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MemoMemorandumObama · D

Presidential Memorandum

Delegation of Authority Under Section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as Amended

This memorandum delegates to the Secretary of State the President's authority under Section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 to direct a drawdown of up to $60 million in DOD defense articles and services to support France, the African Union, and contributing African nations in the International Support Mission in the Central African Republic.

Federal Register Open PDF 78 FR 78161

Impact dates

  1. Federal Register filing date

Key directives

  • Delegate authority under Section 506(a)(1) of Foreign Assistance Act to Secretary of State
  • Direct drawdown of up to $60 million in DOD defense articles and services
  • Provide assistance to France, African Union, and specified contributing nations for Central African Republic mission
  • Make required determinations under Section 506(a)(1)
  • Publish memorandum in Federal Register

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • Delegation of authority to Secretary of State takes effect
  • Authorization to publish in Federal Register

Near term (90d)

  • Potential drawdown and delivery of defense articles and services to specified countries

Long term

  • Ongoing support for African Union-led mission in Central African Republic

Risks & tensions

  • Drawdown from DOD stocks may affect U.S. military readiness
  • Unclear whether 'other countries' clause expands scope beyond listed nations
  • No explicit expiration date for delegated authority
  • Central African Republic was experiencing sectarian violence; effectiveness of assistance uncertain
Presidential Memorandum: Delegation of Authority Under Section 506(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as Amended · Executive Orders