The Yap State Legislature serves as the primary lawmaking body for Yap State, one of the four states within the Federated States of Micronesia. This unicameral legislature consists of 10 elected members who represent Yap’s municipalities and outer islands, 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 Yap State’s jurisdiction, including approving the state budget, overseeing government operations, and representing constituents’ interests. Its powers are derived from the Yap 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. Yap 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 Yap’s people, carefully balancing traditional governance systems with contemporary democratic structures to address issues specific to Yap’s unique cultural, geographic, and economic context. It stands as the cornerstone of Yap State’s democratic self-governance.