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HR 4818 Making Appropriations for Foreign Operations, Export Financing and related programs fiscal year 1005
BRIEF
It is the foreign operations spending that impacts nearly all countries on earth through US aid, military assistance and economic development funds. Often, US assistance comes with conditions such as government transparency and human rights reform or, most recently, participation or non-participation in world trade or UN activities. It can be, then, very political spending and the type of spending that shapes, in the minds of other countries, an image of who the US is and what the US wants from the world.
The bill spends for Foreign Operations, Export Financing, the Export-Import bank, the Overseas Private Investment Corporation, the Trade and Development Agency, the US Agency for International Development, funds for the President in carrying out programs of foreign assistance, expenses for the Millennium Challenge Corporation, the Inter-American Foundation, the African Development Foundation and the Peace Corp.
Additionally, the bill funds global HIV / AIDS initiative, international Narcotics control and law enforcement, migration and refugee assistance, nuclear non-proliferation, anti terrorism, land mine removal, international debt restructuring, and contribution to international banking institutions. Although the cost of the bill is much smaller than appropriations for other departments and agencies ($19 billion) the money would tend to go further in other countries, especially those with per capita income as low as $1.00 per day.
Sponsor: Representative Jim Kolbe (-AZ-8th)
Vote: Passed House 365 to 41 (RC 390)
Cost to the taxpayers: $19.4 billion. An increase of nearly $2 billion over 2004
MORE INFORMATION
SPECIFIC SPENDING ALPHABETICALLY BY COUNTRY, BY PROGRAM AND AMENDMENT ACTIVITIES.
BY CONTINENT AND COUNTRY
AFRICA
Africa funding have been cut and the USAID has not been forth coming to Congress with an explanation of why, the committee said. The committee added ‘$100,000,000 to the President's request for the Development Assistance account. The Committee expects USAID to restore the cuts in African country allocations (for countries not eligible for Millenium Challenge Corporation funding)’ Two recipient programs mentioned are ‘of support to the community based `gacaca' courts in Rwanda. The Committee also urges USAID to consider a proposal from All Africa Global Media to conduct training and exchanges for African journalists.’
AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION
$18,579,000
LIBERIA
The Committee recognizes the dire but improving situation in Liberia and the need to provide necessary support to ensure the success of the disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation, and reintegration program underway with the support of the international community. The Committee supports proposals to promote democracy and the rule of law through financial support of non-governmental organizations.
SUDAN
$311 million in addition to $95 million from Dept of Defense appropriations.
The northeastern African country of Sudan has been a primary focus of media, humanitarian organizations world-wide and now the US Congress since the growing murder and displacement of western Sudanese by other Sudanese. It is the position of the US that the Government of Sudan in Khartoum is supporting the Janjaweed militia responsible for the atrocities. There are various trade restrictions of such countries.
Sudan Spending
Child Survival and Health ------------------------------$16,000,000
Development Assistance --------------------------------$70,000,000
Economic Support Funds -------------------------------$20,000,000
International Disaster and Famine Assistance--------$140,000,000
Non-Proliferation, Anti-terrorism,
Demining and Related Programs-----------------------$2,000,000
Migration and Refugee Assistance --------------------$53,000,000
Transition Initiatives --------------------------------- ---$10,000,000
Total------------------- ------------------------------------$311,000,000
‘The Committee prohibits funding from this Act for that government or for initiatives to alleviate Khartoum's $19,000,000,000 debt burden unless the Secretary of State makes the certification that Khartoum has taken the three steps that the northern government must take immediately if the deaths in Darfur are to be lessened, including ending its support for the Janjaweed and allowing humanitarian assistance unimpeded access to the region. Once the Secretary of State has certified to the Committee that these steps are being taken, the restrictions will cease to be in effect. Humanitarian assistance, and assistance provided to the Darfur region and to the area outside of the control of the north, are specifically not restricted.
ASIA.
$60 million for technical assistance to support updated commercial policies and legal structures to promote US trade and investment and other economic growth activities.
BURMA
The Committee is aware of the need to assist Cambodia in the preservation of antiquities and historical sites, particularly at Angkor Wat. The Committee recommends review and support of a proposal to assist in the preservation of an important building site at Siem Reap.
$22,000,000 for programs in East Timor to support income producing projects and other reconstruction activities.
$57,000,000 for health and child survival activities such as adverse maternal and environmental health conditions and the increasing incidence of TB/HIV/AIDS in Russia, Ukraine, and the Central Asian Republics. The positive results achieved with the small amounts already spent for such programs in recent years have been dramatic. In order to demonstrate its support for these high priority activities that directly affect the citizens of these countries, the Committee has included bill language allocating not less than. In that regard, the Committee commends the work of the Firefly Children's Network in its work to assist orphaned children.
The Committee is aware of and commends the Birth Defects Monitoring Program recently instituted in Ukraine to detect the incidence of birth defects related to the Chernobyl accident, and urges continued support for this program at the fiscal year 2004 level. The Primary Health Care Initiative of the World Council of Hellenes is also an important project, and should be continued in fiscal year 2005 at level funding as well. The Committee commends the work of the Child Health Demonstration Program to improve the oral health of Moldovan children. The Committee urges USAID's Global Development Alliance to consider supporting a proposal submitted by this program.
The Committee remains disturbed by reports that indicate that Russian entities are extensively engaged with Iran in cooperative projects that significantly enhance Iran's ballistic missile capabilities. The ballistic missile cooperation, combined with Russian nuclear cooperation with Iran, represent a significant step in Iran's efforts to obtain a comprehensive, highly sophisticated weapons of mass destruction capability. ‘Assistance to combat infectious diseases, child survival and non-proliferation activities, support for regional and municipal governments, and partnerships between United States hospitals, universities, judicial training institutions and environmental organizations and counterparts in Russia should not be affected by (concerns about nuclear development)'
The Committee encourages USAID in Ukraine to coordinate its agriculture sector activities with the Department of Agriculture to promote modern agricultural methods through exchanges and other appropriate means. The Committee also recommends that all efforts be made to cooperate with public and private efforts to return confiscated religious property to their confessions. In addition, the Committee strongly encourages support for `Good Governance' programs and election-related assistance for Ukraine.
$5,000,000 should be made available to address ongoing humanitarian needs in Nagorno-Karabakh.
The Committee reiterates its view that the extent and timing of United States and multilateral assistance, other than humanitarian assistance, to the government of any country in the Caucasus region should be proportional to its willingness to cooperate with the Minsk Group and other efforts to resolve regional conflicts.
$65,000,000 for Armenia. This is $3,000,000 above the request.
$15,000,000 for the bilateral United States Civilian Research and Development Foundation (CRDF) in this account.
The Committee is concerned by the risks to democracy and human rights in some of the independent republics of the former Soviet Union, particularly in Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. Organizations such as the Committee of Soldiers' Mothers in Russia can make an important contribution to civil society in these countries. Funds should also be provided through the National Endowment for Democracy and its core institutes.
Not less than $4,000,000 in assistance for programs that preserve cultural traditions, and promote economic development and environmental conservation in Tibetan communities. $2,000,000 for the Bridge Fund provided to promote Tibetan-owned and operated businesses and educational, cultural, and natural resource conservation projects in Tibet of these funds should be provided to the Bridge Fund.
$250,000 available through a nongovernmental organization, such as the National Endowment for Democracy, for the purpose of providing training and education of Tibetans in democracy activities, and monitoring the human rights situation in Tibet.
EASTERN EUROPE AND THE BALTIC STATES
$375,000,000 for Assistance for Eastern Europe and the Baltic States, an amount that is $67,375,000 below the level provided in fiscal year 2004 and $35,000,000 below the budget request.
REGIONAL PROGRAMS
$59,000,000 for regional programs, as requested in the President's budget. This category funds environmental infrastructure, independent media support, civil society and rule of law, health promotion and care, economic development and other programs. While specific amounts are not earmarked for the Baltic States, the Committee notes that projects and programs are authorized for, and should continue in, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania.
$13,500,000 for educational and other bicommunal projects in Cyprus. These funds provide a basis for mutual cooperation and preparation for the two communities of Cyprus to live together harmoniously by increasing inter-communal contacts. These funds provide funding for Fulbright scholarships, the Bicommunal Support Program, the United Nations Office for Project Service, and other related activities.
The need to remove the landmines that separate the two communities on Cyprus in order to facilitate a peace on the island is recognized. While such demining should be accomplished primarily by the parties involved, the Committee recommends that up to $500,000 of the funds appropriated for humanitarian demining assistance may be provided to the International Trust Fund to remove existing landmines and help make Cyprus mine-safe.
ROMANIA
The Committee recognizes that rail modernization could have a significant impact on the security and economic stability of Romania, enhancing agricultural, energy and goods distribution as well as citizen transit safety and efficiency. The Committee recommends that the Department of State work with the Government of Romania to consider proposals for the development of a communications-based train control system.
$87,000,000 for Serbia, a reduction of $30,000,000. The amount includes a carryover balance of $25,000,000 that was stalled in being delivered due to Serbia’s lack of State department certification that would qualify the country for the funds.
EUROPE
$3,500,000 for the Walsh Visa Program for fiscal year 2005. ‘This program, authorized since 1998, assists young people who are residents of Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland with developing job skills and conflict resolution abilities. Eligible youth receive non-immigrant visas that enable them to work for up to three years in the United States.’
MIDDLE EAST.
$2,500,000.
The need for fresh water is a reality for all parties in the Middle East. Fresh water is essential for economic development, agriculture, health, and improving the quality of life for everyone in the region. Therefore the Committee strongly supports the continued efforts of the International Arid Lands Consortium in addressing the critical issues of water, energy, and agriculture and land use in the Middle East and Central Asia, and urges USAID to make available $2,500,000 to the Consortium for this work. These funds are to be allocated from bilateral, centrally managed or regional programs either in this account or in other accounts funded by this Act.
The Committee is aware of proposals to use state-of-the-art microprocessor-controlled mobile factories that construct metal buildings on site for infrastructure development in Iraq, Afghanistan, Jordan, and Morocco, using funds appropriated under this heading and under the heading `Foreign Military Financing Program'. Such buildings could be used for a variety of purposes in support of economic development and military assistance programs. The Committee urges the Departments of State and Defense to review proposals for the integration of such buildings into country programs funded in this Act.
Not less than $535,000,000 in economic support for Egypt on a grant basis, which is $36,608,000 less than the fiscal year 2004 The ‘Committee is recommending continuation of a policy of reducing economic support for Egypt in a manner which does not inadvertently undermine the guiding principles of the Camp David Accords and efforts to enhance peace in the Middle East.’
A cash transfer may be provided with the understanding that Egypt will continue to implement significant economic reforms.
‘Persistent poverty in Upper Egypt’ concerns Congress and USAID is asked to focus on “renewed emphasis and allocation of assistance in the Governorates of Minya, Assiut, and Sohag.”
The Committee emphasizes once again that the recommended levels of assistance for Israel and Egypt are based in great measure upon their continued participation in the Camp David Accords and the Egyptian-Israeli peace process.
The Committee strongly urges the President to ensure, in providing cash transfer assistance to Egypt and Israel, that the level of such assistance does not cause an adverse impact on the total level of non-military exports from the United States to each such country.
The Committee has once again included language addressing the Arab League boycott of Israel under section 535 of this Act. The Committee strongly opposes this boycott and believes that the Department of State must take strong action to combat this practice. This recommended bill language includes modifications first made three years ago to urge that Arab League members normalize relations with Israel.
IRAQ
Over $21,000,000,000.. The effective implementation of this program is critical to American efforts to bring peace to the Middle East and to the successful withdrawal of American troops from Iraq, according to the committee.Funds for continuing operations and construction in Iraq were appropriated incrementally over the past two years. The most recent amount requested by the President and approved by Congress was $25 billion.
$360,000,000 in economic support shall be provided for Israel as a cash grant and that funds be disbursed within 30 days of enactment of the Foreign Operations, Export Financing and Related Programs Act or by October 31, 2004, whichever occurs later. The amount is $117,168,000 less than the fiscal year 2004 level.
The Committee is also convinced that the emerging security threats in the Middle East are significant and warrant increasing military assistance to Israel by $72,744,000 in fiscal year 2005.
‘The Committee is continuing the initiative begun six years ago for a phased reduction in economic assistance for Israel that will result in the eventual elimination of Economic Support Fund assistance. This proposal was originally made by the Government of Israel in response to new economic realities in the Middle East.’
The Committee recognizes the contributions of the African Hebrew Israelites to Israel, and specifically to the Dimona area. The Committee understands that the Government of Israel has agreed to extend permanent residence status to the community, which will make it eligible for government assistance with housing programs. The community, working with the Government of Israel, has identified a site for the construction of a new housing and community complex, to which the Government of Israel has pledged 95 million shekels in mortgage assistance. The Committee urges USAID to explore ways to help the community complete this project.
The Committee emphasizes once again that the recommended levels of assistance for Israel and Egypt are based in great measure upon their continued participation in the Camp David Accords and the Egyptian-Israeli peace process.
The Committee strongly urges the President to ensure, in providing cash transfer assistance to Egypt and Israel, that the level of such assistance does not cause an adverse impact on the total level of non-military exports from the United States to each such country.
$50,000,000 for humanitarian migrants from the former Soviet Union and other countries of distress resettling in Israel. Since 1989, Israel has accepted more than one million refugees. The Committee remains strongly committed to assisting the resettlement of Russian, Eastern European, Ethiopian and other humanitarian migrants in Israel. The funds provided in this Act assist in the transportation and initial absorption costs for humanitarian migrants each year.
MILITARY FINANCING FOR ISRAEL
‘Not less than $2,220,000,000 in grants for Israel, which shall be available within 30 days of enactment of this Act or by October 31, 2004, whichever occurs later.
The Committee remains committed to helping Israel maintain security. Therefore, the Committee is convinced the United States must make every effort to carry out its long-standing policy of ensuring that Israel's technological edge is maintained. As a result, the Committee has provided an increase of $72,744,000 above the fiscal year 2004 level. The Committee also believes that a sustained military improvement program will be required over the next four years, at an annual rate of approximately $60,000,000, to assist Israel in responding to emerging security challenges. However, with respect to this recommended increase in military assistance, the Committee must be very clear that it cannot commit future Congresses to the future appropriation of funds. Therefore, future increases in military assistance will require the annual review of the Congress and will necessarily be based upon an assessment of the security situation at the time.’
JORDAN
$250,000,000 for Jordan. assistance to help Jordan deal with economic impacts from increased oil prices, and to help the Kingdom continue to modernize information technology investments and education.
The Committee recommendation for the West Bank and Gaza program continues language that prohibits funds in this Act from being obligated or expended directly to the Palestinian Authority.
In addition, in order to maintain proper oversight of grants and contracts issued under the West Bank and Gaza program, the Committee is recommending the continuation of bill language requiring annual audits of all contractors and grantees, and significant subcontractors and subgrantees. In order to ensure that the taxpayer funds are not used inappropriately, the Committee recommendation strengthens the vetting requirements of section 559 of this Act. Prior to the obligation of funds for the West Bank and Gaza program, the Secretary of State is required to take all appropriate steps to ensure that such assistance is not provided through any individual, private or government entity, or educational institution, that the Secretary knows or has reason to believe advocates, plans, sponsors, engages in, of has engaged in, terrorist activity. New language also requires the Secretary of State to terminate any assistance to any individual, entity, or educational institution found to be involved in or advocating terrorist activity. Finally, the Committee recommends the continuation of bill language providing up to $1,000,000 for the Inspector General of the United States Agency for International Development for audits, inspections, and other activities in furtherance of this provision.
SOUTH AMERICA (INCLUDING CENTRAL AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN)
SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
The Cooperative Association of States for Scholarships ‘has offered technical education, job training, and leadership skills to young adults and leaders from communities of Central America and the Caribbean in fields such as agriculture, education, business, construction, environmental science, health care and technology training.’
‘The Committee expects USAID to fully fund the current CASS agreement. The Committee also notes that the CASS program is undertaking new activities in Mexico in support of the Administration's efforts to strengthen the United States-Mexico relationship, and believes that the program's long history in Haiti could contribute significantly to USAID efforts in that nation.’
The Committee fully supports the budget request of $9,000,000 for the Cuba democracy program and supports its goals of promoting democratization, respect for human rights, and the development of a free market economy in that country. When allocating these funds the Committee expects USAID to consider proposals at or through institutions of higher education in the United States and expects that competitive procedures will be followed with regard to such proposals.
INTER-AMERICAN FOUNDATION
$16,238,000 for the Inter-American Foundation
(See also, Narcotics Control below)
WESTERN HEMISPHERE
A minimum regional allocation of $20,000,000 for hemispheric cooperation efforts specifically related to special trade arrangements with the United States in the context of labor and environmental cooperation, including trade capacity building.
$9,000,000 for the Cuba democracy program and its goals of promoting democratization, respect for human rights, and the development of a free market economy in that country. When allocating these funds the Committee expects USAID to consider proposals at or through institutions of higher education in the United States and expects that competitive procedures will be followed with regard to such proposals.
PROGRAMS
FOREIGN TRADE
TRADE CAPACITY BUILDING
$194,000,000. Congress sees that ‘Trade capacity building (TCB) programs are critical elements of development assistance because of their large multiplier effects on economic growth, poverty reduction and promotion of the rule of law. These programs help developing countries participate in and benefit from the global trading system. Economic growth provides much needed resources to finance social investments in developing countries. Over time, growth through trade reduces dependency on official aid.’
Programs funded under this heading would include; ‘training for government officials, such as customs officers, environmental analysts, trade and investment policy officials, patent and copyright officials, food safety inspectors, and financial service regulators; technical assistance for environmental reviews; technical assistance and other initiatives that foster trade policy coordination among government agencies to improve effectiveness and transparency, and to improve outreach to civil society and the private sector; and technical assistance to improve government agencies' statistical and analytical capabilities in the areas of trade, investment and services.’
HEALTHCARE, NUTRITION AND EDUCATION.
AMERICAN SCHOOLS AND HOSPITALS ABROAD
$20 million. USAID is directed to pay special attention to needs in Iraq and Sub-Saharan Africa.
AIDS
$1,260,000,000 for the `Global HIV/AIDS Initiative' account, $771,897,000 more than enacted in fiscal year 2004 and $190,000,000 less than requested by the President due entirely to a shift in programmatic funding between this account and the Child Survival and Health Programs Fund. This account is the central funding for the Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, overseen by the Global AIDS Coordinator at the State Department.
(Editor’s note: 2003 legislation authorized $15 billion over five years for the Global HIV/AIDS Initiative based on possible outlays of $3 billion yearly. Congress has, then, up to $3 billion to spend for 2005.)
OTHER INFECTIOUS DISEASES
US AID is directed to allocate $185 million for infectious diseases including tuberculosis and malaria. The funding is $46 million more than requested. An additional $17.5 million for TB and malaria is provided elsewhere totaling $68 million and $92 million for TB and malaria respectively.
TB is the world's leading killer of people with HIV, and the Committee urges even greater cooperation between the TB program at USAID and the Office of the Global AIDS Coordinator. The Committee encourages joint funding of sites, such as clinics that detect and treat both TB and HIV.
The funds would continue a comprehensive approach to fighting malaria, including its work to strengthen national drug formularies and distribution systems to ensure that the most appropriate anti-malarial drugs are utilized. USAID should fund the Medicines for Malaria Venture, a public/private partnership leading the effort to develop new, affordable malaria drugs, at not less than the fiscal year 2004 level, and continue support for the Malaria Vaccine Initiative.
Anti-Microbial Resistance and Surveillance
Continuation of CDC focus.
BASIC EDUCATION: HUMAN CAPACITY BUILDING.
USAID increased spending on basic education from $103,000,000 in 2001 to $326,500,000 in 2004, with an increase in the number of country programs from 20 to 43 over the same period.
‘Governments of many developing countries require families to pay fees for their children attending school. The purpose of the fees is to increase resources available for education. For low income families, however, these fees become major barriers to school enrollment among children, and especially girls. While abolishing school fees would ostensibly solve this problem, it would also reduce financial resources available for education, which in turn would reduce the quality or availability of education by leading to shortages of teachers, supplies and infrastructure. To facilitate the exploration of innovative ways to address the issue of school fees, the Committee has set aside $15,000,000 in basic education funding through the Development Assistance account for a pilot project in holistic school reform.’
$25,000,000 for past due payments for the Multilateral Investment Fund (MIF). The recommendation is the same as the request and $147,500 above the 2004 enacted level.
HEALTHCARE IN AFRICA
$9.5 million for the Mercy Ships
$6 million for operations to correct obstetric fistula.
HEALTHCARE IN HAITI AND INDIA
USAID is urged to support the hospital Bienfaisance de Pignon in Pignon, Haiti, Bombay Teen Challenge Hospice of Hope for HIV treatment and programs that combat intestinal worm infestation.
UNITED NATIONS CHILDREN’S FUND (UNICEF)
$1,429,000,000 for the general account for development assistance for economic growth, trade and environment. ‘Funding in this account includes worldwide activities for free market economic development, agriculture, rural development, literacy and basic education for children and adults, environment, energy, science and technology and other programs related to longer-term development.’
WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP TRAINING; HUMAN CAPACITY BUILDING
$15,000,000 available only for programs to improve women's leadership capacity.
BANKING AND INTERNATIONAL FINANCE AND
ECONOMIC GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
CREDIT UNIONS AND COOPERATIVES
The Committee urges USAID to consider increases in funding for rural electrification programs in developing countries. The programs would be carried out by US credit unions and cooperatives as a means to lift low-income people out of poverty by mobilizing equity and savings for community-based economic growth.
DEBT RESTRUCTURING
$105,000,000 under this heading for international debt restructuring by the Department of the Treasury, an amount that is $95,000,000 less than the request and $10,560,000 above last year's level. Funds in this account are subject to the regular notification procedures of Committees on Appropriations.
The Committee recommends $20,000,000 as requested for the Tropical Forest Conservation Act (TFCA) programs, up to $75,000,000 as requested for a contribution to the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Trust Fund, and at least $10,000,000 for bilateral debt relief to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The Committee has provided the Department of the Treasury $85,000,000 for a combination of HIPC and the DRC debt relief funding.
DEVELOPMENT CREDIT AUTHORITY
$21 million.
In fiscal years 2000, 2001 and 2002, Congress appropriated $600,000,000 to the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) debt relief program. At the time, the Committee was informed that this completed the United States commitment to the multilateral HIPC Trust Fund. In the fiscal year 2004 and in the fiscal year 2005 request, an additional $150,000,000 is committed to the HIPC Trust Fund for `topping up' of HIPC resources. The Committee has fulfilled that commitment if amounts in this Act are included.
Since 1996, HIPC has been justified to the Committee as a strategy to place debt relief within an overall framework of poverty reduction. Given the level of debt service payments the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is making to the United States, bilateral debt relief may not be of the immediate greatest benefit to the poorest people in that country. Given budgetary constraints, the Committee recommends at least $10,000,000 in funds under this heading for bilateral debt relief for the DRC.
INTERNATIONAL TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
$19,000,000 for international technical assistance by the Department of the Treasury, an amount that is $1,500,000 above the request and $112,000 above last year's level.
$107,500,000 for the Global Environment Facility (GEF), administered by the World Bank for the entire scheduled United States annual payment to the third replenishment of GEF. The recommendation is $13,177,734 below the request and $30,918,484 less than the amount enacted for 2004.
$850,000,000 for the entire regularly scheduled United States contribution to the International Development Association (IDA), $211,309,801 less than the request and a $57,812,120 decrease from the 2004 enacted level. The recommended level is intended for the second of three payments under the United States commitment to the thirteenth replenishment of IDA.
Due to the Committee's restricted budget allocation, combined with the significant funding increases for the Administration's other priorities, the Committee is unable to provide an additional $200,000,000 for the IDA incentive contribution, albeit without prejudice.
MICROENTERPRISE
$200 million.
Microenterprise is a successful program begun a decade or so ago in South America. The US bought into the program during the Clinton Administration. Most simply, the program makes small business loans, sometimes as small as a hundred dollars, to individuals in extremely poor countries with which they can begin or sustain a small business in their communities. In very poor countries, small amounts of money go far and the payback rate is extremely high.
MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE CORPORATION
$1,250,000,000 for the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), an amount that is $1,250,000,000 below the request and $255,900,000 more than the 2004 enacted level. The recommended reduction solely reflects the constrained budgetary situation in 2005, and more specifically the Committee's allocation relative to the President's request and the need to address funding increases for other Presidential and Congressional priorities for 2005.
OVERSEAS PRIVATE INVESTMENT CORPORATION
$42.9 Million. An increase of $1.7 million over 2004.
GLOBAL ISSUES
PROPERTY RIGHTS
‘The Committee endorses programs that promote property rights and create private real estate markets in selected countries where USAID is active in Latin America, the former Soviet bloc and North Africa. The Committee has provided sufficient funds for USAID to continue to fully fund its cooperative agreement with the Institute for Liberty and Democracy and to expand the International Real Property Foundation program into a worldwide effort.’
URBAN PROGRAMS
Cities that are overcome by the mass migration of those seeking economic improvements can become centers of environmental devastation, health epidemics and social unrest. The Committee is concerned that USAID's focus on urban issues is diminishing even as urban-specific problems are accelerating. USAID should study and report to the Committee on agency-wide use of funds directed toward urban development programs. The report should discuss the manner, level and potential results of possible USAID interventions in these programs. It should also discuss the efforts of other donors and host governments to address these problems.
CLEANER ENERGY, RELIABLE POWER AND THE ENVIRONMENT.
$3,000,000 grant to a specialized non-governmental organization representing the United States hydropower industry to provide project development and implementation services.
‘Many environment challenges, from urban pollution to rural deforestation, result from failures to develop cleaner and more efficient energy sources.’
$2,000,000 for USAID to participate in Project Atmospheric Brown Cloud, whose objective is to assess the impact of the air pollution and persistent brown haze in Asia on the region's agriculture, monsoon rains and public health.
ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER AND WATET MANAGEMENT
‘Competition for scarce fresh water is predicted to be a major source of international conflict during the twenty-first century, as it is now within the Middle East.’
‘2005 is the final year of the $970,000,000 Presidential Water for the Poor Initiative, announced in Johannesburg, South Africa, in August 2002.’
The Committee urges the President to direct not less than $50,000,000 from this Act to build wells in rural areas and secure water delivery systems in urban areas of African communities that lack access to fresh water. Up to $9,000,000 of this amount should be made available for rural water and sanitation in east Africa.
BIODIVERSITY
$110,000,000 in fiscal year 2005 for its biodiversity and related environment programs.
$500,000 in matching funds to support the Neotropical Raptor Center in Panama to conserve birds of prey in the Panama Canal watershed area and throughout the new-tropics.
HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS
$756,000,000 for Migration and Refugee Assistance, an amount that is $26,211,000 above the request and $288,000 more than the amount enacted for fiscal year 2004. A limitation of $21,000,000 is recommended for administrative expenses.
The Committee notes that, in fiscal year 2004, the Department of State provided $2,000,000 for nongovernmental organization activities to combat gender-based violence in humanitarian and refugee settings and encourageS efforts to integrate gender-based violence programs with other humanitarian relief activities.
$2,000,000 for Tibetan refugees in Nepal and India. ‘A disorganized Nepalese government, a virulent Maoist insurgency, and increasingly warm Nepal-China relations have led to an environment where Tibetan refugees face difficulties in securing safe passage through Nepal. The Committee welcomes the Royal Nepalese Government's recent decision to put in writing its long-standing agreement that Nepalese authorities will hand Tibetans over to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees for processing as `persons of concern.'’
$50,000,000 for humanitarian migrants from the former Soviet Union and other countries of distress resettling in Israel. Since 1989, Israel has accepted more than one million refugees. The Committee remains strongly committed to assisting the resettlement of Russian, Eastern European, Ethiopian and other humanitarian migrants in Israel. The funds provided in this Act assist in the transportation and initial absorption costs for humanitarian migrants each year.
$20,000,000 for the Emergency Refugee and Migration Assistance (ERMA) Fund, which is $9,823,000 less than the 2004 enacted level and the same level as the request.
$382,000,000 for programs under the heading `Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related Programs', an amount that is $33,200,000 below the request and $30,586,000 above the fiscal year 2004 enacted level, excluding emergency supplemental appropriations.
MILITARY ASSISTANCE
$4,777,500,000 ‘This program provides grants for the acquisition of United States defense equipment, services and training. The Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program enables key allies and friendly nations to improve defensive capabilities, and fosters bilateral military relationships with the United States and interoperability with United States forces. The recommended fiscal year 2005 program level is $508,835,000 above the fiscal year 2004 level, excluding emergency wartime supplemental appropriations, and $180,000,000 below the budget request.’
‘The recommended increase above the fiscal year 2004 level is primarily due to four factors: $400,000,000 for assistance to Afghanistan, an increase of over $350,000,000 primarily to help train and equip the new Afghan National Army (ANA); $150,000,000 in new budget authority and $150,000,000 in transfer authority for assistance for Pakistan, a key ally in the war on terrorism; an increase of $72,744,000 for military assistance for Israel; and $66,000,000 for assistance to Poland, an increase of $46,000,000 for a major ally participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom.’
$89,730,000 for the International Military Education and Training (IMET) program, which represents a decrease of $1,429,000 below the fiscal year 2004 level. The IMET program exposes students to the United States professional military establishment and the American way of life, including democratic values and rule of law, respect for individual and human rights. In 1990, Congress directed the Department of Defense to establish a program within IMET--called Expanded-IMET or `E-IMET' focused on training foreign civilian and military officials in three areas: managing and administering military establishments and budgets; creating and maintaining effective military judicial systems and military codes of conduct, and fostering greater respect for the principle of civilian control of the military.
ISRAEL
Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program of not less than $2,220,000,000 in grants for Israel, which shall be available within 30 days of enactment of this Act or by October 31, 2004, whichever occurs later.
The Committee remains committed to helping Israel maintain security. Therefore, the Committee is convinced the United States must make every effort to carry out its long-standing policy of ensuring that Israel's technological edge is maintained. As a result, the Committee has provided an increase of $72,744,000 above the fiscal year 2004 level. The Committee also believes that a sustained military improvement program will be required over the next four years, at an annual rate of approximately $60,000,000, to assist Israel in responding to emerging security challenges. However, with respect to this recommended increase in military assistance, the Committee must be very clear that it cannot commit future Congresses to the future appropriation of funds. Therefore, future increases in military assistance will require the annual review of the Congress and will necessarily be based upon an assessment of the security situation at the time.
to the extent that the Government of Israel requests that FMF grant funds for Israel be used for such purposes, and as agreed by Israel and the United States, funds may be made available for advanced weapons systems of which $580,000,000 shall be available for the procurement in Israel of defense articles and defense services, including research and development. This increase is consistent with the understanding that $15,000,000 of the $60,000,000 increase on an annual basis would be used for these activities. It also reflects a recognition by the Committee of Israel's need for similar annual increases over the next few years in order to provide Israel with increased flexibility in meeting the emerging security challenges in the Middle East.
$206,000,000 for Jordan. Under the leadership of King Abdullah, Jordan plays a critical role in supporting peace and security in the Middle East. The Committee is well aware that Jordan's security requirements are extensive, particularly in the areas of ground force modernization and border security.
$1,300,000,000 in Foreign Military Financing grants for Egypt. Pursuant to the President's budget request bill language is recommended that would require that funds estimated to be outlayed for Egypt during fiscal year 2005 shall be transferred to an interest bearing account for Egypt in the Federal Reserve Bank of New York within 30 days of enactment of this Act. The Committee is convinced that continued military cooperation between Egypt and the United States remains in the national security interests of both countries.
$15,500,000 for Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. Previous years' funding has significantly supported the commendable efforts of these countries to attain Western military standards and to improve their capacities to contribute to international security through the provision of peacekeepers to international peacekeeping missions. These democratic nations also strongly supported the international coalition in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
$5,000,000 be provided for each country, the same levels as allocated in fiscal year 2003. In addition, IMET assistance levels of $750,000 for both countries as requested by the President.
Prohibited countries
Prohibiting military assistance to Indonesia, Guatemala, and Sudan.
PEACE KEEPING
$104,000,000 for voluntary contributions for international peacekeeping operations. This amount is $29,542,000 above the level provided in fiscal year 2004, excluding emergency wartime supplemental appropriations, and is the same as the President's request.
MISCELLANEOUS
Global Coffee Strategy
USAID would continue assistance including technical assistance, crop diversification and public-private partnerships. The State Department would be directed to support productivity and access to premium markets.
International Fertilizer development Center
$2.3 million as a grant for fertilizer-related research.
Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Programs
$12,000,000 to support reconciliation programs and activities, which bring together individuals of different ethnic, religious, and political backgrounds from areas of civil conflict and war. Funding should be made available through an established process for organizations that provide such programming. The Committee recommends the Department of State actively consider proposals submitted by the following organizations:
Seeds of Peace, a pioneer in this effort, which has helped young people overcome fear, prejudice, and other obstacles to peace;
Jerusalem International YMCA;
Interns for Peace;
Foundation for Environmental Security and Sustainability;
Partners for Democratic Change;
Roots of Peace;
Arava Institute;
Facing History and Ourselves;
Peacemaker Circle International;
Project Children and Cooperation Ireland; and
Interfaith Encounter Association.
Dairy Development
$21 million top development dairy projects in developing countries to provide food and foster small business growth in local foreign economies.
$27,000,000 for the Human Rights and Democracy Fund and $1,200,000 should be provided to support the Reagan/Fascell Democracy Fellows Program of the National Endowment for Democracy to enable activists, scholars, journalists, and practitioners from around the world to help make contributions to the strengthening of democracy in their respective countries.
$12,000,000 for this program in fiscal year 2005. The Torture Victims Relief Act of 1998 states that assistance to foreign treatment centers `shall be provided in the form of grants to treatment centers and programs in foreign countries that are carrying out projects or activities specifically designed to treat victims of torture for the physical and psychological effects of the torture.'
‘For potential funding from the Global Development Alliance or other sources, the Committee urges USAID to actively consider an innovative proposal from Counterpart Communities to strengthen existing city partnerships and potentially create new Counterpart Community partnerships. Counterpart Communities has leveraged successfully the resources made available by the United States Government through various donations by United States citizens, companies, and organizations.’
Rule of Law
The Committee views efforts to promote the rule of law worldwide as a critical component of United States foreign policy. The Committee strongly supports the public service projects initiated by the American Bar Association (ABA) to strengthen democracy through programs that promote the rule of law in transitional countries. These effective programs rely predominantly on the volunteer efforts of American lawyers. By supporting the initiatives of reform-oriented policymakers, legal scholars, judges, attorneys, and other reformers, these programs achieve sustainable results.
The first of these programs, the Central European and Eurasian Law Initiative (CEELI), has proven very successful in 27 countries in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union. Despite the reductions in funding for these regions, the Committee recommends that best efforts be made to continue funding for the ABA's CEELI programs at current levels. The ABA has now expanded their public service project into Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East, where these valuable programs are already underway in such countries as Jordan, Bahrain, Morocco, Iraq, Afghanistan, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Kenya, China, Indonesia, Afghanistan, Ecuador, and Mexico. The Committee recommends expanded funding for ABA programs in these regions.
The Committee strongly supports the USAID-funded program for distance learning legal education that has been initiated in the Central and East European region, and recommends funding for the program in fiscal year 2005
NARCOTICS CONTROL AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
$328,820,000 for programs under the heading `International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement'. This is $30,000,000 less than the budget request and $88,546,000 above the fiscal year 2004 level, excluding the emergency supplemental appropriations act.
Organized crime and terrorist groups throughout the world have long used narcotics as a means to generate revenues to support armed conflict and the means to spread turmoil. The Committee continues to support a strong United States counternarcotics assistance program in order to protect United States communities from the ravages of drugs, but increasingly to deny drug profits that are often used to finance terrorist activities.
$50,000,000 was provided to the Department of State and $73,000,000 to the Department of Defense in the fiscal year 2004 emergency supplemental appropriations act for opium poppy eradication, heroin interdiction, law enforcement, and alternative development activities in Afghanistan. Additionally the United Kingdom, the designated lead country on Afghan opium eradication, has committed to provide 70 million pounds sterling over the 2002 to 2005 period. For fiscal year 2005, the Committee recommends $90,000,000, the same level as the request for Afghanistan under this heading.
The 2003 opium poppy crop was 61,000 hectares, the second largest crop on record. With an earlier than expected harvest, the 2004 crop may be even larger as Afghan farmers are replanting poppy at greater rates and in more remote areas of Afghanistan. the Committee expects funds under this heading will be used for alternative agriculture development in Afghanistan.
The Committee includes a provision that up to $10,000,000 of the funds under this heading should be made available for demand reduction programs. As escalating drug use and abuse continue to take a devastating toll on the health, welfare, security, and economic stability of all nations, the importance of drug demand reduction has grown. The Committee expects that these funds would be used to contribute to the preservation of the stability of societies threatened by increasing drug abuse and minimizing the impact of international crime.
counternarcotics assistance to the Government of Cuba are prohibited Full reporting and transparency by the Cuban Government and United States monitoring of the use of counternarcotics assistance in Cuba would be difficult if not impossible, according to the State Department, given Cuban general hostility toward the United States Government.
According to the Department of State, the concept of anti-corruption compacts was developed as a multilateral form of assistance at the G-8 Evian Summit in June 2003, yet funding for these compacts is requested in 2005 as a bilateral program. While fighting corruption is integral to promoting economic growth overseas, the Committee is concerned that the anti-corruption compact concept was developed outside of the context of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC). Given that a primary focus of MCC is anti-corruption, the Committee would expect the anti-corruption compacts to fit easily into the MCC's threshold country assistance programs.
The Committee notes that this Act supports efforts to combat terrorist financing through three accounts--International Narcotics and Law Enforcement, Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining, and Related Programs, and Treasury International Affairs Technical Assistance.
United States contribution to the United Nations Drug Control Program has approached 40 percent in recent years, while the average United States contribution to most United Nations organizations averages about 25 percent. The Committee recognizes the important role the UNODC played in Afghanistan in past years.
ANDEAN COUNTERDRUG INITIATIVE
$731,000,000 for the Andean Counterdrug Initiative, an amount equal to the request and $4,313,000 above the 2004 level. A limitation of $16,285,000 is recommended for administrative expenses for the Department of State and $4,500,000 for USAID.
Coca cultivation dropped 21 percent in Colombia in 2003, from 144,450 hectares in 2002 to 113,850 hectares in 2003. This decrease in Colombian cultivation has not been offset by increased production elsewhere; the Andean regional coca cultivation was reduced by 18 percent overall in 2003.
Plan Colombia was proposed and implemented as a 5-year program, and its objectives were to be met by the end of 2005.
Peru is the second largest recipient of counter-narcotics and alternative development assistance from the United States. Even with the current political environment in Peru, Peruvian communities have responded positively to this voluntary eradication program, and in 2003 40 percent of eradicated coca was as a result of auto-eradication. The Committee is concerned that the Administration's request for Peru seriously under funds these alternative development programs in order to fund forced eradication resources managed by the Department of State. The Field Museum of Chicago on the Cordillera Azul National Park project in central Peru. This project has tremendous potential to prevent coca from entering more than 5,000 square miles of the Huallaga Valley and to improve the quality of life for local residents should continue.
While the Committee takes special note of the progress that Bolivia made in the war against drugs under the Bolivian Government's Dignity Plan, this progress could be erased quickly if the commitment by either the Bolivian government or the United States were to falter. The Committee is concerned about the political climate in Bolivia associated with alternative development programs funded by the United States. Alternative development programs in the Chapare and the Yungas areas of Bolivia need local ownership and local participation, and if possible, need contributions from the central Bolivian government to combat the isolation of these regions from a state interest and presence.
The Committee notes that demand for Colombian coca is rising in Europe and approaching United States consumption levels of approximately 300 tons a year. European nations and the European Union have contributed very little to eradication of coca or alternative development programs in the Andean region, and often their development programs are funded with no view toward eradication policies. The Committee again urges the Secretary of State to negotiate with our European allies in order to persuade them to contribute additional funds to counter-narcotics efforts, alternative development, and judicial reform in the Andean region.
RELIGIOUS MATTERS
The Department of State 2003 International Religious Freedom Report notes that `. . . there was some improvement in the Government's respect for religious freedom…such as greater recognition and tolerance of Coptic Christians; however, the Government continued to fail to bring to justice those responsible for killing 21 Christians at Al-Kush, and converts from Islam face periodic detention and discrimination.' The Committee remains concerned about the problems faced by Egypt's Coptic Christian community and believes the Egyptian Government needs to do everything possible to provide full opportunity for Coptic Christians in employment and educational opportunities. The Committee expects the Department of State to make every effort to reinforce the importance of actively enforcing the religious freedoms that are, in fact, provided for in the Egyptian Constitution.
‘$90,000,000 for the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) and, to the extent funds are available, for the activities of the new Muslim outreach initiative that are not associated with public diplomacy. The MEPI supports an array of economic and social reform initiatives in the Middle East and non-Arab Islamic countries. In addition, in section 526 language is included similar to that included in the 2004 appropriations act that authorizes up to $1,500,000 for making grants to educational, humanitarian, and nongovernmental organizations and individuals inside Iran and Syria to support the advancement of democracy and human rights in Iran and Syria. Such grants may be made through the National Endowment for Democracy.
The Committee is aware of requests to fund scholarships at American educational institutions in the Middle East through the MEPI program. In order to determine the most effective and efficient way to provide for such a program, if merited, the Committee directs the Department of State to review this proposal and to recommend, as part of the President's fiscal year 2006 budget request, how such a program could be most effectively funded and managed by the United States Government. Funding constraints have prevented the Committee from recommending the budget request of $150,000,000 for MEPI, and without additional funding above the fiscal year 2004 level, the Committee is not in a position to recommend the initiation of a new scholarship program at this time. In addition, the Committee does not have sufficient information to determine if such a program should appropriately be funded through MEPI.
TERRORISM
$111,000,000 for anti-terrorism assistance, an increase of $14,572,000 over the fiscal year 2004. ‘This program, run by the State Department's Diplomatic Security officials under the policy direction of the Coordinator for Counterterrorism, provides training and skills, technical assistance, and equipment to improve professionalism and capability in the War on Terrorism. Training is in areas such as crisis management, cyber terrorism, dignitary protection and kidnap intervention, border control, airport security, bomb detection, investigating terrorist financing, and response to incidents involving weapons of mass destruction. The recommended increase will allow for maintenance of all on-going programs, as well as new in-country training programs in Colombia, Malaysia, Kenya, the Philippines, and the Tri-border area of South America. In addition, funding is approved for the ATA Alumni Information and Coordination Network, and the Senior Policy Engagement Workshop.
H.AMDT.692
to H.R.4818 An amendment to cut $359 million from the bill's funding for the
World Bank. The amount represents the cost of World Bank loans provided to Iran
in May. The amendment also adds $290 million for the bill's Child Survival
account.
Sponsor: Rep Sherman, Brad [CA-27] Failed by recorded vote: 111 -
312 (Roll no. 380).
2. H.AMDT.693
to H.R.4818 An amendment to increase funding for the United States
contribution to the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, by
$800,000,000, thus making the total United States contribution $1.2 billion. The
amendment stipulates that the additional amount would be designated as an
emergency requirement.
Sponsor: Rep Lee, Barbara [D-CA-9] Mr. Kolbe raised a point of
order against the Lee amendment (A002). The Lee amendment includes an emergency
designation which changes existing law and constitutes legislation in an
appropriations bill. The Chair sustained the point of order.
H.AMDT.694 to H.R.4818 An amendment numbered
to cut $325 million from the Foreign Military Financing for Egypt and to add
$325 million in Economic Support Funds for Egypt. The amendment also includes
language that delays obligation of the additional funds until after Sept. 1,
2005.
Sponsor: Rep Lantos, Tom [CA-12] (Mr. Young (FL) raised a point of order
against the Lantos amendment (A003). Mr. Young (FL) stated that the Lantos
amendment seeks to change existing law and constituted legislation in an
appropriations bill. The Chair sustained the point of order.
4. H.AMDT.695
to H.R.4818 An amendment to transfer $570 million in military
assistance for Egypt to economic aid for Egypt.
Sponsor: Rep Lantos, Tom [D-CA-12] Failed by recorded vote: 131 - 287
(Roll no. 381).
H.AMDT.696
to H.R.4818 An to make foreign aid more effective and accountable by increasing
funds for the Global Aids Initiative, $90 million, and the Millennium Challenge
Corporation, $250 million, by decreasing the appropriation provided by the World
Bank by $425 million.
Sponsor: Rep Kennedy, Mark R. [R-MN-6] Failed by recorded vote: 133 - 288
(Roll no. 382).
H.AMDT.697
to H.R.4818 An amendment to add $13.2 million to title IV, in the item relating
to "Global Environment Facility". It would reduce funding in title III, in the
item relating to "Foreign Military Financing Program" by $20 million.
Sponsor: Rep Blumenauer, Earl [OR-3] By unanimous consent, the Blumenauer
amendment was withdrawn.
H.AMDT.698
to H.R.4818 An amendment to amend Title II of the bill by striking the item
relating to "Millenium Challenge Corporation".
Sponsor: Rep Paul, Ron [TX-14] Failed by recorded vote: 41 - 379 (Roll
no. 383).
H.AMDT.699
to H.R.4818 An amendment to insert a new section at the end of the bill (before
the short title) stating that none of the funds made available in the Act may be
used to send or otherwise pay for the attendance of more than 50 Federal
employees at any single conference outside the United States.
Sponsor: Rep Garrett, Scott [NJ-5] Agreed to by voice vote.
H.AMDT.700
to H.R.4818 An amendment to insert at the end of the bill (before the short
title) a new section titled Limitation on Contracts stating that none of the
funds made available under the Act may be used to fund any contract in
contravention of section 8(d)(6) of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 637 (d)(6)).
Sponsor: Rep Kilpatrick, Carolyn C.
[MI-13] Agreed to by voice vote.
H.AMDT.701
to H.R.4818 An amendment to insert at the end of the bill (before the short
title) a new section stating that none of the funds made available in the Act
may be used by any official of the United States Government to request the
United Nations to assess the validity of elections in the United States.
Sponsor:
Rep Buyer, Steve
[R-IN-4] Agreed to by recorded vote: 243 - 161 (Roll no. 385).
H.AMDT.702
to H.R.4818 An amendment numbered 9 printed in the Congressional Record to
insert a new section at the end of the bill (before the short title) stating
that none of the funds made available in the Act may be made available for the
assignment of any United States military personnel for temporary or permanent
duty in Colombia if that assignment would cause the number of United States
military personnel so assigned to exceed 550.
Sponsor: Rep Farr, Sam [CA-17] (introduced 7/15/2004) Cosponsors
(None)
Latest Major Action: 7/15/2004 By unanimous consent, the Farr amendment
was withdrawn.
H.AMDT.703
to H.R.4818 An amendment to provide that financial aid to the West Bank/Gaza be
disbursed on a quarterly basis pending a review by the Secretary of State to
determine whether or not terrorist activities involving Palestinians might have
occurred in each quarter.
Sponsor: Rep Otter, C. L. (Butch) [R-ID-1] (By unanimous consent, the
Otter amendment was withdrawn.
H.AMDT.704
to H.R.4818 An amendment to prohibit the Export-Import Bank from approving
direct loans or loan guarantees to corporate entities incorporated or chartered
in Bermuda, Barbados, the Cayman Islands, Antigua, or Panama.
Sponsor: Rep Sanders, Bernard [I-VT] Agreed to by recorded vote: 270 -
132 (Roll no. 386).
H.AMDT.705
to H.R.4818 An amendment to prohibit U.S. assistance to the government of any
country that does not permit the extradition to the United States, for trial or
sentencing in the United States, of individuals suspected of committing criminal
offenses for which the maximum penalty is life imprisonment without possibility
of parole.
Sponsor: Rep Deal, Nathan [R-GA-10] By unanimous consent, the Deal (GA)
amendment was withdrawn.
H.AMDT.706 to H.R.4818 An amendment to
prohibit ESF assistance to the government of any country that is a party to the
International Criminal Court and has not signed an Article 98 agreement to to
surrender U.S. nationals to the ICC.
Sponsor: Rep Nethercutt, George R., Jr. [R-WA-5] (Agreed to by recorded
vote: 241 - 166 (Roll no. 387).
H.AMDT.707
to
H.R.4818 An
amendment to require that at least $5 million of the bill's funds for
agricultural development in sub-Saharan Africa be made available for small-scale
irrigation, water and drainage, post-harvest storage, crop intensification, crop
and livestock diversification, and rural infrastructure.
Sponsor: Rep Jackson-Lee, Sheila [D-TX-18] (Failed by recorded vote: 164
- 243 (Roll no. 388).
H.AMDT.708
to H.R.4818 An amendment to prohibit any U.S. assistance to Saudi Arabia.
Sponsor: Rep Weiner, Anthony D. [D-NY-9] Agreed to by recorded vote: 217
- 191 (Roll no. 389).