Overview and context

The Federated States of Micronesia (“FSM”) is a constitutional government in free association with the US. Its four states are Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei and Yap. The FSM has a unicameral congress, which has 14 members elected by popular vote. Four senators, representing the four states, serve for a four-year term. Ten senators, who are elected for two-year terms, represent single-member districts based on population. The last election was held in March 2015, the next is expected for 2017. The congress elects the president and vice-president from among the four state-based senators, for a four-year executive term. Special elections are held in order to fill their congressional seats. The cabinet is appointed. The president and vice-president are supported by an appointed cabinet. There are no formal political parties.

The Constitution states that in order to become a law, a bill must pass two readings on separate days. The first reading must pass with two thirds of all members. On the final vote, each state delegation must cast one vote, and the bill will pass if it gains two thirds of the votes of the delegations. The bill is then presented to the president for approval. If the president does not return the bill with any objections to Congress within 10 days, the bill becomes a law. Bills may have but one subject, and provisions outside the title of the law are void.