H.R. 8561: Commission on Americans Living Abroad Act of 2026

This bill seeks to establish a new entity called the Commission on Americans Living Abroad. The main aim of this commission is to study how federal laws and policies impact United States citizens who reside in foreign countries. Here are the main components of what the bill outlines:

Establishment of the Commission

The commission will be created within the executive branch of the U.S. government. It will consist of ten members appointed by the President from various recommendations provided by congressional leaders, ensuring a diverse representation that includes different political affiliations. The membership includes:

• Two members recommended by the Speaker of the House
• Two members recommended by the minority leader of the House
• Two members recommended by the majority leader of the Senate
• Two members recommended by the minority leader of the Senate

No more than six members can be officers or employees of the United States, and they are expected to possess expertise relevant to the study objectives.

Duties of the Commission

The Commission will conduct a comprehensive study on various matters, including:

• The impact of federal laws and policies on citizens living abroad.
• The costs and burdens that these laws impose on overseas Americans.
• Differences in access to federal benefits for veterans living overseas compared to those in the U.S.
• Federal financial reporting requirements that apply to U.S. citizens abroad.
• Barriers in accessing financial institutions due to compliance requirements.
• Citizenship challenges for family members of U.S. citizens living abroad.
• Voting processes for Americans living outside the U.S.
• Interactions with federal programs like Social Security and Medicare.
• Coordination among federal agencies serving these citizens.
• The effect of tax requirements on retirement savings and financial product access.
• Effects of federal policies on remittances.
• Support for small to medium-sized businesses owned by U.S. citizens abroad.

Consultation and Reporting

Throughout its study, the Commission will consult organizations that represent U.S. citizens living abroad. It is required to submit an initial report with its findings and recommendations within one year of its establishment. This report will detail:

• Methods to reduce compliance costs and burdens.
• How to increase access to federal services for these citizens.
• Potential legislative or administrative actions needed to achieve these aims.

Powers of the Commission

The Commission will have various powers to assist in its function, such as:

• Holding hearings and gathering testimony.
• Accessing necessary information from federal agencies.
• Utilizing U.S. mail services as required.

Funding and Duration

The bill authorizes appropriations of $2 million for each of the fiscal years 2027 and 2028 to fund the Commission's activities. The life of the Commission will continue until it submits its final update report on its findings.

Relevant Companies

None found.