FSMIS (January 14, 2014): On January 3, Federated States of Micronesia
President Manny Mori disapproved Congressional Act No. 18-34, which would
provide an amount of $4.9 million from the general fund of the FSM for fiscal
year 2014 to fund "public projects and social programs" in all the
States.
The Act was passed by Congress on December 5, 2013, during
its Second Special Session.
In his veto message to Speaker Dohsis Halbert, President Mori
emphasized his support of public projects and programs "when conceived and
implemented properly" as they contribute to basic government services and
support economic growth. However, the President reiterated the need for
transparency and clear guidance on the process employed in the determination
and allocation of resources to projects. He further stated with regards
hearing, "this is the most serious part of the process because without
such public hearings, there is no opportunity for the public to have input into
the process of providing public projects and programs for their well-being".
President Mori also observed that "while revenue has
continue to grow, Congress is also increasing appropriations for public
projects and programs" in an unsustainable manner as the FSM moves closer
to 2023, the year financial assistance from the United States under the Compact
is expected to terminate.
President Mori would rather have "surplus" revenue
for the Nation be allocated to "priority programs" such as the
proposed Set Aside fund to help defray "anticipated shortfall of the more
than $600 million in the Trust Fund and provide funding for targeted projects",
such as the "Fly Micronesia" airline project. Among other priority
improvement projects, the FSM has toiled to enhance the transportation sector,
including concerted efforts on a viable regionally targeted airline to
strengthen the tourism industry.
During this current session, the Third Regular Session,
Congress undertook to override the veto
on January 13, putting in place the latest public project and social
program appropriation law.
For further
information, email fsmpio@mail.fm
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