Bill > HR2000

This bill establishes the Arctic Watcher Program within the State Department to monitor and counter Russian and Chinese influence in the Arctic region, which Congress views as strategically critical for U.S. national security and global interests. The program requires the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Secretary of Defense, to assign "Arctic Watchers" to at least three posts in European countries, one post in a North American country, and potentially other locations deemed necessary. These Arctic Watchers will monitor the region across security, military, economic, natural resource, cyber, scientific, and political sectors, with the goals of strengthening U.S. engagement, protecting U.S. interests, and countering malign foreign influence. The Office of the Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs will provide policy guidance, and each assigned post must submit an annual report detailing their activities and future goals. The bill authorizes $10 million per fiscal year starting in 2025 to implement the program and requires the Secretary of State to submit annual reports to Congressional committees about the program's implementation, including details about assigned posts, responsibilities, and strategies. The bill defines the Arctic region according to existing research and policy legislation.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2000/all-info