AGP Executive Report

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.

Robocall Crackdown: American Samoa’s Attorney General Brenna Bird joined a bipartisan push urging the FCC to strengthen “Know Your Customer” rules to stop illegal robocalls before they reach the U.S. network. Deep-Sea Mining Fight: The Trump administration’s move toward a first-ever deep-sea mining lease sale in waters off American Samoa is drawing strong local opposition, with youth-led and community demonstrations calling for the plan to be stopped. Local Budget Watch: The American Samoa Government submitted its FY 2027 budget to the Fono, proposing $789.3 million in spending and outlining revenue and branch-by-branch funding changes as lawmakers prepare hearings. Road Funding Boost: DPW secured a $19.3 million BUILD grant to rebuild and modernize the Route 001 corridor between Leone and Nu’uuli, including drainage and traffic-safety upgrades. Food Safety Pressure: Public debate continues after Jade Restaurant’s re-opening, with residents questioning enforcement and the DOH’s authority under Title 25 to suspend or revoke health permits. Court/Legal Process: A Senate confirmation hearing is set for an Administrative Law Judge appointment, following the Governor’s selection of Roy J. D. Hall Jr.

Deep-Sea Mining Push Meets Local Resistance: Youth, elders, educators, conservation advocates, fishermen, and government employees gathered at Utulei for “Stand with the Moana,” opposing proposed federal deep-sea mining leases off American Samoa; Earthjustice attorneys also say the territory could face the first commercial-scale mining impacts worldwide and are urging engagement in the federal process. Local Governance & Public Health: After Jade Restaurant reopened following a DOH closure tied to warehouse sanitation issues, residents are questioning enforcement and whether repeat violators should face tougher penalties; DOH says it can suspend or revoke permits under Title 25 but businesses may reopen after corrections and follow-up inspections. Infrastructure Funding: DPW secured a $19.3 million FY2026 BUILD grant to rebuild and modernize Route 001 between Leone and Nu’uuli, including drainage, traffic-safety, and roadway rehabilitation. Budget & Oversight: The Governor submitted the FY2027 budget to the Fono—$789.3 million total, down 2%—as hearings begin July 27. Judicial Appointments: Roy J.D. Hall Jr.’s nomination as Administrative Law Judge was submitted to the Senate for confirmation. Sports & Community: American Samoa will welcome the “Chasing Yesterday” endurance team for a marathon challenge raising awareness for children affected by alcohol addiction, and the WBSC Oceania U15 Women’s Softball World Cup Qualifier continues with an official welcome dinner.

Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: Youth, elders, educators, conservation advocates, and government employees gathered along Utulei for “Stand with the Moana,” a peaceful demonstration against proposed federal deep-sea mining leases in American Samoa waters, while local environmental groups say the territory would bear the risks without meaningful benefits. Local Budget Watch: The American Samoa Government submitted its FY 2027 budget to the Fono: $789.3 million total spending (down 2%), with hearings set to begin July 27 and lawmakers reviewing agency heads and proposed adjustments. Public Safety Leadership: Gov. Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula formally nominated Commander Lauti Tautalasoo Moliga to become the next Commissioner of Public Safety, awaiting Fono review when the legislature reconvenes July 27. Infrastructure Funding: DPW secured a $19.3 million BUILD grant to rebuild the Route 001 Leone to Nu’uuli road, targeting roadway, drainage, and traffic safety improvements. Citizenship Politics in the US Territories: Guam and CNMI leaders urged U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith to withdraw his bill to end birthright citizenship in territories, warning it could create statelessness and conflict with territory covenants. Sports & Community: American Samoa will welcome the “Chasing Yesterday” team for a two-marathon, date-line-crossing endurance effort supporting children affected by alcohol addiction, and Saina Willis was selected for the American Samoa National Team for the International Cup in Oklahoma City.

Deep-Sea Mining Push Meets Local Resistance: Youth, elders, educators, conservation advocates, fishermen, and government employees held a peaceful “Stand with the Moana” shoreline demonstration in Utulei against proposed federal deep-sea mining leases. Federal Lease Concerns: Attorneys with Earthjustice and Faasao Amerika Samoa say the U.S. is moving fast and that American Samoa could become the first commercial deep-sea mining site worldwide, with no revenue sharing. Fresh Health/Radioactivity Worries: New scientific warnings cite naturally occurring radioactive materials on targeted nodules, raising concerns about releases during mining or processing. Congresswoman Amata Reaffirms Opposition: Rep. Uifa’atali Amata says her stance against seabed mining in American Samoa waters is unchanged and that she speaks for herself. Budget Watch: The American Samoa Government submitted its FY2027 proposed budget to the Fono: $789.3 million total spending, down 2%, with 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, targeting safety and drainage upgrades. Citizenship Fight Reaches Territories: Guam and CNMI leaders urged U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith to withdraw his bill to end birthright citizenship in U.S. territories, warning it could create statelessness and conflict with territorial agreements. Sports & Community: American Samoa will welcome the “Chasing Yesterday” team for a Samoa-to-American Samoa marathon challenge supporting NACOA, and the territory’s U15 softball qualifier drew an official welcome dinner.

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.