Bill Summary
The proposed legislation seeks to abolish the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). It stipulates that, effective immediately upon enactment, no federal funds can be allocated for the agency's functions, which are primarily related to international assistance and development as defined by the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961. Additionally, the bill mandates the rescission of any unobligated funds that were available to USAID prior to the enactment date, effectively terminating its financial resources. Finally, it requires that any remaining assets or liabilities of the agency be transferred to the Secretary of State, consolidating the responsibilities previously held by USAID under the State Department's jurisdiction.
Possible Impacts
Here are three examples of how the proposed legislation to abolish the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) could affect people:
1. **Impact on Global Poverty and Development Programs**: USAID plays a crucial role in funding and implementing international development projects aimed at reducing poverty, improving health care, and promoting education in developing countries. The abolition of USAID would halt ongoing programs and projects, potentially leading to increased poverty, fewer educational opportunities, and a decline in health outcomes for millions of people in countries that rely on U.S. support.
2. **Disruption of Humanitarian Aid**: Many humanitarian efforts, including disaster relief and response to crises such as famine or disease outbreaks, are coordinated through USAID. The elimination of this agency could lead to delays or disruptions in the delivery of vital aid to affected populations, resulting in worsening conditions for those in need and increasing mortality rates during emergencies.
3. **Changes in Foreign Relations and Diplomacy**: USAID is a key tool of American foreign policy, helping to build diplomatic relationships and promote stability in various regions. Without USAID, the U.S. may lose influence in international development discussions and partnerships, potentially leading to strained relationships with countries that depend on U.S. assistance. This shift could alter geopolitical dynamics and diminish the U.S.'s ability to promote its values and interests abroad.
[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 1123 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
119th CONGRESS
1st Session
H. R. 1123
To abolish the United States Agency for International Development, and
for other purposes.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
February 7, 2025
Ms. Greene of Georgia (for herself, Mr. Roy, Mr. Crane, Mr. Ogles, Mr.
Norman, Mr. Gill of Texas, Mrs. Harshbarger, Mr. Brecheen, Mr.
Burlison, Mr. Perry, Mr. Massie, Ms. Boebert, and Mr. Timmons)
introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on
Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Appropriations,
for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case
for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of
the committee concerned
_______________________________________________________________________
A BILL
To abolish the United States Agency for International Development, and
for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. ABOLISH THE UNITED STATES AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL
DEVELOPMENT.
(a) In General.--Beginning on the date of the enactment of this
Act, no Federal funds may be made available to carry out any of the
functions, duties, or responsibilities assigned or delegated to the
Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development
pursuant to the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2151 et seq.)
or any other provision of law.
(b) Rescission of Funds.--The unobligated balance of each amount
made available to the Administrator of the United States Agency for
International Development as of the day before the date of the
enactment of this Act is rescinded. Any other assets or liabilities of
the Agency as of such day shall be transferred to the Secretary of
State.
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