AGP Executive Report

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. is moving ahead with deep-ocean mineral leasing around American Samoa, with BOEM proposing a Nov. 19 auction of about 31.5 million acres for exploration despite major environmental data gaps. Local Governance & Immigration: Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula is seeking a 12-month moratorium on the “Special Provision” clause that lets employers recruit foreign labor beyond statutory limits, after public concerns about job displacement and pressure on services. Public Safety Oversight: The Senate Public Safety Committee grilled the Fire Division over July fires, including claims hydrants lacked water and crews arrived too late, with officials subpoenaed to explain failures. Courts & Military Environmental Review: Eighteen community groups filed a Supreme Court amicus brief urging the Air Force to follow federal environmental and public-participation rules for open detonation of dangerous explosives, with the case set for Oct. 7. Victim Services Funding: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata announced DOJ grants totaling $746,687 for American Samoa’s Criminal Justice Planning Agency to strengthen services for domestic and sexual violence victims. Health Care Accountability: A Senate hearing spotlighted reliability problems at the LBJ Hemodialysis Clinic, including water filtration breakdowns, understaffing, and equipment shortages. Regional Economy & Fisheries: The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency says the U.S. Tuna Treaty continues delivering major funding, with a 2026 distribution totaling about US$50.42 million. Community Disruption: Lakapi Samoa’s official Facebook page was taken down mid-livestream during the Chairman’s Cup, disrupting broadcasts while administrators seek answers from Meta.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. is moving from talk to action on seabed minerals, proposing a lease sale for about 31.5 million acres around American Samoa with a Nov. 19, 2026 auction—while stressing leases wouldn’t automatically mean commercial mining, even as critics warn momentum is being built despite major environmental data gaps. Religious Opposition: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa adopted a resolution urging precautionary, science-based ocean governance and warning deep-sea mining could cause irreversible harm to biodiversity, fisheries, and Indigenous communities. Local Governance & Public Safety: Manu‘a faipule Fetu Fetui blasted disruption from the MV Manu‘atele’s prolonged grounding, while the Senate Public Safety Committee questioned Fire Division negligence concerns after July fires, including reports of delayed response and dry hydrants tied to a hydrant-check policy. Immigration Controls: Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula proposed a 1-year moratorium on a law’s special provisions that let companies recruit foreign labor for up to one year, citing local job displacement fears. Corrections Reorganization: The Senate approved a concurrent resolution declaring the governor’s executive order moving Corrections under DPS invalid. Coast Guard Presence: Congresswoman Uifaatali Amata discussed Pago Pago Harbor and the territory’s long-running push for a permanent Coast Guard station. Voyaging Update: The Moananuiākea Voyage was extended by a year due to heightened Western North Pacific weather risks tied to El Niño and climate change.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. is moving from talk to action, proposing a BOEM lease sale for about 31.5 million acres around American Samoa, with an auction tentatively set for Nov. 19—an important step that could lock in corporate momentum even though it wouldn’t authorize commercial mining right away. Local Governance & Services: Manu‘a faipule Fetu Fetui says families are still dealing with major disruption after the MV Manu‘atele was grounded, forcing last-minute travel and cargo changes during key church and cultural events. Public Safety Accountability: The Senate Public Safety Committee questioned the Fire Division after reports that crews arrived after homes were already destroyed and that some hydrants had no water; officials pointed to staffing shortages and a policy limiting hydrant checks to utility personnel. Immigration Pressure: Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula proposes a 12-month moratorium on the “special provisions” clause that lets companies recruit foreign labor for up to one year, citing local fears of job displacement. Corrections Reorganization Fight: Senators approved a concurrent resolution declaring the Governor’s executive order moving Corrections under DPS invalid, saying the Governor can’t restructure a statutory department by order. Retirement Fund Changes: The Governor is also seeking to reduce ASG’s Retirement Fund contribution rate from 14% to 8% for FY26–FY27, with a phased increase afterward. Regional Diplomacy: The Governor met U.S. Ambassador Jared Novelly in Apia, discussing drug trafficking, border security, and the upcoming “Two Samoa Talks.” International Cup Spotlight: American Samoa’s team competed in the USA Softball International Cup in Oklahoma City, with local coach Samantha Ricketts leading the squad.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. is moving ahead with plans to auction about 33 million acres of deep ocean around American Samoa for mineral exploration, with a Nov. 19, 2026 sale date—while opponents warn the process is proceeding despite major environmental data gaps. Corrections Power Struggle: American Samoa’s Senate unanimously approved a concurrent resolution declaring the Governor’s executive order that moved the Department of Corrections under DPS “invalid and without legal effect,” arguing the Governor can’t restructure departments by executive action. Retirement Fund Rate Change: The Governor is proposing to cut ASG’s Retirement Fund contribution rate from 14% to 8% for FY2026-27, then adjust again later—framing the current rate as “clearly unsustainable.” Coast Guard Station Request: The Governor reaffirmed a formal request for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa, including cutters and personnel based at Pago Pago Harbor. International Cup Spotlight: American Samoa’s softball team played in the USA Softball International Cup at Oklahoma City’s Devon Park, with local coach Samantha Ricketts leading the squad and games streamed on ESPN+. Samoa-Related Politics: Samoa’s opposition leader alleges World Rugby may suspend the country over a “political madness” move tied to government withdrawal of support from Lakapi Samoa. Governor in Apia: American Samoa’s Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula arrived in Samoa for meetings with Prime Minister La‘aulialemalietoa Leuatea Fosi Schmidt, with details expected after talks.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: BOEM/MMA is moving toward a Nov. 19 lease auction for about 31.5 million acres of seabed near American Samoa for mineral exploration, even as major environmental data gaps remain; bidders get exploration rights only, with any future extraction requiring later approvals. Local Governance & Corrections: The Senate unanimously approved a concurrent resolution declaring Gov. Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula’s March 16 executive order shifting the Department of Corrections under DPS “invalid and without legal effect,” arguing the governor can’t restructure a statutory department by order. Retirement Fund Rates: The governor proposed cutting ASG’s Retirement Fund contribution from 14% to 8% for FY2026-27, then 10% afterward, calling the current rate “clearly unsustainable.” Public Safety Fires: A Senate Public Safety Committee hearing heard disputes over who should test fire hydrants and water pressure, with DSAR saying past checks stopped under ASPA policy and ASPA saying DSAR testing must be coordinated and metered. Regional Diplomacy: Gov. Pulaali‘i arrived in Samoa for meetings with Prime Minister La‘aulialemalietoa Leuatea Fosi Schmidt, with talks expected on Two Samoa Talks and border security. Sports & Representation: American Samoa’s team is competing in the USA Softball International Cup in Oklahoma City, coached by Samantha Ricketts, with games streaming on ESPN+.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Marine Minerals Administration says it plans a Nov. 19 lease sale for seabed mining in waters around American Samoa, with 20-year leases possible—prompting renewed local and church opposition. Corrections Under DPS: The American Samoa Senate unanimously approved a concurrent resolution declaring the Governor’s March executive order moving the Department of Corrections under DPS “invalid and without legal effect,” arguing the Governor can’t override statutes. Retirement Fund Contribution Change: The Governor proposed lowering ASG’s Retirement Fund contribution rate to 8% for FY2026-27, then 10% afterward, calling the current 14% rate “clearly unsustainable.” Coast Guard Station Request: The Governor reaffirmed a formal push for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa, citing narcotics trafficking and broader maritime security needs. Public Safety & Fire Hydrants: Senate Public Safety Committee testimony addressed disputes over who tests fire hydrants and water pressure, with DSAR and ASPA pointing fingers over policy and impacts on household water pressure. Regional Diplomacy: Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula met Samoa’s Prime Minister in Apia after arriving with his delegation, discussing cooperation and the “Two Samoa Talks.” Sports & Community: American Samoa’s team played in the USA Softball International Cup in Oklahoma City, while local officials and partners continue to support regional events and youth civic engagement.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. government moved another step toward commercial deep-sea mining around American Samoa, with a planned Nov. 19 lease sale covering about 127,500 square kilometers and 20-year leases, while the governor gets 60 days to comment. Religious Opposition: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa formally opposed deep-sea mining, calling the ocean a sacred trust and warning of ecological and cultural harm. Corrections Under DPS: The American Samoa Senate unanimously approved a concurrent resolution declaring the governor’s March executive order moving the Department of Corrections under DPS invalid, saying the governor lacks authority to restructure a statutory department. Retirement Fund Contribution Change: The governor proposed lowering ASG’s Retirement Fund contribution rate to 8% for FY2026-27, then 10% for FY2027-28, citing the current 14% rate as unsustainable. Coast Guard Station Request: The governor reaffirmed a formal request for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa to strengthen maritime security, patrols, and search-and-rescue. Local Government/US Links: The governor met Samoa’s prime minister in Apia and discussed border security and “Two Samoa Talks.” Sports & Community: USA Softball International Cup play in Oklahoma City featured American Samoa’s team coached by Samantha Ricketts, with games streamed on ESPN+ and USASoftball.tv.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Marine Minerals Administration says it plans a Nov. 19 lease sale tied to American Samoa seabed mining, with 20-year leases potentially covering about 127,500 square kilometers; the governor gets 60 days to comment, while opponents warn it’s a major step toward commercial mining. Religious Opposition: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa formally opposed deep-sea mining, citing ecological, cultural, and scientific uncertainty concerns. Local Governance—Corrections: The Senate unanimously declared the governor’s March 16 executive order moving the Department of Corrections under DPS invalid, saying the governor lacked authority to restructure a statutory department. Retirement Fund: The governor proposed cutting ASG’s Retirement Fund contribution rate to 8% for FY2026-27, then 10% afterward, calling the current 14% rate unsustainable. Maritime Security: The governor reaffirmed a formal request for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa, including cutters and personnel based in Pago Pago. International Engagement: Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula arrived in Samoa for meetings with Prime Minister La‘aulialemalietoa Leuatea Fosi Schmidt, with details expected. Sports (International Cup): American Samoa’s team fell to the U.S. Elite 10-3 in Oklahoma City, while Team USA’s softball squads continued group play.

Moananuiākea Voyage Update: The Polynesian Voyaging Society says dangerous Western North Pacific weather risks tied to El Niño have forced a one-year extension to the Moananuiākea Voyage, with Hokule‘a and Hikianalia revising stops across Fiji, Aotearoa, the Cook Islands, French Polynesia, and planned visits that include American Samoa. Corrections Under DPS Invalid: The American Samoa Senate unanimously approved a concurrent resolution declaring Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula’s March 16 executive order moving the Department of Corrections under DPS “invalid and without legal effect,” arguing the Governor can’t override statutes that created Corrections as a separate department. Retirement Fund Contribution Changes: The Governor is proposing to cut ASG’s Retirement Fund contribution rate from 14% to 8% for FY2026–FY2027, then 10% afterward, citing the current rate as “clearly unsustainable.” Coast Guard Station Push: The Governor reaffirmed a formal request for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa, including cutters and personnel based at Pago Pago Harbor, amid concerns about narcotics trafficking and other transnational crime. Local Governance & Public Safety: At a Senate Public Safety Committee hearing, DSAR and ASPA clashed over fire hydrant testing—DSAR says it used to check hydrants, while ASPA wants DSAR metered and coordinated to avoid water pressure impacts to homes. International Sports: American Samoa’s women’s softball team played in the USA Softball International Cup in Oklahoma City, with Team American Samoa facing the U.S. Elite and the tournament continuing through Aug. 3. Democratic Party Endorsement: The American Samoa Democratic Party endorsed Sandra King–Young for Delegate to the U.S. House, framing the choice around rising costs, healthcare needs, education challenges, and ocean/environment threats.

Corrections Power Struggle: The American Samoa Senate unanimously approved a concurrent resolution declaring Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula’s March 16 executive order moving the Department of Corrections under DPS “invalid and without legal effect,” arguing the Corrections department was created by statute and can’t be merged or restructured by executive order. Retirement Fund Debate: The Governor also proposed cutting ASG’s Retirement Fund contribution rate from 14% to 8% for FY2026-2027, with a later step-up to 10%, citing the current rate as “clearly unsustainable.” Governor’s Regional Diplomacy: Governor Pula arrived in Samoa with First Lady Lois Pula and met Prime Minister La‘aulialemalietoa Leuatea Fosi Schmidt, with talks reportedly focused on cooperation and security, including drug trafficking and border issues. Coast Guard Push: Pula reaffirmed a formal request for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa, including cutters and personnel based in Pago Pago Harbor. Public Safety Oversight: A Senate committee hearing heard testimony on fire hydrant testing and water pressure, with DSAR and ASPA disputing who should conduct checks and how to avoid low-pressure impacts. Local Politics: The American Samoa Democratic Party endorsed Sandra King–Young for Delegate to the U.S. House. International Spotlight: USA Softball International Cup coverage continued from Oklahoma City, with American Samoa’s women’s team falling to the U.S. Women’s Elite in a run-rule result.

U.S.-Pacific Security: Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula reaffirmed his formal request for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa, including cutters and personnel based at Pago Pago Harbor, citing rising concern over narcotics trafficking and other transnational crime. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa adopted a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in or near the territory’s waters and EEZ, warning of ecological, cultural, and long-term risks. Local Governance & Immigration: The Governor sent the Fono a bill proposing a 12-month moratorium on the “special provision” clause that lets companies bring in foreign workers, with an AG/Immigration Board report expected on impacts and recommended actions. Budget & Retirement Fund: Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula also sent legislation to amend ASG’s Retirement Fund contribution rate to 8% for FY2026-2027, calling the current 14% rate unsustainable. Regional Diplomacy: The Governor arrived in Samoa for meetings with Prime Minister Schmidt, with details expected after discussions. Sports & Community: Team American Samoa, led by coach Samantha Ricketts, will feature former Bulldogs at the USA Softball International Cup in Oklahoma City.

Maritime Security: Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula reaffirmed his formal request for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa, including cutters and personnel based in Pago Pago Harbor, citing rising regional narcotics trafficking and transnational crime. Deep-Sea Mining: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa passed a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in or near the territory’s waters and EEZ, urging stewardship, precaution, and protection of marine life and cultural heritage. Local Governance & Budget: The Administration sent the Fono legislation to amend ASG’s Retirement Fund contribution rate—reverting to 8% for FY2026-27—calling the current 14% rate “clearly unsustainable.” Public Safety Oversight: The Senate Public Safety Committee scheduled a hearing on this year’s spate of fires and alleged non-payment of police overtime, with questions aimed at the Department of Search and Rescue and the American Samoa Power Authority. Immigration Policy: A bill proposes a 12-month moratorium on the “special provision” clause that allows companies to bring in foreign workers, with reports and recommended actions to follow. Health Advisory: The Department of Health issued a traveler advisory limiting imported food units to 10 per person and requiring medications to be labeled and declared. Regional Diplomacy: Governor Pula arrived in Samoa for meetings with Prime Minister Schmidt, with details expected after discussions. Sports: Team American Samoa is set to play in the USA Softball International Cup in Oklahoma City, with pool play beginning July 30.

Fono & Governance: Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula has sent the Fono a bill to cut ASG’s Retirement Fund contribution rate to 8% for FY2026-2027, arguing the current 14% level is “clearly unsustainable” and that pandemic-era financial conditions have changed. Public Safety Oversight: The Senate Public Safety Committee is set to hold a hearing on the territory’s spate of fires, including claims that fire hydrants lacked water, and to question overtime nonpayment at the Territorial Correctional Facility. Immigration Policy: The administration is moving toward a 12-month moratorium on the “special provisions” clause that allows companies to bring in foreign workers, with reports due from the Attorney General and Immigration Board. Deep-Sea Mining Debate: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa adopted a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in or near the territory’s waters and EEZ, while U.S. Ambassador Jared Novelly told Samoa he will not impose American policy on seabed mining. Local Appointments: Roy J.D. Hall Jr. was unanimously confirmed as American Samoa’s Administrative Law Judge, and Molitogi “Moli” Lemana was appointed to the ASTCA board. Travel & Health Compliance: The Department of Health issued a traveler advisory limiting imported food units to 10 per person and requiring labeled, declared medications for personal use. Regional Spotlight: Governor Pula arrived in Samoa for meetings with Prime Minister Schmidt, with details expected after discussions.

Deep-Sea Mining Push Meets Local Opposition: The Trump administration is moving toward opening American Samoa’s waters to deep-sea mining, including a proposed federal lease sale off the territory—while the Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa adopted a resolution opposing mining in or near the territory’s waters and EEZ. Federal Policy Pressure on Robocalls: A bipartisan wave of U.S. attorneys general, including multiple state AGs, is urging the FCC to strengthen “Know Your Customer” rules to stop illegal robocalls that cost Americans billions. Local Governance & Courts: Roy J.D. Hall Jr. was unanimously confirmed as American Samoa’s Administrative Law Judge, and the Fono is set to review the FY2027 budget proposal totaling about $789.3 million amid questions over revenue ceilings and debt service. Infrastructure Funding: The Department of Public Works secured a $19.3 million BUILD grant to rebuild and modernize the Leone to Nu’uuli Route 001 corridor. Public Health Reminder: DOH issued a traveler advisory limiting imported food units to 10 per person and requiring medications to be declared and labeled. Diplomacy & Regional Ties: U.S. Ambassador Jared Novelly presented credentials to Samoa’s head of state, stressing respect for Samoa’s seabed mining decisions.

Sunshine Protection Act: The U.S. House has passed the “Sunshine Protection Act of 2025,” setting up year-round Daylight Saving Time and ending twice-yearly clock changes as it heads to the Senate. Robocall Crackdown: A bipartisan push led by multiple state attorneys general urges the FCC to strengthen “Know Your Customer” rules to stop illegal robocalls—an effort echoed across several filings this week. Local Health Advisory: The Department of Health issued travel guidance on importing food and medications from Samoa, including a strict 10 “food unit” limit and border confiscation for excess items. Deep-Sea Mining Fight: As federal plans move forward, American Samoa voices opposition—church delegates formally oppose deep-sea mining, and a “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration rallied youth and community members. Budget & Governance: Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula submitted the FY2027 budget to the Fono at about $789.3 million, while lawmakers also begin reviewing FY2025 audit questions. Judicial Appointment: Roy J.D. Hall Jr. was unanimously confirmed as Administrative Law Judge, strengthening the territory’s administrative hearing bench. Infrastructure: DPW secured a $19.3 million BUILD grant to rebuild and modernize the Leone to Nu’uuli Route 001 corridor.

Federal Robocall Crackdown: A bipartisan push led by multiple state attorneys general is urging the FCC to strengthen “Know Your Customer” rules to stop illegal robocalls by tightening checks on originating voice service providers. Local Health Advisory: The American Samoa Department of Health issued a traveler advisory limiting imported food to 10 units per person and requiring medications to be labeled and declared for personal use only. Deep-Sea Mining Fight: The Trump administration is moving toward a deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters off American Samoa, drawing renewed opposition from Pacific voices, including a church resolution and a “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration. Territory Governance & Courts: Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula submitted the FY2027 budget to the Fono ($789.3M), while Roy J.D. Hall Jr. was unanimously confirmed as Administrative Law Judge. Public Services & Funding: DPW secured a $19.3M BUILD grant to rebuild Route 001 between Leone and Nu’uuli.