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MemoMemorandumBiden · D

Presidential Memorandum

Delegation of Authority Under Section 506(a)(2) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961

This memorandum delegates to the Secretary of State the authority to draw down up to $200 million in U.S. government articles, services, and military education/training to assist refugees, conflict victims, and Special Immigrant Visa applicants affected by the situation in Afghanistan. The delegation includes the authority to make required determinations and congressional notifications under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961.

Federal Register Open PDF 86 FR 40913

Key directives

  • Delegate authority under section 506(a)(2) of FAA to Secretary of State for drawdown of up to $200 million
  • Delegate authority to make determination under section 506(a)(2) of FAA
  • Delegate authority under section 652 of FAA to make required congressional notifications before drawdown
  • Publish memorandum in Federal Register

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • Delegation of authority to Secretary of State takes effect

Near term (90d)

  • Potential drawdown of up to $200 million in articles and services
  • Congressional notifications required before any drawdown

Long term

  • Support for Afghan refugee and SIV processing operations

Risks & tensions

  • Subject to fulfilling requirements of section 652 of FAA — notification timing not specified
  • $200 million cap creates resource constraint if needs exceed authorization
  • Interagency coordination required between State and DoD for military education/training drawdowns
Presidential Memorandum: Delegation of Authority Under Section 506(a)(2) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 · Executive Orders