A bill to strengthen and expand efforts to identify, include, and advance untapped potential in the United States' international affairs workforce to strengthen national security, and for other purposes.
About This Bill
Committee
Latest Action · December 18, 2024
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. (Sponsor introductory remarks on measure: CR S7181)
# Summary of S. 5581 — American FATE Act
This comprehensive legislation aims to diversify and strengthen the international affairs workforce by addressing recruitment, retention, and advancement of underrepresented groups across State Department, USAID, and other foreign affairs agencies.
**What the Bill Does**
The American FATE Act creates new structures for promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) in international affairs agencies. It establishes Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer positions, requires agencies to collect and report demographic workforce data, and mandates development of strategic DEIA plans. The bill streamlines discrimination and harassment complaint processes, strengthens vetting procedures to account for substantiated misconduct allegations, and requires employee satisfaction and exit surveys to improve retention. It also expands training on workplace flexibility, racial equity, and cultural competency.
**Who It Affects**
The legislation impacts State Department employees, USAID staff, and workers at other international affairs agencies. It also affects students and early-career professionals through expanded fellowship programs, internships, and career pipeline initiatives at minority-serving institutions. Minority-owned businesses will benefit from expanded procurement opportunities with federal agencies.
**Key Programs and Funding**
The bill authorizes significant new spending: $20 million annually for fellowship programs like Rangel and Pickering; $100 million annually through 2034 for international affairs institutes at historically Black colleges and universities; $10 million annually for a new Office of Race and Ethnic Relations; $15 million annually for USAID's Action Fund for Global Racial Equity; $2 million annually for young leaders initiatives; and $1 million annually for minority-owned business technical assistance. It also establishes new Centers of Excellence at minority-serving institutions and expands the Diplomat-in-Residence program.
**Timelines**
Most requirements take effect within 90 days to one year of enactment, with ongoing annual reporting mandated for five to ten years depending on the provision.
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