SW Arkansas Times

Today, the Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs held an oversight hearing on the implementation of the Compacts of Free Association (COFA) Amendments Act of 2024. Presiding Subcommittee Chair Amata Radewagen (R-American Samoa) issued the following statement in response:

“Congress’ timely passage of the COFA Amendments Act and successful renewal of the COFA agreements speaks to the U.S. commitment to preserving our special relationship with our FAS allies and to countering the maligned activities of the CCP; however, there is still more left to be done. The U.S. must remain committed to following through on obligations promised under the COFA Amendments Act. I am therefore gravely concerned to see that there are several key provisions of the COFA Amendments Act that have not been implemented in a timely manner consistent with the clearly expressed intent of Congress and agreements signed by the President. Oversight and accountability will ensure that the COFA agreements continue to serve as the pillar of our relationship with the FAS for decades to come, signaling to the region that the U.S. remains a reliable and committed partner.”

Background

Congress successfully passed the Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2024 in March 2024 and is conducting oversight on implementing this new agreement.

The Biden-Harris administration has failed to carry out several key provisions of the COFA Amendments Act, including delivering veterans’ services for Palau, Marshall Islands (RMI), and Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). Citizens from these three countries serve in U.S. armed forces at higher rates per capita than any U.S. state, with high distinction.

The administration has not yet transmitted a new signed Federal Programs and Services Agreement (FPSA) with Palau, even as the current FPSA expires on September 30, 2024. Additionally, negotiations for an FPSA with Marshall Islands have not been completed.

Moreover, an Interagency Group authorized by Congress to improve interagency coordination and communication on COFA implementation has yet to be formally convened by the administration. Implementing these agreements is vital for maintaining partnerships with allies in Indo-Pacific and deterring Chinese Communist Party’s increasing aggression in this region.

Today's hearing allowed members to question Biden-Harris administration officials about details concerning COFA implementation delays and hear how they plan to address their responsibilities under this act.