Diaz-Balart Celebrates FY24 Foreign Operations Bill

Florida Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R) announced that the FY24 State and Foreign Operations Bill had been approved. Citing the numerous benefits the bill would provide, Diaz-Balart championed the effort to bolster national security.

As the chairman of the House Appropriations subcommittee, Rep. Diaz-Balart took to social media to announce the approval of the FY24 State and Foreign Operations Bill. Sharing an outline of what the bill will address to social media, The bill focuses on providing funds for  “our national security by drastically reducing spending overall.” Spending is a concern that Republicans have opposed under the Biden Administration.

The Florida Republican further commented on the measures the bill will enact, citing that the committee “scrubbed every program to ensure efficiency, transparency, and effectiveness.” Moreover, “the bill represents a fresh approach to foreign affairs, one that recognizes the importance of safeguarding American interests, supporting our allies, and ensuring fiscal wellbeing.”

The bill attempts to address a number of concerns that Republicans have clamored over. This includes bolstering national security, promoting freedom abroad, protecting life, supporting American values, enhancing economic competitiveness, and supporting Israel.

The bill enacts a strong push against communist dictatorships, addressing issues related to Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua.

Specifically, it supports democracy programs in Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua and outreach efforts that provide information to people living under authoritarian dictatorships.” It also “encourages European partners who want our help with Ukraine to support us in defending freedom and democracy” in those countries.

Another issue that lawmakers have tried to address is the growing concern involving mortality through the use of fentanyl. The bill “prioritizes funding and policies to combat the flow of fentanyl and other illicit drugs into the United States.”

The People's Republic of China and The Communist Party of China are also targeted. The bill would prohibit them from receiving funds