S.Amdt. 3517

This amendment aims to add a section to bill S. 2296 to create the Senate NATO Observer Group. This group would be established within the Senate to advise on and address matters involving the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

Purpose and Functions

The group is designed to:

• Act as a forum for NATO matters that involve two or more Senate committees.
• Provide advice to the Senate on NATO issues, including the enlargement of the organization.
• Facilitate close interactions between the Senate, the executive branch, NATO, NATO member countries, and countries applying for NATO membership, especially during enlargement negotiations.

Operational Details

• Membership: For the 119th Congress, the group's existence is determined by the majority and minority leaders. Starting with the 120th Congress, both leaders will each appoint up to 7 Senators, including one co-chair each.
• Travel and Support: Co-chairs and one designated staff member can travel abroad for official business if authorized by the other co-chair. Administrative and protocol support will be provided by the Office of Interparliamentary Services.
• Funding and Reporting: Co-chairs are authorized to use funds following laws related to foreign currencies for critical group activities. The group must submit at least an annual report on its activities, including public diplomacy, legislative efforts, and travel, to the Senate leaders and the Committee on Foreign Relations.