AGP Executive Report

Deep-Sea Mining Push Meets Growing Pacific Backlash: Youth and community leaders held a peaceful “Stand with the Moana” demonstration in Utulei, urging the U.S. to stop proposed deep-sea mining leases near American Samoa; environmental groups and attorneys say the territory could become the first commercial test site worldwide, with fresh concerns raised about possible radioactive risks from mining. Local Government Budget & Priorities: The American Samoa Government submitted its FY 2027 budget to the Fono, proposing $789.3 million in spending (down 2%), with hearings set to begin July 27; Governor Pulaali’i frames the budget as a shift toward long-term sustainability as ARPA funding ends. Public Safety Leadership: Governor Pulaali’i nominated Commander Lauti Tautalasoo Moliga for Commissioner of Public Safety, awaiting Fono review when the legislature reconvenes July 27. Infrastructure Update: DPW secured a $19.3 million BUILD grant to rebuild the Route 001 Leone to Nu’uuli road, targeting safety and reliability improvements on a major corridor. Citizenship Politics Spill Over Regionally: Guam and CNMI leaders criticized U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith’s bill to end birthright citizenship in territories, warning it could create statelessness and arguing the territories’ citizenship framework can’t be changed unilaterally. Community & Sports: American Samoa will welcome the “Chasing Yesterday” endurance team and also announced Saina Willis’s selection for the American Samoa National Team for the International Cup in Oklahoma City.

Birthright Citizenship Push: Guam and CNMI leaders urged U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith to withdraw his “End Birthright Citizenship for Territories Act,” warning it could create stateless children and arguing the Covenant can’t be changed unilaterally. Deep-Sea Mining Fight: Pacific voices and American Samoa groups condemned BOEM’s proposed offshore mineral leasing, with fresh concerns about possible radioactive release and irreversible harm; Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata reiterated her consistent opposition. FY2027 Budget: The American Samoa Government submitted a proposed FY2027 budget of $789.3 million, down 2%, with Fono hearings set to begin July 27. Infrastructure Funding: DPW secured a $19.3 million BUILD grant to rebuild the Route 001 Leone to Nu’uuli road. Public Safety Leadership: Gov. Pulaali’i nominated Commander Lauti Tautalasoo Moliga as next Commissioner of Public Safety for Fono confirmation. Community & Sports: American Samoa will welcome the “Chasing Yesterday” runners and selected Saina Willis for the International Cup; youth also completed a DIY ukulele project through the “Save the Music” program. Local Courts & DOH Notices: Police reports covered alleged threats and disturbances; DOH set limits on travelers importing food/meds from Samoa for personal use.

Birthright Citizenship Push: Guam and CNMI leaders urged U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith to withdraw his “End Birthright Citizenship for Territories Act,” warning it could leave children born under the American flag stateless and arguing the federal government can’t unilaterally change territory citizenship rules tied to the Covenant. Local Governance: The American Samoa Government submitted its FY2027 budget to the Fono, proposing $789.3 million in spending (about 2% less than FY2026) and outlining revenue, grants, and branch-by-branch funding shifts as lawmakers prepare hearings. Deep-Sea Mining Fight: Pacific voices and local opponents renewed pressure against U.S. plans for deep-sea mining leases near American Samoa, with concerns ranging from environmental damage to potential release of naturally occurring radioactive materials; Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata reiterated her consistent opposition. Infrastructure Update: DPW secured a $19.3 million BUILD grant to rebuild the Route 001 Leone to Nu’uuli road, targeting safety and reliability improvements on a key corridor. Public Safety & Courts: Police reports detailed multiple disturbances and threats leading to arrests and misdemeanor charges, including cases involving alleged threats with a pipe, a knife, and other alleged disorder. Community & Sports: American Samoa will welcome the “Chasing Yesterday” endurance team and selected Saina Willis for the American Samoa National Team at the International Cup in Oklahoma City.

Deep-Sea Mining Fight: Youth, elders, educators, fishermen, and conservation advocates held a peaceful “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration in Utulei, urging the U.S. to stop proposed federal deep-sea mining leases near American Samoa. Local Governance: The American Samoa Government submitted its FY 2027 budget to the Fono, proposing $789.3 million in spending and setting the stage for hearings starting July 27. Infrastructure: DPW secured a $19.3 million BUILD grant to rebuild the Route 001 Leone to Nu’uuli road, targeting roadway, drainage, and traffic-safety upgrades. Federal Policy Watch: Governor Pulaali’i acknowledged BOEM’s Proposed Lease Notice and said ASG will review and comment during the 60-day period, citing concerns for tuna canning and other sectors. Citizenship Politics: U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith introduced the “End Birthright Citizenship for Territories Act,” drawing renewed criticism from Guam and CNMI leaders; the debate continues to swirl around how citizenship rules apply in U.S. territories. Public Safety & Courts: Police reported arrests in two separate domestic-related cases, including charges of disturbance and resisting arrest, and another case involving alleged threats and window damage. Community & Culture: Manu’atele marked the 122nd Anniversary of Manu’a Cession Day with church services, cultural events, and official ceremonies.

Birthright Citizenship Push: U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith introduced the “End Birthright Citizenship for Territories Act,” aiming to limit citizenship at birth in Guam, Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands—sparking backlash from Guam and CNMI leaders who warn it could create stateless outcomes and violate existing territorial rights. Deep-Sea Mining Fight: American Samoa’s opposition to federal deep-sea mining continues to grow as youth and community members held a “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration, while Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata reiterated her consistent stance and Earthjustice highlighted concerns about fast-tracked leasing and lack of revenue sharing. Budget & Governance: The American Samoa Government submitted its FY2027 proposed budget to the Fono—$789.3 million, down 2%—with hearings set to begin July 27. Local Public Safety: Police court reports include multiple disturbance and threats cases, including one involving an alleged knife threat and another involving alleged payroll check alterations. Travel & Health Rules: DOH reminded travelers they can bring only 10 total food units from Samoa for personal use and must declare properly labeled medications. Community & Culture: Manu’atele marked the 122nd Anniversary of Manu’a Cession Day, and Boys & Girls Clubs wrapped up its “Save the Music” DIY ukulele project. Sports & Events: American Samoa welcomed plans for visiting endurance runners and hosted a welcome dinner for the WBSC Oceania U15 Women’s Softball World Cup qualifier.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Interior Department/BOEM has advanced a proposed deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters off American Samoa, with a possible November 19, 2026 auction—prompting fresh Pacific backlash over environmental harm, cultural risk, and even concerns about naturally occurring radioactive materials being released during mining or processing. Local Political Response: Gov. Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says the ASG is reviewing the Proposed Lease Notice during a 60-day comment period and has already submitted stipulations, while Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata reiterates her opposition and says “no one else speaks for her.” Birthright Citizenship Fight: U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith’s bill to end birthright citizenship in some U.S. territories is drawing pushback from Guam and CNMI leaders, who warn it could create stateless outcomes and conflict with territorial agreements. Federal Funding & Governance: The U.S. House passed a government funding extension to Dec. 4, and Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata welcomed the move and a hearing on shutdown reform. Public Safety & Courts: Several local cases landed in court this week, including alleged threats during domestic disputes and a separate case involving altered payroll checks. Travel Rules: DOH reminded travelers they can bring only 10 total units of food/medication from Samoa for personal use, with unlabeled or commercial quantities subject to seizure. Community & Culture: Manu’atele marked the 122nd Anniversary of Manu’a Cession Day, and Boys & Girls Clubs wrapped up a “Save the Music” DIY ukulele project.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Interior/BOEM has released a Proposed Leasing Notice to move toward deep-sea mineral leases off American Samoa, with a potential lease sale set for Nov. 19—prompting fresh Pacific-wide backlash over environmental and public health risks, including concerns about naturally occurring radioactivity and calls that the ocean and culture “can’t be leased.” Local Political Response: Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says the ASG will review and comment during the 60-day window, citing concerns for tuna canning and other sectors, while Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata reiterates her unchanged opposition and says no one else speaks for her. Community & Governance: Swains Island Rep. Alexander Jennings again asks the Fono for FY2027 transportation funding ($300,000) to restore predictable government-supported trips. Public Safety Leadership: Governor Pulaali’i nominates Commander Lauti Tautalasoo Moliga as Commissioner of Public Safety, awaiting Fono confirmation when the legislature reconvenes July 27. Local Courts & Crime: A Nu’uuli storeowner reports a suspect accused of altering payroll checks; separate cases include arrests tied to alleged threats with a knife and a rake. Sports & Events: The U15 Women’s Softball World Cup qualifier gets an official welcome dinner hosted by the Lt. Governor, ASTCA, and the Governor’s Drug Control Office. Other: A new report highlights radioactivity “blind spots” in deep-sea mining rules, while a local fundraising campaign by Marist Brothers Old Pupils Association concludes successfully.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: American Samoa leaders and Pacific voices are condemning BOEM’s Proposed Leasing Notice for offshore mineral extraction, with Governor Pulaali’i saying the ASG will review and comment during the 60-day period while warning impacts to the tuna canning industry and other sectors; Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata also reaffirmed her unchanged opposition, saying “no one else speaks for her.” New Environmental Warnings: A fresh report flags a “scientific blind spot” on radioactivity, citing studies that found radioactive elements on polymetallic nodules and raising concerns about what could happen if materials are released during mining or processing. Citizenship Fight in U.S. Territories: Guam and CNMI leaders urged Rep. Morgan Griffith to withdraw a bill ending birthright citizenship in U.S. territories, arguing it could create statelessness and that territorial covenants can’t be changed unilaterally. Public Safety Leadership: Governor Pulaali’i nominated Commander Lauti Tautalasoo Moliga to be Commissioner of Public Safety, awaiting Fono confirmation when the legislature reconvenes July 27. Local Governance & Justice: Swains Island faipule Alexander Jennings again asked the Fono for $300,000 in FY2027 transportation support; meanwhile, police reported arrests tied to alleged paycheck alteration/forgery and separate knife and rake-related threats.

Deep-Sea Mining Showdown: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata reiterated her unchanged opposition to seabed mining around American Samoa, saying “no one else speaks for her” and pointing to her repeated public statements and filings. Local Government Response: Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula acknowledged BOEM’s Proposed Lease Notice and said ASG has submitted stipulations, will review during the 60-day comment period, and is pressing concerns about impacts to the tuna canning industry and other sectors. Fresh Pushback from the Region: Pacific leaders and environmental groups condemned the U.S. move to advance offshore mineral leasing despite tens of thousands of public comments, warning it could threaten ocean life and cultural livelihoods. New Scientific Alarm: A new report highlights a “scientific blind spot” on radioactivity, citing studies that found naturally occurring radioactive elements on targeted nodules and raising worries about what could happen if material is released during mining or processing. Public Safety & Courts: A man accused of threatening a woman with a knife outside a Tafuna business was arrested and charged with public and private peace disturbance; separately, a woman reported her brother’s alleged threats and disturbance, leading to his arrest. Budget & Transportation: Swains Island faipule Alexander Jennings again asked the Fono for $300,000 in FY2027 support to restore predictable government-backed transport. Public Safety Leadership: Governor Pulaali’i nominated Commander Lauti Tautalasoo Moliga to be Commissioner of Public Safety, awaiting Fono confirmation when the legislature reconvenes July 27.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. moved ahead with a Proposed Leasing Notice for deep-sea mineral extraction off American Samoa, setting up a potential Nov. 19 lease sale and triggering fresh Pacific backlash over radioactive risks, environmental harm, and ignored public opposition. Governor’s Response: Gov. Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says BOEM/DOI kept communication “transparent,” but he’s still pressing concerns—especially for the tuna canning industry—during a 60-day comment period. Congresswoman Amata: Uifa’atali Amata reiterated her opposition, saying her stance hasn’t changed and “no one else speaks for her.” Local Governance & Public Safety: Swains Island Rep. Alexander Jennings again asked the Fono for FY2027 transportation funding ($300,000) to restore reliable trips for residents. Meanwhile, Gov. Pulaali’i nominated Commander Lauti Tautalasoo Moliga to lead Public Safety, with Fono confirmation expected when the legislature reconvenes July 27. Community Notes: A family fire in Ottoville displaced 14 people, and the Marist Brothers Old Pupils Association wrapped up a fundraising drive for St Joseph’s College renovations.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Department of the Interior and BOEM have issued a Proposed Leasing Notice to move forward with deep-sea mineral leasing off American Samoa, with a potential lease sale set for Nov. 19 and the governor given a 60-day comment window before a final notice. Local & Congressional Response: Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula says ASG has raised environmental concerns tied to the tuna canning industry and will keep reviewing the notice, while Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata reaffirmed her consistent opposition, stressing “no one else speaks for her.” Pacific Backlash: Pacific leaders and environmental groups condemned the plan, pointing to about 70,000 public comments opposing extraction and warning of risks including radioactive materials and broader ecological harm. New Safety/Health Debate: A fresh report highlights a “scientific blind spot” around radioactivity tied to seabed mining, citing studies that found elevated radium-226 and radon release concerns. Public Safety & Community: A July 17 fire in Ottoville displaced 14 people; officials and the Red Cross are coordinating help and donations.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Department of the Interior/BOEM has issued a Proposed Leasing Notice for deep-sea mineral activities off American Samoa, setting up a Nov. 19 lease sale and a 60-day comment window for Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula—while critics warn the move could harm marine life and the tuna canning economy. Local Response & Process: The Governor says DOI/BOEM communication has been “transparent,” notes ASG has already submitted lease stipulations, and urges public participation during the comment period. Public Backlash: Pacific voices and local groups say the timeline ignores tens of thousands of opposing comments and argue the ocean is cultural heritage, not a commodity. Citizenship Politics: A new push in Congress targets birthright citizenship in U.S. territories, following the Supreme Court’s birthright ruling—raising fresh questions for American Samoa’s status in federal debates. Public Safety & Community: A July 17 Ottoville fire displaced 14 people, with Red Cross support and a community call for donations. Regional Governance: SPC Director-General Dr. Paula Vivili completed a first visit to American Samoa, meeting the Governor and Cabinet on health, fisheries, marine resources, energy, environment, infrastructure, and economic development. Civic Engagement: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata congratulated a student representing American Samoa at the Close Up NextGen Roundtable in Washington, D.C.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Marine Minerals Administration and BOEM moved ahead with proposed deep-sea mining leasing off American Samoa, setting up a Nov. 19 auction for two 20-year lease areas covering about 33 million acres, with minimum bids of $3 million and royalties starting at $1.25 per acre; the governor has 60 days to comment before a final notice. Local & Regional Backlash: Pacific leaders and environmental advocates say the plan ignores tens of thousands of public comments and threatens marine life, culture, and livelihoods, with critics warning radioactivity risks and irreversible ecosystem impacts. Federal Process Scrutiny: One report notes the rules give only the governor a formal review role before the sale is finalized, drawing criticism of how much local input the process allows. Citizenship Fight Reaches Territories: House Republicans advanced a bill to end automatic birthright citizenship in most U.S. territories, reviving a debate that follows the Supreme Court’s recent birthright ruling on the mainland. Civic Life & Governance: Toastmasters District 49 earned top international recognition, while the Fono took a recess and lawmakers sought fire investigation reports from the Department of Search and Rescue.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Marine Minerals Administration and BOEM moved ahead with proposed offshore mineral leasing off American Samoa, including a Nov. 19, 2026 lease sale for about 31–33 million acres and 20-year leases, with minimum bids of $3 million and escalating royalties—while Pacific leaders and environmental advocates say the process ignores tens of thousands of public comments and threatens marine life and culture. Local Governance & Process: Under federal rules, Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula has 60 days to review and comment before a final leasing notice, drawing criticism that no other local officials or residents hold the formal review role. Environmental Concerns: A new report from the Deep Sea Mining Campaign warns radioactivity tied to seabed nodules has been largely overlooked, adding to worries about ecological and health impacts. Regional Security Advocacy: A Pacific peace alliance urged leaders to resist missile tests and U.S.-led war games, calling the ocean a “zone of peace.” Civic/Community Notes: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata marked Manu’a Flag Day, and Toastmasters District 49 earned the Smedley Distinguished District designation for 2025–2026.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Marine Minerals Administration and BOEM moved ahead with proposed seabed mining off American Samoa, including a Nov. 19 lease sale for about 31–33 million acres and 20-year leases with minimum $3 million bids, as the governor is given 60 days to comment before a final notice. Local & Regional Backlash: The plan is drawing immediate criticism from Pacific communities and advocacy groups, with American Samoa leaders and others calling for a moratorium and warning that decisions are being made without meaningful local consent. Environmental Concerns—Radioactivity Added: A new report from the Deep Sea Mining Campaign says threats tied to mining radioactivity—like alpha-emitting isotopes on polymetallic nodules and radon release—have been largely unexamined in peer-reviewed work. Federal Process & Public Input: Coverage notes BOEM’s timeline has been challenged despite tens of thousands of public comments, and that the proposed leasing notice would require lessees to make “every reasonable effort” to hire Samoans and use local businesses and the Port of Pago Pago. Territorial Governance: Separate reporting highlights that, under federal rules, only the governor has a formal review role before the sale is finalized. Other Politics: The House passed the Sunshine Protection Act to make daylight saving time permanent, while American Samoa is listed among places that do not observe it.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. Marine Minerals Administration has moved ahead with plans to auction about 31 million acres of seabed off American Samoa for critical minerals, with a Nov. 19 sale date and minimum bids of $3 million; Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula has 60 days to respond before a final notice is expected in October, while critics warn of major environmental harm and say the move bypasses Pacific concerns. Local Governance & Oversight: A report highlights that, under federal rules for the proposed lease sale, only the governor has a formal review role before BOEM issues a final notice—drawing criticism after tens of thousands of public comments opposed the plan. Regional Security & Peace: Pacific peace groups are urging leaders to resist missile tests and U.S.-led war games in the Indo-Pacific, arguing the region should not become a proving ground for superpowers. Territory Civic Life: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata marked Manu’a Flag Day 2026, tying the 1904 cession to service members and military families. Other Federal Policy Watch: The U.S. House passed the Sunshine Protection Act to make daylight saving time permanent, though American Samoa is not a DST-observing territory.