The Pohnpei State Legislature serves as the primary lawmaking body for Pohnpei State, one of the four states within the Federated States of Micronesia. This unicameral legislature consists of 22 elected members who represent Pohnpei’s six municipalities — Kitti, Kolonia, Madolenihmw, Nett, Sokehs, and U — together with the outer island communities of Pingelap, Mwoakilloa, Sapwuahfik, Kapingamarangi, Nukuoro, and Ant Atoll. Members serve four-year terms and elect a Speaker from among themselves to lead sessions and guide the legislative process. The institution sits today as the 11th Pohnpei Legislature.
The Legislature’s core responsibility is enacting State laws on matters within Pohnpei State’s jurisdiction, including approving the State budget, overseeing government operations, and representing constituents’ interests. Its powers are derived from the Pohnpei State Constitution, giving it authority over local matters such as land, taxation, local government, education, fisheries, culture, and public services, all while operating within the framework of the FSM Constitution and national laws.
Regular sessions are held annually as constitutionally mandated, with special sessions called as needed. These public sessions are held at the Legislature building in Kolonia and ensure transparency, providing citizens direct access to their government’s legislative process.
As part of the federated system, the Legislature operates independently on State matters while coordinating with the FSM National Government — also seated in Kolonia — on issues of mutual concern. Pohnpei also maintains separate representation in the FSM Congress at the national level.
Beyond its formal legislative functions, the Legislature plays a vital community role as the voice of Pohnpei’s people, carefully balancing traditional values — including the enduring authority of the Nahnmwarki system and the customs of the outer islands — with contemporary democratic structures, in order to address issues specific to Pohnpei’s unique cultural, geographic, and economic context. It stands as the cornerstone of Pohnpei State’s democratic self-governance.