H.R. 4779: National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2026

The bill H.R. 4779 is designed to allocate funds for national security and international relations for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2026. It encompasses a range of activities related to diplomatic and consular services, humanitarian assistance, and various international aid programs. Key features of the bill include:

Funding Allocations

The bill appropriates significant funds for several critical areas:

• National Security and Diplomatic Activities: Funding to enhance U.S. diplomatic efforts and related programs.
• Peacekeeping Forces: A specific allocation of $30 million is designated for the Multinational Force and Observers stationed in Sinai.
• Military Education and Training: Provisions to improve the military capabilities of foreign security forces, with accountability measures attached.

Budgetary Controls and Tax Definitions

The bill clarifies the definition of "taxes and taxation," including value-added taxes and customs duties, but excluding individual income taxes for local staff. It also stipulates that any new programs or significant changes in funding require prior notification to the Appropriations Committees.

Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity

Funds can be utilized under the National Security Investment Programs for initiatives like the Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership Program, pending prior consultation. Additionally, there are limitations on governmental assistance related to corruption, emphasizing the need for transparency in fund allocation.

Restrictions on Palestinian Authority Funding

The bill includes specific criteria that must be met before any funds can support Palestinian statehood, particularly concerning governance and security cooperation. Strict reporting requirements are established to ensure accountability for the funds allocated to specific governments, with an emphasis on monitoring Palestinian authority funding under certain conditions.

Support for Democracy, Health, and Humanitarian Efforts

Beyond security, the bill provides for assistance in several areas:

• Democracy Programs: Support for initiatives aimed at fostering democratic governance.
• Justice Administration: Allocating resources to help bolster justice systems in partner countries.
• Public Health: Financing programs aimed at improving health outcomes globally.
• Disaster Relief: Assistance in response to natural disasters.

Special Provisions and Restrictions

The bill outlines various regulations concerning the U.S. funding directed towards:

• Water Deliveries from Mexico: Specific regulations governing the use of funds for water-related projects.
• Counternarcotics Efforts: Funding aimed at combating drug trafficking and its associated challenges.
• International Integrity: Restrictions on funding for nations violating territorial integrity or engaging in international terrorism.

Gender Equity Funding

The bill explicitly prohibits the use of funds for the Gender Equity and Equality Action Fund while making substantial allocations for educational programs, conservation efforts, food security initiatives, trafficking prevention, and humanitarian assistance.

Oversight Measures

Strict oversight protocols are mandated for aid directed to Gaza to ensure that allocations are not misused by terrorist organizations, reinforcing the accountability within the framework of foreign aid.

Relevant Companies

• BA (Boeing Company): Boeing could be impacted by increased military training and education funding, potentially affecting contracts related to foreign military sales.
• RTN (Raytheon Technologies Corporation): As a major defense contractor, Raytheon may benefit from allocations related to military education and training foreign security forces.
• LOCK (Lockheed Martin Corporation): Similar to Raytheon, Lockheed Martin could see impacts from funding aimed at foreign military capabilities enhancement.