September 11, 2025
Mr. Lieu (for himself and Mr. Meeks) introduced the following bill; which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs
To enhance subnational diplomacy efforts within the Department of State, and for other purposes.
Section 1. Office of Subnational Diplomacy
(a) In general
There shall be established in the Department of State an Office of Subnational Diplomacy (referred to in this subsection as the Office
). The Office shall enable the work of the Department with sub-national units of governments (such as State, county, city, and municipal governments) within the United States to improve the ability of such units of government to attract foreign investment, counter foreign malign influence within the United States, and contribute to the foreign policy priorities of the United States.
(b) Head of office
The head of the Office shall be the Special Representative for Subnational Diplomacy, who shall report to the Under Secretary of Economic Affairs.
(c) Responsibilities
The Special Representative for Subnational Diplomacy shall additionally be responsible for—
(1)
advising the Under Secretary of Economic Affairs on sub-national engagements within the United States;
(2)
serving as the principal official on such matters within the Department;
(3)
coordinating the Department’s support for local and municipal governmental engagements with foreign governments;
(4)
advising subnational government officials on the potential risks of engagements with countries of concern and sharing best practices to build resilience against foreign political interference and malign influence;
(5)
assisting subnational governments in—
(A)
attracting or bidding to host major international events;
(B)
tracking foreign direct investment at the county and municipal levels to highlight trends and opportunities;
(C)
attracting foreign direct investment and other forms of economic cooperation;
(D)
building the capacity and knowledge of subnational government staff who have responsibility for engaging with foreign countries;
(E)
advancing sports diplomacy with foreign countries and entities;
(F)
implementing programs to cooperate with foreign governments and entities on policy priorities or managing shared resources; and
(G)
understanding the local implications of foreign policy developments or policy changes;
(6)
supporting the economic interests of the United States through subnational engagements, in consultation and coordination with other relevant agencies;
(7)
advising and informing local officials during the negotiation of agreements or memoranda of understanding with foreign governments related to subnational engagements and priorities; and
(8)
coordinating subnational engagements with associations of subnational elected leaders, such as the United States Conference of Mayors, National Governors Association, National League of Cities, and similar associations.