Editorial Notes
References in Text
This Act, referred to in subsecs. (a)(1) and (f)(2)(C)(iv), is act Aug. 1, 1956, ch. 841, 70 Stat. 890, known as the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 2651 of this title and Tables.
Executive Order 12333, referred to in subsec. (c)(3)(D), is Ex. Ord. No. 12333, Dec. 4, 1981, 46 F.R. 59941, which is set out as a note under section 3001 of Title 50, War and National Defense.
The Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961, referred to in subsec. (c)(15)(B)(ii), is Pub. L. 87–256, Sept. 21, 1961, 75 Stat. 527, which is classified principally to chapter 33 (§ 2451 et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 2451 of this title and Tables.
The United States Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Act of 2003, referred to in subsec. (f)(2)(B)(i), is Pub. L. 108–25, May 27, 2003, 117 Stat. 711, which enacted chapter 83 and sections 262p–8 and 2151b–2 to 2151b–4 of this title, amended this section, sections 2151b and 2222 of this title, and section 242l of Title 42, The Public Health and Welfare, and enacted provisions set out as a note under section 7601 of this title. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 7601 of this title and Tables.
Title V of the Department of State Authorization Act of 2022, referred to in subsec. (i)(2)(B)(v), (xiv), probably means title XCV of div. I of Pub. L. 117–263. Div. I of Pub. L. 117–263 is the Department of State Authorization Act of 2022. Title XCV of div. I, relating to Information Security and Cyber Diplomacy, is classified principally to chapter 110 (§ 10301 et seq.) of this title. For complete classification of title XCV to the Code, see Tables.
Section 238(g) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019, referred to in subsec. (n)(5), probably means section 238(g) of Pub. L. 115–232, known as the John S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019, which is set out as a note preceding section 4061 of Title 10, Armed Forces.
Amendments
2025—Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5401, struck out “United States” before “public diplomacy” and “, information, and international broadcasting” before “and cultural exchange programs” in introductory provisions and added subpars. (G) to (O).
Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5111(a)(2), added par. (4). Former par. (4) redesignated par. (6).
Subsec. (b)(5). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5141, added par. (5).
Subsec. (b)(6). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5111(a)(1), redesignated par. (4) as (6).
Subsec. (c)(5). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5113, added par. (5). Former par. (5) redesignated (17).
Subsec. (c)(6). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5118, added par. (6).
Subsec. (c)(7). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5131, added par. (7).
Subsec. (c)(8). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5145, added par. (8).
Subsec. (c)(9). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5149, added par. (9).
Subsec. (c)(10). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5151, added par. (10).
Subsec. (c)(11). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5153(a), added par. (11).
Subsec. (c)(12). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5155, added par. (12).
Subsec. (c)(13). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5158, added par. (13).
Subsec. (c)(14). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5161, added par. (14).
Subsec. (c)(15). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5402, added par. (15).
Subsec. (c)(16). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5501, added par. (16).
Subsec. (c)(17). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5113, redesignated par. (5) as (17).
Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5119, amended subsec. (g) generally. Prior to amendment, text of subsec. (g) read as follows: “There is in the Department of State the Bureau of Consular Affairs, which shall be headed by the Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs.”
Subsec. (p). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5112, added subsec. (p).
Subsec. (q). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5114, added subsec. (q).
Subsec. (q)(2). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5117, added par. (2).
Subsec. (q)(3). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5132(a), added par. (3).
Subsec. (q)(4). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5146, added par. (4).
Subsec. (q)(5). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5150, added par. (5).
Subsec. (q)(6). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5152, added par. (6).
Subsec. (q)(7). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5154, added par. (7).
Subsec. (q)(8). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5156, added par. (8).
Subsec. (q)(9). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5159, added par. (9).
Subsec. (q)(10). Pub. L. 119–60, § 5162, added par. (10).
2023—Subsec. (n). Pub. L. 118–31, § 6303, added subsec. (n).
Subsec. (o). Pub. L. 118–31, § 6405(b), added subsec. (o).
2022—Subsec. (b)(3)(F). Pub. L. 117–263, § 9602(a), added subpar. (F).
Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 117–263, § 9502(a)(2), redesignated subsec. (h) relating to Office of Sanctions Coordination as (l).
Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 117–263, § 9502(a)(3), added subsec. (i). Former subsec. (i) redesignated (j).
Subsecs. (j), (k). Pub. L. 117–263, § 9502(a)(1), redesignated subsecs. (i) and (j) as (j) and (k), respectively.
Subsec. (l). Pub. L. 117–263, § 9502(a)(2), redesignated subsec. (h) relating to Office of Sanctions Coordination as (l).
Subsec. (l)(4)(B). Pub. L. 117–263, § 9107(a), substituted “December 31, 2024” for “the date that is two years after December 27, 2020”.
Subsec. (m). Pub. L. 117–263, § 9215(b), added subsec. (m).
2021—Subsec. (c)(3) to (5). Pub. L. 117–81, § 5102(a), added par. (3) and redesignated former pars. (3) and (4) as (4) and (5), respectively.
Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 117–81, § 5103(2), added subsec. (g). Former subsec. (g) redesignated (j).
Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 117–81, § 5103(2), added subsec. (h) relating to Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration.
Subsec. (i). Pub. L. 117–81, § 5105, added subsec. (i).
Subsec. (j). Pub. L. 117–81, § 5103(1), redesignated subsec. (g) as (j).
2020—Subsec. (c)(3)(C). Pub. L. 116–260, § 361(a)(2), added subpar. (C).
Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 116–260, § 361(a)(1), added subsec. (h) relating to Office of Sanctions Coordination.
2019—Subsec. (c)(3), (4). Pub. L. 116–94 added par. (3) and redesignated former par. (3) as (4).
2012—Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 112–166 struck out “, each of whom shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, and” after “Secretaries of State” and inserted at end “Each Assistant Secretary of State shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, except that the appointments of the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs and the Assistant Secretary for Administration shall not be subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.”
2008—Subsec. (f)(2)(A). Pub. L. 110–293, § 102(1), which directed insertion of “, partner country finance, health, and other relevant ministries,” after “community based organizations)” wherever appearing, was executed by making the insertion after “community-based organizations)” in introductory provisions and in cl. (iii), to reflect the probable intent of Congress.
Subsec. (f)(2)(B)(ii)(IV), (V). Pub. L. 110–293, § 102(2)(A), (B), added subcls. (IV) and (V) and struck out former subcls. (IV) and (V) which read as follows:
“(IV) Ensuring coordination of relevant executive branch agency activities in the field.
“(V) Pursuing coordination with other countries and international organizations.”
Subsec. (f)(2)(B)(ii)(VII), (VIII). Pub. L. 110–293, § 102(2)(D), added subcls. (VII) and (VIII). Former subcls. (VII) and (VIII) redesignated (IX) and (XII), respectively.
Subsec. (f)(2)(B)(ii)(IX). Pub. L. 110–293, § 102(2)(E), inserted “Vietnam,” after “Uganda,” and “, and other countries in which the United States is implementing HIV/AIDS programs as part of its foreign assistance program” after “May 27, 2003” and inserted at end “In designating additional countries under this subparagraph, the President shall give priority to those countries in which there is a high prevalence of HIV or risk of significantly increasing incidence of HIV within the general population and inadequate financial means within the country.”
Pub. L. 110–293, § 102(2)(C), redesignated subcl. (VII) as (IX).
Subsec. (f)(2)(B)(ii)(X), (XI). Pub. L. 110–293, § 102(2)(F), added subcls. (X) and (XI).
Subsec. (f)(2)(B)(ii)(XII). Pub. L. 110–293, § 102(2)(G), substituted “funds appropriated for HIV/AIDS assistance pursuant to the authorization of appropriations under section 7671 of this title” for “funds section”.
Pub. L. 110–293, § 102(2)(C), redesignated subcl. (VIII) as (XII).
Subsec. (f)(2)(B)(ii)(XIII). Pub. L. 110–293, § 102(2)(H), added subcl. (XIII).
2004—Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 108–458 inserted “The Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy shall—” at end and added subpars. (A) to (E).
2003—Subsecs. (f), (g). Pub. L. 108–25 added subsec. (f) and redesignated former subsec. (f) as (g).
2002—Subsecs. (f), (g). Pub. L. 107–228 added subsec. (f) and struck out former subsecs. (f) and (g), which related to the qualifications of officers having primary responsibility for personnel management and for diplomatic security.
2000—Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 106–553 substituted “, the Deputy Secretary of State, and the Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources” for “and the Deputy Secretary of State”.
1998—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 105–277, § 1213, designated existing provisions as par. (1), inserted par. heading, and added par. (2).
Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 105–277, § 2305(a)(1), substituted “6 Under Secretaries” for “5 Under Secretaries”.
Subsec. (b)(3). Pub. L. 105–277, § 1313, added par. (3).
Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 105–277, § 2306(a), added par. (4).
Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 105–277, § 2305(b)(1), substituted “24” for “20”.
Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 105–277, § 2306(b), added par. (3).
Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 105–277, § 2305(c), redesignated subsec. (e) as (d) and struck out heading and text of former subsec. (d). Text read as follows: “There shall be in the Department of State not more than 66 Deputy Assistant Secretaries of State.”
Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 105–277, § 2305(c)(2), redesignated subsec. (f) as (e). Former subsec. (e) redesignated (d).
Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 105–277, § 2305(c)(2), redesignated subsec. (g) as (f). Former subsec. (f) redesignated (e).
Pub. L. 105–277, § 2301(a), added subsec. (f).
Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 105–277, § 2305(c)(2), redesignated subsec. (h) as (g). Former subsec. (g) redesignated (f).
Pub. L. 105–277, § 2303, added subsec. (g).
Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 105–277, § 2305(c)(2), redesignated subsec. (h) as (g).
Pub. L. 105–277, § 2304, added subsec. (h).
1994—Pub. L. 103–236 amended section generally. Prior to amendment, section read as follows: “The Secretary of State is authorized to establish, maintain, and operate passport and despatch agencies.”
Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 103–415 inserted “and the Deputy Secretary of State” after “Secretary”.
1982—Pub. L. 97–241 substituted “The Secretary” for “That the Secretary”.
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Change of Name
Broadcasting Board of Governors renamed United States Agency for Global Media pursuant to section 6204(a)(21) of this title. The renaming was effectuated by notice to congressional appropriations committees dated May 24, 2018, and became effective Aug. 22, 2018.
Effective Date of 1994 Amendment
Pub. L. 103–236, title I, § 161(b), Apr. 30, 1994, 108 Stat. 404, as amended by Pub. L. 103–415, § 1(f)(2), Oct. 25, 1994, 108 Stat. 4300, provided that:
“The amendments made by this section and section 162 [amending this section, sections
2151n,
2304,
2314,
2349aa–2,
2384,
2652b,
2655a,
2669,
2670,
2707,
2755,
4302 to
4305,
4308,
4801,
4802,
4806,
4821 to
4823, and
4852 of this title, sections 5314 and 5315 of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees, sections 1101, 1104, 1105, and 1521 to 1523 of Title 8, Aliens and Nationality, repealing sections
811a,
2652,
2652a,
2653 to
2655,
2658,
4803, and
4804 of this title and
section 1525 of Title 8, and amending provisions set out as a note under
section 113 of Title 10, Armed Forces] shall apply with respect to officials, offices, and bureaus of the
Department of State when executive orders, regulations, or departmental directives implementing such amendments become effective, or 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act [
Apr. 30, 1994], whichever comes earlier.”
References
Pub. L. 119–60, div. E, title I, § 5132(b), Dec. 18, 2025, 139 Stat. 1567, provided that:
“Any reference in any statute, reorganization plan, Executive order, regulation, agreement, determination, or other official document or proceeding to—
“(1)
the Director of Global Talent shall be deemed to refer to the Assistant Secretary for Human Resources; and
“(2)
the Bureau of Global Talent Management shall be deemed to refer to the Bureau of Human Resources.”
Office of the Historian
Pub. L. 119–60, div. E, title I, § 5115, Dec. 18, 2025, 139 Stat. 1564, provided that:
“There shall be in the Bureau of Administration of the Department [of State] described in subsection (q)(1) of section 1 of the
State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 (
22 U.S.C. 2651a), as added by section 5114, a Historian of the
Department of State, who shall be the head of the Office of the Historian.”
Chief Information Officer for Diplomatic Technology
Pub. L. 119–60, div. E, title I, § 5116, Dec. 18, 2025, 139 Stat. 1564, provided that:
“(a) Establishment.—There shall be in the Department [of State] a Chief Information Officer for Diplomatic Technology who shall be responsible to the Secretary [of State], acting through the Under Secretary for Management, for—
“(1)
matters relating to the information technology, cybersecurity workforce, and digital infrastructure of the Department; and
“(2)
such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate.
“(b) Responsibilities.—In addition to the responsibilities described in subsection (a), the Chief Information Officer for Diplomatic Technology shall maintain continuous observation and coordination of all matters pertaining to diplomatic technology in the conduct of foreign policy, including, as appropriate—
“(1) enterprise planning and governance, including—
“(A)
managing information technology budget formulation and execution, acquisitions, and inventory management; and
“(B)
determining the Department’s information technology strategic goals and priorities;
“(2)
cybersecurity and risk management;
“(3)
technology operations and innovation; and
“(4)
customer experience.”
Congressional Notification Regarding Changes to Bureau Jurisdiction
Pub. L. 119–60, div. E, title I, § 5142, Dec. 18, 2025, 139 Stat. 1569, provided that:
“(a) In General.—The Secretary [of State], acting through the Under Secretary for Management and the Under Secretary for Political Affairs, shall, not later than 60 days before making any change to the geographic or functional jurisdiction of any bureau of the Department [of State], including by adding or removing countries or otherwise changing the scope of responsibilities under the purview of such bureau, submit to the appropriate congressional committees a notification of such proposed change, including—
“(1)
a justification for such change;
“(2)
a description of the expected operational, programmatic, or policy implications for any bureau affected by such change;
“(3)
any proposed or anticipated staffing changes as a result of such change; and
“(4)
the anticipated cost or savings of such change.
“(b) Appropriate Congressional Committees Defined.—In this section, the term ‘appropriate congressional committees’ means—
“(1)
the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives; and
“(2)
the Committee on Foreign Relations and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate.”
Ambassador-At-Large for the Arctic
Pub. L. 119–60, div. E, title I, § 5143, Dec. 18, 2025, 139 Stat. 1570, provided that:
“(a) Establishment.—There is authorized to be in the Department [of State] an Ambassador-at-Large for the Arctic who shall be responsible to the Secretary [of State], acting through the Under Secretary for Political Affairs, for—
“(1)
matters relating to the Arctic region; and
“(2)
such other related duties as such the Secretary may from time to time designate.
“(b) Appointment.—
The Ambassador-at-Large for the Arctic shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.
“(c) Duties and Responsibilities.—
“(1) In general.—The Ambassador-at-Large for the Arctic shall—
“(A)
advance United States interests in the Arctic region;
“(B)
engage with foreign governments, intergovernmental organizations, the Arctic Council, and other international or multilateral organizations of which the United States is a member or has observer status and which advance United States interests in the Arctic region;
“(C)
facilitate the development and coordination of United States foreign policy and programs in the Arctic region;
“(D)
coordinate with relevant offices, bureaus, and interagency partners on efforts to counter the malign influence of the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China in Arctic countries and Arctic multilateral fora and organizations;
“(E)
coordinate the diplomatic objectives with respect to the activities described in subparagraph (A), and, as appropriate, represent the United States within multilateral fora that address international cooperation and foreign policy matters in the Arctic region;
“(F)
help inform, in coordination with the Bureau of Economic Affairs, transnational commerce and commercial maritime transit in the Arctic region;
“(G)
ensure, in coordination with the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs, that scientific data, environmental monitoring, and scientific research cooperation is consistent with regional security planning programs and research security best practices in the Department and other relevant Federal departments and agencies;
“(H)
consult, as appropriate, with Arctic indigenous communities, including by ensuring equal application and full protection of laws relating to investment screening, foreign influence, and other relevant national security regulations and statutes;
“(I)
ensure that all actions taken to perform the duties described in this subsection are consistent with the Arctic Region Security Policy in accordance with subsection (f); and
“(J)
use the voice, vote, and influence of the United States to encourage other countries and international multilateral organizations to support the principles of the Arctic Region Security Policy implemented pursuant to subsection (f).
“(2) Areas of responsibility.—The Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs is authorized to maintain continuous observation and coordination on matters related to the following:
“(A)
Institutions for cooperation among the Arctic countries.
“(B)
Scientific monitoring and research on local, regional, and global environmental issues.
“(C)
Responsible natural resource management and economic development.
“(3) Additional duties.—
In addition to the duties and responsibilities specified in paragraphs (1) and (2), the Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs shall also carry out such other relevant duties as the Secretary may assign.
“(d) Arctic Watcher Program.—The Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs shall establish and carry out a program to be known as the ‘Arctic Watcher Program’, to—
“(1)
monitor the Arctic region across the security, military, economic, natural resource, cyber, scientific, and political sectors in foreign countries;
“(2)
monitor and combat the People’s Republic of China, Russian Federation, and other malign influence campaigns across the Arctic region that impact United States national security, European security, and Indo-Pacific security that pose a threat to the rules-based order, and undermine United States interests in the region;
“(3)
strengthen the capacity of the United States to engage with foreign countries and regional and international organizations that are engaged in Arctic affairs; and
“(4)
strengthen United States energy security, cyber security, and economic interests in the Arctic, including in the critical minerals and natural resources sectors.
“(e) Expansion of Regional China Officer and Russia Watcher Positions to the Arctic Region.—
“(1) In general.—The Secretary shall expand the number of Regional China Officer and Russia Watcher positions to include the following:
“(A)
At least three posts in European countries with significant interests in the Arctic region.
“(B)
At least one post in North American countries with significant interests in the Arctic region.
“(2) Position composition.—
One-half of the positions described in paragraph (1) shall be part of the Regional China Officer program and one-half of such positions shall be Russia Watchers.
“(3) Notification.—
The Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs shall notify the appropriate congressional committees upon assigning an individual to a position described in paragraph (1).
“(f) Arctic Region Security Policy.—
“(1) Lead bureau.—
The Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs shall be the lead bureau for developing and implementing the Arctic Region Security Policy of the United States, in coordination with other relevant regional and functional bureaus and offices of the Department and other relevant Federal departments and agencies, to advance United States national security interests.
“(2) Duties and responsibilities.—The Arctic Region Security Policy shall advance United States national security interests by assessing, developing, budgeting for, and implementing plans, policies, and actions—
“(A)
to bolster the diplomatic presence of the United States in Arctic countries, including through enhancements to diplomatic missions and facilities, participation in regional and bilateral dialogues that advance United States interests related to Arctic security, and coordination of United States initiatives and assistance programs across agencies to protect the national security of the United States and its allies and partners;
“(B)
to enhance the resilience of Arctic countries that are United States allies and partners with respect to the economic, environmental, and security effects that may result from increased accessibility of the Arctic region;
“(C) to assess specific added risks to the Arctic region and Arctic countries that—
“(i)
are vulnerable to the changing Arctic environment; and
“(ii)
are strategically significant to the United States;
“(D) to advance principles of good governance by encouraging and cooperating with Arctic countries on collaborative approaches—
“(i)
to responsibly manage natural resources in the Arctic region;
“(ii)
to share the burden of ensuring maritime safety in the Arctic region;
“(iii)
to address challenges posed by the militarization of the Arctic region by the Russian Federation;
“(iv)
to address growing security cooperation in the Arctic region by the Russian Federation and People’s Republic of China and the implications for United States national security interests and Arctic security;
“(v)
to develop multilateral policies among Arctic countries on the management of maritime transit routes through the Arctic region and work cooperatively on the transit policies for access to and transit in the Arctic Region by non-Arctic countries; and
“(vi)
to facilitate the development of Arctic Region Security Action Plans to ensure effective implementation of the objectives identified in the Arctic Region Security Policy;
“(E)
to evaluate the vulnerability, security, survivability, and resiliency of United States interests in the Arctic region;
“(F) to counter malign influence from the Russian Federation and the People’s Republic of China in Arctic countries and Arctic multilateral fora, including through the exploitation or manipulation of—
“(i)
science and research partnerships or organizations;
“(ii)
economic development projects in strategic sectors, including transportation, energy, and telecommunications;
“(iii)
educational, cultural, and religious organizations; and
“(iv)
engagements with subnational and indigenous governance structures; and
“(G)
to increase coordination among Arctic countries that are members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization on the protection of critical infrastructure, including energy, telecommunications, and scientific infrastructure.
“(g) Restrictions and Requirements.—
“(1) Scope of authority.—
The Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs and any other personnel assigned to the Ambassador-at-Large shall not have any authority or role in decision-making on United States domestic policy issues beyond those directly related to United States foreign policy with international partners and stakeholders in the Arctic region.
“(2) Briefings requirement.—
The Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs shall provide to the appropriate congressional committees periodic briefings on diplomatic engagements in the Arctic.
“(3) Guidance related to attendance and participation at arctic conferences and multilateral fora.—The Secretary shall disseminate guidance, in coordination with the Bureau of Diplomatic Security and relevant interagency partners, for the attendance and participation of United States Government officials at Arctic conferences and multilateral fora, taking into consideration—
“(A)
the potential for United States Government attendance to advance United States national security and foreign policy objectives; and
“(B)
the degree to which the organization hosting or funding a conference or other event is funded, controlled, or advances the interests of the Russian Federation or People’s Republic of China.
“(h) Report.—
“(1) In general.—
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 18, 2025], and annually thereafter, the Secretary, in coordination with the Director of National Intelligence, the Secretary of Defense, and the heads of other relevant Federal departments and agencies, shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report on Russian and Chinese malign influence in the Arctic region.
“(2) Contents.—The report required by paragraph (1) shall—
“(A)
examine the Arctic strategies of Russia and China and the impact of such strategies on United States national security, scientific, and foreign policy interests in the Arctic region;
“(B)
examine Russian and Chinese cooperation in the Arctic region and implications of any such cooperation for the United States;
“(C)
examine the efforts of Russia and China to advance the strategic interests of such countries in the Arctic region through exploiting, manipulating, or co-opting non-governmental and international organizations in the Arctic region;
“(D)
provide a list of multilateral engagements and conferences attended by the Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs during the reporting period and an explanation of how such engagements countered Russian and Chinese influence and advanced United States national security and foreign policy interests;
“(E)
examine Russian and Chinese efforts to gain control and influence over key sectors in the Arctic region, including critical minerals, energy, transportation, and fishing;
“(F)
assess Russian and Chinese efforts to exploit scientific and academic research in the Arctic, including through research partnerships with academic institutions in the United States and other Arctic countries; and
“(G)
assess the tools, resources, and funding available to counter Russian and Chinese influence in the Arctic region.
“(3) Form.—
The report required by paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may contain a classified annex if necessary.
“(4) Sunset.—
The reporting requirement in this subsection shall expire on the date that is 10 years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
“(i) Definitions.—In this section—
“(1)
the term ‘Arctic countries’ means those countries that, as of the date of the enactment of this Act, are permanent members of the Arctic Council; and
“(2) the term ‘Arctic region’ means—
“(A)
the geographic region north of the 66.56083 parallel latitude north of the equator;
“(B)
all the United States territory north and west of the boundary formed by the Porcupine, Yukon, and Kuskokwim Rivers;
“(C)
all contiguous seas, including the Arctic Ocean and the Beaufort, Bering, and Chukchi Seas; and
“(D)
the Aleutian Chain.”
Ambassador-At-Large for the Indian Ocean Region
Pub. L. 119–60, div. E, title I, § 5144, Dec. 18, 2025, 139 Stat. 1575, provided that:
“(a) Establishment.—There is authorized to be in the Department [of State] an Ambassador-at-Large for the Indian Ocean Region who shall be responsible to the Secretary [of State], acting through the Under Secretary for Political Affairs, for—
“(1)
matters relating to the Indian Ocean region; and
“(2)
such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate.
“(b) Appointment.—
The ambassador described in subsection (a) may only be established if appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.
“(c) Responsibilities.—
“(1) In general.—The responsibilities of the Ambassador-at-Large for the Indian Ocean Region may include—
“(A)
ensuring harmonization and continuity of United States diplomatic efforts and assistance programs across Indian Ocean region countries;
“(B)
identifying the diplomatic, military, economic, and development lines of effort that are of greatest United States strategic interest in Indian Ocean region countries and reinforcing United States diplomatic and interagency engagement with respect to such lines of effort; and
“(C)
identifying and reinforcing United States diplomatic and interagency engagement to counter malign People’s Republic of China influence activities in the Indian Ocean region and Indian Ocean region countries that are contrary to United States interests.
“(2) Indian ocean region countries defined.—In this subsection, the term ‘Indian Ocean region countries’ means—
“(A)
the littoral countries of the Indian Ocean; and
“(B)
such other countries as the Secretary may determine, after consultation with the appropriate congressional committees [Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate and Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives].”
Director of the Office of Multilateral Affairs in Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs
Pub. L. 119–60, div. E, title I, § 5147, Dec. 18, 2025, 139 Stat. 1576, provided that:
“(a) Authorization.—
There shall be in the Department [of State] a Director who shall oversee an Office of Multilateral Affairs in the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs.
“(b) Duties.—The Director of the Office of Multilateral Affairs should—
“(1)
coordinate and support diplomatic engagement in East Asia-focused regional fora and organizations, including the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, Association of Southeast Nations, ASEAN Regional Forum, East Asia Summit, the Lower Mekong Initiative, and any other East Asia-focused multilateral fora determined by the Secretary [of State]; and
“(2)
provide staff and logistic support to the United States Ambassador for Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation and the United States Ambassador to the Association of Southeast Nations.
“(c) Sunset.—
This section shall terminate on the date that is 5 years after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 18, 2025].”
Office of Haitian Affairs
Pub. L. 119–60, div. E, title I, § 5157, Dec. 18, 2025, 139 Stat. 1581, provided that:
“(a) Establishment.—
There is established in the Bureau of
Western Hemisphere Affairs of the Department [of State] an Office of Haitian Affairs, which shall be headed by a Director.
“(b) Duties.—The Director of the Office of Haitian Affairs shall be responsible for—
“(1)
developing and implementing policy for United States diplomatic, political, economic, humanitarian, development, consular, and security engagement with the Republic of Haiti;
“(2)
leading interagency coordination with respect to such engagement;
“(3)
liaising with United States diplomatic and consular posts in Haiti;
“(4)
representing the Department in bilateral and multilateral settings on matters relating to Haiti; and
“(5)
overseeing strategic initiatives of the Department related to governance, public safety, internationally recognized human rights, migration, and rule of law in Haiti.”
Establishing and Expanding the Regional China Officer Program
Pub. L. 119–60, div. E, title I, § 5175, Dec. 18, 2025, 139 Stat. 1588, provided that:
“(a) In General.—
There is authorized to be established at the Department [of State] a Regional China Officer (RCO) program to support regional posts and officers with reporting, information, convening, and policy tools, and to enhance expertise related to strategic competition with the People’s Republic of China.
“(b) Authorization.—There is authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary [of State] $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2029 to the Department to expand the RCO program, including for—
“(2)
locally employed staff to support Regional China Officers serving abroad; and
“(3) not fewer than 20 forward-deployed Foreign Service Officers assigned to United States diplomatic or consular posts or detailed to the foreign ministry of an ally, to be known as Regional China Officers (in this section referred to as ‘RCOs’), who shall be responsible for—
“(A)
monitoring and reporting on activities of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in the region of his or her responsibility, including in the commercial, development, finance, critical infrastructure, technology, and military domains, including projects associated with the PRC’s Belt and Road Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Development Initiative; and
“(B)
advising and sharing knowledge with United States embassy personnel, diplomatic allies and partners, and host countries on PRC activities locally, regionally, and globally.
“(c) Director.—
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 18, 2025], the Secretary shall appoint a Director to oversee the RCO program from among career members of the Foreign Service.
“(d) Limitation on Position.—
The establishment of the position of the Director of the RCO program pursuant to subsection (c) shall not result in an increase in the overall full-time equivalent positions within the Department.
“(e) Responsibilities.—The Director shall be responsible for coordinating and overseeing the activities of RCOs in order to—
“(1)
improve United States monitoring and responsiveness to activities, strategies and tactics of the PRC that undermine United States interests;
“(2)
ensure that RCO program activities are aligned with United States strategic interests and priorities for strategic competition with the PRC;
“(3)
oversee RCO program activities, including the development of standardized monitoring, evaluation, and learning metrics that inform effective United States Government responses to PRC activities;
“(4)
identify gaps in United States engagements regarding PRC cross-cutting activities that impact United States interests; and
“(5)
manage hiring for RCO positions, including individuals with the appropriate proficiency in Mandarin.
“(f) Regional China Officers.—
“(1) Qualifications.—
The Secretary shall select and assign RCOs from among Foreign Service Officers who have expertise related to the PRC, including in the forms of prior experience working in or on the PRC, Taiwan, and Hong Kong, and proficiency in Mandarin language.
“(2) Geographic placement.—Of the total number of RCOs in the Unit, there shall be no fewer than two Regional China Officers assigned to United States diplomatic posts associated with each of the following bureaus of the Department:
“(A)
The Bureau of African Affairs.
“(B)
The Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs.
“(C)
The Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs.
“(D)
The Bureau of International Organization Affairs.
“(E)
The Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs.
“(F)
The Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs.
“(g) Sunset Provision.—
The requirement to maintain the Regional China Officer Program under subsection (a) shall expire on the date that is five years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
“(h) Ally Defined.—In this section, the term ‘ally’ means—
“(1)
a member country of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization; or
Job Share and Part-Time Employment Opportunities
Pub. L. 119–60, div. E, title II, § 5205, Dec. 18, 2025, 139 Stat. 1591, provided that:
“(a) In General.—
The Secretary [of State] shall establish and publish a Department [of State] policy on job share and part-time employment opportunities. The policy shall include a template for job-sharing arrangements, a database of job share and part-time employment opportunities, and a point of contact in the Bureau of Human Resources.
“(b) Workplace Flexibility Training.—
The Secretary shall incorporate training on workplace flexibility, including the availability of job share and part-time employment opportunities, into employee onboarding.
“(c) Annual Report.—
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 18, 2025], and annually thereafter for three years, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees [Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate and Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives] a report on workplace flexibility at the Department, including data on the number of employees utilizing job share or part-time employment arrangements.
“(d) Exception for the Bureau of Intelligence and Research.—
The policy described in subsection (a) shall not apply to officers and employees of the Bureau of Intelligence and Research.”
Needs-Based Childcare Subsidies Enrollment Period
Pub. L. 118–159, div. G, title LXXI, § 7111, Dec. 23, 2024, 138 Stat. 2526, provided that:
“Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 23, 2024], the Department [of State] and USAID [United States Agency for International Development] shall—
“(2)
consider using maximum flexibilities to accept applications throughout the year or in accordance with Qualifying Life Event changes (as defined by the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHB)).”
Leveraging Approved Technology for Administrative Efficiencies
Pub. L. 118–159, div. G, title LXXIII, § 7305, Dec. 23, 2024, 138 Stat. 2543, provided that:
“The Secretary [of State] and Administrator [of the United States Agency for International Development] shall ensure appropriate and secure technological solutions are authorized and available for employee use, where feasible, to promote technological fluency in the workforce, including the integration of secure tools in the evaluation process to ensure performance management standards while maximizing efficiency.”
Special Hiring Authority
Pub. L. 118–31, div. F, title LXII, § 6202(c), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 972, provided that:
“For an initial period of not more than 3 years after the date of the enactment of this division [Dec. 22, 2023], the Secretary [of State] may appoint, without regard to the provisions of sections 3309 through 3318 of title 5, United States Code, up to 80 candidates directly to positions in the competitive service at the Department [of State], as defined in section 2102 of that title, in the following occupational series: 25 candidates under 1560 Data Science, 25 candidates under 2210 Information Technology Management, and 30 candidates under 0201 Human Resources Management.”
Extending Paths to Service for Paid Student Interns
Pub. L. 118–31, div. F, title LXII, § 6203(a), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 972, provided that:
“
In General.—For up to 2 years following the end of a compensated internship at the Department [of State], the Department may offer employment to up to 25 such interns and appoint them directly to positions in the competitive service, as defined in
section 2102 of title 5, United States Code, without regard to the provisions of sections 3309 through 3318 of such title.”
Establishment and Expansion of the Bureau Chief Data Officer Program
Pub. L. 118–31, div. F, title LXIII, § 6302, Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 985, provided that:
“(a) Bureau Chief Data Officer Program.—
“(1) Establishment.—
The Secretary [of State] shall establish a program, which shall be known as the ‘Bureau Chief Data Officer Program’ (referred to in this section as the ‘Program’), overseen by the Department [of State]’s Chief Data Officer. The Bureau Chief Data Officers hired under this program shall report to their respective Bureau leadership.
“(2) Goals.—The goals of the Program shall include the following:
“(A)
Cultivating a data culture by promoting data fluency and data collaboration across the Department.
“(B)
Promoting increased data analytics use in critical decisionmaking areas.
“(C)
Promoting data integration and standardization.
“(D)
Increasing efficiencies across the Department by incentivizing acquisition of enterprise data solutions and subscription data services to be shared across bureaus and offices and within bureaus.
“(b) Implementation Plan.—
“(1) In general.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this division [Dec. 22, 2023], the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress an implementation plan that outlines strategies for—
“(A)
advancing the goals described in subsection (a)(2);
“(B)
hiring Bureau Chief Data Officers at the GS–14 or GS–15 grade or a similar rank;
“(C)
assigning at least one Bureau Chief Data Officer to each bureau of the Department; and
“(D)
allocation of necessary resources to sustain the Program.
“(2) Appropriate committees of congress defined.—In this subsection, the term ‘appropriate committees of Congress’ means—
“(A)
the appropriate congressional committees [Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate and Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives];
“(B)
the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate; and
“(C)
the Committee on Oversight and Accountability and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives.
“(c) Assignment.—
In implementing the Bureau Chief Data Officer Program, bureaus may not dual-hat currently employed personnel as Bureau Chief Data Officers.
“(d) Annual Reporting Requirement.—
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this division, and annually thereafter for the following 3 years, the Secretary shall submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees regarding the status of the implementation plan required under subsection (b).”
Implementation of GAO High Risk List Recommendations
Pub. L. 118–31, div. F, title LXIII, § 6309, Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 994, provided that:
“(a) In General.—The Secretary [of State] shall implement the Government Accountability Office’s High Risk List recommendations as applicable to the Department [of State] for the following activities:
“(1)
Improving the management of IT acquisitions and operations.
“(2)
Improving strategic human capital management.
“(3)
Managing Federal real property.
“(4)
Ensuring the cybersecurity of the nation.
“(5)
Managing government-wide personnel security clearance process.
“(b) Report.—
Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this division [Dec. 22, 2023], the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees [Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate and Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives] a report on the Department’s progress in implementing all of the Government Accountability Office’s High Risk List recommendations as applicable to the Department described in subsection (a).
“(c) High Risk List Defined.—
In this section, the term ‘High Risk List’ refers to GAO–23–106203, the April 20, 2023, report by the Government Accountability Office titled, ‘High-Risk Series: Efforts Made to Achieve Progress Need to Be Maintained and Expanded to Fully Address All Areas’.”
Special Envoy to the Pacific Islands Forum
Pub. L. 118–31, div. F, title LXIV, § 6405(a), Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 998, provided that:
“(a) Sense of Congress.—It is the sense of Congress that—
“(1)
the United States must increase its diplomatic activity and presence in the Pacific, particularly among Pacific Island nations; and
“(2) the Special Envoy to the Pacific Islands Forum—
“(A)
should advance the United States partnership with Pacific Island Forum nations and with the organization itself on key issues of importance to the Pacific region; and
“(B)
should coordinate policies across the Pacific region with like-minded democracies.”
Establishment of Fiscal Responsibility Award
Pub. L. 118–31, div. F, title LXIV, § 6410, Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 1006, provided that:
“The Under Secretary of State for Management shall establish, in consultation with the Director of the Budget and Planning Bureau and the Director of Global Talent, an annual departmental award for any exemplary employee who recommends, identifies, or adopts significant cost-saving measures for program implementation or through the reallocation of resources.”
Notification of Revocation of Clearances
Pub. L. 118–31, div. F, title LXVII, § 6710, Dec. 22, 2023, 137 Stat. 1020, as amended by Pub. L. 118–159, div. G, title LXXV, § 7505, Dec. 23, 2024, 138 Stat. 2546, provided that:
“(a) Notification.—
“(1) In general.—With respect to any covered official whose security clearance is suspended or revoked, the Secretary [of State] shall—
“(A)
submit to the Chair and Ranking Member of the appropriate congressional committees [Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate and Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives], the Majority Leader of the Senate, the Minority Leader of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives a notification not later than 15 days after the suspension or revocation of such clearance; and
“(B) brief the Chair and Ranking Member of the appropriate congressional committees, the Majority Leader of the Senate, the Minority Leader of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives not later than 30 days after such suspension or revocation on—
“(A)
[sic] the present employment status of the covered official and whether the job duties of the covered official have changed since such suspension or revocation;
“(B)
the basis for such suspension or revocation, including a complete description;
“(C)
the investigation of the covered official and the results of such investigation; and
“(D)
any negative fallout or impacts for the Department of State, the United States Government, or national security of the United States as a result of the actions for which the security clearance was suspended or revoked..[sic]
“(2) Submission to intelligence committees.—
To the extent the basis for any suspension or revocation of a security clearance is premised on the unauthorized release of intelligence (as defined by section 3(1) of the
National Security Act of 1947 (
50 U.S.C. 3003(1)), the Select Committee on Intelligence of the
Senate and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence of the
House of Representatives shall be an appropriate congressional committee for the purposes of this section.
“(b) Form.—
The notification and briefing required by subsection (a) may be provided in classified form, if necessary.
“(c) Covered Official Defined.—For purposes of this section, the term ‘covered official’ means any of the following:
“(1)
Any individual holding a position at or higher than the level of Assistant Secretary or its equivalent in the Department of State.
“(2)
Any individual holding the position of chief of mission or principal officer at any diplomatic or consular post.
“(3)
Any individual holding the rank and status of an ambassador or otherwise holding a position that reports directly to the Secretary, such as a special envoy.
“(d) Sunset.—
This section shall terminate not later than three years after the date of the enactment of this division [Dec. 22, 2023].”
Provision of Parking Services and Retention of Parking Fees
Pub. L. 117–263, div. I, title XCVII, § 9712, Dec. 23, 2022, 136 Stat. 3920, provided that:
“The Secretary of State may—
“(1)
provide parking services, including electric vehicle charging and other parking services, in facilities operated by or for the Department [of State]; and
“(2)
charge fees for such services that may be deposited into the appropriate account of the Department, to remain available until expended for the purposes of such account, provided that the fees shall not exceed the cost of the providing such services.”
Waiver Authority for Individual Occupational Requirements of Certain Positions
Pub. L. 117–81, div. E, title LIII, § 5319, Dec. 27, 2021, 135 Stat. 2368, provided that:
“The Secretary of State may waive any or all of the individual occupational requirements with respect to an employee or prospective employee of the Department of State for a civilian position categorized under the GS–0130 occupational series if the Secretary determines that the individual possesses significant scientific, technological, engineering, or mathematical expertise that is integral to performing the duties of the applicable position, based on demonstrated job performance and qualifying experience. With respect to each waiver granted under this subsection, the Secretary shall set forth in a written document that is transmitted to the Director of the Office of Personnel Management the rationale for the decision of the Secretary to waive such requirements.”
Sanctions Policy Coordination with Allies and Partners of United States
Pub. L. 116–260, div. FF, title III, § 361(b)–(d), Dec. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 3132, 3133, provided that:
“(b) Coordination With Allies and Partners of the United States.—
“(1) In general.—
The Secretary of State shall develop and implement mechanisms and programs, as appropriate, through the head of the Office of Sanctions Coordination established pursuant to subsection (h) of section 1 of the
State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 [now
22 U.S.C. 2651a(l)], as added by subsection (a)(1), to coordinate the development and implementation of United States sanctions policies with allies and partners of the United States, including the United Kingdom, the European Union and member countries of the European Union, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea.
“(2) Information sharing.—
The Secretary should pursue the development and implementation of mechanisms and programs under paragraph (1), as appropriate, that involve the sharing of information with respect to policy development and sanctions implementation.
“(3) Capacity building.—
The Secretary should pursue efforts, in coordination with the Secretary of the Treasury and the head of any other Federal agency the Secretary considers appropriate, to assist allies and partners of the United States, including the countries specified in paragraph (1), as appropriate, in the development of their legal and technical capacities to develop and implement sanctions authorities.
“(4) Exchange programs.—
In furtherance of the efforts described in paragraph (3), the Secretary, in coordination with the Secretary of the Treasury and the head of any other Federal agency the Secretary considers appropriate, may enter into agreements with counterpart agencies in foreign governments establishing exchange programs for the temporary detail of Federal Government employees to share information and expertise with respect to the development and implementation of sanctions authorities.
“(5) Briefing required.—Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Dec. 27, 2020] and every 180 days thereafter until the date that is five years after such date of enactment, the Secretary of State shall brief the appropriate congressional committees on the efforts of the Department of State to implement this section, including a description of—
“(A)
measures taken to implement paragraph (1);
“(B)
actions taken pursuant to paragraphs (2) through (4);
“(C)
the extent of coordination between the United States and allies and partners of the United States, including the countries specified in paragraph (1), with respect to the development and implementation of sanctions policy; and
“(D)
obstacles preventing closer coordination between the United States and such allies and partners with respect to the development and implementation of sanctions policy.
“(c) Sense of Congress.—
It is the sense of the
Congress that the President should appoint a
coordinator for sanctions and national economic security issues within the framework of the
National Security Council.
“(d) Appropriate Congressional Committees Defined.—In this section, the term ‘appropriate congressional committees’ means—
“(1)
the Committee on Foreign Relations, the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, and the Committee on Finance of the Senate; and
“(2)
the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Committee on Financial Services, the Committee on Oversight and Reform [now Committee on Oversight and Accountability], and the Committee on Way [sic] and Means of the House of Representatives.”
Additional Paid Leave To Address Employee Hardships Resulting From Coronavirus
Pub. L. 116–136, div. B, title XI, § 21007, Mar. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 592, provided that:
“Notwithstanding any other provision of law, and in addition to leave authorized under any other provision of law, the Secretary of State and the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development may, in order to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus, provide additional paid leave to address employee hardships resulting from coronavirus: Provided, That this authority shall apply to leave taken since January 29, 2020, and may be provided abroad and domestically: Provided further, That the Secretary and the Administrator shall consult with the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate and the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives prior to implementation of such authority: Provided further, That the authority made available pursuant to this section shall expire on September 30, 2022.”
[For definition of “coronavirus” as used in section 21007 of Pub. L. 116–136, see section 23005 of Pub. L. 116–136, set out as a note under section 162b of Title 2, The Congress.]
Oaths of Office Administered Remotely
Pub. L. 116–136, div. B, title XI, § 21011, Mar. 27, 2020, 134 Stat. 593, provided that:
“Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary of State and the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development may authorize any oath of office required by law to, in particular circumstances that could otherwise pose health risks, be administered remotely, subject to appropriate verification: Provided, That prior to initially exercising the authority of this section, the Secretary and the Administrator shall each submit a report to the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate and the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives describing the process and procedures for administering such oaths, including appropriate verification: Provided further, That the authority made available pursuant to this section shall expire on September 30, 2021.”
Coordinator of United States Government Activities Providing Basic Education Assistance in Developing Countries
Pub. L. 112–74, div. I, title VII, § 7034(q)(2), Dec. 23, 2011, 125 Stat. 1217, provided that:
“The position of
Coordinator established pursuant to section 664 of division J of
Public Law 110–161 [set out below] shall, within 45 days of enactment of this Act [
Dec. 23, 2011] and notwithstanding the requirements of such section, be moved to the
United States Agency for International Development (USAID):
Provided, That the
Coordinator shall hereafter be appointed by the USAID Administrator and shall report directly to the Administrator:
Provided further, That the responsibilities of the
Coordinator enumerated in the first sentence of
section 664(c) shall remain in full force and effect:
Provided further, That the limitation in the second sentence of such section shall hereafter no longer apply to the
Coordinator.”
Pub. L. 110–161, div. J, title VI, § 664(b), (c), Dec. 26, 2007, 121 Stat. 2349, provided that:
“(b) Coordinator.—
There shall be established within the
Department of State in the immediate office of the Director of United States Foreign Assistance, a
Coordinator of United States Government activities to provide basic education assistance in developing countries (hereinafter in this section referred to as the
‘Coordinator’).
“(c) Responsibilities.—
That [sic] the
Coordinator shall have primary responsibility for the oversight and coordination of all resources and international activities of the United States Government that provide assistance in developing countries for basic education. The individual serving as the
Coordinator may not hold any other position in the Federal Government during the individual’s time of service as
Coordinator.”
[Pub. L. 111–117, div. F, title VII, § 7064(a)(2), Dec. 16, 2009, 123 Stat. 3383, provided that:
“There shall continue to be a
Coordinator of United States Government Actions to Provide Basic Education Assistance in developing countries as established in section 664 of division J of
Public Law 110–161 [set out above].”
]
[Pub. L. 111–8, div. H, title VII, § 7064(a)(2), Mar. 11, 2009, 123 Stat. 899, provided that:
“There shall continue to be a
Coordinator of United States government actions to provide basic education assistance in developing countries as established in section 664 of division J of
Public Law 110–161 [set out above].”
]
Advisor for Activities Relating to Indigenous Peoples Internationally
Pub. L. 112–74, div. I, title VII, § 7034(q)(1), Dec. 23, 2011, 125 Stat. 1217, provided that:
“The position of Advisor established pursuant to section 699B of division J of
Public Law 110–161 [set out below] shall, within 45 days of enactment of this Act [
Dec. 23, 2011] and notwithstanding the requirements of such section, be moved to the
United States Agency for International Development (USAID):
Provided, That the Advisor shall hereafter be appointed by the USAID Administrator and shall report directly to the Administrator:
Provided further, That the responsibilities of the Advisor enumerated in section 699B(b) shall remain in full force and effect.”
Pub. L. 110–161, div. J, title VI, § 699B, Dec. 26, 2007, 121 Stat. 2369, provided that:
“(a) Advisor.—
After consultation with the Committees on Appropriations and not later than 90 days after the enactment of this Act [Dec. 26, 2007], there shall be established within the Department of State in the immediate office of the Director of United States Foreign Assistance an Advisor for Activities Relating to Indigenous Peoples Internationally (hereinafter in this section referred to as the ‘Advisor’), who shall be appointed by the Director. The Advisor shall report directly to the Director.
“(b) Responsibilities.—The Advisor shall:
“(1)
Advise the Director of United States Foreign Assistance and the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development on matters relating to the rights and needs of indigenous peoples internationally and should represent the United States Government on such matters in meetings with foreign governments and multilateral institutions.
“(2)
Provide for the oversight and coordination of all resources, programs, projects, and activities of the United States Government to protect the rights and address the needs of indigenous peoples internationally.
“(3)
Develop and coordinate assistance strategies with specific goals, guidelines, benchmarks, and impact assessments (including support for local indigenous peoples’ organizations).
“(c) Funds.—
Of the funds appropriated by this Act under the heading ‘Diplomatic and Consular Programs’ [
121 Stat. 2277], not less than $250,000 shall be made available for implementing the provisions of this section.
“(d) Report.—
Not later than one year after the enactment of this Act [Dec. 26, 2007], the Secretary shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations describing progress made in implementing this section.”
Consultation
Pub. L. 108–458, title VII, § 7109(b)(2), Dec. 17, 2004, 118 Stat. 3793, provided that:
“The Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy, in carrying out the responsibilities described in section 1(b)(3) of such Act [
22 U.S.C. 2651a(b)(3)] (as amended by paragraph (1)), shall consult with public diplomacy officers operating at United States overseas posts and in the regional bureaus of the
Department of State.”
Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization
Pub. L. 108–447, div. B, title IV, § 408, Dec. 8, 2004, 118 Stat. 2904, provided that:
“There is established within the Department of State the Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization: Provided, That the head of the Office shall be the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization, who shall report directly to the Secretary of State: Provided further, That the functions of the Office of the Coordinator for Reconstruction and Stabilization shall include—
“(1)
cataloguing and monitoring the non-military resources and capabilities of Executive agencies (as that term is defined in
section 105 of title 5, United States Code), State and local governments, and entities in the private and non-profit sectors that are available to address crises in countries or regions that are in, or are in transition from, conflict or civil strife;
“(2)
monitoring political and economic instability worldwide to anticipate the need for mobilizing United States and international assistance for countries or regions described in paragraph (1);
“(3)
assessing crises in countries or regions described in paragraph (1) and determining the appropriate non-military United States, including but not limited to demobilization, policing, human rights monitoring, and public information efforts;
“(4)
planning for response efforts under paragraph (3);
“(5)
coordinating with relevant Executive agencies the development of interagency contingency plans for such response efforts; and
“(6)
coordinating the training of civilian personnel to perform stabilization and reconstruction activities in response to crises in such countries or regions described in paragraph (1).”
Comprehensive Workforce Plan
Pub. L. 107–228, div. A, title III, § 301, Sept. 30, 2002, 116 Stat. 1376, required the Secretary of State to submit to the appropriate congressional committees, not later than 180 days after Sept. 30, 2002, a comprehensive workforce plan for the Department of State for the fiscal years 2003 through 2007, considering personnel needs in both the Civil Service and the Foreign Service and expected domestic and overseas personnel allocations.
“Rightsizing” Overseas Posts
Pub. L. 107–228, div. A, title III, § 302, Sept. 30, 2002, 116 Stat. 1376, provided that:
“(a) ‘Rightsizing’ at the Department of State.—
“(1) In general.—
The Secretary shall establish a task force within the Department on the issue of ‘rightsizing’ overseas posts.
“(2) Preliminary report.—Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Sept. 30, 2002], the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report that outlines the status, plans, and activities of the task force. In addition to such other information as the Secretary considers appropriate, the report shall include the following:
“(A)
The objectives of the task force.
“(B)
Measures for achieving the objectives under subparagraph (A).
“(C)
Identification of the official of the Department with primary responsibility for the issue of ‘rightsizing’.
“(D)
The plans of the Department for the reallocation of staff and resources based on changing needs at overseas posts and in the metropolitan Washington, D.C., area.
“(3) Report.—
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report reviewing the activities and progress of the task force established under paragraph (1).
“(b) Interagency Working Group.—
“(1) Establishment.—
The Secretary shall establish an interagency working group on the issue of ‘rightsizing’ the overseas presence of the United States Government.
“(2) Preliminary report.—Not later than 120 days after the date of the enactment of this Act [Sept. 30, 2002], the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report which outlines the status, plans, and activities of the interagency working group. In addition to such other information as the Secretary considers appropriate, the report shall include the following:
“(A)
The objectives of the working group.
“(B)
Measures for achieving the objectives under subparagraph (A).
“(C)
Identification of the official of each agency with primary responsibility for the issue of ‘rightsizing’.
“(3) Report.—
Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report reviewing the activities and progress of the working group established under paragraph (1).”
Report Concerning Minority Employment
Pub. L. 107–228, div. A, title III, § 324, Sept. 30, 2002, 116 Stat. 1385, required the Secretary of State, on Apr. 1 of 2003 and 2004, to submit a comprehensive report to Congress, with respect to the preceding calendar year, concerning the employment of members of minority groups at the Department, including the Civil Service and the Foreign Service.
Use of Funds Authorized for Minority Recruitment
Pub. L. 107–228, div. A, title III, § 325, Sept. 30, 2002, 116 Stat. 1386, provided that:
“(a) Conduct of Recruitment Activities.—
“(1) In general.—
Amounts authorized to be appropriated for minority recruitment under
section 111(1)(D) [probably means
section 111(a)(1)(D) of Pub. L. 107–228,
116 Stat. 1356] shall be used only for activities directly related to minority recruitment, such as recruitment materials designed to target members of minority groups and the travel expenses of recruitment trips to colleges, universities, and other institutions or locations.
“(2) Limitation.—
Amounts authorized to be appropriated for minority recruitment under section 111(1)(D) may not be used to pay salaries of employees of the Department.
“(b) Recruitment Activities at Academic Institutions.—
The Secretary shall expand the recruitment efforts of the Department to include not less than 25 percent of the part B institutions (as defined under section 322 of the
Higher Education Act of 1965 [
20 U.S.C. 1061]) in the United States and not less than 25 percent of the Hispanic-serving institutions (as defined in section 502(a)(5) of such Act [
20 U.S.C. 1101a(a)(5)]) in the United States.
“(c) Evaluation of Recruitment Efforts.—
The Secretary shall establish a database relating to efforts to recruit members of minority groups into the Foreign Service and the Civil Service and shall report to the appropriate congressional committees on the evaluation of efforts to recruit such individuals, including an analysis of the information collected in the database created under this subsection. Such report shall be included in each of the two reports required under
section 324 [set out as a note above].”
Science and Technology Adviser to Secretary of State
Pub. L. 106–113, div. B, § 1000(a)(7) [div. A, title III, § 303], Nov. 29, 1999, 113 Stat. 1536, 1501A–434, provided that:
“(a) Designation.—
The Secretary of State shall designate a senior-level official of the Department of State as the Science and Technology Adviser to the Secretary of State (in this section referred to as the ‘Adviser’). The Adviser shall have substantial experience in the area of science and technology. The Adviser shall report to the Secretary of State through the appropriate Under Secretary of State.
“(b) Duties.—The Adviser shall—
“(1)
advise the Secretary of State, through the appropriate Under Secretary of State, on international science and technology matters affecting the foreign policy of the United States; and
“(2)
perform such duties, exercise such powers, and have such rank and status as the Secretary of State shall prescribe.”
Transition; Reappointment of Officers Holding Office as of April 30, 1994, Not Required
Pub. L. 103–236, title I, § 161(c), Apr. 30, 1994, 108 Stat. 404, provided that:
“Any officer of the
Department of State holding office on the date of the enactment of this Act [
Apr. 30, 1994] shall not be required to be reappointed to any other office, at the
Department of State at the same level performing similar functions, as determined by the President, by reason of the enactment of the amendments made by this section and
section 162 [see Effective Date of 1994 Amendment note above for classification].”
[Functions of President under section 161(c) of Pub. L. 103–236, set out above, delegated to Secretary of State by Memorandum of President of the United States, July 26, 1994, 59 F.R. 40205, set out as a note under section 2370a of this title.]
References to Officials and Offices of Department of State Whose Authority Is vested in Secretary of State Deemed References to Secretary of State or Department of State
Pub. L. 103–236, title I, § 161(d), Apr. 30, 1994, 108 Stat. 404, provided that:
“Except as specifically provided in this Act [see Tables for classification], or the amendments made by this Act, a reference in any other provision of law to an official or office of the Department of State affected by the amendment made by subsection (a) [amending this section] (other than the Inspector General of the Department of State and the Chief Financial Officer of the Department of State) shall be deemed to be a reference to the Secretary of State or the Department of State, as may be appropriate.”
Office of Coordinator for Counterterrorism
Pub. L. 103–236, title I, § 161(e), Apr. 30, 1994, 108 Stat. 404, which established for not less than one year after Apr. 30, 1994, an Office of the Coordinator for Counterterrorism in the Department of State having the same responsibilities and functions as such office had as of Jan. 20, 1993, was repealed by Pub. L. 105–277, div. G, subdiv. B, title XXIII, § 2301(b), Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–824.
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Burdensharing
Pub. L. 103–236, title I, § 161(f), Apr. 30, 1994, 108 Stat. 404, as amended by Pub. L. 103–415, § 1(f)(3), Oct. 25, 1994, 108 Stat. 4300, which conditioned availability of 1995 appropriations upon establishment of position within Department of State of Deputy Assistant Secretary for Burdensharing and set forth responsibilities of position, was repealed by Pub. L. 105–277, div. G, subdiv. B, title XXIII, § 2302, Oct. 21, 1998, 112 Stat. 2681–825.
Executive Documents
Ex. Ord. No. 14211. One Voice for America’s Foreign Relations
Ex. Ord. No. 14211, Feb. 12, 2025, 90 F.R. 9831, provided that:
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
Section 1. Purpose. Article II of the United States Constitution vests the power to conduct foreign policy in the President of the United States. Presidents rely on their Secretaries of State and their subordinate officials to ensure that the United States is served and protected at home and abroad. As the principal steward of the President’s foreign policy, the Secretary must maintain an exceptional workforce of patriots to implement this policy effectively.
Sec. 2. Policy. All officers or employees charged with implementing the foreign policy of the United States must under Article II do so under the direction and authority of the President. Failure to faithfully implement the President’s policy is grounds for professional discipline, including separation. The personnel procedures of executive departments and agencies (agencies) charged with implementing the President’s foreign policy must therefore provide an effective and efficient means for ensuring that officers and employees faithfully implement the President’s policies.
Sec. 3. Definitions. For the purposes of this order:
(a) the terms “Department,” “Foreign Service,” “Service,” and “Secretary” shall have the meaning given those terms by section 3902 of title 22, United States Code; and
(b) the term “members of the Foreign Service” shall have the same meaning as “members of the Service” under section 3903 of title 22, United States Code.
(c) the term “Civil Service employee” shall mean an employee of the Department holding United States citizenship, except for a member of the Foreign Service, as defined in section 2664a of title 22, United States Code.
(d) the term “other staff” shall mean locally employed staff and agents under the authority of sections 202(a)(4)(A) (22 U.S.C. 3922(a)(4)(A)) and 303 (22 U.S.C. 3943) of the Foreign Service Act of 1980, or special Government employees of the Department as defined in section 202(a) of title 18, United States Code.
Sec. 4. Election of Procedures. When the Secretary concludes that a member of the Foreign Service, a Civil Service employee, or other staff has demonstrated performance or conduct that warrants a personnel action, the Secretary shall, with respect to officials appointed by the Secretary or others within the Department, take appropriate action, subject to the supervision of the President, and shall, with respect to officials appointed by the President, preliminarily determine whether to refer such a matter for the President’s consideration. Such preliminary determination shall be made in the Secretary’s sole and exclusive discretion.
Sec. 5. Foreign Service Reform. (a) The Secretary shall, consistent with applicable law, reform the Foreign Service and the administration of foreign relations to ensure faithful and effective implementation of the President’s foreign policy agenda.
(b) The Secretary shall, consistent with applicable law, implement reforms in recruiting, performance, evaluation, and retention standards, and the programs of the Foreign Service Institute, to ensure a workforce that is committed to faithful implementation of the President’s foreign policy.
(c) In implementing the reforms identified in this section, the Secretary shall, consistent with applicable law, revise or replace the Foreign Affairs Manual and direct subordinate agencies to remove, amend, or replace any handbooks, procedures, or guidance.
(d) The Secretary shall have sole and exclusive discretion in the exercise or delegation of the responsibilities enumerated in this order, and, as the Secretary deems necessary or appropriate, may prescribe additional procedures that subordinate officials shall follow in the performance of such responsibilities.
Sec. 6. General Provisions. (a) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:
(i) the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof; or
(ii) the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
(b) This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.
Donald J. Trump.
Authorization To Redelegate Certain Responsibilities Vested in the President and Delegated to the Secretary of State
Memorandum of President of the United States, Nov. 4, 1997, 62 F.R. 60995, provided:
Memorandum for the Secretary of State
By the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, including section 301 of Title 3 of the United States Code, to the extent that you consider doing so appropriate to facilitate the consolidation of the Arms Control and Disarmament Agency and the Department of State, I hereby authorize you to redelegate to any officer of the executive branch any or all authorities vested in the President that are delegated to the Secretary of State by any act, order, determination, delegation of authority, regulation, or Executive order heretofore or hereinafter enacted or issued and that have been or may be redelegated to the Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Affairs.
You are authorized and directed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register.
[For abolition, transfer of functions, and treatment of references to United States Arms Control and Disarmament Agency, see section 6511 et seq. of this title.]
Delegation of Authority Under Section 1(j)(4) of the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956
Memorandum of President of the United States, Feb. 8, 2024, 89 F.R. 14367, provided:
Memorandum for the Secretary of State
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 301 of title 3, United States Code, I hereby delegate to the Secretary of State the functions and authority vested in the President by section 1(j)(4) of the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 (22 U.S.C. 2651a(j)(4)) to submit to the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate and the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives the justification required in conjunction with the renewal of a temporary appointment pursuant to section 1(j)(3) of such Act (22 U.S.C. 2651a(j)(3)).
You are authorized and directed to publish this memorandum in the Federal Register.
