Government of the Federated States of Micronesia

President submits extensive issues to Congress

Palikir, POHNPEI (FSM Information Service): January 10, 2007 – President Joseph J. Urusemal has transmitted various issues of national concern to the 14th Congress of the Federated States of Micronesia for consideration during its Sixth Regular Session which convened – January 10, 2006.

The most recent transmittal to Congress was on December 28 2006, in which the President requested Congress’s consideration of the following items:

  1. Proposed amendments to the new Election Law. Certain amendments are being proposed to the election law to take into account the various Congressional concerns surrounding CA 14-118 which was vetoed on December 15.

  2. A proposed budget to accommodate the recent 10% increase by MiCare Insurance. An increase which has been agreed to be borne by the employer (National Government) given the continuing salary freeze and the ever increasing cost of living.

  3. Another item for consideration would be a proposed amendment to the recently signed law on Deductions on BGRT.

  4. A proposed amendment to the Insurance Law is also being submitted to address certain exemptions under the foreign insurer’s requirements.

  5. The nomination for the Associate Chief Justice is another issue requiring Congress’s attention along with nominations to certain Boards. Additional items include draft Resolutions to endorse recent amendments to certain fisheries Treaties and Arrangements to which FSM has signed unto.

  6. The Professional Premium is another issue which an amendment is being submitted to Congress to include medical officers (MO) and Medical Doctors (MD) on the eligibility list.

Finally, an FY-07 Supplemental Budget has also being transmitted for consideration.

These and other previously submitted issues are among the extended agenda that is ahead of the Sixth Regular Session of the 14th FSM Congress.