S.Amdt. 3426

SA 3426, submitted by Ms. Ernst and Ms. Cortez Masto, aims to add a new section called the Pacific Partnership Act to bill S. 2296. The purpose of this amendment is to establish a formal framework for United States engagement and cooperation with the Pacific Islands.

Key Changes and Additions

• Strategy for Pacific Partnership: It requires the President and Secretary of State to create and submit a strategy to Congress by January 1, 2026, and again by January 1, 2030. This strategy must outline goals for diplomatic, defense, and economic engagement, assess threats (such as natural disasters, illegal fishing, and economic coercion), and create a plan to address those threats.

• Diplomatic Immunities: The amendment extends the provisions of the International Organizations Immunities Act to the Pacific Islands Forum.

• Coordination with Allies: The President is tasked with coordinating assistance programs for the Pacific Islands with partners like Australia, Japan, New Zealand, and Taiwan to ensure programs do not overlap or overwhelm the region's capacity.

• Enhanced Reporting: It requires the Secretary of State to include discussions on transnational crime affecting the Pacific Islands in annual reports regarding narcotics control, fisheries management, and human trafficking.

• Official Goals: The amendment expresses the sense of Congress that the U.S. should promote peace, security, prosperity, and democratic governance while respecting the sovereignty and independence of Pacific Island nations.