Bill > HR4538

This bill, the Boosting Long-term U.S. Engagement in the Pacific Act (or the BLUE Pacific Act), establishes a comprehensive, long-term U.S. strategy and policy for the Pacific Islands. The key provisions of the bill include: - Developing a "Strategy for Pacific Islands Partnership" to set overarching goals, objectives, and plans for U.S. engagement in the region across areas like security, development, climate resilience, and more. - Increasing U.S. diplomatic and development staffing and resources dedicated to the Pacific Islands. - Providing assistance to the Pacific Islands to improve public health, promote press freedom, support educational and professional development programs, and strengthen basic education. - Building the capacity of local civilian and national security institutions in the Pacific Islands to address challenges like maritime security, transnational crime, and natural disaster response. - Investing in and improving critical infrastructure in the Pacific Islands, with an emphasis on climate resilience. - Supporting programs related to sustainable fisheries, ocean management, and addressing the impacts of sea level rise. - Expanding digital access and inclusion, as well as cybersecurity capabilities, in the Pacific Islands. The bill also authorizes $250 million annually for fiscal years 2023 through 2033 to carry out these activities.