Kolonia, Pohnpei: March 5, 2024 – Governor Stevenson A. Joseph has taken a considered approach to address the fiscal challenges faced by the State of Pohnpei, signing Legislative Bill No. 14-24 LD.1 into law as State Law 11L-02-24 with significant modifications. The bill, aimed at amending the FY2024 Budget Act, underwent careful scrutiny, resulting in a targeted veto by the Governor, who preserved only essential line items from the original proposal.
In an official communication to Speaker Yamaguchi, Governor Joseph underscored the prevailing financial uncertainty within the State of Pohnpei, citing the unresolved status of sector grants under Compact III pending approval by the U.S. Congress. Given the fluidity of the current financial situation, Governor Joseph emphasized the need for prudence as the state’s best course of action.
The retained line items from the original bill are as follows:
Sports Commission – $9,010 for the Kaselehlie Softball tournament
Speaker’s Office – $8,485.00 for Personnel, $20,000.00 for Travel, and $6,000.00 for Representation fund
Governor Joseph’s official communication conveyed a comprehensive veto of most proposed appropriations. The veto was guided by a commitment to fiscal responsibility and the absence of an accompanying Standing Committee report validating urgency and justifying needs, particularly during financial austerity.
The total appropriation proposed under Legislative Bill 14.24 L.D. 1 amounted to $184,395.00, comprising $63,372.00 for new items and $121,023.00 for increases over certain existing line items. Governor Joseph’s veto reflects a measured response, ensuring that the State exercises restraint and due diligence in financial matters.
Governor Joseph signed the amended State Law 11L-02-24 on March 4, 2024, and promptly transmitted it to the 11th Pohnpei Legislature. The revised law stands as a testament to the Governor’s commitment to navigating the state through economic uncertainty while making prudent fiscal decisions.
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