Thomas Hardy, Acting Director, United States Trade
and Development Agency
Kimberly Reed, President and Chairman, Export-Import
Bank of the United States
The Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Related
Agencies held an oversight hearing on March 11, 2020, entitled
``Department of the Treasury International Programs Budget
Request for FY2021''. The Subcommittee received testimony from:
The Honorable Steven Mnuchin, Secretary, Department
of the Treasury
The Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations and Related
Agencies held a budget hearing on March 12, 2020, entitled
``Public Witness Day.'' The Subcommittee received testimony
from:
W. Ron Allen, Tribal Chairman and CEO, Pacific Salmon
Commission
Niranjali Amerasinghe, Executive Director, ActionAid
USA
David Arnold, President and CEO, The Asia Foundation
David Beckmann, President, Bread for the World
Natasha Bilimoria, Director of U.S. Strategy, Gavi,
The Vaccine Alliance
Jeanne Bourgault, President/CEO, Internews
Helen Boyle, Representative, Basic Education
Coalition
Anucha Browne, Chief Engagement, Advocacy, and Global
Programs Officer, UNICEF USA
Chris Collins, President, Friends of the Global Fight
Against AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria
Filmona Hailemichael, Director of U.S. Policy and
Government Affairs, Global Citizen
Jordie Hannum, Executive Director, Better World
Campaign
Danielle Heiberg, Advocacy Advisor, Global Water 2020
Howard Kohr, CEO, AIPAC
Jamie Bay Nishi, Director, Global Health Technologies
Coalition
Doug O'Brien, President and CEO, National Cooperative
Business Association CLUSA International
Kate O'Brien, Representative, The TB Roundtable
William ``Bill'' O'Keefe, Executive Vice President
for Mission, Mobilization, and Advocacy, Catholic
Relief Services
Dafna Rand, Vice President for Policy and Research,
Mercy Corps
Joan Rosenhauer, Executive Director, Jesuit Refugee
Service/USA
Conor Savoy, Executive Director, Modernizing Foreign
Assistance Network (MFAN)
Liz Schrayer, President and CEO, U.S. Global
Leadership Coalition (USGLC)
Stanton Soderstrom, Executive Director, Kiwanis
International
Kate Wall, Senior Legislative Manager, International
Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)
Dan West, Senior Advocate, Government Affairs,
Natural Resources Defense Council
Jesse Young, Policy Lead, Climate Change, Oxfam
America
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 2020 enacted amounts and budget estimates
presented for fiscal year 2021:
MINORITY VIEWS
We appreciate the collegial and collaborative efforts of
Full Committee and Subcommittee Chairwoman, Nita Lowey, in
producing a State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs
Appropriations bill that includes bipartisan priorities that
support our national security and reflect the character of our
country.
Chief among them is the $3,300,000,000 in Foreign Military
Financing Program for our great ally Israel. The bill also
maintains funding at last year's level for other close partners
in the Near East, including Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, and
Tunisia. Funding is maintained at the current level for embassy
security to help ensure the safety and security of our
diplomats and development experts serving abroad. During such
turbulent times, when United States personnel and facilities
face daily threats, these investments remain a bipartisan
priority. Funding is also continued to strengthen international
efforts to combat the flow of drugs into our country and tackle
transnational crime oversees. These efforts go hand-in-hand
with the work we do here at home in the relentless fight
against drug abuse and addiction. In addition, the bill
continues support for important programs within global health,
such as maternal and child health, nutrition, tuberculosis, the
PEPFAR program, and important contributions to the Global Fund
to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, and Gavi, the Vaccine
Alliance. These are only some of the examples where we have
agreement on both sides of the aisle, and we thank the Chair
for accommodating as many shared priorities as possible.
We are pleased we were able to find common ground with the
Majority in the Managers' Amendment to address several issues
important to our Members such as: restoring the fiscal year
2020 level for the National Endowment for Democracy; providing
additional flexibility to the United States International
Development Finance Corporation; strengthening cybersecurity
programs with our allies and partners abroad; and emphasizing
certain conservation and food security programs.
Despite the common priorities funded in the bill, the
inclusion of partisan riders attacking pro-life positions,
funding unauthorized and controversial climate bodies, and the
removal of common-sense oversight requirements, we do not
support advancing the bill as written at this time.
Amendments were offered by both Ranking Members to address
concerns on pro-life issues, oversight of the United National
and international organizations, and on misguided spending
priorities. Ranking Member Granger offered an amendment that
restores long-standing conditions on assistance to the United
Nations and international organizations related to transparency
and accountability. The amendment also conditioned funding to
the World Health Organization (WHO) until the Secretary of
State certifies and reports to the appropriate congressional
committees that the WHO is taking steps to: conduct and
evaluation of the origins of the coronavirus outbreak and the
role of the Chinese Communist Party in the spread of COVID-19;
and carry out reforms of the International Health Regulations.
Our Republican Members supported this amendment in recognition
that the United Nations and international organizations require
oversight, and that meaningful reforms in pursuit of
transparency and efficiency rarely happen without the leverage
that comes from conditions on assistance. Although the
amendment was defeated 21-29, officials at the United Nations
and the World Health Organization should know there are many
Members of Congress who will not stop in pursuit of these
reforms.
Ranking Member Rogers offered two amendments. The first
amendment addresses priority pro-life issues in the bill by
striking all language related to the Mexico City Policy, making
the bill identical to current law on this issue. As drafted by
the Majority, the bill prohibits funds in this and prior acts
for the implementation of the expanded Mexico City Policy and
it amends the authorizing statute to make the Mexico City
Policy permanently prohibited. It also proposed striking the
funding increase mandated in the bill for family planning and
the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and inserting a
funding prohibition for UNFPA in recognition that the
organization violates the most basic respect for human life
through its support for coercive abortion and forced
sterilization. The amendment also sought to restore long-
standing agreed upon language with respect to global health
authorities. Finally, the amendment rejected the unprecedented
changes in the bill intended to weaken the Kemp-Kasten
provision on coercive abortion and forced sterilization. The
amendment was defeated 21-29, but Republican Committee Members
were unified in their concerns about language undoing pro-life
measures.
Ranking Member Rogers' second amendment aimed to
reprioritize funding from controversial and ill-advised climate
activities to critical programs to counter Chinese influence.
The amendment proposed striking the requirement to spend
$500,000,000 on international climate funds, like the
controversial Green Climate Fund. Congress has yet to
appropriate any funding specifically designated for the Green
Climate Fund and yet, the United States contributed
$1,000,000,000 under the previous administration.
The amendment proposed a smarter investment by shifting
funds to address one of the most pressing national security
challenges of our time, the strategic competition between the
United States and the People's Republic of China (PRC). More
than 40 years after the United States established diplomatic
relations with the PRC, it is clear that past policies
underestimated the will of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to
challenge the post--World War II international order in the
Indo-Pacific and beyond. What happens now will be immensely
consequential for the rules, standards, and institutions that
will shape international politics for years to come.
Accordingly, it is critical that the United States adequately
resource investments in the Indo-Pacific and elsewhere to
counter the influence of the CCP globally by working with
allies and partners in ways that respect the sovereignty and
the independence of nations, support peaceful resolution of
disputes, address transnational threats, promote economic
prosperity, as well as increase transparency and good
governance. Republican Committee Members were united in support
of prioritizing funds for this purpose, but the amendment was
defeated 21-29.
In closing, we remain concerned about unsustainable
spending levels across the bills and partisan riders that will
jeopardize enactment of any final legislation. For the State,
Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Bill,
there is no higher priority than maintaining the pro-life
protections negotiated in the final fiscal year 2020 bill,
ensuring oversight of international organizations, and
prioritizing funding for national security priorities such as
the Countering Chinese Influence Fund. We want to work with the
Majority as we proceed through the legislative process so that
the many bipartisan issues of great national importance in this
bill will receive the support they deserve.
Kay Granger.
Harold Rogers.