Caribbean Basin Security Initiative Authorization Act

This bill authorizes the Secretary of State and the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development to carry out the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative (CBSI) in thirteen Caribbean nations. The initiative aims to enhance the United States-Caribbean security partnership by promoting citizen safety, security, and the rule of law through strategic engagement with governments and civil society. A core purpose of the CBSI is to counter transnational criminal organizations and local gangs by strengthening maritime and aerial interdiction, improving border and port security, and building capacity to target illicit finances and recruitment. It also seeks to advance law enforcement and justice sector capacity building , including combating corruption, various forms of trafficking, and supporting police training in human rights and community policing. Furthermore, the bill promotes crime prevention efforts, particularly among at-risk youth, and strengthens the security sector's resilience to natural disasters. The legislation prioritizes efforts to combat corruption and counter malign influence from authoritarian regimes by monitoring their security assistance and restricting involvement in potentially obstructive investment projects. To fund these comprehensive efforts, the bill authorizes an appropriation of $88,000,000 annually for fiscal years 2025 through 2029 for the Department of State and USAID. An implementation plan, including a multi-year strategy and measurable benchmarks, is required within 180 days, along with annual progress updates to ensure accountability and track results.