What does Preamble of EMPOWER Act do?

This bill aims to strengthen public-private partnerships The focus is on advancing women's economic security The geographic scope includes South and Central Asia

What does SHORT TITLE. of EMPOWER Act do?

This bill is formally titled the Enhancing Mobilization of Public-Private Organizations for Women's Economic Rights Act

What does FINDINGS. of EMPOWER Act do?

This section outlines findings related to women's participation in political, economic, and social spheres. It highlights the positive impact of women's labor force participation, asset ownership, and economic security on development, particularly in South and Central Asia. The findings state that women's economic participation is directly linked to countries' economic competitiveness. Female labor force participation rates in South and Central Asia are among the lowest globally, but achieving gender parity in employment could significantly boost GDP. The Women's Councils are described as public-private partnerships facilitating collaboration between the Department of State, businesses, civil society, and universities. These councils implement the Presidential Memorandum on Promoting Women's Global Development and Prosperity and the Women, Peace, and Security Act of 2017. The stated purpose of the Women's Councils is to accelerate women's economic empowerment in South and Central Asia, promoting economic growth and stability without cost to American taxpayers.

What does STATEMENT OF POLICY. of EMPOWER Act do?

This section establishes a policy of the United States to promote women's economic security and advancement. This policy extends to South and Central Asia. The promotion of women's economic security and advancement is considered an integral part of U.S. foreign policy in the region.

What does WOMEN'S COUNCILS AND PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS ADVANCING of EMPOWER Act do?

The Secretary of State shall maintain and expand women's councils and public-private partnerships. These partnerships aim to advance women's employment, entrepreneurship, and access to education in South and Central Asia. Activities may be conducted in the United States, South and Central Asia, or third countries. Congress supports activities that promote women's financial inclusion, mentorship, and asset ownership. The partnerships include entities like the United States-Pakistan Women's Council and the United States-India Alliance for Women's Economic Empowerment.

What does ESTABLISHMENT OF UNIT. of EMPOWER Act do?

The Secretary of State shall establish a Unit within the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs. The Unit will oversee public-private partnerships described in section 4(a). A Special Advisor for Women's Economic Security will lead the Unit. The Special Advisor will report to the Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia. Each relevant diplomatic and consular post will designate a point of contact.

What does REPORT. of EMPOWER Act do?

This section requires the Secretary of State to submit a report to congressional committees within one year of the Act's enactment. The report must detail steps taken to implement the Act, including personnel and funding allocations. The report must also describe the status of commitments and partnerships outlined in section 4(a). Finally, the report must include economic data regarding the impact of the Unit authorized by section 5.

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EMPOWER Act

Last updated: 4/29/2026 · Introduced: 4/29/2026

Author: Julie Johnson (D-TX)

TL;DR (AI)

This bill directs the Secretary of State to maintain and expand public-private partnerships focused on advancing women's employment, entrepreneurship, and education in South and Central Asia.
It establishes a Unit within the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, led by a Special Advisor, to oversee these partnerships and related activities.
The Secretary of State must report to Congress within one year, detailing implementation steps, partnership status, and the economic impact of the newly established Unit.

119th Congressin committeeOfficial page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 5 more.

7 sections

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