[House Report 115-829] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office] 115th Congress } { Report HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 2d Session } { 115-829 ====================================================================== STATE, FOREIGN OPERATIONS, AND RELATED PROGRAMS APPROPRIATIONS BILL, 2019 _______ July 16, 2018.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union and ordered to be printed _______ Mr. Rogers of Kentucky, from the Committee on Appropriations, submitted the following R E P O R T together with ADDITIONAL VIEWS [To accompany H.R. 6385] 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, 2019, and for other purposes. INDEX TO BILL AND REPORT Page Number Bill Report Overview................................................... 1 4 Title I--Department of State and Related Agency: Department of State: Administration of Foreign Affairs.................. 2 11 Diplomatic Programs................................ 2 12 Capital Investment Fund............................ 5 18 Office of Inspector General........................ 5 19 Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs......... 6 19 Representation Expenses............................ 6 21 Protection of Foreign Missions and Officials....... 6 21 Embassy Security, Construction, and Maintenance.... 7 22 Emergencies in the Diplomatic and Consular Service. 8 24 Repatriation Loans Program Account................. 8 25 Payment to the American Institute in Taiwan........ 8 25 International Center, Washington, District of Columbia....................................... 9 25 Payment to the Foreign Service Retirement and Disability Fund................................ 9 25 International Organizations: Contributions to International Organizations....... 9 26 Contributions for International Peacekeeping Activities..................................... 11 29 International Commissions: International Boundary and Water Commission, United States and Mexico.............................. 15 30 American Sections, International Commissions....... 15 31 International Fisheries Commissions................ 16 31 Related Agency..................................... 16 32 Broadcasting Board of Governors............ 16 32 Related Programs................................... 19 34 The Asia Foundation........................ 19 34 United States Institute of Peace........... 19 35 Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue Trust Fund............................. 19 35 Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Program..... 19 35 Israeli Arab Scholarship Program........... 20 36 East-West Center........................... 36 National Endowment for Democracy........... 20 36 Other Commissions.................................. 21 37 Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad.............. 21 37 United States Commission on International Religious Freedom...................... 21 37 Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe................................. 22 38 Congressional-Executive Commission on the People's Republic of China............. 22 38 United States-China Economic and Security Review Commission...................... 22 38 Western Hemisphere Drug Policy Commission.. 23 39 Title II--United States Agency for International Development: Funds Appropriated to the President................ 24 39 Operating Expenses......................... 24 39 Capital Investment Fund.................... 25 41 Office of Inspector General................ 25 41 Title III--Bilateral Economic Assistance: Funds Appropriated to the President................ 26 41 Global Health Programs..................... 26 41 Development Assistance..................... 32 47 International Disaster Assistance.......... 32 53 Transition Initiatives..................... 32 54 Complex Crises Fund........................ 54 Development Credit Authority............... 33 54 Economic Support and Development Fund...... 55 Economic Support Fund...................... 35 55 Democracy Fund............................. 35 58 Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia................................... 36 58 Department of State................................ 37 59 Migration and Refugee Assistance........... 37 59 United States Emergency Refugee and Migration Assistance Fund.............. 60 Independent Agencies............................... 38 61 Peace Corps................................ 38 61 Millennium Challenge Corporation........... 39 61 Inter-American Foundation.................. 41 62 United States African Development Foundation............................. 41 62 Department of the Treasury......................... 42 62 International Affairs Technical Assistance. 42 62 Title IV--International Security Assistance: Department of State................................ 43 63 International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement............................ 43 63 Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related Programs................... 44 65 Peacekeeping Operations.................... 46 67 Funds Appropriated to the President................ 47 68 International Military Education and Training............................... 47 68 Foreign Military Financing Program......... 47 68 Title V--Multilateral Assistance: Funds Appropriated to the President................ 51 70 International Organizations and Programs... 51 70 International Financial Institutions............... 51 71 Global Environment Facility................ 51 71 Contribution to the International Development Association................ 52 72 Contribution to the Asian Development Fund 52 72 Contribution to the African Development Bank................................... 52 72 Contribution to the African Development Fund................................... 52 72 Contribution to the International Fund for Agricultural Development............... 53 72 Title VI--Export and Investment Assistance: Export-Import Bank of the United States............ 53 73 Overseas Private Investment Corporation............ 56 73 Development Finance Institution.................... 75 Trade and Development Agency....................... 57 75 Title VII--General Provisions.............................. 58 75 Title VIII--Overseas Contingency Operations/Global War on Terrorism: Department of State................................ 282 107 Administration of Foreign Affairs.................. 282 107 Diplomatic Programs........................ 282 107 Office of Inspector General................ 283 107 Embassy Security, Construction, and Maintenance............................ 107 International Organizations........................ 108 Contributions to International Organizations.......................... 108 Contributions for International Peacekeeping Activities................ 108 United States Agency for International Development. 284 108 Funds Appropriated to the President................ 284 108 Operating Expenses......................... 284 108 Office of Inspector General................ 108 Bilateral Economic Assistance...................... 284 109 Funds Appropriated to the President................ 284 109 International Disaster Assistance.......... 284 109 Transition Initiatives..................... 109 Complex Crises Fund........................ 109 Economic Support Fund...................... 284 109 Department of State................................ 285 109 Migration and Refugee Assistance........... 285 109 International Security Assistance.................. 110 Department of State................................ 110 International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement............................ 110 Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related Programs................... 110 Peacekeeping Operations.................... 110 Funds Appropriated to the President................ 110 Foreign Military Financing Program......... 110 General Provisions................................. 285 110 Title IX--Additional General Provision: Spending Reduction Account......................... 286 111 House of Representatives Reporting Requirements 111 Additional Views 149 OVERVIEW United States economic and security interests are affected by long-standing challenges and emerging crises throughout the world. From chaos sown by the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) and other terrorist organizations; Russian aggression in Europe and Eurasia; ongoing efforts by the Taliban to destabilize Afghanistan; conflict, disease, and the threat of famine in parts of Africa and Yemen; provocation by North Korea; and sophisticated criminal networks running drugs and fueling corruption in America's own backyard, now is not the time for the United States to back down from global engagement and its leadership role abroad. The Committee firmly believes that strategic investments in diplomacy and development, along with a strong national defense, are essential components for addressing these challenges and protecting America's national security. Military power alone cannot solve all of these problems, especially over the long term. Advancing United States national interests also requires effective diplomatic engagement and foreign assistance. At the same time, the Committee acknowledges that resources are limited, that the nation's debt is a weight on the economy and on future generations, and that spending must be curtailed in a responsible manner. The Committee supports steps to reduce waste, inefficiency, and duplication in agency operations and programs funded in this Act, and efforts to press other nations and donors to more equitably share in the global responsibility to defeat terrorism, support stabilization, promote development and good governance, and respond to humanitarian crises. The Committee is concerned, however, that the magnitude of the reductions proposed for United States diplomatic and development operations and programs in the fiscal year 2019 request would be counterproductive to the economic and security interests of the nation and would undermine our relationships with key partners and allies. The Committee recommendation, therefore, addresses the need to responsibly allocate federal resources while protecting United States national interests. The Committee recommendation for fiscal year 2019 for activities under the jurisdiction of the Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs is $54,018,000,000 in new discretionary budget authority, which is same as the fiscal year 2018 enacted level and $11,799,975,000 above the fiscal year 2019 request. Within the total funding provided, the recommendation includes $8,018,000,000 in title VIII for Overseas Contingency Operations/Global War on Terrorism, which is $4,000,000 below the fiscal year 2018 enacted level. The Committee recommendation prioritizes security programs, including embassy security, international security assistance, and programs to support the defeat of ISIS and other terrorist groups and further stabilization and recovery efforts in communities affected by conflict, terrorism and displacement; programs and diplomatic activities to stop the flow of opioids into the United States; programs that promote democracy and American values; humanitarian, global health, and economic, and development assistance; and oversight, transparency, and accountability measures. The Committee provides guidance under this heading on reprogramming, notification, reporting, and consultation requirements contained in the bill and this report. SECURITY PROGRAMS The Committee continues its focus on supporting programs that are critical to the national security interests of the United States, as well as to the security of allies and partners in the fight against terrorism and those confronting Russian aggression. Embassy Security The Committee continues to prioritize the security of diplomatic and development staff and the facilities where they work by maintaining the fiscal year 2018 level for Embassy Security, Construction, and Maintenance and Worldwide Security Protection. To ensure proper oversight of funds, the bill also enhances notification and reporting requirements for new embassy construction. Near East The Committee continues to provide unwavering support for Israel's security, including maintaining its Qualitative Military Edge, by providing $3,300,000,000, which is an increase of $200,000,000 from fiscal year 2018 and reflects full funding for the first year of the new 10-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the United States and Israel. The Committee notes with concern that growing instability and violence in the Middle East, as well as Iran's expanded presence in the region, represent an increasing threat to Israel. Assistance is intended to ensure Israel is able to defend itself against a wide range of conventional and unconventional threats. In addition, section 7034 of this Act includes an extension of authority for loan guarantees to Israel. The Committee also maintains strong support for Egypt's security and economic needs by providing $1,456,800,000 for assistance for Egypt and notes that sustaining security cooperation with Egypt is critical for stability in the region. The Committee recommendation strongly supports Jordan by providing not less than $1,525,000,000 to meet economic and security needs and to address the extraordinary strain on Jordan from unrest in the region as the country continues to host significant numbers of refugees. The Committee recommendation also provides critical assistance to disrupt and defeat ISIS and other terrorist groups and promote stabilization and recovery in Iraq and other areas impacted by such groups. The Committee is deeply concerned about the nuclear ambitions of Iran and the resulting threat to the United States and our allies. The Committee recommendation continues the conditions and reporting requirements from the prior year related to Iran's adherence to United Nations Security Council resolutions and other matters related to sanctions on Iranian entities. The Committee recommendation continues prior year restrictions on assistance for the Palestinian Authority (PA), including prohibiting funds if there is a Palestinian government formed through an agreement with Hamas, or if the PA is not acting to counter incitement of violence against Israelis. The bill also includes a requirement to reduce any funding by an amount equivalent to that expended by the PA, Palestine Liberation Organization, or any affiliated organization, as payments to prisoners who committed acts of terrorism. As a result of these conditions, no economic assistance has been provided directly to the PA since fiscal year 2013, and funds provided for other programs in the West Bank and Gaza have been significantly reduced. Afghanistan and Pakistan The Committee notes the continued importance of United States assistance to secure and stabilize Afghanistan and Pakistan. The Committee understands that the staffing and programming requirements in these countries will remain under continuous review and, for that reason, has not designated specific funding recommendations. The Committee expects the Administration to refine its plans for programs, facilities, and staff in consultation with the appropriate congressional committees. The Committee further requires spend plans and advance notifications before funds are obligated for Afghanistan and Pakistan, pursuant to sections 7015 and 7070 of this Act. Latin America and the Caribbean To address security concerns in Latin America, the Committee recommendation provides support for Colombia, Mexico, and countries in the Caribbean Basin. The Committee believes it is critical to continue strong support for counternarcotics and law enforcement efforts, as well as assistance for rule of law and judicial reform activities in the region, in order to fight drug trafficking and violent crime before it reaches the borders of the United States. The Committee recommendation provides $595,000,000 for the United States Strategy for Engagement in Central America to address the key factors in countries in Central America that contribute to the migration of undocumented Central Americans to the United States. The Committee continues conditions on the central governments of the Northern Triangle countries of El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras to ensure their commitments are sustained. Additionally, the recommendation prioritizes security in Central America by including $346,900,000 for the Central America Regional Security Initiative (CARSI) to enhance border security; counter the activities of criminal gangs, drug traffickers and organized crime; and combat human smuggling and trafficking. The Committee believes that challenges in the region span more than just the Northern Triangle countries. Funds are included to address security needs in neighboring countries, including Costa Rica and Panama. The Committee also provides resources to train security forces in the region and expects the Government of Colombia to continue to contribute its expertise in this area. Countering Russian Influence and Agression The Committee is troubled by the continued threat faced by Ukraine and other countries in Europe and Eurasia due to Russian pressure and aggression. In response, the Committee recommendation does the following: (1) prohibits any assistance to the central government of the Russian Federation; (2) maintains funding for the Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia account; (3) provides robust assistance levels for Ukraine and Georgia, including an increase in security assistance for Ukraine; (4) provides $250,000,000 for the Countering Russian Influence Fund; and (5) includes funding above the prior year for broadcasting to the region to counter Russian propaganda. Programs to Combat Terrorism The Committee continues to be concerned about the threat of terrorism globally and provides support throughout the bill for programs to address this threat to the national security of the United States. The Committee recommendation provides $360,250,000 for antiterrorism programs, which is $15,500,000 above the fiscal year 2018 enacted level and $128,400,000 above the request. Funds are intended to prevent and counter terrorist safe havens and to assist partners in the fight against ISIS and other terrorist groups. Funds are also provided to strengthen international airport and aviation security. The Committee notes the continued rise of terrorism in Africa and provides additional funds for the Trans-Sahara Counterterrorism Partnership and the Partnership for Regional East Africa Counterterrorism. Programs to Combat Transnational Crime The Committee supports the efforts of the Administration to tackle transnational crime including by fully funding the request to support implementation of Presidential Executive Order on Enforcing Federal Law with Respect to Transnational Criminal Organizations and Preventing International Trafficking. The Committee also maintains strong support for programs to combat wildlife trafficking, which provides lucrative resources for criminal networks, some with links to terrorism. Often times these same networks are responsible for one of the most heinous crimes imaginable--human trafficking. The Committee continues its commitment to address this issue by increasing funding for programs to combat trafficking in persons and continued support for the Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons at the Department of State. The Committee also maintains funding to assist partner countries to prevent and respond to cybercrime. OPIOIDS The Committee supports the President's Initiative to Stop Opioid Abuse and Reduce Drug Supply and Demand. The Committee believes that international efforts led by the Department of State are crucial to the success of this Initiative and the Committee recommendation provides the funding necessary to expand programs and diplomatic activities to stop the flow of opioids into the United States. The Committee recommendation provides $1,435,151,000 for International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement, which is $66,355,000 above the fiscal year 2018 enacted level and $554,801,000 above the budget request. The recommendation: (1) increases funding to assist the Government of Mexico in securing its borders and combatting poppy cultivation and heroin and synthetic drug production; (2) fully funds the request to disrupt transnational criminal organizations, including those involved in the trafficking of heroin and fentanyl; (3) increases funding to support precursor chemical control and train foreign authorities on international treaty obligations related to opioids; and (4) increases funding for global demand reduction programs in order to bolster drug prevention and treatment services around the globe. The Committee also supports diplomatic efforts to mobilize support through international organizations and prevent illegal shipments of opioids from entering the United States, particularly from China. The Committee believes that the Initiative could be enhanced by a greater focus on international diplomatic and assistance efforts to stop the flow of heroin and fentanyl before it reaches the United States. Therefore, the Committee directs the Secretary of State, in consultation with the heads of other Federal agencies, as appropriate, to develop an international diplomatic and assistance strategy to stop the flow of opioids into the United States. The Strategy shall contain a clear mission statement, goals and objectives, and identify the activities and tools necessary to carry out the Strategy. The Secretary shall also include relevant information on efforts by other Federal agencies implementing programs in foreign countries, and steps taken by countries in which opioids are produced or trafficked. Not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the Committee directs the Secretary to submit such Strategy to the appropriate congressional committees. PROGRAMS THAT PROMOTE DEMOCRACY AND AMERICAN IDEALS The Committee notes that during this time of unprecedented political change in many countries around the world, American leadership is critical. It is imperative that assistance is provided to advance democracy worldwide. The Committee is concerned about continued repression of civil society in many countries, which inhibits the ability of citizens to exercise their fundamental freedoms, such as freedom of association, speech, and religion. This disturbing global trend requires a renewed focus on democracy promotion in order to overcome obstacles put in place by increasingly repressive governments. The Committee recommendation, therefore, exceeds the request for the National Endowment for Democracy and the Democracy Fund and includes language in section 7032 that not less than $2,400,000,000 be made available for democracy programs, which is $91,403,000 above the fiscal year 2018 enacted level. The Committee recommendation also funds international broadcasting activities above the request, continues to provide funding for the Peace Corps, and maintains significant funding for educational and cultural exchange programs in order to further promote American values and democratic principles. GLOBAL HEALTH Global health remains a high priority for the Committee in fiscal year 2019. The Committee believes investments in global health represent the best of American values by providing life- saving assistance, including by preventing child and maternal deaths and combating infectious diseases. Just as important, funding in global health directly supports United States national security by developing the capacity around the world to prevent, detect and respond to dangerous outbreaks of diseases that have the potential to pose an immediate and significant threat to the health and well-being of all Americans. The Committee recommendation continues funding for advancing global health security and designates an additional amount for the Emergency Reserve Fund, established by this Committee in fiscal year 2017. The need to address pandemic preparedness in the developing world is vital for this country's health and security. The Committee notes the tremendous achievements of the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the President's Malaria Initiative (PMI), and the recommendation continues to devote significant resources to these programs. The recommendation includes additional funds above the fiscal year 2018 level for programs to support maternal and child health, nutrition, and to combat tuberculosis. These matters are addressed further under Global Health Programs. The Committee recommendation includes provisions that ensure the respect for life around the globe. In support of the Administration's Kemp-Kasten determination with respect to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the bill includes a prohibition against contributions to the UNFPA. In support of the Administration's Protecting Life in Global Health Assistance policy, the bill includes a prohibition against global health assistance funds for foreign nongovernmental organizations that promote or perform abortions. HUMANITARIAN AND DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE The Committee notes that foreign assistance helps to advance foreign policy and national security objectives and that such support also reflects the values, generosity, and goodwill of the American people. The Committee understands that hunger, poverty, and displacement of vulnerable people around the world can threaten and destabilize countries and governments and thereby undermine the national security of the United States. The world is facing the highest level of displacement on record. According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), by the end of 2016 an unprecedented 65.6 million people around the world had left their homes and communities due to conflict and persecution. To help address these crises of displacement, the Committee recommendation maintains the $7,645,312,000 for the core humanitarian accounts that was appropriated for fiscal year 2018. In addition, the Committee directs that funds made available under Development Assistance and Economic Support Fund be made available for programs in countries affected by significant populations of internally displaced persons or refugees to--(A) expand and improve host government social services and basic infrastructure to accommodate the needs of such populations and persons; (B) alleviate the social and economic strains placed on host communities, including through programs to promote livelihoods, vocational training, and formal and informal education; (C) improve coordination of such assistance in a more effective and sustainable manner; and (D) leverage increased assistance from donors other than the United States Government for central governments and local communities in such countries. The Committee expects the Secretary of State to periodically inform the appropriate congressional committees of the amounts and specific uses of funds made available for such purposes. The Committee further directs that any funds made available for the Concessional Finance Facility of the World Bank to provide financing to support refugees and host communities, be in addition to funds made available for bilateral assistance in the report required by section 653(a) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 and subject to prior consultation with the Committees on Appropriations. Finally, the Committee recommendation devotes significant resources for Development Assistance and the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and notes that economic growth and education are key aspects of long-term development. The Committee continues to support independent evaluations and monitoring of development programs and course corrections for programs that are not meeting their stated goals. OVERSIGHT, TRANSPARENCY, AND ACCOUNTABILITY The Committee takes seriously its responsibility to conduct proper oversight, and thus far during calendar year 2018, the Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs held hearings and briefings in order to prioritize funding requests; understand the political, economic, and security situation in critical countries around the world; and improve transparency and effectiveness of programs. Additionally, the Surveys and Investigations staff of the Committee continues to review programs and provide updates on studies that began in prior years. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) also provides reports on matters within the jurisdiction of the Subcommittee, and the cooperation of GAO is greatly appreciated. Proper management of taxpayer dollars must be a focus of all United States Government agencies, and this is particularly important for the Department of State, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and other agencies charged with advancing the interests of the United States around the world. Waste, fraud, and abuse in the programs funded in this bill will not be tolerated. Reflecting its commitment to oversight, transparency, and accountability, the Committee recommendation includes funds at, or above, the fiscal year 2018 level for the Inspectors General of agencies within the jurisdiction of the Subcommittee, and maintains or strengthens provisions contained in prior years on multi-year commitments, direct funding for governments and local organizations, financial management systems, and the United Nations (UN). In addition, 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 reduce printing and reproduction costs and directs agencies to provide information in the congressional budget justification (CBJ) for fiscal year 2020 on reductions made in fiscal year 2019 as a result of such efforts. The Committee has received testimony and reviewed reports from the Inspector General of the Department of State that revealed a lack of emphasis on program management and accountability. The Committee expects the Secretary of State and the USAID Administrator to ensure each agency remains focused on improving all aspects of program management and accountability. The Committee urges each agency head to appoint a senior level person whose responsibility is to keep the agency focused on such management and oversight issues that are fundamental to good government. Public service is a public trust that requires Federal employees to place ethical principles above private gain. The Code of Federal Regulations (5 CFR 2635.101) specifies the basic obligation of public service. Each of the agencies funded in this Act shall ensure their employees understand and are in compliance with this obligation. To assist in this effort, the Committee recommendation takes steps to promote improved management of resources provided in this Act with a focus on addressing deficiencies in information technology, improving financial management systems, e-mail and records management, and cyber-security. The Committee recommendation also provides funding for the ForeignAssistance.gov Web site to make foreign assistance data more accessible to the public. Section 7069 of this Act includes detailed consultation, notification, and reporting requirements related to potential reorganizations of the Department of State, USAID, and other agencies funded by this Act. It is essential that Congress be informed and have access to detailed information regarding any reorganization plan prior to its implementation. 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 the bill and this report, ``regular notification procedures''' means notification must be provided at least 15 days in advance of obligation of funds. The Committee cautions that, pursuant to section 7015(e) of this Act, advance notification requirements may only be waived 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 2019 to ensure appropriate Congressional oversight of funds. 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 $9,212,997,000 for the activities of the Department of State in fiscal year 2019. Of the total amount provided, $9,054,097,000 is appropriated as discretionary funds by this Act and $158,900,000 is appropriated as mandatory funds by the Foreign Service Act of 1980. Additional funds are provided under title VIII. The budget request does not seek funding for Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO) as in previous years. Funding for OCO for the Administration of Foreign Affairs is included in this Act under title VIII. Embassy Security.--The Committee recommendation provides $6,071,348,000, (including funding provided in title VIII) as detailed in the table below, to meet security requirements. The total amount provided is the same as the fiscal year 2018 enacted level and $1,016,881,000 above the fiscal year 2019 request. Funds are made available for the purchase of property and for construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance of United States diplomatic and consular missions and other posts overseas, the costs for the Department of State associated with the continued expansion of the Marine Security Guard Program, and the personnel and equipment required to protect United States Government employees and their families under Chief of Mission (COM) authority and property worldwide. EMBASSY SECURITY [Budget authority in thousands of dollars] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Program/Activity Budget Authority ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Worldwide Security Protection........................ $3,759,874 Embassy Security, Construction, and Maintenance...... 2,311,474 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Total, Embassy Security.......................... 6,071,348 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ DIPLOMATIC PROGRAMS Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $5,744,440,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 8,113,937,000 Committee recommendation\1\........................... 5,821,440,000 Change from enacted level......................... +77,000,000 Change from request............................... -2,292,497,000 \1\In addition, the fiscal year 2018 enacted level and the Committee recommendation include funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation includes $5,821,440,000 for Diplomatic Programs, including up to $1,383,752,000 for Worldwide Security Protection (WSP). Additional funds are provided under title VIII. Funds made available under this heading are allocated in the following manner: Human resources.--The Committee recommendation includes $2,847,673,000 for human resources, of which $479,879,000 is for WSP. Funds support American salaries at overseas and domestic United States diplomatic missions. In support of the Secretary's decision to lift the Department's hiring freeze on Foreign Service and Civil Service and authorize the Department of State to hire to current funding levels, the Committee recommendation includes $77,000,000 above the enacted level. Overseas programs.--The Committee recommendation includes $1,253,799,000 for overseas programs. Funds for overseas programs support the operational programs of regional bureaus of the Department of State. Funds support the operations of United States embassies, consulates, and other diplomatic posts worldwide. Additional funds are provided under title VIII. Diplomatic policy and support.--The Committee recommendation includes $794,561,000 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 621(d) of the Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Year 2003 (P.L. 107-228) and funds to support positions authorized in the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019 for the Bureau of Intelligence and Research. Security programs.--The Committee recommendation includes $925,407,000 for security programs, of which $903,873,000 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. Fees and Transfers The Committee recommendation also includes language similar to prior years and requested for fiscal year 2019, which: (1) permits not to exceed $10,000,000 to be transferred to Emergencies in the Diplomatic and Consular Service for emergency evacuations and the Rewards for Justice Program; (2) provides not to exceed $15,000 from reimbursements, surcharges, and fees for use of Blair House facilities in accordance with the Department of State Basic Authorities Act of 1956; and (3) makes available not to exceed $5,000,000 from fees and other payments authorized by section 810 of the United States Information and Educational Exchange Act. Consular and Border Security Program In addition to the funds appropriated under this heading, an estimated $3,849,877,000 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. Discontinuation of visas for nationals of certain countries.--The Committee urges the Secretary of State to ensure that consular officers comply with section 1253(d) of title 8 of the United States Code with the goal of ensuring all countries accept persons who are covered by such section. Visa processing and training.--The Committee is aware of concerns over capacity and infrastructure issues at United States Government agencies with responsibility for visa processing which have led to processing delays, resulting in lost business opportunities for United States companies and missed public diplomacy exchanges involving foreign legislators and legislative staff invited by United States Government Executive and Legislative Branch officials. The Committee directs the Secretary of State, after consultation with other appropriate United States Government agencies, to, within applicable law, regulation, and executive action, address the capacity and infrastructure challenges in the visa processing system. Worldwide Security Protection The Committee recommendation includes $1,383,752,000 for WSP. Additional funds are provided under title VIII. 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 and residences, and domestic facilities. The resources provided will support more than 3,500 regional security officers and 35,000 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 UN, and foreign dignitaries visiting the United States. Within the amount provided for WSP, the Committee recommendation includes the amount requested for the Directorate of Operational Medicine, which has responsibility for contingency medical preparedness and the Department's biocontainment evacuation response, which includes the capability to support short-notice transnational deployment of security and crisis response teams and to evacuate COM personnel from posts in crisis. Insider threat.--Continuous evaluation of Department of State employees, including contractors, and its computer networks is required to detect and prevent insider threats. The Secretary, who is ultimately responsible for developing an insider threat analytic and response capability, should review new technology that meets Department of Defense standards to increase this capability. Security training.--The Foreign Affairs Counter Threat (FACT) training course is one of the central training programs provided to COM personnel and their families to prepare them to safely live and work overseas. FACT training will be maintained at the Interim Training Facility until the new Foreign Affairs Security Training Center (FASTC) is fully operational. In the meantime, the Committee directs the Secretary of State to continue to submit semi-annual progress reports until completion of the project. Each report shall include the current cost estimate, training course transition plans, and steps taken to reduce the impact of any job losses that may result at existing training sites once FASTC becomes operational. Sensitive information.--Growing regional unrest and threats to United States diplomatic facilities and personnel have led to, and increased the risk of, the evacuation of overseas posts. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to ensure that overseas diplomatic posts have the necessary capabilities to quickly, safely, and permanently destroy sensitive information that must be left behind, including through exploring new tools and equipment to enhance such capabilities. Other Matters Asia.--Diplomatic engagement and assistance programs with individual countries and regional organizations in Asia are the basis of mutually beneficial partnerships. The Committee notes the number of staff vacancies in the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs and the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs and urges the Secretary to expeditiously fill these vacancies in these important regions. Child abduction and access.--The Committee notes that when making use of the waiver in section 204 of the Goldman Act (P.L. 113-150), the Secretary of State is required to provide a detailed justification for such waiver involving a country with a pattern of non-compliance. The Committee expects the Secretary of State to comply with this requirement. Further, the Committee directs the Secretary to include in such justification the reason, if any, for why actions 4 through 8 under section 204(d) are not being taken. Additionally, the Secretary shall include in the annual report required by section 101 of such Act a list of countries with pending cases that are more than 12 months old and shall also provide such report to the Committees on Appropriations. The Committee is concerned about reports of the unlawful removal of United States minors to countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, including to Brazil and Trinidad and Tobago. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to aggressively advocate for such minors and to work with host governments to facilitate their return. The Secretary of State should also consider taking further actions, as appropriate, such as those described in section 7034(g) of this Act and those contained in section 201(b) of the Goldman Act, with a priority on cases that have been unresolved for more than a year. Combating Anti-Semitism.--The recommendation includes $350,000 for the Office to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism as authorized by the Global Anti-Semitism Act of 2004 (P.L. 108- 332). The Committee remains concerned about the rise of Anti- Semitism and the increase in anti-Semitic incidents around the world, and urges the Secretary of State to appoint a Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism as quickly as possible and to maintain the funding and administrative location of the office within the Office of the Secretary. Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor (DRL).--The Committee recommendation includes sufficient funds to continue human rights vetting and training at not less than the fiscal year 2018 level. The Committee notes assistance for democracy programs administered by DRL has increased in recent fiscal years and the Committee recommendation again provides an additional amount above the fiscal year 2018 enacted level under Democracy Fund in title III of this Act. Therefore, the Committee urges the Secretary to ensure sufficient staffing levels at DRL to provide proper management and oversight of these funds. Eligible Family Members (EFMs).--The Committee is pleased with the Secretary's decision in May to authorize U.S. missions abroad to hire EFMs and other overseas employees. EFMs are a cost-effective talent pool for filling both clerical and critical positions at embassies and consulates. Just as importantly, they can play the deciding role in recruitment, retention, and job satisfaction of members of the diplomatic corps. The Secretary's decision is the first step towards restoring the high regard for the official and unofficial support provided by EFMs. Global Engagement Center.--The Committee is concerned about foreign propaganda and disinformation that threatens United States national security, especially as carried out by China, Russia, and extremists groups. The Global Engagement Center (GEC), as formally established by Public Law 114-328, is expected to use a wide range of technologies and techniques to counter these campaigns. The operating plan required by section 7070 of this Act should describe the GEC's use of detailees, personal service contracts, and direct hires, as well as their foreign language proficiency. Holocaust issues.--The Committee recognizes the important work of the Office of Holocaust Issues and urges 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. Hong Kong Policy Act report.--Not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, the Committee directs the Secretary of State to update the report described in section 301 of the United States-Hong Kong Policy Act of 1992 and to transmit it to the appropriate congressional committees. Intercountry adoptions.--The Committee continues to reaffirm its commitment to intercountry adoption as a means to offering a permanent family to a child and supports its inclusion among the range of options for providing permanency for children in accordance with the principles of the Hague Adoption Convention. The Committee urges the Department of State to proactively prioritize, and make funds available for, improving the capacity of foreign government agencies and nongovernmental organizations, through technical assistance that will help to prevent child abandonment and connect orphans, displaced, and abandoned children with permanent homes through family reunification, guardianship, and domestic and intercountry adoption. Furthermore, the Committee encourages the Department of State to better incorporate at the post level, policies that reflect the commitment of the United States Government to the principle that every child has a right to a permanent family; that advocate for consideration of international placement of children where in-country placement does not serve the child's best interests and does not provide appropriate, protective, and permanent care quickly; and to streamline and strengthen the United States Government intercountry adoption programs and processes. 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 $500,000 to continue the development of religious freedom training curriculum pursuant to Section 103 of the Frank R. Wolf International Religious Freedom Act (P.L. 114-281). Monitoring and combating trafficking in persons.--The Committee recommendation includes $13,822,000 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 increased 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 Web site information in all United States embassies and consulates in areas where visa applications are processed. The Committee also supports funds being made available to develop the Global Human Trafficking Hotline. Public access to federally funded research.--The Committee understands that Federal agencies with significant research portfolios have implemented policies to provide public access to federally funded research findings in accordance with guidance from the Office of Science and Technology Policy. The Committee encourages the Department of State and USAID to, where applicable, implement similar policies for providing public access to federally funded research results. Public diplomacy.--The Committee continues to support public diplomacy personnel and programs and expects the Secretary of State to include projected funding for public diplomacy in the operating plan required by section 7070 of this Act. Procurement.--The Secretary of State is encouraged to expand opportunities for small businesses or cooperatives to compete for Department of State contracts and grants, including small businesses owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals and faith-based organizations. The Committee expects the Department to comply with the requirements of the Javits-Wagner-O'Day Act. United States citizens detained in Iran.--The Committee remains concerned about United States citizens and legal permanent residents missing and detained in Iran. The Committee urges the Secretary of State to prioritize these cases, and to continue to press the Government of Iran for the immediate release of those detained and to provide any information it possesses regarding any United States citizens that have disappeared within its borders. 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. Workforce diversity.--The Committee supports the efforts of the Department of State to increase diversity in hiring, retention, and promotion within its workforce, including the allocation of funds to continue and expand its recruitment programs, professional development activities, 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 and Historically Black Colleges and Universities to further the goal of increasing workforce diversity. Funds in this Act under this heading are allocated according to the following table and are subject to sections 7015 and 7070 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 Bureau of Europe and Eurasia Affairs: Office of the Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues. 634 Cultural Antiquities Task Force.............. 1,000 Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor: Human Rights Vetting............................. 9,000 Office of International Religious Freedom.... 6,500 [Of which for Religious Freedom [500] Curriculum Development]................. Special Envoy to Promote Religious Freedom of 2,000 Religious Minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia.......................... Office of Terrorism Financing and Economic 6,100 Sanctions Policy................................ Office to Combat Trafficking in Persons.......... 13,822 Legal Advisor.................................... Document Review Unit......................... 2,889 Office of the Secretary: Office of the Special Coordinator for Tibetan 1,000 Issues.......................................... Office Global for Women's Issues............. 5,326 Office of the Coordinator for Cyber Issues....... 5,497 Office to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism....... 350 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ CAPITAL INVESTMENT FUND Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $103,400,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 92,770,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 103,400,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +10,630,000 The Committee recommendation includes $103,400,000 for Capital Investment Fund. Funds provided are in addition to an estimated $260,040,000 in expedited passport fees, which will be used to support the information technology modernization effort, for a total of $363,440,000 in fiscal year 2019 for support of the Information Technology Strategic Plan of the Department of State. OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $77,629,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 142,200,000 Committee recommendation\1\........................... 90,829,000 Change from enacted level......................... +13,200,000 Change from request............................... -51,371,000 \1\In addition, the fiscal year 2018 enacted level and the Committee recommendation include funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation includes $90,829,000 for support of the oversight personnel and activities of the Office of Inspector General (OIG) at the Department of State. Additional funds are provided under title VIII for the Special Inspector General for Afghan Reconstruction (SIGAR). Funds provided under this heading will support the audits, investigations, and inspections of worldwide operations and programs of the Department of State and Broadcasting Board of Governors. 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. EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMS Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $646,143,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 159,000,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 646,143,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +487,143,000 The Committee recommendation includes $646,143,000 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. Central and South America and Mexico.--The Committee directs the Department of State to continue support of educational and cultural exchange programs with Mexico and countries in Central and South America and to increase opportunities for participation of students from disadvantaged backgrounds or historically underserved populations at the high school, college, and post-graduate levels. The Committee expects the Secretary of State to be prepared to report to the Committees on Appropriations during hearings on the fiscal year 2020 budget request on steps planned to support such exchanges. Citizen Exchange Program.--The Committee recommendation includes $111,360,000 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. Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange Program.--The Committee recommendation includes $4,125,000 for the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange Program. This program is integral for the continuation of a strong relationship between the United States and Germany. 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, including those with significant Muslim populations and the countries of the former Soviet Union. English Language Programs.--The Committee recommendation includes not less than $45,665,000 for English Language Programs. Within the amount provided, the Committee encourages the Department of State to maintain strong support for the English Language Fellow and Specialist Programs which bolster English language skills within critical world regions. Fulbright Program.--The Committee recommendation includes $240,000,000 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. Within the amount provided, funds are available for continued support of the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship program. 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. Special academic, professional, and cultural exchanges.-- The Committee recommendation includes funds to continue support of 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 special academic, professional, and cultural exchange programs to be awarded on a competitive basis and the planned levels for each to be included in the fiscal year 2019 operating plan. Vietnam Education Foundation Act.--The Committee recommendation includes $2,500,000 under this heading for grants authorized by section 211 of the Vietnam Education Foundation Act of 2000, as amended. Additional funds for such grants are included under Development Assistance. Section 7070 of this Act includes a requirement 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 2019. Funds made available under this heading are allocated in the following manner and are subject to the requirements of sections 7015 and 7070 of this Act. EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAMS [Budget authority in thousands of dollars] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Program/Activity Budget Authority ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Academic Programs: Fulbright Program................................ $240,000 Global Academic Exchanges........................ 63,176 Special Academic Exchanges....................... 16,975 Benjamin Gilman International Scholarship [12,550] Program..................................... Vietnam Education Foundation Act............. [2,500] ------------------ Subtotal, Academic Programs...................... 320,151 Professional and Cultural Exchanges: International Visitor Program.................... 97,765 Citizen Exchange Programs........................ 111,360 Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange............ [4,125] Special Professional and Cultural Exchanges.......... 5,600 ------------------ Subtotal, Professional and Cultural Exchanges.... 214,725 Special Initiatives: 40,500 Young Leaders Initiatives........................ [28,500] Countering State disinformation and pressure..... [12,000] Program and Performance.............................. 7,383 Exchanges Support.................................... 63,384 ------------------ Total, Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs 646,143 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ REPRESENTATION EXPENSES Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $8,030,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 7,000,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 8,030,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +1,030,000 The Committee recommendation includes $8,030,000 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 2018 enacted level........................ $30,890,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 25,890,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 30,890,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +5,000,000 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 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $2,242,696,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 1,657,543,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 2,311,474,000 Change from enacted level......................... +68,778,000 Change from request............................... +653,931,000 \1\In addition, the fiscal year 2018 enacted level includes funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation includes $2,311,474,000 for Embassy Security, Construction, and Maintenance. Embassy construction and maintenance program.--The Committee recommendation includes $1,546,015,000 for Worldwide Security Upgrades. The Committee recommendation continues language in section 7004 requiring all agencies and departments to fully meet their capital cost sharing obligations under subsection (e) of section 604 of the Secure Embassy Construction and Counterterrorism Act of 1999, in order to be allocated office space or other accommodations in newly constructed or renovated diplomatic facilities. The Committee reminds the Secretary to promptly inform the Committee of agencies that are delinquent in fulfilling their capital security cost sharing obligation as required by section 7004(a) of this Act. The recommendation includes funds made available under this heading in this Act for the Department's Capital Security Cost Savings (CSCS) and Maintenance Cost Sharing (MCS) annual contributions. When combined with the estimated CSCS and MCS reimbursements from other agencies and consular fees, total resources for maintenance, construction and design of embassy and consulate compounds exceeds the recommendation of the Accountability Review Board and supports the accelerated multi- year program to construct new secure replacement facilities for the most vulnerable embassies and consulates. Notification and reporting requirements.--Section 7004(d) of this Act continues the enhanced notification requirements from prior Acts as a means of ensuring the Committee has the necessary information to conduct appropriate oversight of construction projects. For purposes of section 7004(d) of this Act, the Department is directed to clearly define and consistently report on the elements of each project factor and an explanation of any changes from previous reports or notifications for a project. Notifications made pursuant to section 7004(d) 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) the 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; and (12) the project's scheduled start and completion date, actual start and current estimated completion date, and an explanation of any changes. The Committee remains concerned about the costs associated with new embassy and consulate compound construction projects, particularly the Beirut Embassy, Mexico City Embassy, New Delhi Embassy, Erbil Consulate, and Jakarta Embassy projects. The Committee recommendation continues and expands the requirement for quarterly reports for these projects in section 7004(h) of this Act. The reports should include the following: (1) the project factors as specified under Enhanced Notification Requirements in section 7004(d) of this Act that were used to develop the initial cost estimate to justify the project; (2) changes in these factors from the initial cost estimate to the current estimate, with an explanation of such changes; (3) an explanation of cost containment measures being used to address cost growth from the initial estimates; and (4) project performance assessment. Other repair, construction, and operations.--The Committee recommendation includes $765,459,000 for other repair, construction, and operations costs. These funds support the management of United States Government real property overseas, maintenance of Government-owned and long-term leased properties at over 275 locations, and leasing of office and functional facilities and residential units, not only for the Department of State, but also for all United States employees overseas under COM authority. Operating plan.--Section 7070 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 2019 for operations, maintenance, and construction, and an accounting of the actual and anticipated proceeds of sales or gifts for all projects in fiscal year 2018. Project contingency savings.--The Committee understands from the information included in the notifications required by section 7004 of this Act 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 performance assessments.--The Department of State shall develop performance metrics to evaluate the performance of ongoing projects. Each project assessment required under section 7004(h) shall contain charts and explanatory narratives for each of the following seven performance metrics: (1) Labor Resources Status--the monthly and cumulative amount of planned and actual man-months; (2) Work in Place Status--the monthly and cumulative amount of planned and actual value of work; (3) Contract Change Order Status--the monthly and cumulative number, days of delay, and value of: approved contract modifications, the government's position on proposed change orders, and the contractor's position on proposed change orders; (4) Construction S-Curve--a chart that compares the current project execution schedule against the baseline and successive iterations of project execution schedules (including the as of date of each approved project execution schedule), including the effects of contract modifications, contractor- proposed change orders, and contractor requests for equitable adjustment; (5) Activity Status--the monthly and cumulative number of activities planned and actually started; (6) Activity Duration Status--the monthly number of activities completed and their planned and actual duration; and (7) Quality Status--the monthly and cumulative number of quality control and quality assurance deficiencies identified, corrected, uncorrected, reported corrected but not yet verified, and reported corrected but rejected and reissued. EMERGENCIES IN THE DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR SERVICE Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $7,885,000 Fiscal Year 2019 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 2018 enacted level........................ $1,300,000 Fiscal Year 2019 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 2018 enacted level........................ $31,963,000 Fiscal Year 2019 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 special projects and consular upgrades. 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 2018 enacted level........................ $743,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 743,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 743,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation includes $743,000 for site security and routine maintenance and repairs to public spaces of the International Center, Washington, D.C. PAYMENT TO THE FOREIGN SERVICE RETIREMENT AND DISABILITY FUND Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $158,900,000 Fiscal Year 2019 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 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $1,371,168,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 1,095,045,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 1,364,415,000 Change from enacted level......................... -6,753,000 Change from request............................... +269,370,000 \1\The fiscal year 2018 enacted level includes funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation includes $1,364,415,000 for Contributions to International Organizations. This account supports annual United States assessed contributions to international organizations, including the United Nations. The Committee recommendation prioritizes payments for organizations whose work promotes human health and international security, including the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The Committee recommendation provides funding above the request to ensure adequate resources for these and other such organizations. Capital projects.--Section 7048(f) includes language carried in the prior year requiring any operating plan submitted for funds made available under this heading to include information on capital projects. The Committee is concerned about cost overruns of the New NATO Headquarters project and directs the Secretary of State to include information on steps taken to mitigate such costs. The Committee recommendation does not include funding for the UN Headquarters in New York, which has been completed. Report.--The Committee remains concerned with continued anti-Israel bias at the UN and strongly endorses the Department of State's withholding of a proportionate share of the costs to such UN entities deemed to be anti-Israeli. Pursuant to Public Law 98-164, as amended, the Committee notes that in fiscal year 2017 the Secretary of State withheld funding to the following: 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 supports this action and directs the Department to include a description of any anti- Israel activities of these entities in the annual report submitted pursuant to section 4(a) of Public Law 79-264 on United States participation in the UN. Transparency and accountability.--The Committee supports efforts to increase accountability by strengthening internal controls and systems to investigate and eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse. The Committee expects the UN and other international organizations to have a designated official to carry out an independent ethics function and to provide protection from retaliation to whistleblowers who volunteer information concerning ongoing waste, fraud, and abuse. Section 7048(a)(1) includes modified language withholding a portion of funds until the Secretary of State determines and reports that certain transparency and accountability requirements have been met, and expands the list of organizations subject to such requirements. Subsection (a)(1)(C) requires the Secretary of State to determine whether each organization, department, or agency is effectively implementing and enforcing policies and procedures on the appropriate use of travel funds, including restrictions on first class and business class travel. The report to accompany such determination shall provide an updated assessment of the recommendations contained in the April 2017 United Nations Joint Inspection Unit's ``Review of Air Travel Policies in the United Nations System,'' including whether each organization has adopted the second recommendation to ``abolish first class travel for all categories of staff and non-staff by January 2019.'' The report should also include additional recommendations from the Secretary for reducing travel costs and improving the oversight of travel at such entities. Subsection (a)(3) requires the Secretary of State to assess whether certain organizations are meeting the requirements of subparagraphs (A) through (C) and provide a report to the Committees on Appropriations. The report should identify any deficiencies in organizations with respect to meeting these requirements and any steps planned to address such deficiencies. The Secretary of State shall continue to include information on an organization-by-organization basis in the reports submitted pursuant to subsections (a)(1) and (a)(3). UN budget.--The Committee recommendation includes language carried in the prior year requiring the Secretary of State to transmit to the Committees on Appropriations the most recent biennial budget prepared by the UN at the time of the submission of the President's budget to Congress. The Committee recommendation also includes language carried in the prior year requiring the Secretary of State to notify the Committees on Appropriations at least 15 days in advance of any UN action to increase funding for any UN program without identifying an offsetting decrease elsewhere in the UN budget. UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).--The Committee notes that, due to the application of Public Law 101-246 and Public Law 103-236, United States contributions are currently being withheld from UNESCO. No funds were requested and none are provided in this Act for a contribution to UNESCO. UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC).--The Committee is 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. The Committee recommendation includes modified language in section 7048(c) of this Act prohibiting funds to UNHRC unless certain conditions are met. Not later than 60 days after enactment of this Act, the Committee directs the Secretary of State to submit an updated report to the Committees on Appropriations 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. The Committee notes with concern the passage by the UNHRC of resolution A/HRC/31/L.39, which is counterproductive to achieving peace between Israel and the Palestinians. The Committee does not expect the United States to participate in the implementation of this resolution and directs the Secretary of State to urge the UNHRC and other countries to do the same. The Committee directs the Secretary to work with the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to minimize the impact of the compilation of the database called for under that resolution. UN reform.--The Committee expects the Department of State and the United States Mission to the United Nations (USUN) to keep UN reform a high priority and to work with other UN member states to increase the accountability of the UN and other international organizations. The Committee supports efforts to make the UN and other international organizations more efficient, less costly and to ensure that costs are shared on a more equitable basis. The Committee also supports efforts to examine and cancel expensive commercial leases and downsize operations in areas with high costs of living and construction costs. Not later than 180 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State is directed to submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations on these matters. Such report should include a description of estimated cost savings and cost avoidance of reforms undertaken. 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 expects 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 advance electronic data system. The opioid strategy directed in the Overview of this report should describe measures taken and planned to be taken by the Department of State to work with the Universal Postal Union and member states to increase the security of the mail system, particularly from China and other countries that send such contraband. UN and United States companies.--The Committee expects the Department of State and USUN to monitor procurement processes at UN organizations, including the World Health Organization, and ensure that American manufacturers and suppliers are being provided fair treatment in bidding on projects and services, and to monitor policies in place that may unfairly exclude or discriminate against United States companies. Not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations on these matters. CONTRIBUTIONS FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACEKEEPING ACTIVITIES Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $414,624,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 1,196,108,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 1,589,496,000 Change from enacted level......................... +1,174,872,000 Change from request............................... +393,388,000 \1\The fiscal year 2018 enacted level includes funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation includes $1,589,496,000 for Contributions for International Peacekeeping Activities, which is $393,388,000 above the fiscal year 2018 enacted level. The Committee intends to support the assessed cost of peacekeeping missions at the statutory level of 25 percent and will evaluate the need for additional funds based on the latest estimates of projected carryover and available credits as the appropriation process proceeds. The Committee provides funding to pay assessed expenses for the UN Support Office in Somalia under Peacekeeping Operations instead of under this heading. Cost containment and burden sharing.--The Committee continues to be concerned about the scope, duration, and costs of UN peacekeeping missions and supports ongoing efforts of the Department of State and USUN to bring down costs while maintaining United States interests and international security. The Committee further supports current efforts to negotiate a more equitable financial burden sharing rate of assessment, including establishing a ceiling for any one Member State's peacekeeping assessment. The Committee recommendation continues language directing the Secretary of State to work with the UN and members of the UN Security Council to evaluate and prioritize peacekeeping missions, and to consider a drawdown when mission goals have been substantially achieved. Not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State is directed to submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations describing efforts by the Department of State to review UN peacekeeping operations, including prioritization of missions and proposals for reducing the costs and scope of missions. The report should also include an update on efforts to negotiate scales of assessment that would result in other countries more appropriately sharing the financial burden. 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 stating that funds shall be made available for peacekeeping activities unless the Secretary of State determines that American manufacturers and suppliers are not being provided equal procurement opportunities and language prohibiting funds for any peacekeeping mission that will involve United States Armed Forces under the command and control of a foreign national unless certain requirements have been met. Oversight and reform.--The Committee continues to support independent oversight of the UN to identify waste, fraud, and abuse, and supports reforms to ensure that such practices are eliminated. The Committee recommendation includes modified language in section 7048(a) of this Act withholding a portion of funds for the UN until the Secretary of State determines and reports that certain transparency and accountability requirements have been met. Trafficking in persons and sexual exploitation and abuse.-- The Committee remains concerned about cases of UN peacekeepers abusing the people they have been sent to protect. The Committee notes with great concern the continued sexual exploitation and abuse by UN peacekeepers and supports a zero- tolerance policy. 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. Section 7048(h) of this Act provides that funds appropriated by this Act shall be made available to implement section 301 of the Department of State Authorities Act, Fiscal Year 2017 (P.L. 114-323), which required a United States strategy for combating sexual exploitation and abuse in UN peacekeeping operations. The Committee notes that section 303 of Public Law 114-323 states that it is the policy of the United States that security assistance should not be provided to any unit of the security forces of a foreign country if such unit has engaged in a gross violation of human rights or in acts of sexual exploitation or abuse, including while serving in a UN peacekeeping operation. International Commissions INTERNATIONAL BOUNDARY AND WATER COMMISSION, UNITED STATES AND MEXICO Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $77,534,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 71,215,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 77,534,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +6,319,000 The Committee recommendation includes a total of $77,534,000 for International Boundary and Water Commission, United States and Mexico, including $48,134,000 for Salaries and Expenses and $29,400,000 for Construction. The Committee recommendation includes not less than the request 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 to maintain the health of the river. The Committee notes the treaty obligations of Mexico to supply water deliveries to the Rio Grande and recognizes the importance of transparency concerning such matters. The Committee directs International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) to regularly publish water delivery data on its Web site, including projections for the balance of water deliveries. The Committee expects IBWC to hold quarterly meetings with interested stakeholders to inform them of IBWC activities and receive feedback. 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 IBWC to work with the Government of Mexico to facilitate a resolution to this matter. The Committee is also concerned with deficiencies identified at IBWC dams on the Rio Grande. The Secretary of State, in coordination Commissioner of IBWC, should work with the Government of Mexico to develop a joint plan to address such deficiencies based on the risk-based classification system developed by the Army Corp of Engineers. The Committee notes that international agreements between the United States and Mexico specify cost-sharing arrangement between the two countries for such projects. AMERICAN SECTIONS, INTERNATIONAL COMMISSIONS Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $13,258,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 12,184,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 12,732,000 Change from enacted level......................... -526,000 Change from request............................... +548,000 The Committee recommendation includes $12,732,000 for American Sections, International Commissions, of which $8,052,000 is for the International Joint Commission, $2,290,000 is for the International Boundary Commission, and $2,390,000 is for the Border Environment Cooperation Commission. INTERNATIONAL FISHERIES COMMISSIONS Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $46,356,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 33,906,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 46,882,000 Change from enacted level......................... +526,000 Change from request............................... +12,976,000 The Committee recommendation includes $46,882,000 for International Fisheries Commissions. Funds made available under the heading are allocated in the following manner and are subject to the requirements of sections 7015 and 7070 of this Act: INTERNATIONAL FISHERIES COMMISSIONS [Budget authority in thousands of dollars] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Commission/Activity Budget Authority ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Great Lakes Fishery Commission....................... $33,586 Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission.............. 1,750 Pacific Salmon Commission............................ 3,685 International Pacific Halibut Commission............. 4,395 Other Marine Conservation Organizations.............. 3,466 ------------------ Total, International Fisheries Commissions....... 46,882 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 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. Great Lakes Fishery Commission (GLFC).--The Committee recommendation includes $33,586,000 for GLFC, which supports GLFC's base operations, sea lamprey control and fishery research, and management of invasive carp species. The Committee intends that the funds made available for the GLFC be used only for meeting the United States obligations under the 1954 Convention on Great Lakes Fisheries. RELATED AGENCY Broadcasting Board of Governors Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $807,686,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 661,133,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 807,686,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +146,553,000 The Committee recommendation includes $807,686,000 under this heading to carry out United States international communications activities and operations overseen by the Broadcasting Board of Governors (BBG), of which $797,986,000 is for International Broadcasting Operations and $9,700,000 is for Broadcasting Capital Improvements. INTERNATIONAL BROADCASTING OPERATIONS The Committee recommendation includes $797,986,000 for International Broadcasting Operations. The Committee recommendation assumes certain efficiency gains proposed in the budget request and redirects such funds towards other programs. This account funds the operations, program, and engineering costs of Voice of America (VOA), Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), Radio Free Asia (RFA), the Middle East Broadcasting Networks, and BBG. The recommendation also includes funding for broadcasting to Cuba under this account. Funds made available under this heading are allocated according to the following table and are subject to the requirements of sections 7015 and 7070 of this Act: INTERNATIONAL BROADCASTING OPERATIONS [Budget authority in thousands of dollars] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Federal Entities Budget Authority ------------------------------------------------------------------------ International Broadcasting Bureau Operations......... $61,076 Internet Freedom................................. [16,300] Voice of America..................................... 251,470 Office Cuba Broadcasting............................. 29,144 Technology, Services and Innovation.................. 180,243 ------------------ Subtotal, Federal Entities....................... 521,933 Independent Grantee Organizations: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty.................. 126,542 Radio Free Asia.................................. 43,124 Middle East Broadcasting Networks.................... 106,387 ------------------ Subtotal, Grantees............................... 276,053 ------------------ Total, International Broadcasting Operations. 797,986 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Committee expects BBG to keep the Committee informed of the implementation of reforms, data-driven programing, and evidence of the Agency's effectiveness in creating access to independent information, countering propaganda and extremist rhetoric, and promoting United States public diplomacy. The Committee recommendation continues the requirement that BBG notify the Committees on Appropriations within 15 days of any determination by the Board that any of its broadcast entities were found to be in violation of the principles, standards, or journalistic code of ethics. Countering Internet censorship.--The Committee recommendation includes $16,300,000 under International Broadcasting Bureau for global internet freedom for the expansion of unrestricted access to information on the Internet in accordance with section 7064 of this Act. In addition, $1,200,000 is included within funds provided for RFA for the personnel costs associated with Internet freedom activities, bringing the total provided for such programs to $17,500,000 for fiscal year 2019. Section 7064(c) requires the BBG Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to submit to the Committees on Appropriations a spend plan for funds made available for programs to promote Internet freedom globally. Such spend plan shall detail amounts planned for the activities detailed in subsection (b)(2) including amounts to be programmed by the Open Technology Fund. Countering ISIS and violent extremist groups.--The Committee recommendation includes funds for continued programming to counter the misinformation of ISIS and other violent extremist groups in the Middle East, and Central and South Asia. Countering Russian media.--The Committee strongly supports efforts to counter Russia's aggressive disinformation and propaganda campaign, particularly through the development of effective Russian language programming. The Committee recommendation includes funds above the fiscal year 2018 enacted level for countering Russian influence programming and expects BBG to continue an aggressive multi-media effort aimed at Russians and Russian speakers, including through the Current Time TV programming of RFE/RL and VOA. East Asia and Pacific.--The Committee strongly 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 recommendation provides $43,124,000 for RFA, including funds to continue the Tibetan language service. The Committee recommendation includes sufficient funds for VOA and RFA to continue Korean programming. Latin America.--The Committee recommendation provides $6,000,000 for the Latin America division of VOA. The Committee encourages BBG to focus additional funds on countries such as Venezuela, where access to independent media is restricted. Not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the BBG CEO is directed to submit a report on the independent media space in countries in Latin America and make recommendations on how to increase access to independent media where access to information is limited or restricted. Office of Cuba Broadcasting (OCB).--The Committee recommendation provides not less than $29,144,000 for OCB Radio and TV Marti, pursuant to the Radio Broadcasting to Cuba Act of 1983, the Television Broadcasting to Cuba Act of 1990, and section 703(b) of the Department of State Authorities Act, Fiscal Year 2017. Persian programming.--The Committee supports broadcasting to Iranian audiences and provides funds above the fiscal year 2018 enacted level for expended Persian programming. VOA Pakistan.--The Committee urges VOA to consider expanding Sindh language broadcasting. BROADCASTING CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS The Committee recommendation includes $9,700,000 for broadcasting capital improvements. RELATED PROGRAMS The Asia Foundation Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $17,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 17,000,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +17,000,000 The Committee recommendation includes $17,000,000 for The Asia Foundation. The Committee recommendation does not assume the closure of The Asia Foundation (TAF), as proposed by the fiscal year 2019 request. Authorized by The Asia Foundation Act of 1983, TAF operates programs throughout Asia. TAF program priorities are developed in consultation with the Department of State and focus at the country and regional levels on building democratic institutions and improving governance, supporting policies and institutions required for open markets, increasing opportunities for women's participation and empowerment, and encouraging stability and cooperative relations among nations in the Asia-Pacific region. The Committee supports the efforts of TAF to seek donations from private foundations and corporations, competitively-bid awards from governmental and multilateral development agencies, and fee-based or reimbursable agreements as a means of sustaining program activities. The Committee directs TAF to include a summary table in the CBJ for fiscal year 2020 detailing total revenue and support by category for fiscal year 2018 and projected for fiscal year 2019. United States Institute of Peace Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $37,884,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 20,000,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 37,884,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +17,884,000 The Committee recommendation includes $37,884,000, for the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), as authorized. The Committee notes that USIP receives funds from interagency transfers, reimbursements, and offsetting receipts to support USIP programs. The Committee urges USIP to continue to seek competitive awards from Federal agencies and to fully implement fee-based or reimbursable agreements, where appropriate, as a means of sustaining USIP activities and programs in a fiscally constrained environment. In addition, the Committee directs USIP to include information in the CBJ for fiscal year 2020 on the amount of funds received from other Federal agencies and the amount of revenue generated from fees and reimbursable agreements in fiscal year 2018, and projected for fiscal years 2019 and 2020. Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue Trust Fund Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $140,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 185,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 185,000 Change from enacted level......................... +45,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommends an appropriation for fiscal year 2018 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 2019 are projected to total $185,000. Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Program Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $158,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 190,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 190,000 Change from enacted level......................... +32,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommends an appropriation for fiscal year 2018 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 2019 are projected to total $190,000. Israeli Arab Scholarship Program Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $65,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 68,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 68,000 Change from enacted level......................... +3,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommends an appropriation for fiscal year 2018 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 2019 are projected to total $68,000. East-West Center Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $16,700,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 0 Change from enacted level......................... -16,700,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation does not include an appropriation for the East-West Center. National Endowment for Democracy Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $170,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 67,275,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 170,000,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +102,725,000 The Committee recommendation includes $170,000,000 for National Endowment for Democracy. Of the total amount provided, the Committee directs that $117,500,000 shall be allocated in the traditional and customary manner, including for the core institutes. The remaining $52,500,000 shall be for democracy, human rights, and rule of law programs; as well as for the next phase of the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) mid- to long-term strategic approach and response to immediate and unanticipated challenges or opportunities, regarding which 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 remains concerned that new, more sophisticated, and transnational threats to democracy abroad have emerged in recent years. The NED, with its four core institutes, its global grants programs and activities, and its extensive experience, is uniquely positioned to lead a strategic response to such threats. The Committee commends the NED for building on its unparalleled experience and work in the most difficult political environments to develop a transnational approach to defending democratic norms, values, and institutions to address many key strategic challenges. The Department of State and USAID should recognize the ability of the NED to address these challenges. The Committee continues to support democracy and human rights programs for Tibet and directs that not less than the amounts provided in fiscal year 2018 be continued for such purposes. The Committee recommendation exempts funds made available under National Endowment for Democracy from the requirements of section 7070(a). In lieu thereof, the President of the NED is directed 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. The funds made available under this heading should continue to be provided directly to the NED, and therefore shall not be subject to prior approval by the Department of State or USAID or to administrative or management surcharges, and minimal expenses, if any, should be charged to general Department of State operating expenses. Further, the NED should not be precluded from competitively bidding on other grant solicitations. OTHER COMMISSIONS Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad SALARIES AND EXPENSES Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $675,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 675,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 675,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation includes $675,000 for Commission for the Preservation of America's Heritage Abroad, as authorized. United States Commission on International Religious Freedom SALARIES AND EXPENSES Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $4,500,000 Fiscal Year 2019 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. Funds provided may remain available for obligation until September 30, 2020, provided that the Commission is authorized beyond September 30, 2019. The Commission conducts independent reviews, reports on facts and circumstances of violations of religious freedom abroad, and recommends options for United States policies with respect to foreign countries engaging in or tolerating violations of religious freedom. Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe SALARIES AND EXPENSES Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $2,579,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 2,579,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 2,579,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation includes $2,579,000 for Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, as authorized by Public Law 94-304. The Commission was established in 1976 to monitor the acts of the signatories that reflect compliance with or violation of the articles of the Final Act of the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe, with particular regard to provisions relating to human rights and cooperation in humanitarian fields. Congressional-Executive Commission on the People's Republic of China SALARIES AND EXPENSES Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $2,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 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 the Congressional-Executive Commission on the People's Republic of China. Established by the China Relations Act of 2000, the Commission's mission is to monitor compliance of the Government of the People's Republic of China (PRC) with international human rights standards and to track the development of the rule of law in the PRC. The Commission reports annually on these issues to the President and the Congressional leadership, making recommendations for policy action and legislation, when appropriate. United States-China Economic and Security Review Commission SALARIES AND EXPENSES Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $3,500,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 3,500,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 3,500,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation includes $3,500,000 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. Established by the National Defense Authorization Act, 2001, the mission of the Commission is to monitor, investigate, and assess the ``national security implications of the bilateral trade and economic relationship'' between the United States and the PRC. The Commission reports annually on these issues to Congress, making recommendations for policy action and legislation when appropriate. Western Hemisphere Drug Policy Commission SALARIES AND EXPENSES Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $ 0 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 1,500,000 Change from enacted level......................... +1,500,000 Change from request............................... +1,500,000 The Committee recommendation includes $1,500,000 for the Western Hemisphere Drug Policy Commission, as authorized by Title VI of the Department of State Authorities Act, Fiscal Year 2017 (P.L. 114-323). The recommendation provides an additional year of availability of funds in order to cover the costs of salaries and expenses through sunset of the Commission. The report required by section 601(c) of such Act shall also be submitted to the Committees on Appropriations. TITLE II--UNITED STATES AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT Funds Appropriated to the President OPERATING EXPENSES Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $1,189,609,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 1,114,920,000 Committee recommendation\1\........................... 1,189,609,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +74,689,000 \1\In addition, the fiscal year 2018 enacted level, and the Committee recommendation include funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation includes $1,189,609,000 for Operating Expenses. Additional funds are provided under title VIII. 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. As in prior years, the Committee directs the USAID Administrator to provide a report to the Committees on Appropriations, not later than 60 days after enactment of this Act, that details the number of people employed by USAID, the category of employment (direct hire, personal service contractor, Participating Agency Service Agreement, and similar categories), the veteran status of direct hires employed by USAID, the office or overseas post to which they are assigned or detailed, the appropriation account used to fund the employees, specific legislative authority needed to hire the employees, and, if hired by another Federal agency, the additional administrative expenses charged by that agency. Additionally, the USAID Administrator shall include the staffing levels and position titles for all Washington-based and overseas employees by bureau, office, or other unit. The Committee directs that this employment report reflect data as of the end of fiscal year 2018. The Committee notes that USAID must submit an operating plan to the Committees on Appropriations as required in section 7070(a) of this Act. Workforce diversity initiatives.--Funds appropriated under this heading shall continue to be made available to support workforce diversity initiatives, at levels commensurate with prior years, including for fellowships to promote diversity and excellence in the Foreign Service, such as the Donald M. Payne International Development Graduate Fellowship Program. 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. The Committee directs USAID to ensure that technical officers comply with statutory and regulatory requirements in selecting the appropriate instrument type when administering all contracts and awards. USAID shall consult with the Committee on the guidelines used when selecting the appropriate mechanism. The Committee further directs USAID to use this extraordinary authority judiciously. 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 expects the thresholds for notification to be the same as in fiscal year 2012. The Committee remains concerned about USAID limiting competition for certain contracts and grants. The Committee directs the USAID Administrator to 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 2018. 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. The Committee recommends that USAID increase the use of United States professional engineers and architects in the design, build, and oversight of construction projects funded by this Act. Science and technology research.--The Committee notes USAID issued a Public Access Plan on increasing access to the results of federally funded scientific research and urges continued implementation of such plan. Skilled volunteers.--The USAID Administrator shall form a task force to, among other things, recommend ways to advance USAID's mission and programs through the use of skilled volunteers, to promote USAID Missions' awareness of such volunteers, and to facilitate the procurement process and best practices for skilled volunteer activities. Not later than one year after enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall report to the Committees on Appropriations on the number of volunteers mobilized in fiscal years 2018 and 2019 and the disposition of task force recommendations. CAPITAL INVESTMENT FUND Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $197,100,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 190,900,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 200,000,000 Change from enacted level......................... +2,900,000 Change from request............................... +9,100,000 The Committee recommendation includes $200,000,000 for Capital Investment Fund to, among other things, support the objectives of the Foreign Aid Transparency and Accountability Act, and notes that USAID must submit an operating plan to the Committees on Appropriations as required in section 7070(a) of this Act. OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $72,800,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 71,500,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 76,000,000 Change from enacted level......................... +3,200,000 Change from request............................... +4,500,000 \1\In addition, the fiscal year 2018 enacted level includes funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation includes $76,000,000 for Office of Inspector General and directs the Office of Inspector General (OIG) to submit its annual audit plan within the first quarter of fiscal year 2019. Not later than 60 days after enactment of this Act, the OIG shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations on USAID's use of public-private partnerships for achieving development goals, metrics for evaluating their performance, and their advantages and disadvantages. The Committee directs the OIG to submit a report not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act on the policies, procedures, and processes that the Overseas Private Investment Corporation used to ensure compliance with the funding conditions and reporting requirements in Public Law 115-141 during fiscal year 2018. The OIG shall consult with the Committees on Appropriation on the scope of the report. TITLE III--BILATERAL ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE Funds Appropriated to the President GLOBAL HEALTH PROGRAMS Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $8,690,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 6,702,601,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 8,690,000,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +1,987,399,000 The Committee recommendation includes $8,690,000,000 for Global Health Programs. USAID Global Health Programs The Committee recommendation includes $3,092,550,000 for USAID global health programs, of which $3,020,000,000 is new budget authority to be directly apportioned to USAID and $72,550,000 is derived from repurposed funds. The Committee includes language similar to the request to permit the use of unobligated balances of funds appropriated under title IX of Division J of Public Law 113-235 for global health security and provides an additional amount for the Emergency Reserve Fund. The Committee recommendation includes budgetary resources of $845,000,000 for maternal and child health; $145,000,000 for nutrition programs under this heading; $23,000,000 for programs benefiting vulnerable children; $302,000,000 to combat tuberculosis; $172,550,000 for global health security and emerging health threats; and $755,000,000 to prevent and treat malaria. Global health security and emerging health threats.--The Committee recommendation includes $172,550,000 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. The Committee directs that such report shall be updated and submitted to the Committees on Appropriations every 60 days until funds are obligated. In addition, the Committee recommendation includes $25,000,000 for the Emergency Reserve Fund established pursuant to section 7058(c)(1) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2017 (Division J of P.L. 115-31) to enable the United States and the international public health community to respond rapidly to emerging health threats. Funds in the Emergency Reserve Fund are available until expended, but may only be made available if, prior to obligation, the USAID Administrator determines and reports to the appropriate congressional committees that it is in the national interest to respond to an emerging health threat that poses severe threats to human health. Malaria.--The Committee reaffirms its support for the Coordinator of United States Government Activities to Combat Malaria Globally as established in Public Law 110-293, including oversight of relevant programs across government agencies. 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. Maternal and child health.--The health of a mother is directly related to the health of her children, and the Committee continues its commitment to maintain an emphasis on expanding access to programs that have proven effective in reducing maternal and child mortality. From funds provided under this heading, the Committee directs USAID to support, at not less than the prior year level, programs to prevent and treat obstetric fistula, and for maternal and neonatal tetanus, and report to the Committee on levels provided for such purposes. The Committee also encourages USAID to continue supporting cleft lip/palate treatment. The Committee looks forward to USAID's annual report on progress towards ending preventable child and maternal deaths. 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 ensure global health security. The Committee directs the USAID Administrator to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on implementation of the Award Cost Efficiency Study Blue Ribbon Panel recommendations for USAID maternal and child health investments. Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).--The Committee notes the success of USAID in combating NTDs and supports the continuation of these life-saving programs. Nutrition.--The Committee directs that not less than $145,000,000 be provided for nutrition programs under this heading, including continued funding for Vitamin A and iodine deficiency disorder programs. 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. Other health matters.--The Committee requests 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; programs for children with disabling burn injuries; non-communicable diseases; neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease and dementia; and surgical care systems strengthening. Polio.--The Committee provides $59,000,000 for programs to combat and eradicate polio, of which not less than $51,500,000 is provided under this heading. The Committee notes that global polio eradication programs are also funded by the CDC. Reproductive health and voluntary family planning.--Section 7058 of this Act includes a limitation of not more than $461,000,000 for reproductive health and voluntary family planning programs in this Act. This provision also addresses funds provided under Economic Support Fund for such programs. The Committee recommendation continues prior year language that does the following: (1) requires that none of the funds appropriated in this Act, or any unobligated balances, may be made available to any organization or program, which as determined by the President, supports or participates in the management of a program of coercive abortion or involuntary sterilization; (2) states that funds cannot be used to pay for the performance of abortions as a method of family planning or to motivate or coerce any person to practice abortion; (3) specifies that population funds shall be available only to voluntary family planning projects that offer, either directly or through referral, information about access to a broad range of family planning methods and services; (4) requires that in awarding grants for natural family planning under section 104 of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, no applicant shall be discriminated against because of such applicant's religious or conscientious commitment to offer only natural family planning; and (5) requires the provision of accurate information related to condoms. The Committee includes language in section 7056 of this Act prohibiting funds for any foreign nongovernmental organization that promotes or performs abortion, except in cases of rape or incest or when the life of the mother would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term. 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 recognizes the important role USAID has played in health-related research and supports continued investments in global health technologies across the agency's health programs to better address longstanding and emerging global health challenges. To further this effort, the Committee directs the Department of State and USAID to coordinate and undertake a consultative process with the Department of Defense, the CDC, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Food and Drug Administration, and OGAC as agencies develop their global health research priorities to ensure that United States investments in global health research are efficient, coordinated, and streamlined. The Committee further 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. For fiscal year 2019, the report should also include information on the consultative process to determine global health research priorities as directed under this heading. Tuberculosis.--The Committee includes $302,000,000 for programs to combat drug-susceptible and drug-resistant tuberculosis. The USAID Administrator is directed to consult with the Committees on Appropriations regarding the use of funds in this Act for such purposes. The Committee expects progress reports issued on the National Action Plan for Combating Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis (MDR-TB) to include, on a country-by-country basis, a description of: efforts to increase active case finding; the number of adults and children receiving treatment for MDR-TB; the proportion of those treated with regimens that include new tuberculosis drugs; efforts to address side-effects of treatment; factors impeding scale up; and progress in expanding community-based care. The Committee notes that political will within target countries has been identified as an impediment to further progress on MDR-TB and expects USAID, in coordination with the Department of State, to expand efforts to encourage countries most impacted to make meaningful commitments on MDR-TB, including increasing their own domestic resources to combat the disease. Vaccines.--The Committee recommends a United States contribution of $290,000,000 for Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance in recognition that vaccines are key to decreasing the number of children who die before age five. The Committee notes USAID's investments in malaria and HIV/ AIDS vaccine development and supports continued efforts 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 consult with the Committees on Appropriations on amounts proposed for such efforts for fiscal year 2019. The Committee further notes ongoing vaccine development efforts to prevent and respond to future outbreaks from deadly viruses, and encourages the USAID Administrator to consider supporting such efforts within global health security and emerging health threats. Vulnerable children.--The Committee directs that not less than $23,000,000 be provided to support programs and activities that address the needs of vulnerable children, including childhood blindness programs. The Committee commends USAID for initiating the process to update the Unites States Government Action Plan on Children in Adversity (APCA), and supports USAID's objectives of building strong beginnings, putting family care first, and protecting children from violence, abuse, and neglect. The Committee expects USAID to plan and budget for activities that enable children to remain in or return to the care of their families, or when appropriate, other close family members, and decrease the percentage of children living in institutions. In carrying out these programs, 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. The Committee directs the USAID Administrator to regularly update the Committee on APCA implementation. HIV/AIDS Prevention and Treatment The Committee recommendation includes $6,000,000,000 to fight HIV/AIDS, which is the same amount as the fiscal year 2018 enacted level. Of this amount, the Committee recommendation includes $5,670,000,000 to be directly apportioned to the Department of State. The Committee recommends continued support for a United States contribution to the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). The Committee recognizes the significant achievements of PEPFAR through the support of anti-retroviral treatment, testing, counseling, and other prevention measures, including for key populations. The Committee recommends prioritizing 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. OGAC should focus on capacity for HIV diagnostics, including early infant diagnosis and the use of point-of-care diagnostics; anti-retroviral treatment with age-appropriate pediatric formulations; and improving case-finding and adherence support. For PEPFAR, sustainability means that a country has services, systems, and resources to effectively and efficiently control the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The Committee directs PEPFAR to include in its annual report a country-by-country assessment of sustainability and the country specific obstacles to sustainability. The Committee supports OGAC's engagement with post- secondary institutions as authorized in section 204(c) of Public Law 110-293. Microbicides.--The Committee recommends continued support for microbicide development and directs OGAC to coordinate with USAID, NIH, other Federal agencies, and donors in order to advance microbicide development and implementation. The Committee directs OGAC to update the Committees on Appropriations on a regular basis on the progress made in achieving an effective microbicide and plans for the use of funds in fiscal year 2019. Public-private partnerships.--The Committee recognizes the important work by OGAC and USAID in partnering with the private sector and other institutional donors to leverage public and private investments in global health. These efforts are instrumental in combating a number of health issues unique to the survival of women and mothers in sub-Saharan Africa, including screening for disease, education and awareness campaigns, and other critical improvements to the overall health systems and services in some of the most underserved areas. The Committee understands OGAC and USAID are considering entering into such partnerships to prevent the spread of human papillomavirus and cervical cancer through screening and treatment programs in low-income countries with high prevalence. The Committee directs OGAC and USAID to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on plans for and progress of such partnerships. The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria (Global Fund).--The Committee is supportive of the Global Fund and its performance-based, results-oriented multilateral funding mechanism to combat HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases. The Committee recommends $1,350,000,000 to meet such commitment. Oversight of the Global Fund remains a top priority, as well as continued support for an independent Office of the Inspector General. Therefore, the Committee recommendation continues language withholding 10 percent of funds provided to the Global Fund until the Secretary of State certifies to the Committees on Appropriations that the Secretariat and Board of the Global Fund have not adopted policies that would make the work of the OIG less transparent or less comprehensive. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to provide to the Committees on Appropriations an update to the report required in House Report 113-185 on Global Fund issues related to financial systems, taxation, the United Nations Development Programme, and Secretariat budget transparency. 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 supports the continued integration of APCA's first objective into PEPFAR Mother-to-Child Transmission Programs; continued programming that focuses on strengthening families and preventing family separation, as well as identifying children outside of parental care for placement into permanent families; and continued support for efforts to meet the needs of children living outside of family care. DEVELOPMENT ASSISTANCE Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $3,000,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request\1\........................... 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 3,000,000,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +3,000,000,000 \1\The fiscal year 2019 request proposes to consolidate funds under this heading and Economic Support Fund. The Committee recommendation includes $3,000,000,000 for Development Assistance. Agriculture The Committee recommendation includes not less than $1,000,600,000 for food security and agriculture development as authorized by the Global Food Security Act of 2016 (P.L. 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 by investing in agriculture development in a select group of developing countries and intends that programs are prioritized for small-holder farmers, particularly for women, and other vulnerable populations. The Committee supports the Global Food Security Strategy's recognition of agricultural research and academic institutions, including land-grant universities and extension services, as key stakeholders in food security and agricultural development. The Committee encourages USAID to support extension activities in the implementation of the strategy and establish linkages with other initiatives and USAID priorities to leverage resources and expertise through partnerships with a variety of institutions. The Committee expects the USAID Administrator to ensure that country coordinators for agriculture development in target countries have the necessary technical expertise to oversee all food security programming in such countries. 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. The Committee provides $15,000,000 for a contribution as authorized by section 3202 of Public Law 110-246, as amended by section 3206 of Public Law 113-79. Feed the Future Innovation Labs.--The Committee recommendation includes not less than $60,000,000 for the Feed the Future Innovation Labs, and commends USAID for its increased engagement with United States universities to capitalize on the unparalleled research capacities of United States institutions of higher education to solve the world's most challenging agricultural development and food security problems. The Committee directs that the request level for the Feed the Future Innovation Labs be designated in the CBJ for fiscal year 2020. 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. Spend plan.--Pursuant to section 7070(b) of this Act, the USAID Administrator is required to submit a spend plan on food security and agriculture development and the Committee directs that such plan shall detail the proposed use of funds by account, office, and country prior to funds being obligated. The spend plan shall also include information detailing the level of resources recipient countries are investing in their own food security and agriculture development plans. Economic Growth Microenterprise and microfinance.--The Committee recommendation includes not less than $265,000,000 in this Act for microenterprise and microfinance development programs. The Committee notes that USAID is required to target half of all microfinance and microenterprise funds to the very poor, defined as those living on less than $1.25 a day, pursuant to section 251(c) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. The Committee directs the USAID Administrator to prioritize investments in microenterprise and microfinance in sub-Saharan Africa to reach the poorest and most marginalized and to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on efforts to focus existing resources for this purpose. The Committee encourages investment in a variety of financial services that allow the poor to save, borrow, and access insurance, remittances, and other key services. The Committee supports microenterprise and 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 related to countries with free trade agreements to ensure that United States workers and businesses can compete on a level playing field. Education American Schools and Hospitals Abroad (ASHA).--The Committee recommendation includes not less than $30,000,000 for the ASHA program, which is a $2,000,000 increase above the fiscal year 2018 enacted level. 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 notes the distinct mandate of ASHA from other USAID development programs, including the focus on public diplomacy and fostering American values, ideas, and practices. The Committee also notes that many of the successful ASHA programs operate in countries that are largely absent of other USAID programs. USAID should consider the strategic impact that ASHA programs can have in particular countries and regions in fostering a stronger commitment to fundamental American values. The Committee expects ASHA funds to continue to be allocated through an open and competitive process. 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. Section 7060(c) of this Act includes a new requirement for USAID to notify the Committees on Appropriations prior to making changes to the annual solicitation for ASHA. USAID shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations not less than 15 days prior to issuing the annual solicitation for ASHA. In addition, the Committee directs USAID to restore past performance to the review criteria in the annual solicitation. 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 $800,000,000 for basic education programs in this Act, which is the same as the fiscal year 2018 level. The Committee supports increased United States participation in the Global Partnership for Education and includes not less than $90,000,000 for a contribution. The Committee supports funding for Education Cannot Wait to support basic education programs for children affected by conflict, natural disasters, and displacement. The Committee encourages USAID to continue to strengthen early learning and pre-primary education programming. The USAID Administrator should explore opportunities to promote early child development through ongoing activities and programs, including screening for early development delays and training for caregivers about behaviors that promote brain development. Not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, the USAID Administrator is directed to submit an updated report to the Committees on Appropriations on the criteria used to determine where pre-primary education programs are funded. The report shall also include a list of countries and funding levels for all current pre-primary education programs. 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 schools and educational 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 provide technical assistance to local partners in order to implement and scale leadership development programs to facilitate and sustain educational opportunities. USAID is directed to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on this initiative on a regular basis, as well as stakeholders, during continued implementation of the basic education strategy to sustain progress in literacy and basic education programs. Such consultations should include how the strategy will impact all age groups. The Committee encourages USAID to place an emphasis on basic education programs in the Western Hemisphere. The Committee recommends USAID consider school-based eye health programs to help ensure access to eyeglasses for children. The Committee notes that violence against children can be pervasive even in settings where children are expected to be safe and protected, such as homes and schools, and the negative impact such violence has on education outcomes. The Committee therefore encourages that basic education programs support the objectives and outcomes outlined in the APCA. The Committee is encouraged by the progress in reducing the funding pipeline of basic education assistance. In carrying out the reporting directive in section 7060(a) of this Act, the USAID Administrator shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations on new efforts and significant progress made to reduce the funding pipeline. Higher education.--The Committee recommendation includes not less than $235,000,000 for assistance for higher education, which is the same as the fiscal year 2018 level. The recommendation includes $10,000,000 for partnerships between higher education institutions in the United States and Malawi. The Committee notes the important role United States universities have played in advancing recent innovations in e- learning and directs USAID to include a focus within partnerships in Malawi to increase access to higher education through the use of this technology. In addition, the Committee recommendation includes not less than $35,000,000 for programs to build institutional capacity of universities and colleges in developing nations through partnerships with United States universities, of which not less than $15,000,000 is 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. The Committee supports the work of the USAID Global Development Lab to accelerate the creation, testing, and scaling of high-impact approaches to development and directs that funds consistent with prior years be made available to continue 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. The Committee includes further direction on funds made available under this heading for Vietnam in section 7043 of this report and expects the USAID Administrator to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the use of funds for higher education programs in the country. The Committee expects funds provided for higher education to be made available through open and competitive processes. Global Programs The Committee includes language on conservation and programs to combat trafficking in persons under section 7060 of this report. Burn prevention.--The Committee supports burn prevention efforts through the distribution of fire-safe cookstoves and directs that USAID consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the estimated need and cost effectiveness of programs that focus on essential treatment for children with disabling burn injuries. The Committee further directs that USAID integrate burn prevention and treatment into existing programs, as appropriate. Child marriage.--The Committee recommendation includes $11,000,000 for programs that reduce the incidence of child marriage and to meet the needs of married girls. Cooperative Development Program.--The Committee recommendation provides $12,000,000 for USAID's Cooperative Development Program. The Committee directs the USAID Administrator to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on cooperative development programs for financial systems including how USAID is complying with the requirements of 22 U.S.C. 2151i(2) regarding technical assistance for low income people to have access to credit for their own economic advancement. Domestic resource mobilization.--The Committee continues to support the efforts of USAID and the Office of Technical Assistance (OTA) of the Department of the Treasury to help countries better mobilize their own financial resources. Domestic resource mobilization offers the opportunity to create tools and capacity in partner countries to increase the accountability of governments to their people and significantly raise new resources to invest in and achieve their health, education, and other development goals. Not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the USAID Administrator, in consultation with the OTA and the Millennium Challenge Corporation, shall provide to the appropriate congressional committees a domestic resource mobilization strategy that establishes goals and objectives, monitoring, performance metrics, and funding sources by country. The USAID Administrator shall consult with the appropriate congressional committees prior to the submission of such strategy. Long Term Assistance and Services for Research.--The Committee supports USAID's efforts to establish an international network of higher education institutions, civil society, policy-makers and the private sector to solve development issues through collaborative research. New Partners.--The Committee supports USAID establishing additional grant opportunities for new partners, particularly small and mid-size community and faith-based organizations which have received less than $25,000,000 of cumulative federal direct grant funding over the last five years. These new partnerships are intended to assist in the development of local capacity so that countries can address their own development issues and decrease dependence on foreign organizations and technical assistance. Not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, the USAID Administrator shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations with recommendations for such opportunities. Mobility.--The Committee directs the USAID Administrator to submit a report, not later than 180 days after enactment of this Act to the Committees on Appropriations, on efforts taken to increase mobility in developing countries, including through the use of bicycles, to achieve key development objectives, and options for increasing such efforts. Ocean Freight Reimbursement Program.--The Committee recommendation includes $1,500,000 for USAID's Ocean Freight Reimbursement Program to continue support for Private Voluntary Organizations through a competitive grant program pursuant to section 123(b) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. The USAID Administrator is directed to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the administration of the program for fiscal year 2019. Development innovation.--The Committee supports funding at not less than the prior year for Development Innovation Ventures. Reconciliation programs.--The Committee recommendation provides $30,000,000 under this heading and Economic Support Fund 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, of which $12,000,000 shall be for reconciliation activities between Israelis and Palestinians. Funds shall be awarded through a competitive grant process. The Committee expects the Department of State and USAID to ensure that funds provided for reconciliation programs in the Middle East include a rigorous vetting and evaluation process and are consistent with United States foreign policy objectives in the region. Strategy to strengthen families.--The Committee directs USAID, in consultation with the Department of State, and relevant stakeholders, to develop a strategy to protect and strengthen families globally, including metrics to assess social cohesion, in order to achieve development outcomes. Victims of torture.--The Committee supports continued funding for the USAID victims of torture programs. Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).--The Committee recommendation includes not less than $400,000,000 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 directs that not less than $155,000,000 of such funds shall be made available for programs and activities in sub-Saharan Africa, which should be prioritized for the poorest communities and countries in accordance with Public Law 113-289. The Committee expects these programs to include robust monitoring and evaluation and directs USAID to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on these efforts. Access to adequate water, sanitation, and hygiene is a critical component of disease prevention, and 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 Committee directs the USAID Administrator to update the report on these issues under this heading in House Report 115-253, not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act. The Committee recognizes the work of academic institutions in WASH programs in West Africa and supports catalytic approaches that increase the capacity of national and regional institutions to replicate successful models for safe water and sanitation and improved hygiene throughout the region. The Committee notes the rapid urbanization of countries in the developing world and recommends USAID give special consideration to urban WASH projects. The Committee also notes that Goal 2 of the Department of State and USAID Joint Strategic Plan is Renew America's Competitive Advantage for Sustained Economic Growth and Job Creation. In pursuing this goal, the USAID Administrator is directed to review policy and procedures for USAID programs in order to expand the creation of market opportunities for United States industries. 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, including water infrastructure. USAID is directed to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the use of such standards in the design and implementation of development programs. Water security.--The Committee notes that water scarcity endangers the livelihoods of communities and leads to conflicts and migration. The Committee directs USAID and the Department of State to support projects that improve water sector governance and finance; improve management of water resources; and promote cooperation on shared waters. INTERNATIONAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $2,696,534,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 3,557,412,000 Committee recommendation\1\........................... 2,997,734,000 Change from enacted level......................... +301,200,000 Change from request............................... -559,678,000 \1\In addition, the fiscal year 2018 enacted level and the Committee recommendation include funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation includes $2,997,734,000 for International Disaster Assistance, when combined with funds provided under title VIII the total is $4,285,312,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2018 enacted level. 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 (P.L. 114-195). TRANSITION INITIATIVES Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $30,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 87,043,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 96,145,000 Change from enacted level......................... +66,145,000 Change from request............................... +9,102,000 \1\In addition, the fiscal year 2018 enacted level includes funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation includes $96,145,000 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. The Committee recommendation continues the following requirements: (1) funds made available under this heading may only be administered by the Office of Transition Initiatives (OTI); (2) five days prior to starting a new program, USAID must submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations; and (3) up to $15,000,000 of funds appropriated by this Act to carry out the provisions of part I of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 may be used for the purposes and with the authorities provided under this heading if the Secretary of State determines it is in the national interest and following consultation with the Committees on Appropriations. 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 2019, including programs supported with transferred funds, subject to the reporting requirements of the Committees on Appropriations. COMPLEX CRISES FUND Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $10,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 0 Change from enacted level......................... -10,000,000 Change from request............................... 0 \1\In addition, the fiscal year 2018 enacted level includes funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation does not include an appropriation for the Complex Crises Fund. DEVELOPMENT CREDIT AUTHORITY Program Account: Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level.................... $55,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request\1\....................... 0 Committee recommendation.......................... 40,000,000 Change from enacted level..................... -15,000,000 Change from request........................... +40,000,000 Administrative Expenses: Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level.................... $10,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request\1\....................... 0 Committee recommendation.......................... 9,120,000 Change from enacted level..................... -880,000 Change from request........................... +9,120,000 \1\For fiscal year 2019, the budget proposes to replace DCA with a new Development Finance Institution. The Committee recommendation includes a ceiling of $40,000,000 on the amount that may be transferred from bilateral economic assistance accounts for the subsidy cost of loan guarantees under the Development Credit Authority (DCA) program, which is consistent with the recent level of transfers. The Committee recommendation includes an appropriation of $9,120,000 for administrative expenses. The Act includes a requirement that USAID notify the Committees on Appropriations prior to the use of gifts for DCA transactions or in transactions resulting in negative subsidy. The Committee notes that USAID must submit a spending report to the Committees on Appropriations as required in section 7070(c) of this Act. ECONOMIC SUPPORT AND DEVELOPMENT FUND Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $0 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 5,063,125,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 0 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... -5,063,125,000 The Committee does not recommend funds under this heading, as proposed in the fiscal year 2019 budget request. ECONOMIC SUPPORT FUND Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $1,816,731,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation\1\........................... 2,518,654,000 Change from enacted level......................... +701,923,000 Change from request............................... +2,518,654,000 \1\In addition, the fiscal year 2018 enacted level and the Committee recommendation include funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation includes $2,518,654,000 for Economic Support Fund. Additional funds are provided under title VIII. The Committee notes that funds recommended under this heading are provided to advance United States interests by helping countries meet political, economic, and security needs. Africa The Committee provides additional direction on programs in this region under section 7042 of this report. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).--The Committee recommendation includes $75,180,000 for the DRC, which is the same as the request. Funds are provided to support economic and agricultural development opportunities, including in eastern DRC. Funds should also support democracy and governance, rule of law, and civil society capacity building. The Committee notes the success of public-private partnerships to help small farmers with agricultural development initiatives and encourages USAID to continue to support such efforts. Somalia.--The Committee supports continued funding for Somalia to support the formation of legitimate, durable institutions that will enhance peace and stability in the country. The Secretary of State is directed to submit an update to the report required under this heading in House Report 114- 693 not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act. East Asia and Pacific The Committee provides additional direction on programs in this region under section 7043 of this report. People's Republic of China (PRC).--The Committee recommendation includes a prohibition on direct assistance to the Government of the PRC from this account. Tibet.--The Committee recommendation includes $8,000,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2018 enacted level, to support activities that preserve cultural traditions and promote sustainable development and environmental conservation in Tibetan communities in the Tibetan Autonomous Region and in other Tibet autonomous areas in the PRC. The Committee notes the development challenges facing Tibetan communities in South Asia and includes $6,000,000, which is the same as the fiscal year 2018 enacted level, to continue to support Tibetan communities in India and Nepal in the areas of education, skills development, and entrepreneurship. In addition, the Committee includes $3,000,000 for Tibetan governance and institutions. Latin America and the Caribbean The Committee provides additional direction for programs in Latin America and the Caribbean under section 7045 of this report. Cuba.--The Committee recommendation includes $30,000,000 for programs to promote democracy and strengthen civil society in Cuba, of which not less than $8,000,000 shall be for the NED. The remaining funds should be administered by DRL, the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, and USAID. The Committee encourages these bureaus and USAID to consider the unique capabilities of the core institutes of the NED in implementing similar programs. The Committee directs that funds shall only be used for programs and activities pursuant to section 109(a) of the Cuban Liberty and Solidarity (LIBERTAD) Act of 1996 and section 1705 of the Cuban Democracy Act of 1992, and shall not be used for business promotion, economic reform, entrepreneurship or any other assistance that is not democracy- building. With respect to grantee selection and implementation, the Committee directs that grants exceeding $1,000,000, or to be implemented over a period of 12 months, shall be awarded only to organizations with experience promoting democracy inside Cuba. 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 not less than $12,000,000 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 MEPI and directs that within such funds $20,000,000 be made available for the MEPI scholarship program, which is the same as the fiscal year 2018 level. Middle East Regional Cooperation Program.--The Committee recommendation includes $5,000,000 for the Middle East Regional Cooperation Program, which is the same as the fiscal year 2018 level. Near East Regional Democracy.--The Committee recommendation includes $47,000,000 for the Near East Regional Democracy program, which is $5,000,000 above the fiscal year 2018 enacted level. The Committee expects a portion of the funds be used to support programs to increase the participation of women in politics, including as candidates in elections, and in consultation with diaspora communities in the United States. Scholarship program for refugees in Lebanon.--The Committee recommendation includes $5,000,000 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 this heading. 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. South and Central Asia The Committee provides additional direction on programs in this region under section 7044 of this report. Global Programs Combating violent extremism.--The Committee encourages USAID to invest in innovative, locally-led organizations with programs developed to prevent and address the underlying causes of violent extremism and promote sustainable development in a community or communities recently liberated from or particularly vulnerable to extremist organizations, including terrorist organizations such as Boko Haram. Disability Programs.--The Committee notes USAID's ongoing support for programs that support inclusive development of persons with disabilities and encourages funding for such programs at prior year levels. Foreign assistance resources.--The Committee recommendation includes the request for the Office of U.S. Foreign Assistance Resources to support aid transparency and evaluation. Independent media.--The Committee continues to support assistance for independent media, including in Afghanistan, Burma, and Pakistan. Information communication technology training.--The Committee is supportive of programs that provide policy and technical training to information communication technology professionals from developing countries at prior year levels. National Ocean Policy.--The Committee notes that no funds are requested in fiscal year 2019 for the implementation of the National Ocean Policy, and the Committee recommendation includes no funding for this purpose. The Committee further notes that any funds obligated in support of this policy are subject to the notification requirements contained in this Act. Parliamentary exchanges.--The Committee includes $1,900,000 for the House Democracy Partnership and encourages coordination with USAID in implementing parliamentary strengthening programs. Rule of law and judicial reform.--The Committee believes the rule of law is fundamental to promoting democracy and sustainable development. The Committee notes that the rule of law is strengthened by promoting independent judiciaries, human rights and women's rights, combating human trafficking and corruption, and increasing public accountability and access to justice. The Committee continues to support programs to develop fair and transparent judicial systems that advance the rule of law worldwide. DEMOCRACY FUND Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $215,500,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation 225,000,000 Change from enacted level......................... +9,500,000 Change from request............................... +225,000,000 The Committee includes $225,000,000 for Democracy Fund, which is $9,500,000 above the fiscal year 2018 enacted level. Funds included under this heading were requested under Economic Support and Development Fund. Of the funds provided, $155,500,000 shall be for the Human Rights and Democracy Fund of DRL at the Department of State, and $69,500,000 shall be for the Bureau for Democracy, Conflict, and Humanitarian Assistance at USAID. ASSISTANCE FOR EUROPE, EURASIA AND CENTRAL ASIA Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $750,334,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request\1\........................... 0 Committee recommendation $750,334,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +750,334,000 \1\The fiscal year 2019 request proposes to consolidate funds under this heading and Economic Support Fund. The Committee recommendation includes $750,334,000 for Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia. Cyprus.--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 on 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. Reconciliation programs.--The Committee expects that funds will be made available to further the economic, social development, and reconciliation goals of Public Law 99-415 at levels consistent with amounts provided in prior years. Research and training.--The Committee recommendation supports programs made pursuant to section 7034(d) of this Act for research and training authorized by the Soviet-Eastern European Research and Training Act of 1983. Department of State MIGRATION AND REFUGEE ASSISTANCE Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $927,802,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 2,800,375,000 Committee recommendation\1\ 996,766,000 Change from enacted level......................... +68,964,000 Change from request............................... -1,803,609,000 \1\In addition, the fiscal year 2018 enacted level and the Committee recommendation include funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation includes $996,766,000 for Migration and Refugee Assistance. When combined with additional funds for Migration and Refugee Assistance provided under title VIII, the amount recommended is the same as the fiscal year 2018 enacted level. Of the funds made available under this heading in this title, the Committee recommendation includes not less than $35,000,000 to respond to small-scale emergency humanitarian requirements. Burmese refugees.--The Committee expects the Secretary of State to provide robust diplomatic and funding for refugees and other displaced people from Burma, including those who have fled ethnic cleansing and other attacks. Coordination.--The Committee recommendation includes sufficient funds for the Administration to support the work of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, as requested. Minority communities.--Conflict and instability in the Middle East and Africa intensify the challenges facing minority ethnic and religious communities, including Christian populations. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to ensure that eligible individuals and families from such communities have access to humanitarian assistance and resettlement services. Resettlement in Israel.--The Committee recommendation includes not less than $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. Syrian refugee assistance.--The Committee encourages the Secretary of State to ensure that senior level Department leadership is dedicated to addressing the diplomatic and assistance needs of Syrian refugees, especially refugees of special humanitarian concern, and to the development and implementation of other appropriate policies and programs concerning Syrian refugees, other refugees in the region, internally displaced persons and people of humanitarian concern in Syria. Tibetan refugees.--The Committee supports the continued allocation of funds to assist Tibetan refugees in Nepal and India at a level commensurate with prior years. The Committee is concerned about reports 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. United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) accountability.--The Committee recommendation includes language in section 7048(d) of this Act prohibiting funds appropriated under this heading from being made available to UNRWA until the Secretary of State determines and reports to the Committees on Appropriations that UNRWA is meeting the conditions enumerated in that section. The Committee directs that in reviewing whether UNRWA is meeting the requirements of section 7048(d)(2), the Secretary of State shall ensure that UNRWA's employment policies prohibit staff from being members of militant political parties or a Foreign Terrorist Organization designated pursuant to section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, including members of Hamas. In addition to the pre-obligation determination and report required by section 7048(d) of this Act, the Secretary of State shall, not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report on United States policy concerning UNRWA, including funding plans, reforms needed by UNRWA to improve accountability and sustainability of services, and changes in United States policy towards UNRWA. In developing such a report, the Secretary shall also include an assessment of the following: (1) the current definition of Palestinian refugees that is used by UNRWA, how that definition corresponds with, or differs from, the standard practice used by UNHCR, other UN agencies, and the United States Government, and whether such definition furthers the prospects for lasting peace in the region and the sustainability of UNRWA's operations; (2) any reforms that have been, or are planned to be, submitted to the UN or to UNRWA and whether such reforms are a condition for future funding; (3) UNRWA's commitment and capacity to ensure (i) financial transparency, efficiency, and oversight of services and (ii) that UNRWA staff, facilities, and materials are not utilized for political purposes or terrorist activities; (4) alternatives for assisting Palestinians in need outside of the UNRWA framework; and (5) the impact of changes to United States policy towards, and funding for, UNRWA on United States national security and regional stability in the Middle East and North Africa. The strategy shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may include a classified annex. Western Hemisphere.--The Committee remains concerned about the growing number of refugees and immigrants in the Western Hemisphere, especially refugees fleeing Venezuela, and urges the Secretary of State to carefully monitor the needs of displaced individuals and families and the communities that host them. UNITED STATES EMERGENCY REFUGEE AND MIGRATION ASSISTANCE FUND Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $1,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 0 Change from enacted level......................... -1,000,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation does not include funds under this heading. Funds previously provided under the heading have been included under Migration and Refugee Assistance. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to provide a report to the Committees on Appropriations on any available balances remaining under the Emergency Refugee and Migration Assistance Fund not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act. Independent Agencies PEACE CORPS (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS) Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $410,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 396,200,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 410,500,000 Change from enacted level......................... +500,000 Change from request............................... +14,300,000 The Committee recommendation includes $410,500,000 for Peace Corps, of which $6,000,000 is for the Office of the Inspector General. The Committee recommendation for Peace Corps will provide support for the positive contributions of 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 7070(a) of this Act. The Committee recommendation continues the requirement that the Peace Corps 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 directs the Director of the Peace Corps to submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations, 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. MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE CORPORATION Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $905,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 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 $105,000,000 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, 2020. Corruption.--The Committee directs the CEO of the MCC to continue to update the Committees on Appropriations on efforts to seek better data on governance and other measures of corruption. 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. Reporting requirements.--The Committee directs the MCC to continue to adhere to the directives contained in House Report 114-154 with respect to reporting requirements. INTER-AMERICAN FOUNDATION Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $22,500,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 3,482,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 22,500,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +19,018,000 The Committee recommendation includes $22,500,000 for the Inter-American Foundation (IAF). The Committee recommendation does not assume the consolidation of the IAF into USAID, as proposed by the fiscal year 2019 request. The Committee recommendation provides additional resources for IAF via transfer from Development Assistance to support the United States Strategy for Engagement in Central America. The Committee notes that section 7070(a) of this Act requires an operating plan for funds made available under this heading. UNITED STATES AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $30,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 4,623,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 30,000,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +25,377,000 The Committee recommendation includes $30,000,000 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 2019 request. 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 7070(a) of this Act requires an operating plan for funds made available under this heading. DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY The Committee directs the Department of the Treasury's Office of Inspector General (OIG) to submit a report not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act on the policies, procedures, and processes that the Office of Technical Assistance used to ensure compliance with the funding conditions and reporting requirements in Public Law 115-141 during fiscal year 2018. The OIG shall consult with the Committees on Appropriation on the scope of the report. INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $30,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 30,000,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 30,000,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation includes $30,000,000 for International Affairs Technical Assistance by the Department of the Treasury. The operating and spend plans required under sections 7070 of this Act shall include estimated program and administrative costs by fiscal year of appropriation. The Committee is troubled by the Office of Technical Assistance's (OTA) non-compliance with the notification requirements under section 7015 of this Act and lack of full compliance with operating and spend plans required under section 7070 of this Act. The Committee directs the Department to make all records and staff available to the Office of Inspector General in the course of their work to prepare a report for the Committee on OTA's compliance with funding conditions and reporting requirements. TITLE IV--INTERNATIONAL SECURITY ASSISTANCE The Committee notes that under the direction of the President, the Secretary of State shall be responsible for the continuous supervision and general direction of economic assistance, law enforcement and justice sector assistance, military assistance, and military education and training programs, including but not limited to determining whether there shall be a military assistance (including civic action) or a military education and training program for a country and the value thereof, to the end that such programs are effectively integrated both at home and abroad and the foreign policy of the United States is best served thereby. Department of State INTERNATIONAL NARCOTICS CONTROL AND LAW ENFORCEMENT Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $950,845,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 880,350,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 1,435,151,000 Change from enacted level......................... +484,306,000 Change from request............................... +554,801,000 \1\In addition, the fiscal year 2018 enacted level includes funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation includes $1,435,151,000 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 Budget Authority ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Argentina............................................ $2,500 Caribbean Basin Security Initiative.................. $25,250 Central America Regional Security Initiative......... 222,500 Combating wildlife poaching and trafficking.......... 50,000 Colombia............................................. 160,000 Countering Russian Influence Fund.................... 50,000 Critical Flight Safety Program....................... 12,000 Cybercrime and Intellectual Property Rights.......... 10,000 Demand Reduction..................................... 15,000 DNA forensic technology.............................. 8,000 Egypt................................................ 2,000 Georgia.............................................. 4,000 International Law Enforcement Academies.............. 27,000 International Organizations.......................... 7,000 International Organized Crime........................ 80,850 Mexico............................................... 120,000 Morocco.............................................. 5,000 Partnership for Regional East Africa Counterterrorism 2,580 Peru................................................. 32,000 Programs to end modern slavery....................... 25,000 Stabilization and recovery........................... 10,000 Trafficking in persons............................... 45,000 Trans-Sahara Counterterrorism Partnership............ 10,032 Tunisia.............................................. 13,000 Ukraine.............................................. 30,000 Western Hemisphere Regional Security Cooperation..... 12,500 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Argentina.--The Committee notes the renewed security cooperation and engagement between Argentina and the United States. Funds provided under this heading should support mutually agreed upon goals in the areas of counterterrorism, counternarcotics, and law enforcement, and increase Argentina's technological capabilities in such areas. Combating wildlife trafficking.--The Committee includes $50,000,000 under this heading for programs to combat wildlife poaching and trafficking. The Committee continues to support the use of aircraft for anti-poaching activities and directs the Secretary of State to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the current and proposed demonstration projects not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act. 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. Coordination.--The Committee notes that, consistent with section 481(b) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, the Secretary of State is responsible for coordinating all assistance provided by the United States Government to support international efforts to combat illicit narcotics production or trafficking. In addition, the provision of assistance by the Department of Defense which is comparable to assistance made available under this heading should be provided in a manner consistent with the requirements of section 333(b) of title 10, United States Code. Critical Flight Safety Program.--The Committee recommendation provides $12,000,000 for the Critical Flight Safety Program, including $6,500,000 for health monitoring systems to increase aircraft safety, readiness and reliability. 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 7070(b) apply to such funds. Demand reduction.--The Committee recommendation includes $15,000,000 for global demand reduction programs. 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 demand reduction programs on a country-by-country basis for each program, project, and activity for fiscal years 2015 through 2018. The report shall include both global and bilateral programs supported by this Act and prior Acts making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs. DNA forensic technology.--Section 7034(b)(2) provides $8,000,000 for DNA forensic technology programs. Such funds are derived from funds provided under this heading for CARSI and for assistance for Mexico. The Committee provides additional direction for this program under section 7034 of this report. International Law Enforcement Academies (ILEA).--The Committee recommendation provides $27,000,000 for ILEA to support regional law enforcement training. The Committee expects the Secretary of State to provide sufficient resources for ILEA San Salvador to support the goals of CARSI. The Committee also expects ILEA to continue coursework to address wildlife poaching and trafficking. International organizations.--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. International organized crime.--The Committee recommendation provides $80,850,000 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 7070(b) apply to such funds. Report.--Not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act and prior to the initial obligation of funds appropriated under this heading, the Secretary of State is directed to submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations on the proposed uses of funds in a manner similar to prior years. The Committee notes that such report does not meet the notification requirements under section 7015 of this Act. The Committee notes with displeasure that the Secretary of State has not adequately complied with this requirement in prior years and directs that such reports be provided expeditiously. NONPROLIFERATION, ANTI-TERRORISM, DEMINING AND RELATED PROGRAMS Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $655,467,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 690,306,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 876,050,000 Change from enacted level......................... +220,583,000 Change from request............................... +185,744,000 \1\In addition, the fiscal year 2018 enacted level includes funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation includes $876,050,000 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............................ $301,800 Nonproliferation and Disarmament Fund............ [40,000] Export Control and Related Border Security [60,000] Assistance...................................... Global Threat Reduction.......................... [70,000] Anti-terrorism programs.............................. 360,250 Anti-terrorism Assistance Program................ [182,000] Airport and aviation security.................... [20,000] Counterterrorism Financing Program............... [12,500] Terrorist Interdiction Program................... [50,000] Counterterrorism Partnerships Fund............... [115,750] Conventional Weapons Destruction..................... 189,000 Stabilization and recovery........................... 25,000 ------------------ Total, Non-Proliferation, Anti-terrorism, 876,050 Demining and Related Programs............... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Nonproliferation programs.--The Committee includes $301,800,000 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 recommendation includes not less than the request for a voluntary contribution 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. The Committee notes the increased workload and resources associated with IAEA's expanded responsibilities to verify compliance with international nuclear nonproliferation agreements, including monitoring Iran's nuclear commitments, and expects the Secretary of State to prioritize funding for such activities. Anti-terrorism programs.--The Committee recommendation includes $360,250,000 for Anti-terrorism programs, including $182,000,000 for the Anti-terrorism Assistance Program, which provides counterterrorism law enforcement training to partner countries. The Committee recommendation provides $20,000,000 to strengthen international airport and aviation security, including passenger and baggage screening, and crisis response. Such funds are derived from funds under the Anti-terrorism Assistance Program and Counterterrorism Partnerships Fund. In programming such funds, the Secretary of State should consider national security risks to the United States and the extent to which countries are meeting international standards for airport and aviation security. Not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary is directed to submit an updated spend plan detailing activities that will bolster airport and aviation security in key countries. The Committee recommendation supports efforts of the Department of State and other Federal agencies to assist foreign countries to detect, disrupt, and dismantle terrorist financial networks. The Committee recommendation also supports efforts to assist countries at risk of terrorist activity enhance their border security capabilities through the Terrorist Interdiction Program. Funds made available under this heading are provided for programs and activities to counter and defeat violent extremism and foreign fighters abroad, consistent with the strategy required by section 7073(a)(1) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2017. The Secretary of State should ensure such programs are coordinated with, and complement the efforts of, other United States Government agencies and international partners, and that information gained through the conduct of such programs is shared in a timely manner with relevant departments and agencies of the United States Government, other international partners, and the appropriate congressional committees, as appropriate. Conventional Weapons Destruction.--The Committee recommendation includes $189,000,000 for Conventional Weapons Destruction programs, of which $30,000,000 is for programs in Laos. The recommendation also includes funds to support programs in Angola, Cambodia, Colombia, Kosovo, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe. PEACEKEEPING OPERATIONS Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $212,712,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 291,380,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 490,400,000 Change from enacted level......................... +277,688,000 Change from request............................... +199,020,000 \1\In addition the fiscal year 2018 enacted level includes funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation includes $490,400,000 for Peacekeeping Operations. Africa Regional.--The Committee includes $40,900,000 for Africa Regional to support Partnership for Regional East Africa Counterterrorism; Africa Conflict Stabilization and Border Security; Africa Military Education Program; Africa Maritime Security Initiative; and Africa Regional Counterterrorism. Child soldiers.--The Committee includes language in section 7049(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 includes $71,000,000 for the Global Peace Operations Initiative, which is $10,000,000 above the fiscal year 2018 level. Additional funds should be made available to support the Africa Contingency Operations Training and Assistance (ACOTA) program above the previous fiscal year, including to support modernization efforts to ACOTA training infrastructure. Near East.--The Committee recommendation includes $31,000,000 for the Multinational Force and Observers Mission (MFO) in the Sinai, which is the same as the request. 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. 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, instead of under Contributions for International Peacekeeping Activities. Funds Appropriated to the President INTERNATIONAL MILITARY EDUCATION AND TRAINING Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $110,875,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 95,000,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 110,875,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +15,875,000 The Committee recommendation includes $110,875,000 for International Military Education and Training. The Committee recommendation provides not less than the fiscal year 2018 level for Malta. FOREIGN MILITARY FINANCING PROGRAM Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level\1\..................... $5,671,613,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 5,347,000,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 6,361,342,000 Change from enacted level......................... +689,729,000 Change from request............................... +1,014,342,000 \1\In addition, the fiscal year 2018 enacted level includes funds under this heading in title VIII designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The Committee recommendation includes $6,361,342,000 for Foreign Military Financing Program. 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/Program Budget Authority ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Caribbean Basin Security Initiative.................. $7,500 Colombia............................................. 38,525 Counter Russia Influence Fund........................ 120,000 Central America...................................... 31,500 Of which, Costa Rica............................. 7,500 Egypt................................................ 1,300,000 Estonia.............................................. 8,000 Georgia.............................................. 35,000 Israel............................................... 3,300,000 Jordan............................................... 425,000 Latvia............................................... 8,000 Lithuania............................................ 8,000 Mexico............................................... 5,000 Morocco.............................................. 10,000 Peru................................................. 1,800 Stabilization and recovery........................... 25,000 Tunisia.............................................. 105,000 Ukraine.............................................. 110,000 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Child soldiers.--The Committee includes language in section 7049(c) of this Act requiring that funds should not be used to support military training or operations that include child soldiers. 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 making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs 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 Pacific.--The Committee remains concerned about the military modernization of the PRC and the increasing frequency of aggressive 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. Foreign Military Financing Program 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 provide excess defense articles applicable to maritime security missions to countries in the region, as appropriate. FMF administration.--Funds made available under this heading for the general costs of administering military assistance and sales should be made available to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of programs authorized by Chapter 2 of the Arms Export Control Act. 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 first year of the ten year United States-Israel MOU. 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 to strengthen the strategic partnership to the benefit of both the United States and Israel. The Committee emphasizes that the increased appropriation reflects 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 7049(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 consult with the Committee regarding the rigorous implementation of this provision. Not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the Committee directs the Secretary of State to submit to the Committees on Appropriations, an update to the report required on the performance of the LAF under section 7041 of the Explanatory Statement accompanying the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2018. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to regularly consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the activities of the LAF and assistance provided by the United States. Quarterly Status Report.--The Committee notes that the Secretary of State has not complied with the reporting requirements contained in section 7034(b)(8) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2017 (division J of Public Law 115-31) and the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2018 (division K of Public Law 115-141). The Secretary of State is directed to submit such reports not later than 30 days after the enactment of this Act. In accordance with section 7049(e)(2) of this Act, the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, shall include a list of cases under development for major defense equipment (as defined in section 47 of the Arms Export Control Act) that are above the thresholds identified in section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act for which the letter of request is over 180 days old, consultations have not begun with the committees of jurisdiction, and a Letter of Offer has not been submitted. Such list shall include: (1) the date of the letter of request; (2) the amount of the proposed sale; and (3) a description of the defense article or service. The report shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may be accompanied by a classified annex, if necessary. The Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, shall also be prepared to discuss the status of each case, including whether the case has been received by the Department of State. TITLE V--MULTILATERAL ASSISTANCE Funds Appropriated to the President INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND PROGRAMS Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $339,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 213,800,000 Change from enacted level......................... -125,200,000 Change from request............................... +213,800,000 The Committee recommendation includes $213,800,000 for International Organizations and Programs. Such funds are allocated according to the following table and subject to section 7019 of this Act: INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS AND PROGRAMS [Budget authority in thousands of dollars] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Organization Budget Authority ------------------------------------------------------------------------ International Civil Aviation Organization............ $1,200 International Conservation Programs.................. 5,000 Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy 50 and Armed Robbery Against Ships in Asia............. UN Children's Fund................................... 132,500 UN Development Program............................... 60,000 UN Trust Fund to End Violence Against Women.......... 1,000 UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture............. 6,550 UN Women............................................. 7,500 ------------------ Total............................................ 213,800 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Transparency and accountability.--The Committee recommendation includes modified language in section 7048(a) withholding a portion of funds for UN agencies until the Secretary of State determines and reports that certain transparency and accountability requirements have been met. International Financial Institutions International Monetary Fund (IMF) internal budget.--The Committee expects the Secretary of the Treasury to submit to the Committees on Appropriations the information required in House Report 114-154 regarding IMF surcharges on loans and the internal budget for the IMF and directs the Secretary to provide updated information on such matters for calendar year 2019. Budget support.--The Committee continues to be concerned about the use of budget support, through Development Policy Loans and Program for Results. Not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, the Committee directs the Secretary of the Treasury to report to the Committees on Appropriations on the ten countries receiving the highest levels of lending for each instrument during calendar year 2018. Global Agriculture Food Security.--The Act 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 $1 for every $2 in contributions from other donors, utilizing such prior year balances. GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT FACILITY Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $139,575,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 68,300,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 139,575,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +71,275,000 The Committee recommendation includes $139,575,000 for the Global Environment Facility (GEF) subject to the regular notification procedures of the Committees on Appropriations. The Secretary of the Treasury is required to submit a report about the programming of funds in the previous GEF replenishment cycle. CONTRIBUTION TO THE INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $1,097,010,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 1,097,010,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 1,097,010,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation includes $1,097,010,000 for Contribution to the International Development Association. CONTRIBUTION TO THE ASIAN DEVELOPMENT FUND Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $47,395,000 Fiscal Year 2019 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 2018 enacted level........................ $32,418,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 32,417,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 32,417,000 Change from enacted level......................... -1,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation includes $32,417,000 for Contribution to the African Development Bank. The Committee recommends a limitation on the amount that the United States Governor of the African Development Bank may subscribe to the callable portion of the United States share of the General Capital Increase. CONTRIBUTION TO THE AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT FUND Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $171,300,000 Fiscal Year 2019 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 2018 enacted level........................ $30,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 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. TITLE VI--EXPORT AND INVESTMENT ASSISTANCE Export-Import Bank of the United States INSPECTOR GENERAL Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $5,700,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 4,750,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 5,700,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +950,000 The Committee recommendation includes $5,700,000 for the Office of Inspector General (OIG). The Committee directs the OIG to submit to the Committees on Appropriations its annual audit plan within the first quarter of fiscal year 2019. The Committee directs the OIG to submit a report not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act on the policies, procedures, and processes that Export-Import Bank used to ensure compliance with the funding conditions and reporting requirements in Public Law 115-141 during fiscal year 2018. The OIG shall consult with the Committees on Appropriation on the scope of the report. ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $110,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 90,000,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 110,000,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +20,000,000 The Committee recommendation includes $110,000,000 for Administrative Expenses and does not include funds for a subsidy appropriation. Overseas Private Investment Corporation NONCREDIT ACCOUNT Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $79,200,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request\1\........................... 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 79,200,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +79,200,000 \1\For fiscal year 2019, the budget proposes to replace OPIC with the Development Finance Institution. The Committee recommendation includes $79,200,000 for Noncredit Account for the administrative expenses of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC). The Committee directs OPIC to submit a report not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act on the staff and activities funded by the noncredit credit account. Specifically, the report shall describe the differences among credit administrative expenses, insurance administrative expenses, and project-specific transaction costs; how shared administrative expenses are allocated among these categories; the historical dollar amounts for of these categories; and the definition and amounts of direct and indirect costs. The Committee is concerned about the thoroughness and timeliness of responses by OPIC, noting, for example, the agency's non-compliance with the reporting requirement for a confidential annex for two consecutive years. The Committee expects the Office of External Affairs to be readily available to provide technical assistance, to be receptive to inquiries, and to establish effective processes and procedures to ensure that OPIC complies with all funding conditions and reporting requirements. PROGRAM ACCOUNT Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $20,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request\1\........................... 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 10,000,000 Change from enacted level......................... -10,000,000 Change from request............................... +10,000,000 \1\For fiscal year 2019, the budget proposes to replace OPIC with the Development Finance Institution. The Committee recommendation includes $10,000,000 for the cost of OPIC's direct and guaranteed loan credit programs. The Committee recommendation does not extend the authorization of OPIC, but defers such action to the authorizing committees of jurisdiction. The Committee will consider conforming changes in accordance with any changes in enacted laws. The Committee directs the President of OPIC to include in the CBJ for fiscal year 2020 a confidential annex that describes new loans, guarantees, and insurance approved or anticipated in the prior year, current year, and budget year by category, recipient, country, level of OPIC resources provided, and source year of financing used, as well as any updates to the previous report. The Committee also directs OPIC to provide additional detail, including a description of the positive and negative subsidy assigned to the largest projects and the level of guarantee provided. The Committee directs OPIC to submit the confidential annex on a quarterly basis for the current year to the Committees on Appropriations not later than 30 days after the end of each quarter, including the amounts of principal and subsidy obligated or deobligated by date and the remaining unobligated balances of resources and the statutory cap. Investment funds.--As in prior years, the Committee directs OPIC to continue to provide written reports on a semi-annual basis, including the following information for each investment fund: the identity, selection process, and professional background of current and past managers; the fees and compensation currently provided to senior management; the amount of OPIC guarantees and actual investments made at the end of the previous six months; and any additional pertinent data. Local currency guarantees.--As in prior years, the Committee directs OPIC to consult with the Committees on Appropriations before exercising local currency loan guarantee authority, and to provide to the Committees on Appropriations, prior to the consultation, justification for the need to exercise such authority, the use of OPIC subsidy required, the degree to which the United States would be exposed to additional risk as a result of such transactions, and which other United States Government agencies have been consulted. Non-governmental and private and voluntary organizations.-- As in prior years, the Committee directs the President of OPIC to consult with the Committees on Appropriations before any future financing for non-governmental organizations or private and voluntary organizations is approved. Development Finance Institution Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $0 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 118,000,000 Committee recommendation.............................. 0 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... -118,000,000 The Committee recommendation does not include the Development Finance Institution. The Committee will consider conforming changes in accordance with any changes in enacted laws. Trade and Development Agency Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $79,500,000 Fiscal Year 2019 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 the United States Trade and Development Agency. TITLE VII--GENERAL PROVISIONS The Committee recommends the following general provisions carried in the fiscal year 2018 Act be deleted: 7050, 7055, 7061, 7064, 7073, and 7080. These provisions are either addressed elsewhere in permanent law, have been considered by the appropriate authorizing committee, are directly addressed in this report, or are no longer necessary. The Committee recommends the following new, revised and retained provisions: Section 7001 includes language carried in the prior year regarding allowances and differentials. Section 7002 includes language carried in the prior year requiring agencies to provide quarterly reports on the cumulative balances of any unobligated funds. Section 7003 includes language carried in the prior year requiring that consulting service contracts shall be a matter of public record. Section 7004 includes language modified from the prior year with respect to the construction and use of diplomatic facilities, setting limitations and 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. Section 7005 includes language carried in the prior year regarding certain personnel actions and the authority to transfer funds between appropriations accounts. Section 7006 includes language carried in the prior year on Department of State management. The report required in subsection (c) shall include a description of the criteria used by the Secretary of State to certify that an office or bureau is capable of managing and overseeing foreign assistance, and a description of the technical training required by the Department of State for personnel involved in such activities. The report should also include a summary of each open recommendation from the Department of State Office of Inspector General related to oversight and management of foreign assistance for such bureau. The Committee is concerned about the Department of State's management of appropriated funds within the period of availability, including the need to improve fund management to avoid expired and canceled funds. The Committee directs the Inspector General for the Department of State to conduct an audit of the Department's use of appropriated funds prior to expiration and cancellation. The audit shall determine whether operating units used appropriated funds within the deadlines of the appropriations, whether obligations using expired funds were made in accordance with Federal requirements, and review the closeout process of operating units. The audit should also include any findings related to the reasons for any expired or canceled funds, identify the root causes for deficiencies and determine monetary benefits that could have been achieved if contracts and cooperative agreements had been closed in a timely manner. Section 7007 includes language carried in the prior year prohibiting assistance for the governments of Cuba, North Korea, Iran, and Syria. Section 7008 includes language carried in 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 includes language modified from the prior year setting limitations and conditions on transfers between appropriations accounts, requiring audits of certain transfers, and reporting requirements on transfers for the Department of State and USAID. Section 7010 includes language carried in the prior year prohibiting first-class travel and setting certain limitations on computer networks and the promotion of tobacco. Section 7011 includes language modified from the prior year regarding the availability of funds appropriated by this Act and new language placing a limitation on the authority until the Secretary of State submits the report required under this section in the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2017 (division J of Public Law 115-31). Section 7012 includes language carried in the prior year prohibiting assistance for countries in default and allowing exceptions in certain circumstances. Section 7013 includes language carried in 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 report required pursuant to subsection (h) shall include a description of the steps taken by the Department of State and other relevant Federal agencies to comply with the requirements of this section. The report shall include rules, regulations, and policy guidance issued and updated pursuant to subsection (f). Section 7014 includes language carried in the prior year regarding the reservation of funds and the designation of certain funding levels. Section 7015 includes language modified from the prior year establishing the notification requirements for funds made available in this Act. The Committee notes that all notification requirements apply to funds appropriated in title VIII and designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. Subsection (g) includes language requiring notification for certain trust funds. The Committee directs that such notifications include the following information: (1) the office or bureau at USAID, the Department of State, or the Department of the Treasury that will oversee programs and expenditures of the trust fund; (2) the Web site link to publicly available expenditures of the trust fund; (3) a copy of the administrative agreement between the international finance institution (IFI) and the United States, or if not available, a draft of the pending agreement; and (4) whether direct government assistance will be provided by the trust fund and specific risk mitigation and anti-corruption steps being taken by the trust fund. Not later than 5 days after the conclusion of an agreement with a country, including a state with a compact of free association with the United States, to receive by transfer or release individuals detained at the United States Naval Station, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, the Secretary of State shall notify the Committees on Appropriations in writing of the terms of the agreement, including whether funds appropriated by this Act or prior Acts making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs will be made available for assistance for such country pursuant to such agreement. Section 7016 includes language modified from the prior year concerning public posting of reports and documents, records management, and cybersecurity. The Secretary of State shall include amounts planned for reducing the FOIA and Congressional oversight requests backlog in the operating plan required by section 7070(a) of this Act. Section 7017 includes language carried in the prior year prohibiting funds for programs in contravention of this Act. Section 7018 includes language carried in the prior year prohibiting funding for abortions and involuntary sterilization. Section 7019 includes language modified from the prior year regarding funding directives specified in tables and reporting directives in the report accompanying this Act. Section 7020 includes language carried in the prior year regarding the use of representation expenses. Section 7021 includes language carried in the prior year prohibiting assistance for governments that support international terrorism. Section 7022 includes language carried in the prior year regarding authorization requirements. Section 7023 includes language carried in the prior year defining the terms ``program, project, and activity''. Section 7024 includes language carried in the prior year regarding certain authorities for the Peace Corps, IAF, and the USADF. Section 7025 includes language carried in the prior year relating to commerce, trade, and surplus commodities. Section 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. Section 7027 includes language carried in the prior year regarding assistance through nongovernmental organizations and assistance provided under the Food for Peace Act. Section 7028 includes language modified from the prior year conditioning funds provided to local organizations through limited competitions. Section 7029 includes language carried in the prior year regarding the compensation level of the United States executive director to international financial institutions. The Committee directs the Secretary of the Treasury: (1) To instruct the United States executive director of each international financial institution to seek to require that such institution adopts and implements a publicly available policy, including the strategic use of peer reviews and external experts, to conduct independent, in-depth evaluations of the effectiveness of at least 25 percent of all loans, grants, programs, and significant analytical non-lending activities in advancing the institution's goals of reducing poverty and promoting equitable economic growth, consistent with relevant safeguards, to ensure that decisions to support such loans, grants, programs, and activities are based on accurate data and objective analysis. Not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations on steps taken in fiscal year 2018 by the United States executive directors and the international financial institutions on these matters compared to the previous fiscal year. (2) To instruct the United States Executive Director of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the International Development Association to vote against any loan, grant, policy, or strategy if such institution has adopted and is implementing any social or environmental safeguard relevant to such loan, grant, policy, or strategy that provides less protection than World Bank safeguards in effect on September 30, 2015. (3) To instruct the United States executive director of each international financial institution to vote against loans or other financing for projects unless such projects-- a. provide for accountability and transparency, including the collection, verification and publication of beneficial ownership information related to extractive industries and on-site monitoring during the life of the project; b. will be developed and carried out in accordance with best practices regarding environmental conservation; cultural protection; and empowerment of local populations, including free, prior and informed consent of affected indigenous communities; c. do not provide incentives for, or facilitate, forced displacement; and d. do not partner with or otherwise involve enterprises owned or controlled by the armed forces. (4) To seek to require that such institution conducts rigorous human rights due diligence and risk management, as appropriate, in connection with any loan, grant, policy, or strategy of such institution. Prior to voting on any such loan, grant, policy, or strategy, the executive director shall consult with the Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, Department of State, if the executive director has reason to believe that such loan, grant, policy, or strategy could result in forced displacement or other violation of human rights. (5) To promote in loan, grant, and other financing agreements improvements in borrowing countries' financial management and judicial capacity to investigate, prosecute, and punish fraud and corruption. (6) To seek to require that such institution collects, verifies, and publishes, to the maximum extent practicable, beneficial ownership information (excluding proprietary information) for any corporation or limited liability company, other than a publicly listed company, that receives funds from any such financial institution. Not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations on steps taken in fiscal year 2018 by the United States executive directors and the international financial institutions on these matters compared to the previous fiscal year. (7) To seek to require that each such institution is effectively implementing and enforcing policies and procedures which reflect best practices for the protection of whistleblowers from retaliation, including best practices for-- a. protection against retaliation for internal and lawful public disclosure; 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. Section 7030 includes language carried in the prior year regarding debt-for-development programs. Section 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 Web site. In subsection (c), the Committee notes that the Department of State has interpreted the term ``significant corruption'' in this subsection to be corrupt activities that would result in a denial under the 2004 Presidential Proclamation 7750. Section 7032 contains language modified from the prior year regarding democracy programs funded in this Act. The Committee recommendation includes not less than $2,400,000,000 in assistance for democracy programs, which is an increase of $91,483,000 over the level directed in fiscal year 2018. An additional $170,000,000 is provided under National Endowment for Democracy. Funds made available pursuant to this section are not intended for attribution to other sector or program directives included in this Act. The Committee includes $10,000,000 from funds made available under Economic Support Fund and Democracy Fund for the diplomatic and programmatic action plan to support and protect civil society activities and journalists who have been threatened, harassed, or attacked for peacefully exercising their rights of free expression, association, or assembly. 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 Department of State and USAID independent media and internet freedom programs globally. 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. Section 7033 includes language modified from the prior year regarding international religious freedom. Subsection (a) designates funds for the Office of International Religious Freedom, including for the continued development and implementation of an international religious freedom curriculum in accordance with section 708 of the Foreign Service Act of 1980, as amended by the IRFA. Subsection (b)(1) designates not less than $10,000,000 of the funds under Democracy Fund be made available for international religious freedom programs. The Committee intends that these funds be administered at the direction of the Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom. Subsection (b)(2) designates not less than $10,000,000 from funds appropriated under Economic Support Fund for programs to document, investigate, and prosecute genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and other human rights violations, including for programs authorized by section 5 of H.R. 390, the Iraq and Syria Genocide Emergency Relief and Accountability Act of 2017, as passed by the House of Representatives on June 6, 2017. The Committee intends that these funds be administered by USAID in consultation with the Office of Global Criminal Justice, Department of State. Additionally, funds should, to the maximum extent practicable, be implemented through non- governmental organizations. Paragraphs (3), (4), and (5) of subsection (b) include directives concerning the provision of humanitarian assistance for vulnerable and persecuted religious minorities, the support of transitional justice programs, and the delivery of international broadcasting programs related to religious freedom. The Committee is troubled by a reported under- representation of persecuted religious minority populations in the United States refugee admissions program. Such reports raise questions about whether there are aspects of the admissions process that discourage religious minority populations from seeking refuge. The Committee encourages the State Department to review the process and examine ways to improve the process, such as allowing persecuted religious populations and victims of genocide to apply directly to the United States Refugee Admissions Program, having the initial visa applications processed by members of the same ethnic or religious community, or language as the applicant. 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 State Department 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 includes language modified from the prior year granting certain special authorities and limitations relating to funds made available in this Act. Subsection (b)(2) includes language modified from the prior year directing not less than $8,000,000 for DNA forensic technology to combat human trafficking in Central America and 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. These efforts should include collaboration with local law enforcement, civil society, and academic institutions and also leverage investments from the private sector. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to consult with the Committees on Appropriations, not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, on the use of such funds. The Committee expects these funds to be provided through an open and competitive process. Subsection (j) includes language prohibiting funds appropriated in this Act or prior Acts making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs, from being made available for a contribution, grant, or any other payment to the Green Climate Fund. Section 7035 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 7036 includes language carried in the prior year establishing limitations on the use of funds in support of a Palestinian state. Section 7037 includes language carried in the prior year establishing restrictions on the use of funds for the purpose of conducting official United States Government business with the Palestinian Authority. Section 7038 includes language carried in the prior year restricting assistance to the Palestinian Broadcasting Corporation. Section 7039 includes language carried in the prior year placing conditions on assistance for the West Bank and Gaza. For the purposes of subsection (c)(1)(A), the prohibition shall include any funds provided to family members of Palestinians who commit or have committed acts of terrorism if the purpose of providing such funds is to recognize or otherwise honor the individual who commits or has committed such acts. Section 7040 includes language modified from the prior year placing limitations on any assistance for the Palestinian Authority and regarding Hamas. Section 7041 includes language modified from the prior year regarding 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................................ $150,000 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............................................ 1,456,800 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Committee notes a portion of funds appropriated for assistance for Egypt in three prior fiscal years remain withheld from systems and programs that support Egypt's military capabilities, including to combat real and ongoing terrorists threats. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to provide regular updates to the Committees on Appropriations on the status of funds, including the requirements necessary to proceed with such funds, and any other impediments to programming such funds unrelated to conditions in this and prior Acts making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs. Not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State is directed to submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees on steps taken by the Government of Egypt to--(i) comply with United Nations Security Council resolution 2270 and other such resolutions regarding North Korea; (ii) govern democratically, including protecting freedom of expression, association, and assembly; (iii) advance human rights, including protecting the rights of religious minorities and women; (iv) improve the transparency and accountability of security forces; and (v) dismiss, vacate, or otherwise appropriately resolve all unfounded charges and convictions associated with democracy-related cases. The Committee also urges the Secretary to, as appropriate, press the Government of Egypt to expeditiously resolve in a fair and just manner the claims arising from the September 13, 2015 incident involving Egyptian security forces and American and Mexican nationals. Funds made available for assistance for Egypt under Economic Support Fund shall be subject to prior consultation with the appropriate congressional committees and the regular notification procedures of the Committees on Appropriations and section 634A of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. Such funds should be made available for democracy programs and for development programs in the Sinai. Such funds may not be made available for cash transfer assistance or budget support unless the Secretary of State certifies to the appropriate congressional committees that the Government of Egypt is taking consistent steps to stabilize the economy and implement market- based reforms. The Committee directs that not less than $35,000,000 of the funds made available for assistance for Egypt under Economic Support Fund should be made available for higher education programs, including not less than $10,000,000 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. The Committee encourages the USAID Administrator to implement programs that assist orphans and vulnerable children in Egypt, including children from religiously diverse populations. Iran.--Subsection (b) includes modified language similar to the prior year regarding international sanctions. For the purposes of the report required by subsection (b)(3)(B), the term ``international community'' shall mean the UN, the PRC, France, Germany, the Russian Federation, the United Kingdom, and the European Union. Iraq.--Subsection (c) is similar to language carried in the prior year regarding the use and distribution of assistance for Iraq, including in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and other areas impacted by the conflict in Syria, and among religious and ethnic minority populations in Iraq. Within the amount provided for assistance for Iraq, the recommendation includes funds to support American-style higher education institutions in Iraq, including in the Kurdistan region, on an open and competitive basis. American educational institutions play an important role in educating the next generation of leaders in the region, countering extremism, strengthening democracy, and encouraging economic opportunities. 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 7070(b) of this Act. The Committee remains concerned about 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 directs that not less than $50,000,000 of the funds provided in this Act for stabilization and recovery assistance be made available for assistance to support the safe return of displaced religious and ethnic minorities to their communities in Iraq. This funding will build upon ongoing programming in support of these efforts, and may include, but is not limited to, repair of homes, utilities, and other infrastructure; protection of minority communities; forensic and criminal justice assistance to identify victims and perpetrators of genocide; and psycho-social support for trauma survivors. Not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act, the USAID Administrator shall submit a report on the status of the modified agreement between USAID and the United Nations Development Programme (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 programs to assist ethnic and religious minorities, such as the Assyrian/Chaldean/ Syriac people, Yezidis, and others who are victims of persecution in the Nineveh Plans and elsewhere in Iraq and Syria. Support for these communities should, to the maximum extent practicable, be directed to indigenous aid and security organizations on the ground in these areas who have a proven track record of supporting their local communities. The Committee further acknowledges the ongoing need for the Government of Iraq and the Kurdistan Regional Government to integrate these communities into the civil and security infrastructure while working towards reconciliation of past and current transgressions which have led to marginalization of Iraq's most vulnerable communities. The Committee encourages the State Department to work with the relevant federal agency partners to expedite the processing of the backlog of Iraqi Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) applications. The Committee notes the critical role of the SIV program in assisting the United States mission in Afghanistan and urges the Committees of jurisdiction to review the needs of this program. The current situation is unacceptable as many family members of SIV holders have waited more than five years without any notification from the Departments of State or Homeland Security on the status or timeline of their visa applications. The Committee also encourages the State Department to expand the days and hours of operation for consular services in Erbil to accommodate the demand of persecuted populations in Northern Iraq. The State Department must provide adequate opportunity with a normal operating schedule so vulnerable populations have reasonable access to the programs available to them. The Committee understands that the diplomatic note governing the United States presence in the Republic of Iraq provides no legal or economic protections for United States contractors supporting the American national security mission in Iraq. The Committee is concerned that the lack of such protections fosters the excessive and arbitrary application and enforcement of tax payments on United States companies and personnel supporting operations in Iraq and compromises the integrity and capability of the Iraqi tax authorities to fairly assess and collect taxes. The Committee appreciates the State Department's recent attention to this issue and encourages the Department to seek an immediate solution that will provide legal and economic protections for United States personnel supporting national security contracts in Iraq. Jordan.--Subsection (d) includes language carried in 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................................ $1,082,400 Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 13,600 Related Programs.................................... International Military Education and Training........ 4,000 Foreign Military Financing Program................... 425,000 ------------------ 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 and in the ongoing campaign to defeat ISIS. The United States should continue to support critical economic aid and to provide the assistance needed to ensure Jordan's success in coalition operations, including to strengthen Jordan's borders with Iraq and Syria. The Committee supports the goals and objectives of establishing an Enterprise Fund for Jordan, consistent with H.R. 2646 as passed by the House of Representatives on February 5, 2018. Funds may be made available for such purpose from funds under Economic Support Fund, in addition to amounts designated under this heading. Lebanon.--Subsection (e) is modified from the prior year by deleting language making Economic Support Fund available notwithstanding a certain provision of law. Libya.--Subsection (f) is modified from the prior year by deleting a funding directive and language on infrastructure projects. The Committee notes with concern the occurrence of forced labor and modern day slavery in Libya and expects that assistance be made available to combat these practices. Morocco.--Subsection (g) includes language modified from the prior year. The Committee recommendation includes not less than $39,500,000 for assistance for Morocco. Funds for Morocco are allocated according to the following table and subject to section 7019 of this Act: MOROCCO [Budget authority in thousands of dollars] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Account Budget Authority ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Economic Support Fund................................ $20,000 International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 5,000 Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 2,500 Related Programs.................................... International Military Education and Training........ 2,000 Foreign Military Financing Program................... 10,000 ------------------ Total............................................ 39,500 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Committee recommendation makes funds available for assistance for any region or territory administered by Morocco, including the Western Sahara. The Committee expects funds to support democratic reforms and economic development. The Committee remains concerned by the failure to resolve the longstanding dispute over the Western Sahara and the protracted refugee situation in the Polisario-run camps near Tindouf, Algeria. The Committee believes that the Secretary of State should pursue a negotiated settlement to the dispute, based on a formula of autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty. These redoubled diplomatic efforts can lead to a realistic and lasting settlement, the completion of a UN peacekeeping mission that has existed for over 26 years, and a more stable region. The Committee also encourages the Administration to support private sector investment in the Western Sahara. The Committee recommendation includes a requirement to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on all of these issues not later than 45 days after enactment of this Act. Refugee Assistance in North Africa.--Subsection (h) includes language similar to the prior year regarding refugee assistance in North Africa. The Committee notes that the UN Security Council (UNSC), through adoption of UNSC resolution 2351, reiterated its request for consideration of a refugee registration in the Tindouf refugee camps and emphasized efforts be made in this regard. The Committee supports funds being made available to support such efforts. Given the unprecedented demand for humanitarian assistance globally, the Committee emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability of humanitarian resources. Stabilization and recovery assistance.--Subsection (i) designates funding in this Act under Economic Support Fund, International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement, Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related Programs, Peacekeeping Operations, and Foreign Military Financing Program that are reserved for stabilization and recovery assistance. These funds are in addition to amounts directed in this Act for bilateral assistance. Funds for stabilization and recovery assistance are designated in accordance with the following table and subject to section 7019 of this Act. STABILIZATION AND RECOVERY ASSISTANCE [Budget authority in thousands of dollars] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Account Budget Authority ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Economic Support Fund................................ $120,000 International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 10,000 Transitional Justice............................. [5,000] Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 25,000 Related Programs.................................... Peacekeeping Operations.............................. 25,000 Foreign Military Financing Program................... 25,000 ------------------ Total............................................ 205,000 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Syria.--Subsection (j) is modified by limiting the authority related to non-lethal assistance to address the needs of civilians affected by conflict in Syria to title III funds, by deleting paragraph (2) on explosive ordnance disposal programs and paragraph (3) on Syrian organizations, and by adding paragraph (2) on a funding limitation for assistance in areas of Syria controlled by the government led by Bashar al- Assad or associated forces, except for humanitarian assistance. 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. The Committee urges the Department of State to continue to: (1) assist host countries 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 governments 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; and (5) ensure that refugees have freedom of movement and meaningful access to economic opportunity. Tunisia.--Subsection (k) 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 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Economic Support Fund................................ $79,000 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................... 105,000 ------------------ Total............................................ 205,400 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ West Bank and Gaza.--Subsection (l), West Bank and Gaza, is modified from the prior year by deleting the waiver authority with respect to the International Criminal Court requirements and modifying a funding reduction. The report required in paragraph (3) shall include steps taken by the Secretary of State as well as the Palestinian Authority to end the practice of payments to individuals imprisoned for acts of terrorism. The Committee understands the Administration is conducting a comprehensive review of assistance for the West Bank and Gaza. Not later than 30 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State is directed to provide the Committees on Appropriations a report detailing the status of, and any conclusions produced by, this review. Yemen.--The Committee remains concerned about the significant humanitarian needs in Yemen and the lack of consistent access to allow relief to be provided in Yemen. 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 access for humanitarian organizations to deliver assistance; the capacity of Yemeni ports to receive commercial and humanitarian goods; and 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 and urges the Secretary of State to press for access, including for food and fuel, into all Red Sea Ports, which are critical lifelines for the Yemeni population. Strategy requirement.--The Committee notes the important role the countries of North Africa play with respect to global security and stability. 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 their needs. Not later than 60 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of Defense, shall submit an update to the strategy on United States engagement in North Africa required pursuant to section 7041(i) of the State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2018 (division K of Public Law 115-141). The Secretary is also directed to ensure sufficient funds are made available to support such strategy in the report required pursuant to section 653a of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. Section 7042 includes modified language 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. The Committee also recognizes that the underlying causes of instability and conflict in the region, including extreme poverty, poor health, food insecurity, and environmental degradation, are critical areas for United States involvement through foreign assistance. The Committee reaffirms that sustainable development, economic growth, human rights, and humanitarian assistance in Africa are important to national security interests of the United States and remain critical investments in the prosperity and security throughout the continent. Africa counterterrorism.--Funds for counterterrorism partnerships in Africa are allocated according to the following tables and subject to section 7019 of this Act: PARTNERSHIP FOR REGIONAL EAST AFRICA COUNTERTERRORISM [Budget authority in thousands of dollars] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Account Budget Authority ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Economic Support Fund................................ $2,000 International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 2,580 Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 11,150 Related Programs.................................... Peacekeeping Operations.............................. 10,000 ------------------ Total............................................ 25,730 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ TRANS-SAHARA COUNTERTERRORISM PARTNERSHIP [Budget authority in thousands of dollars] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Account Budget Authority ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Development Assistance............................... $15,275 Economic Support Fund................................ 10,000 International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 10,032 Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 18,446 Related Programs.................................... Peacekeeping Operations.............................. 40,000 ------------------ Total............................................ 93,753 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Boko Haram.--The Committee notes with concern the ongoing attacks on civilians by Boko Haram and related food insecurity. The Committee directs that funds be made available at not less than the fiscal year 2017 level for protection of civilian populations and to support victims of violence from Boko Haram. The Committee encourages USAID to address the unique needs of these victims, especially women and girls, in its programming. Funds made available in this Act for Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria may be used for counterterrorism programs, specifically to combat Boko Haram and other violent extremist organizations. The Committee also encourages continued support for development, democracy, health and governance activities in these countries as effective strategies to counter violent extremism. Central African Republic.--The Committee supports efforts that have been made by the United States, UN, African Union, and the governments of Central Africa to achieve a political resolution to conflict and provide life-saving humanitarian assistance to communities in Central Africa, but notes that these efforts must be coordinated. As such, not later than 60 days after enactment of this Act, the Committee directs the Secretary of State, in consultation with the USAID Administrator, to submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees that includes the following elements: (1) a description of the diplomatic engagement necessary to work with other international partners, such as the European Union and World Bank, to ensure coordinated assistance to the Central African Republic; (2) an assessment of the UN peacekeeping mission in the Central African Republic; and (3) a description of the Department of State's approach to reduce violence by the Lord's Resistance Army. Electrify Africa.--The Committee supports continued funding to carry out the objectives of the Electrify Africa Act of 2015 (P.L. 114-121). Liberia.--The Committee supports continued funding for Liberia consistent with prior year levels, including for programs that strengthen democratic institutions and good governance. Section 7043 includes language modified from the prior year containing limitations, directives, and authorities for diplomatic and development activities and programs in Asia and Pacific. Burma.--The Committee recommendation continues the authority and funding for economic and development assistance for the people of Burma, but prohibits funding for Foreign Military Financing Program and International Military Education and Training. The Committee provides assistance to address the needs of displaced communities on the Thai-Burma border. The Committee recognizes a transition is underway in Burma that may require adjustments in programming to these communities and directs the USAID Administrator to consult with the Committee on any proposed changes in levels or types of assistance provided. The Committee supports funds for global health programs in Burma. The Committee is concerned about the repeated assaults on freedom of the press in Burma and supports assistance for programs to strengthen independent media. Laos.--The Committee directs the Secretary of State to continue to consult with the Secretary of Defense on the level of cooperation that the Government of Laos provides to recover the remains of and account for missing United States personnel and to notify the Committees on Appropriations of any unfilled Department of Defense requests. Philippines.--Extrajudicial killings in the Philippines, including those committed in the conduct of the anti-drug campaign, erode confidence in the Government of the Philippines' commitment to human rights, due process, and the rule of law. The Committee recognizes the need to remain engaged with the Philippine government and expects the Department of State to strictly monitor United States assistance, including Foreign Military Financing, with respect to the accountability and professionalism of security force personnel. Funding under title III of this Act is available to support the implementation by the Philippine Department of Health and local entities of a national and community-based drug treatment and demand reduction program. Such funds shall be made available on a cost-matching basis, to the maximum extent practicable, and following consultation with the appropriate congressional committees. Vietnam.--The Committee recommendation includes $55,500,000 under Development Assistance for Vietnam. The Committee expects that funds appropriated under Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs and Development Assistance will support activities authorized by section 211 of the Vietnam Education Foundation Act of 2000, as amended. Section 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. Afghanistan.--The authority referenced in section 7044(a)(3)(B) shall not be exercised unless the Secretary of State, in consultation with the USAID Administrator, reports to the Committees on Appropriations that: (1) adequate financial controls and oversight are in place, including monitoring of project implementation and resource disbursements in all parts of the country; and (2) that the recipient has established regular, transparent, and comprehensive reporting procedures regarding the use of United States assistance. The Committee notes the strategy for United States engagement in Afghanistan required pursuant to the State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2017, includes political settlement with the Taliban as its ultimate goal. Therefore, no later than 90 days after the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report on progress made to date in achieving such goal and detailed information, in classified form if necessary, on specific steps to be taken to encourage a political resolution of the conflict in Afghanistan. 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 120 days thereafter until September 30, 2020, detailing by agency the number of personnel present in Afghanistan under Chief of Mission authority per section 3927 of title 22, United States Code, at the end of the 120 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. The Committee notes the significant needs of children of incarcerated mothers that are often required to live in prison with them. The Committee directs that funds be made available at not less than prior year levels for child support centers that provide safe shelter, mental and physical care, education, and other support to children who would otherwise be imprisoned with their mothers in Afghanistan. Bangladesh.--The Secretary of State shall submit a report, not later than 90 days after the 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, and due process of law; and ensuring free, fair, and participatory elections. 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. The Committee directs the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator to provide for humanitarian assistance to help displaced Rohingya who have fled from Burma to Bangladesh. Pakistan.--In submitting the information required in subsection (b)(1)(B), the Secretary of State shall include a description of the steps taken by the Government of Pakistan to: (1) conduct military operations that significantly disrupt the safe havens, fundraising and recruiting efforts, and freedom of movement of domestic and foreign terrorist organizations, including the Haqqani Network, in Pakistan; (2) demonstrate its commitment to prevent domestic and foreign terrorist organizations, including the Haqqani Network, from using any Pakistan territory as a safe haven and for fundraising and recruiting efforts; (3) coordinate with the Government of Afghanistan to restrict the movement of militants, such as the Haqqani Network, along the Afghanistan- Pakistan border; (4) arrest and prosecute senior leaders and mid-level operatives of domestic and foreign terrorist organizations; and (5) prevent the proliferation of nuclear- related materials and expertise. The Committee includes funds under International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement for the recruitment, retention, and professionalization of women in the police forces in countries in South and Central Asia, including $5,000,000 for Pakistan. South and Central Asia Regional Programs.--The Committee supports regional economic integration programs that support transit, trade, and energy linkages in the region and increase economic growth and stability by expanding trade through neighboring countries. Section 7045 includes language modified from the prior year regarding programs and funding for countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. Caribbean.--The Committee recommendation supports activities to combat organized crime and drug-related violence in a region particularly susceptible to the drug trade. Funds for the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative are allocated according to the following table and subject to section 7019 of this Act: CARIBBEAN BASIN SECURITY INITIATIVE [Budget authority in thousands of dollars] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Account Budget Authority ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Economic Support Fund................................ $25,250 International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 25,250 Foreign Military Financing Program................... 7,500 ------------------ Total............................................ 58,000 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 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 Caribbean Basin Security Initiative on a country-by-country basis for each program, project, and activity for fiscal years 2010 through 2018, and integrate such information into the ForeignAssistance.gov Web site, as appropriate. The Committee supports programs to increase the resilience of countries to emergencies and natural disasters in the Caribbean. Central America.--The United States Strategy for Engagement in Central America (Strategy) was released following the migration crises at the southwest border of the United States in 2014. The Department of State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2017, required the Secretary of State to review and update the Strategy, which was submitted to Congress in 2017. Subsection (a) provides that up to $595,000,000 may be made available for assistance for countries in Central America to implement the updated Strategy. Such funds are allocated according to the following table and subject to section 7019 of this Act: UNITED STATES STRATEGY FOR ENGAGEMENT IN CENTRAL AMERICA [Budget authority in thousands of dollars] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Account/Program Budget Authority ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Global Health Programs............................... $12,000 Guatemala........................................ 12,000 Development Assistance............................... 200,000 Transfer to Inter-American Foundation............ 10,000 Economic Support Fund................................ 124,400 Central America Regional Security Initiative..... 124,400 International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 222,500 Central American Regional Security Initiative.... 222,500 Costa Rica................................... [32,500] International Commission against Impunity in [6,000] Guatemala................................... Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 500 Related Programs.................................... Panama........................................... 500 International Military Education and Training........ 4,100 Costa Rica....................................... 725 Foreign Military Financing Program................... 31,500 Costa Rica....................................... 7,500 ------------------ Total, United States Strategy for Engagement 595,000 in Central America.......................... ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Subsection (a)(1) also requires that funds be made available on a cost-matching basis. The Committee notes that funding provided in this Act represents the fifth fiscal year of resources provided to implement the Strategy. Subsection (a)(2) continues the requirement for a multi- year spend plan to be submitted prior to the obligation of funds and as described under this subsection in fiscal year 2018 (as described in the explanatory statement accompanying division K of Public Law 115-141). The Committee recommendation provides the Secretary of State with the flexibility to allocate funds among countries, particularly countries in the Northern Triangle. The Committee expects the Secretary to allocate such funds based on the progress made by a country under the Strategy and the central government's commitment to reform. The Secretary is directed to specify proposed country levels and include a discussion of such matters in the spend plan. Subsection (a)(3) includes modified language withholding half of the assistance made available for each of the central governments of El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras, unless the Secretary of State certifies and reports that such government is meeting certain conditions. The Committee notes that such conditions have helped maintain focus on reform and accountability. The Secretary should consider progress made by each central government in meeting similar conditions in prior years when allocating funds in the spend plan. In making the certification under subsection (a)(3), the Secretary of State should consider the following: (1) relating to subparagraph (G), whether the government is increasing the capacity and independence of the judiciary and the Office of the Attorney General, including on civil, criminal, and tax matters, and whether the government is implementing international best practices to ensure appropriate due process; (2) relating to subparagraph (J), whether the government is investigating and prosecuting in the civilian justice system government personnel, including military and police personnel, who are credibly alleged to have violated human rights, and ensuring that such personnel are cooperating in such cases; (3) relating to subparagraph (N), whether the government is protecting the right of members of civil society to operate without interference, including journalists, trade unionists, and human rights defenders; (4) relating to subparagraph (O), whether the government is implementing tax reforms that increase government revenue and transparency in the tax collection system, and strengthen customs agencies; (5) relating to subparagraph (P), whether the government is resolving commercial disputes between United States entities and such government, including the confiscation of real property, and increasing the timeliness of reimbursements to United States business entities. The Secretary is directed to include such information in the report to accompany this certification. The Committee is concerned about the length of time it has taken in prior years for the Department of State to meet the oversight requirements provided for in this subsection. The Secretary of State is directed to submit the spend plan required by subsection (a)(2) not later than 60 days after enactment of this Act, and to take other steps in order to obligate funds in a timely manner, particularly with respect to funds not subject to the requirements of subsection (a)(3). Not later than 60 days after enactment of this Act and prior to the submission of the spend plan required by subsection (a)(2), the Secretary of State, in coordination with the USAID Administrator, shall issue a progress report based on the plan for monitoring and evaluation for the Strategy. The report shall be submitted to the appropriate congressional committees and the information contained in the report shall be posted to the Department of State and USAID Web sites. The Secretary of State should consider progress made by a country when allocating funds in the spend plan. The Committee recommendation supports efforts to strengthen the rule of law by combating corruption and impunity in Central America. Within the total funding provided for the Strategy, not less than $30,000,000 is for the International Commission against Impunity in Guatemala, the Mission to Support the Fight against Corruption and Impunity in Honduras, and the offices of the Attorneys General/Public Ministries of El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. In allocating funds, the Secretary of State should consider each organization's capacity, record, and commitment to the rule of law. The Secretary shall specify proposed levels for each individual organization in the spend plan. The Committee recommendation maintains congressional notification requirements for Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras and directs that such notifications: (1) indicate whether funds will support current or new programs, the central government of such country, an international financial institution, or an organization listed in the preceding paragraph; (2) describe the cost-matching arrangements made pursuant to subsection (a)(1); 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. Congressional notifications submitted for the International Commission Against Impunity in Guatemala and the Mission to Support the Fight against Corruption and Impunity in Honduras shall also specify the activities to be supported, the planned agency oversight of such funds, and a brief description of the activities and investigations undertaken by the entity during the previous six months. The Committee believes that citizen security is a prerequisite for long-term development and sustained economic growth in the region and includes $346,900,000 for CARSI. The Committee notes that CARSI was established by Congress to take a comprehensive approach to the myriad of problems such as youth violence and gangs, organized crime, drug trafficking and other forms of criminality and violence in Central America. CARSI programs are intended to bolster border security; counter criminal gangs, drug traffickers and organized crime; combat human smuggling and trafficking; provide training for law enforcement; and provide crime prevention programs that target at-risk youth. The Committee expects that the Administration, as it implements CARSI, will ensure that it includes sufficient funding for prevention and for institutional strengthening of police, prosecutors, and judicial systems. The Committee also supports efforts to increase the capacity and geographic reach of local wildlife law enforcement and park rangers in border forest communities in order to protect the rights of indigenous and forest communities and halt the illegal movement of people, drugs, weapons, and natural resources across unregulated borders. The Committee is concerned about widespread sexual and gender-based violence in the Northern Triangle and supports programs to expand school-based prevention programs, increase the capacity of law enforcement to investigate and prosecute such cases, and provide protection and services to survivors. The Committee supports programs to reduce domestic abuse and help survivors of such abuse. The Committee recommendation provides resources above the prior year to support Costa Rica's efforts to disrupt the flow of illicit drugs and dismantle organized criminal groups. The Committee notes that in 2016, Costa Rican authorities seized over 24 metric tons of cocaine, a 44 percent increase over the prior year. Not later than 45 days after the 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 2018, and integrate such information into the ForeignAssistance.gov Web site, as appropriate. The Committee notes that in order to incentivize and attract foreign investment, Northern Triangle countries must aggressively combat corruption and impunity and work to create a positive business climate that enforces the rule of law and respects due process. The Committee encourages business groups in the United States and Northern Triangle countries to contribute to these efforts and encourages them to pursue their goals of strengthening the economies through a commitment towards economic growth, entrepreneurship, investments, fighting corruption, job creation, and the reduction of migration, malnutrition, and poverty. Funds provided under Development Assistance for rural development programs should include support for small scale and subsistence farmers, with attention to women's access to credit, building local markets and increasing local capacity. Funding transferred from Development Assistance to Inter- American Foundation should only be used for assistance for countries in the Northern Triangle and such programs should be included in the plan for monitoring and evaluation of the Strategy. The Committee recommendation does not include funds under title IV of this Act for Nicaragua. Any funding provided for Nicaragua in this Act should be made available for programs that promote democracy and the rule of law. No funds are provided for the central government of Nicaragua. The Committee notes that funds for Nicaragua are subject to the notification requirements of section 7015 of this Act. Colombia.--The Committee supports Colombia's efforts to counter illicit crop cultivation and narcotics trafficking, enhance security and stability, strengthen and expand governance and access to services, and establish a lasting and durable peace. The Committee recognizes the strategic importance of Colombia and notes the improvements made in the everyday lives of the Colombian people over the last two decades. The Committee remains concerned, however, about the significant levels of coca production and trafficking and the continued violence associated with the drug trade. Subsection (b)(1) provides that not less than $391,250,000 should be made available for assistance for Colombia. The Committee may adjust assistance for Colombia as the appropriation process proceeds. The Committee is concerned with the spillover effects from turmoil in Venezuela and its impact on Colombia and other countries in the region. Subsection (b)(1) includes modified language supporting the efforts of the Government of Colombia to assist communities impacted by significant refugee or migrant populations. In addition, the Committee recommendation assumes that up to $7,000,000 of funds available under Economic Support Fund will be transferred to Migration and Refugee Assistance, as in prior years, to augment support to nongovernmental and international organizations that provide assistance to Colombian refugees in neighboring countries. The Committee encourages funding for Colombian civil society, programs to support truth and reconciliation, victims support, the protection of human rights defenders and other vulnerable groups, peacebuilding, and verification of the implementation of the accords. The Committee encourages support for the Colombia Attorney General's Human Rights Unit and the Special Unit to Dismantle Organized Crime and Paramilitary Successor Groups. The Committee recommendation also continues support for programs to assist Afro-Colombians and indigenous communities. Subsection (b)(2) continues the prohibition on payment of reparations to conflict victims or compensation to demobilized combatants associated with a peace agreement with funds made available by this Act. Subsection (b)(3) continues the requirement for a multi- year spend plan to be submitted prior to the obligation of funds and as described under this subsection required in fiscal year 2018 (as described in the explanatory statement accompanying division K of Public Law 115-141). The Committee remains concerned about the significant increase in coca production in Colombia and supports the goal of halving such production in five years. Subsection (b)(4) continues the withholding of assistance until the Secretary of State certifies and reports the Government of Colombia has reduced overall illicit drug cultivation, production, and trafficking. The report to accompany such certification shall include metrics and related information to support such certification. The Committee encourages a continued focus on justice and rule of law activities, including within the Colombian Armed Forces. Not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State is directed to submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations on these issues. The report should include steps taken by the Government of Colombia to: (1) subject cases involving members of the Colombian military who have been credibly alleged to have violated human rights to civilian jurisdiction; (2) uphold its international obligations by holding accountable persons responsible for crimes against humanity, war crimes, and other gross violations of human rights; (3) continue to dismantle illegal armed groups; and (4) take effective steps to protect the rights of human rights defenders, and indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities. No funds appropriated or otherwise made available for assistance for Colombia by this Act and prior Acts making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs may be made available for the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) or the National Liberation Army in Colombia, as such entities are designated as foreign terrorist organizations pursuant to section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1189). The Committee would support a transfer of up to $5,000,000 from Development Assistance to the Inter-American Foundation if the Secretary of State, in coordination with the USAID Administrator, determines that such a transfer would further advance United States development goals in Colombia, subject to prior consultation with the Committees on Appropriations. Cuba.--Direction on democracy programs for Cuba is included under Economic Support Fund. Haiti.--Subsection (d) withholds funding for assistance for the central Government of Haiti unless the Secretary of State certifies and reports that the Government of Haiti is taking certain steps. The Committee remains concerned about the lack of progress in self-reliance and governance in Haiti and encourages the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator to prioritize programs that build towards long-term sustainability. In accordance with subsection (d)(2), the review shall examine programs funded since the 2010 earthquake to determine whether such programs were sustained, reasons why such programs were or were not sustained, and recommendations for current and future programing in order to increase program sustainability. The Secretary and USAID Administrator shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations on these matters not later than 30 days after enactment of this Act. The Committee is concerned with the lack of border security between Haiti and the Dominican Republic, which undermines legitimate trade, fosters instability, and inhibits efforts to regenerate markets and provide foreign assistance. 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. Mexico.--The Committee recommendation provides funding under International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement to combat transnational organized crime, increase border security, promote the rule of law, and reduce the flow of illicit narcotics into the United States. The recommendation includes $20,000,000 above the prior year to assist the Government of Mexico in securing its borders and combatting poppy cultivation and heroin and synthetic drug production. Congressional notifications for assistance for Mexico submitted pursuant to section 7015 shall include a description of such programs and activities. The Committee notes the efforts of the Government of Mexico to address the migration of unaccompanied, undocumented minors from Central America traveling to the United States. The Committee recommendation includes funding to continue to support efforts to secure Mexico's borders and encourages a continued focus on Mexico's southern border with Guatemala and Belize. Funding provided under Economic Support Fund should support justice reform, promote good governance, promote human rights, implement crime and violence prevention programs, and facilitate United States-Mexico trade and investment. The Committee recognizes that the United States and Mexico face difficult challenges in securing our shared border while facilitating the efficient flow of commerce and trade. 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 encourages the Department of State, in cooperation with other United States Government agencies, to explore new opportunities for cooperation with Mexican authorities, including training opportunities by state and local law enforcement entities in the United States. Not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations regarding efforts by the Government of Mexico to: (1) thoroughly and credibly investigate and prosecute violations of human rights in civilian courts, including the killings at Tlatlaya in June 2014 and the disappearance of 43 students at Ayotzinapa in September 2014, in accordance with Mexican law; (2) vigorously enforce prohibitions against torture and the use of testimony obtained through torture; and (3) search for the victims of forced disappearances and credibly investigate and prosecute those responsible for such crimes. The Committee urges the Secretary of State to engage in negotiations with Mexico to seek the return of items of historical value, including to facilitate the repatriation of a flag which was flown at the battle of the Alamo. Venezuela.--Subsection (e) provides not less than $15,000,000 for programs to promote democracy and the rule of law in Venezuela. No funds are provided for the central government of Venezuela. The Committee notes that funds for Venezuela are subject to the notification requirements of section 7015 of this Act. Other Matters.--The Committee is concerned about attacks and assassinations of journalists, human rights defenders, and social leaders in Latin America, and recommends continued support for programs to help protect them and investigate the perpetrators of these crimes. Funds provided under International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement for Western Hemisphere Regional Security Cooperation are in addition to amounts otherwise provided for bilateral and regional programs under that heading. Section 7046 includes language regarding Europe and Eurasia. Georgia.--Subsection (a)(1) provides not less than $105,325,000 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...... $63,025 International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 4,000 Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 1,100 Related Programs.................................... International Military Education and Training........ 2,200 Foreign Military Financing Program................... 35,000 ------------------ Total............................................ 105,325 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Committee recommendation supports programs to increase Georgia's resilience in the face of Russian influence and aggression, including by strengthening Georgia's defense capabilities. The Committee notes that over the years economic reforms made by the Government of Georgia have resulted in strong economic growth and foreign investment from the United States, benefiting both countries. The Committee believes it is critical that public and private Georgian entities continue to adhere to their contractual obligations with United States businesses and expects the Secretary of State to assist American businesses in Georgia who face challenges. Not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations regarding the business environment in Georgia, any significant ongoing commercial disputes between the Government of Georgia and United States entities, and steps taken by the United States government to assist in the resolution of such issues. Ukraine.--Subsection (a)(2) provides not less than $441,000,000 for assistance for Ukraine. Such funds are allocated according to the following table and subject to section 7019 of this Act: UKRAINE [Budget authority in thousands of dollars] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Account Budget Authority ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Global Health Programs............................... $33,000 Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia...... 250,000 International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 30,000 Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and 15,000 Related Programs.................................... International Military Education and Training........ 3,000 Foreign Military Financing Program................... 110,000 ------------------ Total............................................ 441,000 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The Committee recommendation supports Ukraine's capacity to counter Russian influence and aggression, and advances Ukraine's capacity to integrate into Western markets and political, security, and defense institutions. The Committee recommendation provides funding above the prior year under Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related Programs to support the removal of landmines and other explosive remnants of war, which, according to the UN, were the second highest cause of civilian casualties in 2017. The Committee urges the Government of Ukraine to undertake additional reforms to combat corruption, including passage of legislation to establish an independent anti-corruption court. Not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations on reforms undertaken or planned by the Government of Ukraine to fight corruption, and United States assistance and programs that support these efforts. The Committee supports efforts to help Ukraine diversify its energy sources and reduce dependency on Russia and urges the Secretary of State to promote reforms in this area. The Committee also encourages the Department of State to increase cyber cooperation with Ukraine to increase its readiness against cyber-attacks. The Committee remains concerned about the humanitarian needs of those displaced due to the conflict and encourages the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator to support such needs, including access to mental health services for youth and vulnerable populations. The Committee also supports efforts to strengthen Ukraine's capacity to provide integrated health services to combat veterans, reservists, and active soldiers engaged in the conflict in the east. The Committee encourages USAID to continue working with Ukraine's Ministry of Health on a system of mental health protection, to strengthen cooperation on veterans' issues, and facilitate the sharing of best practices on mental health and posttraumatic stress disorder treatment and related support to military families. The Committee is pleased with the Department of State and USAID's support of and direct engagement with small-holder Ukrainian farmers and rural women. The Committee encourages the Department of State and USAID to support the development of cooperatives to empower small-holder farmers to increase productivity and marketability of their products. The Committee recommendation provides funding above the prior year under Foreign Military Financing Program to help Ukraine defend its sovereign territory against Russian aggression. The Committee notes that Ukraine, as a formal NATO partner, is eligible for the full range of activities listed in the NATO Partnership Cooperation Menu, which comprises more than 1,600 activities such as multilateral training exercises and equipment modernization. The Committee recommendation supports the provision of appropriate training, lethal defensive weapons, and other equipment to continue to work closely with NATO and meet its security challenges. The Committee recommendation supports efforts to increase security, reduce tensions, and monitor the situation in Ukraine, including through the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe Special Monitoring Mission in Ukraine. Moldova.--The Committee recommendation supports Moldova's integration with the West and efforts to counter Russian influence and pressure. Section 7047 includes language carried in the prior year regarding countering Russian influence and aggression. The Act provides not less than $250,000,000 for the Countering Russian Influence Fund (CRIF), which is in addition to amounts made available for bilateral assistance for countries in Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia. Such funds are allocated according to the following table and 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...... $75,000 International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement.. 50,000 International Military Education and Training/....... 5,000 Foreign Military Financing Program................... 120,000 ------------------ Total............................................ 250,000 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 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 Syria recognized such territories in May 2018. Section 7048 includes language modified from the prior year relating to conditions on funds for the UN and other international organizations. Section 7049 includes language modified from the prior year related to assistance, authorities, limitations, and notifications regarding law enforcement and security matters. Section 7050 includes language carried in the prior year prohibiting funds to implement the Arms Trade Treaty. Section 7051 includes language carried in the prior year limiting funds available under this Act from being used to support attendance at international conferences. Section 7052 includes language carried in the prior year relating to aircraft transfer and coordination. Section 7053 includes language carried in the prior year relating to unpaid parking fines and real property taxes owed by foreign governments. Section 7054 includes language carried in the prior year regarding the International Monetary Fund. Section 7055 includes language carried in the prior year limiting funding for publicity or propaganda purposes within the United States. Section 7056 is a new provision prohibiting funds to UNFPA and prohibiting the award of global health assistance funds to foreign nongovernmental organizations that promote or perform abortion, with certain exceptions. Section 7057 includes language carried in the prior year regarding certain management conditions and authorities of USAID. The Committee directs the Inspector General for USAID to conduct an audit of the USAID's use of appropriated funds prior to expiration and cancellation. The audit shall determine whether operating units used appropriated funds within the deadlines of the appropriations, whether obligations using expired funds were made in accordance with Federal requirements, and review the closeout process of operating units. The audit should also include any findings related to the reasons for any expired or canceled funds, identify the root causes for deficiencies and determine monetary benefits that could have been achieved if contracts and cooperative agreements had been closed in a timely manner. Section 7058 includes language modified from the prior year regarding global health activities, placing a funding limitation on international family planning programs, conditioning contributions to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and providing certain authorities to better prepare for, and respond to, emerging health threats. Section 7059 includes modified language carried from the prior year regarding programs that support gender equality. Not later than 90 days after the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the USAID Administrator, shall submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees on programs supported by the Department of State and USAID in furtherance of the requirements of this section. With respect to subsection (c)(2) that requires gender programs 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, the Committee expects the report to include programs and policies that reduce the incidence of child marriage and meet the needs of already married adolescent girls. The Committee supports the continuation of programs for women and girls who are at risk from extremism and conflict. The Committee also supports the provision of additional funds under Economic Support Fund for the UN Children's Fund program to eliminate female genital mutilation/cutting. The Committee encourages the Secretary of State to ensure women's participation is increased in peacekeeping operations and other security assistance programs, as appropriate. Section 7060 includes language modified from the prior year regarding assistance for programs related to basic education, higher education, conservation, development programs, food security and agriculture development, microenterprise, programs to combat trafficking in persons, and water and sanitation. Subsection (b) includes not less than $269,000,000 in title III for biodiversity conservation programs, which is the same as the fiscal year 2018 enacted level. The Committee notes funds from biodiversity programs are used to meet the funding directive to combat wildlife poaching and trafficking. The Committee supports continued funding to implement and enforce the Lacey Act (section 8204 of P.L. 110- 246), $10,500,000 for biodiversity programs in the Brazilian Amazon, including efforts that seek to build the capacity of Brazil to manage its own protected areas, and $20,000,000 for such programs in the Andean Amazon. The Committee also encourages programs to support Guatemala's Mayan Biosphere. The Committee notes that demand for paper and wood products is rapidly increasing and that programs that support responsible forest management are needed to assist in protecting vulnerable forests, such as high conservation value forests, from illegal logging and encroachment. The Committee also recognizes that illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing undermines sustainable fisheries management, the stability of coastal communities abroad, and food security, and supports USAID programs that address such issues. The Committee remains concerned about the wildlife poaching and trafficking crisis and the continued negative effect it is having on international security and stability and the implications for endangered species. The Committee recognizes the severity of poaching in Africa, particularly with respect to elephant ivory and rhinoceros horn, 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. The Act provides not less than $90,664,000 in titles III and IV be made available to address this urgent crisis, and the Committee directs not less than $10,000,000 of such funds for programs to combat rhinoceros poaching. Funds to address the wildlife poaching and trafficking crisis should be used to strengthen law enforcement capacity; address poaching at the source; build capacity for site-based protection of wildlife; disrupt trafficking routes; enhance regional cooperation and anti-trafficking networks; support regional wildlife enforcement networks, including not less than the fiscal year 2018 enacted level for ongoing regional efforts in southern Africa; improve port and border security at key transit points; promote community-based approaches for wildlife protection; and support programs to reduce consumer demand. The Committee supports continued implementation of the Eliminate, Neutralize, and Disrupt (END) Wildlife Trafficking Act of 2016 and expects funds to be made available to support the goals and objectives of such Act. The Committee expects the Secretary of State to work with countries rich in biodiversity and wildlife habitats or identified as focus countries in the END Wildlife Trafficking Act, to make a sustained commitment of budgetary resources to combat wildlife trafficking and promote community conservation. The Committee also encourages continued implementation of the National Strategy for Combating Wildlife Trafficking. The Committee notes such strategy calls for the use of innovative and science-based analytical tools to combat wildlife poaching and trafficking. The Committee supports efforts to engage with the private sector and nongovernmental organizations in the development and use of such tools. The Committee directs the Department of State and USAID to work with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), the Department of the Treasury, and the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to integrate information and share data to support a common platform that will inform strategies to combat money laundering and illicit trade. The Committee directs the Secretary of State, the USAID Administrator, and the Director of USFWS to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the use of funds provided for programs to combat wildlife trafficking and directs that the CBJ for fiscal year 2020 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 expects that international conservation programs administered by the Department of State and USAID will utilize expertise from across the United States Government, including in partnership with the USFWS, the United States Forest Service, and other agencies, as appropriate. The Committee notes the ongoing threats to other endangered species and supports continued funding for programs to protect great apes and tigers, including for habitat conservation. The Committee supports continued United States leadership of the Congo Basin Forest Partnership and includes $39,400,000 for the Central Africa Regional Program for the Environment (CARPE). The Committee directs that $17,500,000 of the funds made available for CARPE be apportioned directly to the USFWS to support further development and implementation of a Central African regional wildlife law enforcement network and to build local capacity for wildlife protection in such region. These programs should include the professionalization of park guards and other wildlife law enforcement officials and the provision of tools and technologies for measuring, evaluating, and improving the effectiveness of wildlife law enforcement patrols and site-based protection and conservation activities. Based on the CARPE model, the Committee supports continuing and expanding transnational approaches throughout sub-Saharan Africa, including the Okavango River Basin. Subsection (f) includes $67,000,000 for programs to combat trafficking in persons, 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 to continue to support child protection compacts pursuant to Public Law 113-94. The Committee notes an additional $13,822,000 is provided under Diplomatic Programs for the operational costs of the Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, which is described further under Diplomatic Programs in 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. The Committee urges the USAID Administrator to strengthen implementation of the Counter-Trafficking in Persons (C-TIP) policy. The Administrator should ensure that USAID personnel and implementing partners are appropriately educated and trained according to the C-TIP Field Guide. C-TIP activities should be integrated into other development programs, project design, and methods for program evaluation. The Committee believes the Secretary of State and the USAID Administrator should ensure that foreign assistance programs relating to humanitarian assistance, food security, poverty reduction, social and economic growth and development, education, and democracy and governance contribute to decreased vulnerability to or prevalence of human trafficking and forced labor, consistent with United States policy, including with section 107A(e) of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000. Not later than 90 days after enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the USAID Administrator, is directed to submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations on obligations and expenditures of all fiscal year 2018 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 includes language carried in the prior year establishing restrictions on enterprise funds. Section 7062 includes language carried in the prior year establishing certain limitations on assistance that may impact jobs in the United States. Section 7063 includes language carried in the prior year regarding timely access by Inspectors General to records, documents, or other materials available to a department or agency of the United States. Section 7064 includes language modified from the prior year regarding global Internet freedom programs. Section 7065 includes language carried in the prior year on multi-year pledges. Section 7066 includes language carried in the prior year prohibiting funds for the use of torture. Section 7067 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. The Committee recommendation continues the limitation in this section on assistance for the central government of a country that refuses to extradite to the United States any individual indicted for a criminal offense for which the maximum penalty is life imprisonment without parole or for killing a law enforcement officer, as specified in a United States extradition request. The Secretary of State is directed to engage with foreign governments not covered by section 7067 of this Act, such as the Government of Cuba, to resolve cases of fugitives from justice, including persons sought by the United States Department of Justice for such crimes committed in the United States, such as Joanne Chesimard. Section 7068 includes language carried in the prior year regarding authority for the President to draw down certain funds to support UN war crimes tribunals or commissions. Section 7069 includes language modified from the prior concerning consultation, notification, and reporting requirements involving any agency reorganization, redesign, or transformation. Pursuant to subsection (a)(3), the notification shall include a detailed justification and analysis that includes the following information: (1) a detailed description of, and justification for, the proposed action, including any policies or procedures currently or expected to be used to implement Executive Order 13781; (2) the current organizational chart, showing the operating units of the respective department, agency or organization and a brief description of each operating unit; the number of employees for each operating unit; the proposed new organizational chart with descriptions of each new operating unit; and the number of employees once the proposed reorganization is complete; (3) an assessment of how the proposed action will improve the efficiency, effectiveness, performance, and accountability (including through modernizing information technology platforms and streamlining administrative functions) of the department, agency, or organization; (4) an analysis of the impact of any such change on the ability to advance the national interest of the United States through diplomacy and development, and to conduct adequate monitoring and oversight of foreign assistance programs, and any legislative change necessary to implement such proposals; (5) the estimated cost and timeline to complete the proposed action; and (6) an assessment of any cost savings and efficiencies achieved through implementation of each element of the proposed action. Pursuant to subsection (a)(4), operating plans shall include amounts for each of the State Department regional and functional bureaus and the following offices, envoys, and coordinators: Coordinator for Cyber Issues Coordinator for Sanctions Policy Office of Global Women's Issues Office of International Religious Freedom Office of the Special Coordinator for Global Criminal Justice Office of the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism Office of the Special Envoy for North Korean Human Rights Issues Office of the Special Envoy for Sudan and South Sudan Office of the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons Special Advisor for Religious Minorities in the Near East and South Central Asia Special Envoy for Holocaust Issues Subsection (b)(3) includes language that limits funds relating to the Technology Modernization Fund. The terms ``Technology Modernization Fund'' and ``Technology Modernization Board'' have the same meaning given to ``Fund'' and ``Board'' in section 1076 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018. Section 7070 includes language modified from the prior year requiring operating and spend plans for funds provided in this Act. Section 7071 includes new language related to Member access to facilities in the United States used for purposes of detaining foreign national minors. TITLE VIII--OVERSEAS CONTINGENCY OPERATIONS/GLOBAL WAR ON TERRORISM Title VIII of the Committee recommendation includes an additional $8,018,000,000, which is designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 for OCO/GWOT. Such funds are intended to address the extraordinary costs of diplomatic and development operations overseas, including economic stabilization; humanitarian response; and oversight activities. Funds in this title are subject to the operating and spend plan requirements of section 7070 of this Act, where applicable. DEPARTMENT OF STATE Administration of Foreign Affairs DIPLOMATIC PROGRAMS (INCLUDING TRANSFER OF FUNDS) Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $2,975,971,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 2,975,971,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +$2,975,971,000 The Committee recommendation includes an additional $2,975,971,000 for Diplomatic Programs, including $2,376,122,000 for WSP. The full amount is designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 and will support the costs of operations and security in Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq and other high threat posts. OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $68,100,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 54,900,000 Change from enacted level......................... -13,200,000 Change from request............................... +54,900,000 The Committee recommendation includes an additional $54,900,000 for Office of Inspector General. The full amount is designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 and will support reviews, audits, and investigations by SIGAR. EMBASSY SECURITY, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $71,778,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 0 Change from enacted level......................... -71,778,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation does not include an additional appropriation for Embassy Security, Construction and Maintenance. INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS CONTRIBUTIONS TO INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $96,240,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 0 Change from enacted level......................... -$96,240,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation does not include an additional appropriation for Contributions to International Organizations. CONTRIBUTIONS TO INTERNATIONAL PEACEKEEPING ACTIVITIES Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $967,456,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 0 Change from enacted level......................... -967,456,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation does not include an additional appropriation for Contributions to International Peacekeeping Activities. UNITED STATES AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT Funds Appropriated to the President OPERATING EXPENSES Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $158,067,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 158,067,000 Change from enacted level......................... 0 Change from request............................... +158,067,000 The Committee recommendation includes an additional $158,067,000 for Operating Expenses. The full amount is designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. OFFICE OF INSPECTOR GENERAL Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $2,500,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 0 Change from enacted level......................... -2,500,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation does not include an additional appropriation for Office of Inspector General. BILATERAL ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE Funds Appropriated To The President INTERNATIONAL DISASTER ASSISTANCE Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $1,588,778,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 1,287,578,000 Change from enacted level......................... -301,200,000 Change from request............................... +1,287,578,000 The Committee recommendation includes an additional $1,287,578,000 for International Disaster Assistance. The full amount is designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 and will support the extraordinary costs of the United States response to international disasters and crises, including those resulting from conflict in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria. TRANSITION INITIATIVES Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $62,043,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 0 Change from enacted level......................... -62,043,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation does not include an additional appropriation for Transition Initiatives. COMPLEX CRISES FUND Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $20,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 0 Change from enacted level......................... -20,000,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation does not include an appropriation for Complex Crises Fund. ECONOMIC SUPPORT FUND Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $2,152,122,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 1,178,250,000 Change from enacted level......................... -973,872,000 Change from request............................... +1,178,250,000 The Committee recommendation includes an additional $1,178,250,000 for Economic Support Fund. The full amount is designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 and will support the costs of assistance for Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iraq. Department of State MIGRATION AND REFUGEE ASSISTANCE Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $2,431,198,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 2,363,234,000 Change from enacted level......................... 67,964,000 Change from request............................... +2,363,234,000 The Committee recommendation includes an additional $2,363,234,000 for Migration and Refugee Assistance. The full amount is designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 and will support the extraordinary cost of overseas assistance to respond to refugee crises. INTERNATIONAL SECURITY ASSISTANCE Department of State INTERNATIONAL NARCOTICS CONTROL AND LAW ENFORCEMENT Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $417,951,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 0 Change from enacted level......................... -417,951,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation does not include an appropriation for International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement. NONPROLIFERATION, ANTITERRORISM, DEMINING AND RELATED PROGRAMS Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $220,583,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 0 Change from enacted level......................... -220,583,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation does not include an appropriation for Nonproliferation, Anti-Terrorism, Demining and Related Programs. PEACEKEEPING OPERATIONS Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $325,213,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 0 Change from enacted level......................... -325,213,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation does not include an appropriation for Peacekeeping Operations. Funds Appropriated to the President FOREIGN MILITARY FINANCING PROGRAM Fiscal Year 2018 enacted level........................ $460,000,000 Fiscal Year 2019 request.............................. 0 Committee recommendation.............................. 0 Change from enacted level......................... 460,000,000 Change from request............................... 0 The Committee recommendation does not include an appropriation for Foreign Military Financing Program. GENERAL PROVISIONS Section 8001 includes language carried in the prior year noting that funds appropriated by this title are in addition to amounts appropriated or otherwise made available. Section 8002 includes language carried in the prior year directing that funds appropriated by this title are subject to the authorities and conditions applicable to such headings in prior titles, unless noted otherwise. Section 8003 includes language providing that each amount designated pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(A)(ii) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985 in this title shall be available only if the President subsequently so designates all such amounts and transmits such designations to the Congress. TITLE IX--ADDITIONAL GENERAL PROVISION Spending Reduction Account Section 9001 establishes a spending reduction account. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES REPORTING REQUIREMENT The following materials are submitted in accordance with various requirements of the Rules of the House of Representatives: Full Committee VotesStatement 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 The bill does not include any rescissions. 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 Emergencies in the Diplomatic and Consular Service, language is included to transfer funds to Repatriation Loans Program. 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 III, under Development Credit Authority, language is included to transfer funds to Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia and to transfer funds to Operating Expenses. 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 VI, under Program Account, language is included to transfer funds from the Overseas Private Investment Corporation Noncredit Account. Under title VII, language is included under section 7004 to transfer funds between Diplomatic Programs and Embassy Security, Construction, and Maintenance to implement the recommendations of the Benghazi Accountability Review Board. Under title VII, language is included under section 7009 to transfer funds under title I for the Department of State and the Broadcasting Board of Governors. Under title VII, language is included under section 7034 to transfer funds under Protection of Foreign Missions and Officials and unobligated balances of expired funds under Diplomatic Programs for extraordinary protection. Under title VII, language is included under section 7048 to transfer funds between Global Health Programs and International Disaster Assistance. In title VIII, under Diplomatic Programs, language is included to transfer funds to other departments and agencies for Afghanistan. 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): EMERGENCY WARTIME SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2003 * * * * * * * TITLE I WAR-RELATED APPROPRIATIONS * * * * * * * CHAPTER 5--BILATERAL ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE * * * * * * * LOAN GUARANTEES TO ISRAEL During the period beginning March 1, 2003, and ending [September 30, 2019] September 30, 2023, loan guarantees may be made available to Israel, guaranteeing 100 percent of the principal and interest on such loans, the principal amount, any part of which is to be guaranteed, not to exceed $9,000,000,000, of which up to $3,000,000,000 may be issued prior to October 1, 2003, or thereafter and of which $3,000,000,000 may be issued subsequent to September 30, 2004: Provided, That such guarantees shall constitute obligations, in accordance with the terms of such guarantees, of the United States and the full faith and credit of the United States is hereby pledged for the full payment and performance of such obligations: Provided further, That if less than the full amount of guarantees authorized to be made available is issued prior to [September 30, 2019] September 30, 2023, the authority to issue the balance of such guarantees shall extend to the subsequent fiscal year: Provided further, That guarantees may be issued under this section only to support activities in the geographic areas which were subject to the administration of the Government of Israel before June 5, 1967: Provided further, That the amount of guarantees that may be issued shall be reduced by an amount equal to the amount extended or estimated to have been extended by the Government of Israel during the period from March 1, 2003, to the date of issue of the guarantee, for activities which the President determines are inconsistent with the objectives and understandings reached between the United States and the Government of Israel regarding the implementation of the loan guarantee program: Provided further, That the President shall submit a report to Congress no later than September 30 of each fiscal year during the pendency of the program specifying the amount calculated under the preceding proviso and that will be deducted from the amount of guarantees authorized to be issued in the next fiscal year: Provided further, That the interest rate for loans guaranteed under this heading may include a reasonable fee to cover the costs and fees incurred by the borrower in connection with this program or financing under this heading in the event the borrower elects not to finance such costs or fees out of loan principal: Provided further, That no appropriations under this heading are available for the subsidy costs for these loan guarantees: Provided further, That the Government of Israel will pay the cost, as defined in section 502 of the Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990, as amended, including any non- payment exposure risk, associated with the loan guarantees issued in any fiscal year, on a pro rata basis as each guarantee is issued during that year: Provided further, That all fees (as defined in section 601(e) of Public Law 102-391) associated with the loan guarantees shall be paid by the Government of Israel to the Government of the United States: Provided further, That funds made available for assistance to Israel under chapter 4 of part II of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended, may be utilized by the Government of Israel to pay such fees to the United States Government: Provided further, That the President shall determine the terms and conditions for issuing guarantees, taking into consideration the budgetary and economic reforms undertaken by Israel: Provided further, That if the President determines that these terms and conditions have been breached, the President may suspend or terminate the provision of all or part of the loan guarantees not yet issued under this heading. * * * * * * * ---------- 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, [2019] 2020. * * * * * * * ---------- FOREIGN ASSISTANCE ACT OF 1961 * * * * * * * 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, [and 2019] 2019, and 2020. (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. * * * * * * * ---------- 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, [and 2018] 2018, and 2019 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, [2018] 2019. (2) Subsection (c) shall apply to decisions made after the date of the enactment of this Act and before October 1, [2018] 2019. (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, [2018] 2019. 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, [2018] 2019, 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. * * * * * * * 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 2019 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 2019 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 carried in the prior year designating amounts for certain activities, authorizing the use of certain fees, and directing a reporting requirement. Under Embassy Security, Construction, and Maintenance, language similar to the prior year placing limitations on the uses of funds, restricting representation expenses, and requiring submission of an operating plan. 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. 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 Broadcasting Board of Governors (BBG) make funds available to expand unrestricted access to information on the Internet, extending certain personnel authorities, requiring a review of certain programs, restricting representation expenses, and requiring notifications. 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 similar to prior years 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 2017 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, 2009. Title II Under Operating Expenses, language carried in the prior year limiting financing 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 placing restrictions and requirements related to family planning and abortion, requiring direct apportionment to agencies, designating the use of funds, requiring notifications, and setting a cap on administrative expenses. 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 the Act for the same purposes as funds under this heading following consultation. Under Development Credit Authority, language similar to the prior year authorizing transfers, setting funding and financing limitations, and requiring notification. Under Assistance for Europe, Eurasia and Central Asia, language modified from the prior year providing notwithstanding authority and related notification requirements, designating coordination responsibilities, 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, for refugees resettling in Israel, and for the United States Refugee Admissions Program. 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, limiting and restricting entertainment and representation allowances. Under Inter-American Foundation, language carried in the prior year limiting representation expenses. 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. 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. Under Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining, and Related Programs, language modified from the prior year designating the use of funds, providing authorities for funds, and establishing certain funding conditions and notification requirements. Under Peacekeeping Operations, language modified from 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 modified from 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 Global Environment Facility, new language is included to require reports and notifications from the Secretary of the Treasury. Under Contributions to the International Fund for Agricultural Development, new language is included to require reports from the Secretary of the Treasury. 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. Under Export-Import Bank of the United States, Receipts Collected, language carried in the prior year requiring sufficient fees to cover costs. Under Overseas Private Investment Corporation, Noncredit Account, language carried in the prior year limiting representation expenses, and providing that certain costs shall not be considered administrative costs. Under Overseas Private Investment Corporation, Program Account, language similar to the prior year designating transfer authority from ``Noncredit Account'', providing program authority in Iraq, requiring certain notifications, and designating funds for administrative expenses. 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 and expanding notification and oversight requirements, and placing conditions and restrictions on certain funds. 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 directing funds for certain purposes, setting limitations for the Working Capital Fund, requiring a certification, and requiring a report. 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 carried in 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, requires a determination, and provides a waiver under certain conditions. Sec. 7009 includes language modified from the prior year setting limitations and conditions on transfers between appropriations accounts, requiring audits of certain transfers and reporting requirements. Sec. 7010 includes language carried in the prior year prohibiting first-class travel and setting certain limitations on computer networks and the promotion of tobacco. Sec. 7011 includes language modified from the prior year regarding the availability of funds appropriated by this Act and language placing a limitation on such authority until the Secretary of State submits a report. 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 carried in the prior year withholding assistance to a country in which the assistance is subject to taxation, unless the Secretary of State makes certain determinations, and includes 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 regarding funds made available in the Act. Sec. 7016 includes language modified from the prior year concerning public posting of reports and documents, records management, and cybersecurity. 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 prohibiting funding for abortions and involuntary sterilization. Sec. 7019 includes language modified from the prior year regarding funding directives specified in tables in the report accompanying the Act. Sec. 7020 includes language carried in the prior year prohibiting the use of assistance for certain representation expenses. Sec. 7021 includes language similar to 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 limitation 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 modified from the prior year conditioning funds provided to local organizations through limited competitions. Sec. 7029 includes language modified from the prior year relating to international financial institutions. Sec. 7030 includes language carried in the prior year regarding debt-for-development programs. 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 Web site. 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, extending, or otherwise modifying certain special authorities relating to funds made available in, and operations supported by, the Act. Sec. 7035 continues language carried in the prior year related to the Arab League Boycott of Israel. Sec. 7036 includes language carried in the prior year establishing limitations on the use of funds in support of a Palestinian state. Sec. 7037 includes language carried in the prior year establishing restrictions on the use of funds for the purpose of conducting official United States Government business with the Palestinian Authority. 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 modified from 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 directives and conditions concerning assistance for countries in the Middle East and North Africa. Sec. 7042 includes language modified from the prior year regarding directives and conditions concerning assistance for countries in Africa. Sec. 7043 includes language modified from the prior year regarding directives and conditions concerning assistance for countries in East Asia and the Pacific. Sec. 7044 includes language modified from the prior year regarding directives and conditions concerning assistance for countries in South and Central Asia. Sec. 7045 includes language modified from the prior year regarding directives and conditions concerning assistance for countries in the Western Hemisphere. Sec. 7046 includes language similar to the prior year regarding directives and conditions concerning assistance for countries in Europe and Eurasia. Sec. 7047 includes language carried in the prior year regarding countering 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 similar to the prior year related to assistance, authorities, limitations, and notifications regarding law enforcement and other security matters. Sec. 7050 includes language carried in the prior year prohibiting the use of funds to implement the Arms Trade Treaty. Sec. 7051 includes language carried in the prior year limiting the use of funds made available by the Act to support attendance at international conferences. 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 countries. Sec. 7054 includes language similar to the prior year regarding the International Monetary Fund. Sec. 7055 includes language carried in the prior year limiting funding for publicity or propaganda purposes within the United States. Sec. 7056 is a new provision prohibiting funds to UNFPA and prohibiting the award of global health assistance funds to foreign nongovernmental organizations that promote or perform abortion, with certain exceptions. Sec. 7057 includes language carried in the prior year regarding certain management conditions and authorities of USAID. Sec. 7058 includes language modified from the prior year regarding global health activities, placing a funding limitation on international family planning programs, conditioning contributions to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and providing certain funding and authorities to better prepare for, and respond to, emerging health threats. 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, conservation, development programs, food security and agriculture development, microenterprise, trafficking in persons, and water and sanitation. Sec. 7061 includes language carried in the prior year establishing restrictions on enterprise funds. Sec. 7062 includes language carried in the prior year establishing certain limitations on assistance that may impact jobs in the United States. Sec. 7063 includes language carried in the prior year regarding timely access by Inspectors General to records, documents, or other materials available to a department or agency of the United States. Sec. 7064 includes language modified from the prior year regarding global Internet freedom programs. Sec. 7065 includes language carried in the prior year regarding multi-year pledges. Sec. 7066 includes language carried in the prior year prohibiting funds for the use of torture. Sec. 7067 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. 7068 includes language similar to the prior year regarding authority for the President to draw down certain funds to support UN war crimes tribunals or commissions. Sec. 7069 includes language similar to the prior year concerning consultation, notification, and reporting requirements involving any agency reorganization, redesign, or transformation. Sec. 7070 includes language modified from the prior year requiring operating and spend plans for funds provided in this Act. Sec. 7071 includes new language related to Member access to facilities in the United States used for purposes of detaining foreign national minors. Title VIII Under Diplomatic Programs, language carried in the prior year allowing the transfer of funds to other federal departments and agencies, designating funds, and requiring notification of any such transfers. Under Office of Inspector General, language similar to the prior year designating an amount for the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, limiting printing and reproduction costs, and providing certain personnel authorities. Under Migration and Refugee Assistance, language carried in the prior year limiting the purposes for which funds may be used. Sec. 8001 includes language carried in the prior year stating that funds appropriated in title VIII are in addition to amounts appropriated for fiscal year 2018. Sec. 8002 includes language carried in the prior year stating that funds appropriated in title VIII shall be available under the authorities and conditions applicable to such appropriations accounts, unless otherwise directed in the Act. Sec. 8003 includes language carried in the prior year providing certain conditions on amounts designated as Overseas Contingency Operations/Global War on Terrorism. Title IX Sec. 9001 includes a new provision establishing a spending reduction account. 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.... $12,084,968,000 Administration of Foreign Affairs Department of State/ 2003.............. $1,529,702,000.... $1,672,000,000.... $2,953,911,000 International Organizations Department of State/ 2003.............. $71,385,000....... $57,730,000....... $119,008,000 International Commissions Broadcasting Board of Governors 2003.............. $644,486,000...... $599,560,000...... $807,686,000 Department of State/Related 2003.............. $72,000,000....... $69,986,000....... $187,443,000 Programs United States Institute of Peace 2014.............. Such sums as may $37,000,000....... $37,884,000 be necessary. USAID/Operating Expenses 1987.............. $387,000,000...... $340,600,000...... $1,347,676,000 USAID/Capital Investment Fund None.............. NA................ NA................ $200,000,000 USAID/Inspector General 1987.............. $21,750,000....... $21,000,000....... $76,000,000 Global Health Programs (see note Population (1987); Population Population $2,690,000,000 below) Health and ($290,000,000); ($234,625,000); (includes up to Disease Health and Health and $461,000,000 for Prevention Disease Disease Population) (1987); Child Prevention Prevention 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.... $6,000,000,000 over 5 years. Development Assistance (see note Agriculture; Agriculture Agriculture $3,000,000,000 below) (1987) Education ($760,000,000); ($693,613,000); (program levels (1987); Energy Education Education to 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.... $4,285,312,000 Assistance Transition Initiatives.......... None.............. NA................ NA................ $96,145,000 Development Credit Authority.... None.............. NA................ NA................ (by transfer) $40,000,000 Development Credit Authority-- None.............. NA................ NA................ $9,120,000 administrative expenses Economic Support Fund........... 1987.............. $3,800,000,000.... $3,555,000,000.... $3,696,904,000 Democracy Fund.................. None.............. NA................ NA................ $225,000,000 Assistance for Europe, Eurasia 1993.............. $410,000,000...... N/A............... 750,334,000 and Central Asia Migration and Refugee Assistance 2003.............. $820,000,000...... $781,884,000...... $3,360,000,000 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....... $22,500,000 United States African 1987.............. $3,872,000........ $6,500,000........ $30,000,000 Development Foundation. Department of the Treasury, 1999.............. $5,000,000........ $1,500,000........ $30,000,000 International Affairs Technical Assistance International Narcotics Control 1994.............. $171,500,000...... $100,000,000...... $1,435,151,000 and Law Enforcement Nonproliferation, Anti- 2003.............. $226,200,000...... NA................ $876,050,000 terrorism, Demining and Related Programs (see note below) Peacekeeping Operations......... 1999.............. $83,000,000....... $76,500,000....... $490,400,000 International Military Education 2003.............. $85,000,000....... $79,480,000....... $110,875,000 and Training Foreign Military Financing...... 2003.............. $4,107,000,000.... $6,104,632,000.... $6,361,342,000 Overseas Private Investment 2016.............. Such sums as may $70,000,000....... $79,200,000 Corporation Administrative be necessary. Expenses Overseas Private Investment 2016.............. Such sums as may $20,000,000....... $10,000,000 Corporation Program Account be necessary. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Note: Amounts for Administration of Foreign Affairs, Operating Expenses, International Disaster Assistance, Economic Support Fund, and Migration and Refugee Assistance, include funds appropriated in title VIII of the bill and designated for OCO/GWOT pursuant to the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. 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] ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Budget authority Outlays ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Committee Committee allocation Amount in bill allocation Amount in bill ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Mandatory\1\.................... 159............... 159............... 159............... 159 Discretionary\1\................ 46,000............ 46,000............ 48,984............ 47,365 Security.................... Nonsecurity\l\.............. 46,000............ 46,000............ NA................ NA Overseas Contingency Operations/ .................. 8,018............. .................. 2,915 Global War on Terrorism\2\. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- \1\Includes outlays from prior-year budget authority. \2\Consistent with the funding recommended in the bill for overseas contingency operations and in accordance with subparagraph (A)(ii) of section 251(b)(2) of the Balanced Budget Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985, the Committee anticipates that the Budget Committee will provide, at the appropriate time, a 302(a) allocation for the Committee on Appropriations reflecting an upward adjustment of $8,018,000,000 in budget authority plus associated outlays. 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] ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 2019................................................. \1\18,615 2020................................................. 11,980 2021................................................. 9,868 2022................................................. 5,556 2023 and future years................................ 7,359 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ \1\Excludes Outlays from prior-year budget authority. 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. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Budget authority Outlays ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Financial assistance to State and 0 0 local governments................ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 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. Directed Rulemaking The bill does not direct any rule making. 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 2018 enacted amounts and budget estimates presented for fiscal year 2019:
ADDITIONAL VIEWS OF REPRESENTATIVE NITA M. LOWEY The Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs appropriations bill supports the diplomatic and development efforts critical to maintaining U.S. global leadership and protecting our country's national security. Investments in this bill provide the State Department, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and other agencies the resources to help reduce global poverty, strengthen democratic political systems, and create greater political and economic stability. I am disappointed that the committee included a number of short-sighted poison pills in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 bill, from denying climate change to renewed attacks on women's health. Also problematic is the allocation for this bill and others and the process for considering bills. The Bipartisan Budget Act enacted early this year provided relief from unworkable discretionary spending caps. The agreement was supposed to provide the country with stability following a year of shutdowns, last-minute veto threats, and general uncertainty in government. That stability lasted long enough for Congress to pass a bipartisan Omnibus appropriations bill for FY 2018, and then Republican chaos reigned again. The President threatened to veto the bill, unhappy with Congress' large investments in programs to help low- and middle-income Americans and rejection of his campaign-promised border wall. Even after the President signed the bill, the Administration and Republican leadership in Congress who voted for the Bipartisan Budget Act and the Omnibus bill have continued to attempt to undo those bipartisan agreements. The majority passed H.R. 3, a rescission bill to undo funding and mollify an angry President. OMB Director Mick Mulvaney has said that this was the first of many rescission packages meant to bring spending in line with the President's priorities, ignoring Congressional action that dismissed the President's draconian FY 2018 budget request. The Senate was right to dismiss the rescissions package and uphold congressional prerogative. In addition to the unacceptable rescissions proposals, the majority's lack of transparency in allocating the FY 2019 discretionary budget also endangers future bipartisan compromise. The majority abandoned longstanding committee practice of providing Members and the public with a budget blueprint for non-defense spending, known as 302(b) allocations. Members were asked to vote on bills without having the full picture on what impact each allocation would have on the other bills, especially those towards the end of the process such as this bill and the Labor, Health, and Human Services bill. With an $18 billion increase in discretionary spending for FY 2019, we could, and should, invest more than 1% of the budget in our overseas efforts. Unparalleled refugee crises, numerous countries on the brink of famine, and ongoing threats to national security demand a more robust response. The United States would be more secure and garner more goodwill if, instead of the Republican plan to waste billions of dollars on a border wall and a deportation force, we increased our investments in the diplomacy, development, and security assistance that is in this bill. With the inclusion of these controversial riders and the wrong-headed prioritization of funding across the government, Democrats were regrettably forced to oppose the bill at this stage. The activities funded in this bill support vital development programs that save lives and address the root causes of suffering, poor health, forced migration, and conflict. Disease, disaster, terrorism, and economic strife around the world continue to threaten the security, safety, and well-being of Americans at home and abroad. Last year, the world witnessed a rise in global hunger for the first time in more than a decade. There are currently more than 815 million chronically hungry people in nations all around the world--11% of the global population. In Somalia, South Sudan, Yemen, and northeastern Nigeria alone, more than 30 million people are on the brink of starvation due to famine-like conditions and violent conflict, making it impossible to access food and safe drinking water. Failure to maintain our international commitments reduces American influence around the world, confronting our allies and partners with dangerous instability and putting American interests at risk. A strong and capable State Department and USAID with well- staffed embassies and missions effectively represents our interests by overseeing assistance programs and building bridges with host governments, civil societies, and the private sector that are at the core of our national security and economic interests. The investments in this bill are often the best means to ensure our nation does not have to pursue military solutions that are costlier in both lives and treasure. The bill sustains unwavering, bipartisan support for our close allies, Israel and Jordan. I appreciate the Chairman's work to preserve funding for basic education, water and sanitation, democracy and governance, and women's empowerment. These efforts provide communities the foundations for inclusive economic growth and poverty reduction. The bill also includes the International Organizations and Programs Account, recognizing that U.S. support for multilateral institutions gives taxpayers the best return on investment. However, I was disappointed that amendments to strike the harmful riders affecting women's health offered by, Representative Barbara Lee, Representative Katherine Clark, Representative Tim Ryan, and myself were all rejected on party line votes. I also commend Representative Matt Cartwright for proposing an amendment to strike the prohibition of funding on the Green Climate Fund. In another amendment rejected by a party line vote, Representative David Price offered an amendment that would have required the Department of State to share with Congress the diplomatic strategy, as well as an assessment of the impact, of the United States withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. This information would help Congress understand the Administration's Iran strategy and how relations with allies and partners could be repaired. During the time I have had the privilege to work on this bill, I have always tried to avoid inserting contentious issues. In the FY 2018 Omnibus, Congress rejected the dangerous riders and funding levels proposed and agreed to a final bill that supported United States diplomacy and development efforts around the world. As this bill moves through the House floor and a conference agreement is reached with the Senate, it is important for the voices of all Members to be heard through an open amendment process without a pejorative rule that blocks debate, but in an open and transparent manner. I look forward to working with Chairman Rogers and my colleagues in the House to improve the bill and hope my Republican colleagues will reconsider policy riders that would make it more difficult to achieve U.S. priorities. Nita M. Lowey.