U.S. Eyes $88M Annual Funding Boost for Caribbean Security & Disaster Aid Through 2029

Congress is considering the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative Authorization Act, a bill that proposes dedicating significant resources to thirteen Caribbean nations. If passed, it would authorize the State Department and USAID to spend up to $88 million each year from fiscal year 2025 through 2029. The core goal is to boost safety, security, and the rule of law across the region, covering countries like Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Cracking Down and Building Up: What's in the Plan?

This isn't just about sending money; the bill outlines a multi-pronged approach. Key objectives include tackling transnational criminal organizations and local gangs by improving maritime, aerial, and border security. It also aims to strengthen local law enforcement and justice systems through technical assistance for fighting corruption and financial crimes, better police training (including human rights standards), and cybersecurity upgrades. There's a focus on crime prevention, particularly for at-risk youth, by fostering community-police cooperation and creating economic opportunities. The plan also addresses countering 'malign influence' from authoritarian regimes by monitoring security aid and telecommunications infrastructure.

Keeping Tabs: Implementation and Accountability

To ensure this initiative stays on track, the bill mandates detailed planning and reporting. Within 180 days of enactment, the Secretary of State and USAID Administrator must submit a multi-year implementation strategy to Congress. This plan needs clear goals, measurable benchmarks for progress in each country, and a breakdown of which U.S. agencies (like State, Justice, Defense) are doing what to avoid stepping on toes. It also requires adherence to transparency rules under the Foreign Aid Transparency and Accountability Act of 2016 and specific plans for coordinating crime prevention and enforcement efforts geographically. Notably, it calls for assessing and improving coordination with the Haitian National Police. Annual progress reports detailing results and spending breakdowns will follow.

Bracing for Impact: Disaster Response Gets Attention

Beyond crime and governance, the bill specifically targets natural disaster preparedness and resilience – a critical issue for the region. It authorizes programs over five years to improve coordination between Caribbean nations and U.S. agencies, share best practices for building resilient infrastructure, and enhance government readiness and rapid-response capabilities. Similar to the security initiative, a separate strategy with measurable goals and annual progress reports focused solely on disaster resilience must be submitted to Congress, ensuring this aspect receives dedicated attention.