Issues Affecting U.S. Territory and Insular Policy

Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO provided information and views on the current state of affairs in federal-territorial relations in terms of federal policies, laws, programs, and organization.

GAO found the issues involving federal-territorial relations, such as appropriate levels of representation, treatment under federal laws and programs, and economic and social development strategies, are becoming increasingly complex with no simple solutions. GAO believes these issues are likely to require greater congressional attention and to stimulate debate on whether further policy guidance is needed to clarify and strengthen federal-territorial relations. Many territorial leaders support the concept of a high-level, interagency group to handle policy-related matters and address major territorial concerns.