The Kosrae State Legislature serves as the primary lawmaking body for Kosrae State, one of the four states within the Federated States of Micronesia. This unicameral legislature consists of 14 elected members who represent Kosrae’s four municipalities—Lelu, Malem, Tafunsak, and Utwe—each serving four-year terms under the leadership of a Speaker elected from among the members.
The Legislature’s core responsibility is enacting state laws on matters within Kosrae State’s jurisdiction, including approving the state budget, overseeing government operations, and representing constituents’ interests. Its powers are derived from the Kosrae State Constitution, giving it authority over local matters such as land, taxation, local government, education, 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 ensure transparency and provide 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 on issues of mutual concern. Kosrae 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 Kosrae’s people, carefully balancing traditional values with contemporary democratic structures to address issues specific to Kosrae’s unique cultural, geographic, and economic context. It stands as the cornerstone of Kosrae State’s democratic self-governance.