Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2023

Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.

Bill 118 SJRes 48, also known as the Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2023, is a piece of legislation that aims to make changes to the Compact of Free Association agreements between the United States and the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau.

The Compact of Free Association agreements are international treaties that govern the relationship between the United States and these Pacific Island nations. The agreements provide for financial assistance, defense cooperation, and other benefits in exchange for certain rights and responsibilities.

The amendments proposed in Bill 118 SJRes 48 include provisions to increase funding for economic development programs in the Compact nations, improve healthcare services for citizens of these nations living in the United States, and enhance environmental protection efforts in the region. Additionally, the bill seeks to strengthen defense cooperation between the United States and the Compact nations, including provisions for joint military exercises and increased security assistance. Overall, the Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2023 aims to update and improve the existing agreements between the United States and the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau in order to better address the needs and priorities of all parties involved.