What does Preamble of Foreign Service Modernization Act do?

This bill proposes to amend the Foreign Service Act of 1980. The stated purpose is to modify and improve the Foreign Service Act of 1980.

What does REFERENCE. of Foreign Service Modernization Act do?

This section clarifies how references to amendments or repeals within the Act should be interpreted. References to sections, chapters, titles, or other provisions are considered to be made to corresponding parts of the Foreign Service Act of 1980. The clarification applies unless the Act explicitly states otherwise.

What does EFFECT OF AMENDMENTS ON CONFORMING CHANGES TO TABLES OF of Foreign Service Modernization Act do?

This section addresses the effect of amendments to the Foreign Service Act of 1980. Amendments that add, repeal, or transfer sections within the Act, or amend the designation or heading of sections, are covered by this section. The section applies to amendments that affect larger organizational units within the Act.

What does DEFINITIONS. of Foreign Service Modernization Act do?

This section amends Section 102 of 22 U.S.C. 3902. Paragraphs (3) through (12) of Section 102 are redesignated as paragraphs (4) through (13). A new definition of 'appropriate congressional committees' is inserted after paragraph (2) of Section 102. 'Appropriate congressional committees' is defined as the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate.

What does RETURNING POLICY EXECUTION TO DIPLOMATIC EFFORTS. of Foreign Service Modernization Act do?

This section amends Section 104 of Title 22 of the United States Code. The amendment modifies paragraphs (2) and (3) by removing punctuation. A new paragraph (4) is added to Section 104. The new paragraph (4) directs the implementation and execution of U.S. foreign policy through diplomacy, program management, and the advancement of U.S. interests. This execution must be consistent with policies established by the President and Secretary in accordance with the Act.

What does RECRUITING FROM NONTRADITIONAL INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER of Foreign Service Modernization Act do?

This section amends 22 U.S.C. 3905 to direct the Foreign Service to actively recruit candidates from nontraditional institutions of higher education. It expresses the sense of Congress that the Service should recruit from institutions like community colleges, junior colleges, and career and technical colleges. The Secretary is directed to ensure regular outreach, information sessions, and preparation resources are provided at these institutions. The Secretary may partner with institutional career centers, faculty, and student organizations to expand awareness of Service careers. Outreach may leverage digital and hybrid methods to reach students and alumni. Collaboration with other Federal departments and agencies engaged in workforce outreach is also permitted.

What does EXPEDITIONARY DIPLOMACY. of Foreign Service Modernization Act do?

This section amends 22 U.S.C. 3927 to emphasize and expand the practice of expeditionary diplomacy within the Department. It establishes a 'Tiger Team' within the Department to develop a plan to improve the Department's capability and willingness to engage in expeditionary diplomacy. The Tiger Team is tasked with assessing the current state of expeditionary diplomacy, reviewing past efforts, and producing policy and legislative recommendations. The plan must include a timeline for implementation and identify necessary resources, including potential statutory or administrative changes. The Secretary must implement the Tiger Team’s plan within 12 months of enactment. The Tiger Team will submit a report to Congress within two years of enactment, detailing challenges, recommendations, and a timeline for implementation. Following the report's submission, the Tiger Team will oversee implementation for 90 days before being terminated.

What does ADDITIONAL AUTHORITY. of Foreign Service Modernization Act do?

This section amends Section 207(a)(1) of Title 22 of the United States Code. The amendment inserts language clarifying the role of Diplomatic Security special agents assigned as Regional Security Officers. These agents are to support the chief of mission in meeting security responsibilities. They will serve as the principal security and lead law enforcement representatives to chiefs of mission.

What does CLARIFICATION OF THE ROLE OF DIRECTOR GENERAL OF THE FOREIGN of Foreign Service Modernization Act do?

This section amends Section 208 of Title 22 of the United States Code. The amendment modifies the first sentence of Section 208. The period at the end of the first sentence is replaced with a phrase designating concurrent appointment. The Director General of the Foreign Service will be appointed to also serve as the Assistant Secretary for Human Resources.

What does BOARD OF EXAMINERS FOR THE SERVICE. of Foreign Service Modernization Act do?

This section amends Section 211 of Title 22 of the United States Code. The amendment modifies the second sentence of Section 211. The phrase 'or training in the fields of testing' is removed. The phrase 'academic study, background in diplomacy,' is inserted.

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Foreign Service Modernization Act

Last updated: 6/2/2026 · Introduced: 6/2/2026

Author: Michael Lawler (R-NY)

TL;DR (AI)

The bill amends the Foreign Service Act of 1980 to enhance recruitment from nontraditional higher education institutions, including community colleges and technical schools.
It establishes a 'Veterans and Foreign Service Pathway Program' to support veterans transitioning into Foreign Service careers.
A 'Tiger Team' is created to improve expeditionary diplomacy capabilities within the Department, with a plan to be implemented within 12 months of enactment.
The bill mandates annual cybersecurity and technology training for all Service members, focusing on safeguarding information systems and responsible AI use.
It introduces a requirement for Foreign Service Officers to complete leadership training before assuming leadership roles lasting at least one month.
The bill establishes protections for Service members participating in external training and education, ensuring they retain their status and benefits.
It creates a Diplomatic Reserve Corps Pilot Program to evaluate the feasibility of a reserve cadre for foreign affairs contingencies.

119th Congressin committeeHR. 9165(In Committee)Official page

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