National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2026

# National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2026 - Summary This comprehensive appropriations bill authorizes funding for U.S. diplomatic and national security programs for fiscal year 2026 with several notable funding allocations, restrictions, and policy directives. ## Key Funding Allocations - **$94 million** for global Internet freedom programs - **$160 million** for women's economic empowerment - **$40 million** for the Madeleine K. Albright Women's Leadership Program - **$200 million** for prevention of violence against women and girls - **$120 million** for women, peace, and security initiatives - **$737.6 million** for basic education (including secondary education) - **$216.8 million** for higher education - **$292.6 million** for biodiversity conservation - **$768 million** for food security and agricultural development - **$111 million** for activities to combat trafficking in persons - **$300 million** for the Countering Russian Influence Fund - **$1.7 billion** for the America First Opportunity Fund ## Major Restrictions and Prohibitions 1. **UN and International Organizations**: - Prohibits funding for UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency) - Prohibits funding for the UN Human Rights Council - Requires certification before funding UN entities - Withholds 25% of UN contributions if Taiwan isn't granted observer status 2. **Geopolitical Restrictions**: - Prohibits funding for the Russian Federation government - Prohibits funding for countries supporting Russian annexation of Crimea - Prohibits funding for countries recognizing independence of Russian-occupied Georgian territories 3. **Program Restrictions**: - Prohibits funding for drag queen workshops, performances, or documentaries - Prohibits funding for programs teaching concepts of systemic racism or sexism - Prohibits funding for transgender-related medical procedures for minors - Prohibits funding for abortion except in cases of rape, incest, or when the mother's life is endangered - Prohibits funding for the Wuhan Institute of Virology or related research 4. **Gaza and West Bank Oversight**: - Requires certification of oversight policies to prevent funds from reaching Hamas - Mandates third-party monitoring of aid to Gaza - Requires regular reporting to Congress on aid usage - Prohibits admission and resettlement of foreign nationals from Gaza ## Other Significant Provisions - **Rescissions**: $4.3 billion in unobligated balances from previous appropriations are permanently rescinded - **Spending Requirements**: Mandates specific spend plans for various programs - **Anti-DEI Restrictions**: Prohibits funding for certain diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives - **Human Rights**: Requires certification that all Department of State employees will receive anti-trafficking training - **Environmental**: Prohibits funding for climate change programs that violate Executive Order 14162 This bill represents a comprehensive approach to U.S. foreign assistance with significant restrictions on funding for certain countries, programs, and activities, while emphasizing oversight for funds provided to Gaza and West Bank.