AGP Executive Report

Birthright Citizenship Court Fight: A New Hampshire judge signaled Trump’s latest birthright citizenship orders may require a new lawsuit, after the ACLU asked whether an earlier injunction covers the new executive orders. Media Freedom in the Pacific: Emmy-winning Sāmoan journalist Tamara Vaifanua told Pacific reporters to “take up space,” sharing investigative and editorial lessons during a U.S. Embassy media exchange in Apia. Elder Care Medicaid Access: An editor’s letter says approved Medicaid services for elderly residents and people with disabilities can’t be enrolled locally due to an insufficient match, calling for clear answers from the Fono. Literacy Push: Second Lady Usha Vance’s Summer Reading Challenge ended with 30,000+ children in American Samoa and across U.S. jurisdictions logging 360,000+ books. Sea Turtle Protections: The Western Pacific Fishery Council urged faster green sea turtle status reviews for Guam, CNMI, and American Samoa, citing cultural harvest needs. Victim Services Funding: DOJ announced a VOCA victim assistance grant for the American Samoa Criminal Justice Planning Agency for 2026–2029. Retirement Fund Pressure: ASG’s unpaid Government Employees Retirement Fund contributions reportedly reached $31.2 million as senators questioned a proposed step-down/step-up contribution schedule. Coral Reef Grants: NFWF awarded $2.1 million to projects including American Samoa to boost coral resilience and reduce reef threats. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: American Samoa lawmakers urged the governor to recommend stopping or suspending the PACM-2 offshore mineral lease sale, citing long-term risks and lack of enforceable local protections. Local Crime Update: Police arrested suspects in a Tafuna-area scrape-metal theft case after viral Facebook posts helped drive the investigation.

Anti-Kickback Law: The American Samoa Senate unanimously approved the Anti‑Kickback Prohibition Act of 2026, aiming to close procurement oversight gaps with a territory-wide ban on kickbacks, gratuities, and referral fees across government contracting. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: American Samoa and Guam leaders warned the federal government not to rush commercial deep-sea mining, saying the ocean is vital to island communities and the risks are still unknown. Coral Reef Funding: NFWF announced $2.1 million in grants (with $1.2 million in matching support) to boost coral reef resilience in Florida, Hawai‘i, American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. ASG Investment Delayed: A first tranche tied to ASG’s $10 million UAE pension fund investment didn’t land on Sept. 18, with MBT citing discrepancies and a delayed closing. Public Safety & Courts: Police arrested two men after a theft ring allegation involving scrap-metal tire rims, with charges including trespass and stealing. Telecom & Directories: An online directory operator urged ASTCA to share subscriber-list data, citing federal law requiring carriers to provide it for publishing directories. Health Watch: CDC data show dengue is rising in the U.S.; American Samoa is also seeing hundreds of cases. USPS Hiring: USPS is running free virtual job fairs starting Sept. 22, with eligibility open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and citizens of American Samoa.

Anti-Kickback Law: The American Samoa Senate unanimously approved the Anti‑Kickback Prohibition Act of 2026, aiming to close procurement oversight gaps with a single, enforceable territory-wide standard covering kickbacks, gratuities, and referral fees across government contracting. Local Governance & Oversight: Lawmakers questioned the American Samoa Zoning Board’s enforcement role after concerns that some businesses may be running multiple ventures from one location in ways that could violate zoning and licensing rules. Public Safety: Police arrested two men tied to an alleged scrap-metal theft ring after Facebook posts helped lead investigators to the suspects, who face trespass and stealing charges. Finance Watch: A first payment tied to ASG’s $10 million UAE pension investment did not land on Sept. 18 as expected, with the deal delayed after “discrepancies” were found in closing paperwork. Health Funding: The American Samoa Department of Health received a CDC grant to support health data collection and health equity work through BRFSS surveys. Coral Reefs: NFWF awarded $2.1 million in grants for coral reef resilience projects in Florida, Hawai‘i, American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Health Alert: Florida reported its first dengue death of 2026 as cases rise; CDC data also show American Samoa among territories with hundreds of cases. Jobs: USPS is hosting free virtual job fairs for applicants eligible to work in American Samoa and other U.S. territories.

Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: American Samoa and Guam leaders are urging the U.S. not to rush deep-sea mining, warning the ocean is not a “sacrificial zone,” as federal plans move toward permits and a Marianas lease sale. Local Health & Data: The American Samoa Department of Health won a CDC grant for targeted BRFSS health data collection, while OHSU’s pediatric eye team is screening about 230 students this week. Public Safety & Enforcement: A coordinated Fagatogo operation led to four arrests in a drug bust involving DHS, DPS, and the AG investigative team. Consumer Rules: The Senate approved new product labeling standards for goods sold in American Samoa, including English labels and Samoan translation where feasible. Community Services: USPS is recruiting with free virtual job fairs, and American Samoans are eligible. Health Alerts: CDC data shows American Samoa among the highest dengue case counts in U.S. territories, as Florida reports its first 2026 death. Culture & Travel: Hokulea’s Moananuiakea voyage is paused due to weather, and Oceania Cruises opened 2028 Aurelia segments that include a Pago Pago stop.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: American Samoa Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula says the territory does not support commercial deep-sea mineral extraction right now, urging BOEM to focus early lease activity on science and environmental study as the PACM-1 process moves forward. Fisheries Access & Rose Atoll: The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council backed changes that could let larger American Samoa longline vessels fish between 12 and 50 nautical miles from Muliava/Rose Atoll once monument-based bans are lifted, while waters within 12 miles stay closed. Local Governance: Senior DPS officers plan grievances over a governor-ordered promotion to Deputy Commissioner, saying the post should have been open for competition. ASCC Leadership Transition: The ASCC president created an ad hoc committee to manage the college’s leadership and operations transition, covering academics, finances, facilities, tech, HR, and accreditation. Public Health Funding: The Department of Health received a CDC grant to strengthen health data collection and health equity through BRFSS surveys. Vision Screening: An OHSU pediatric eye team is screening about 230 students at Matafao Elementary, then traveling to Manu‘a. Consumer Rules: The Senate approved new product labeling standards for goods sold in the territory, including required label details and enforcement penalties. Crime Update: A coordinated Fagatogo operation led to four arrests in a drug bust involving DHS, DPS, and the AG investigative team. Time Change Reminder: Daylight saving time ends Nov. 1, 2026 at 2 a.m., when clocks “fall back” one hour.

Deep-Sea Mining Pressure: Environmental and community groups are urging Gov. David Apatang to use a narrow federal rule to recommend stopping a Northern Marianas deep-sea mining lease sale, ahead of an Oct. 19 deadline—while Interior officials say permits could come “within months.” Local Response: Apatang says he won’t ask Interior to pause or cancel the sale, pointing instead to formal comments and pending lawsuits. Fisheries Access Near Rose Atoll: The Western Pacific Fishery Council backed changes that would let larger American Samoa longliners fish 12 to 50 nautical miles from Muliava/Rose Atoll once monument-based prohibitions are lifted, keeping waters within 12 miles closed. Infrastructure & Health: ASTCA is set to receive $30 million for the Le Vasa Google Cable; the Department of Health received a CDC grant for disease prevention and health equity data; and an OHSU pediatric eye team begins school screenings across American Samoa. Public Safety & Governance: A coordinated Fagatogo drug bust led to four arrests; lawmakers questioned zoning enforcement after concerns about multiple businesses operating from one location; and senior DPS officers plan grievances over a governor-ordered promotion. Consumer Rules: The Senate passed a Product Labeling Standards Act requiring clear labeling, English rules, and Samoan translation when feasible.

Deep-Sea Mining Pressure: Environmental and community groups are urging Gov. David Apatang to use a federal rule to recommend stopping the Northern Marianas deep-sea mining lease sale, but Apatang says he won’t ask Interior to pause or cancel it before the Oct. 19 deadline, pointing to pending lawsuits and instead submitting formal comments. American Samoa Mining Response: Separately, Gov. Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula has submitted formal BOEM comments on American Samoa’s proposed PACM-1 lease, saying commercial extraction should not proceed now and that early work should focus on science and environmental study. Fisheries Access Near Rose Atoll: The Western Pacific Regional Fishery Management Council advanced changes that would allow larger American Samoa longline vessels to fish between 12 and 50 nautical miles from Muliava/Rose Atoll once monument-based prohibitions are lifted, while keeping waters within 12 miles closed. Local Governance & Oversight: Lawmakers questioned the American Samoa Zoning Board’s enforcement after concerns that some businesses operate multiple ventures from one location, potentially violating zoning and safety rules. Public Safety: A coordinated Fagatogo drug bust led to four arrests. Health Funding: The Department of Health received a CDC grant of $324,271 for health data collection and equity work. Telecom Funding: Federal grants totaling $30 million were reported for the Le Vasa Google Cable project. Education & Care: An OHSU pediatric eye team is screening about 230 students, with follow-up in Manu‘a. Consumer Rules: The Senate passed a Product Labeling Standards Act requiring clear labeling for goods sold in the territory, including English and Samoan where feasible. DST Reminder: Daylight saving time ends Nov. 1, 2026 at 2 a.m., when clocks “fall back” one hour.

Deep-Sea Mining Watch: American Samoa Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula told BOEM commercial extraction should not move forward now, urging early steps focus on science and environmental study as PACM-1 review continues. Fisheries & Rose Atoll: The Western Pacific Fishery Council backed changes that would let larger American Samoa longliners fish 12–50 nautical miles from Muliava/Rose Atoll once monument-based bans are lifted, while keeping waters within 12 miles closed. Health Funding: The Department of Health received a CDC grant of $324,271 to strengthen health data collection and equity through BRFSS surveys. Vision Screening: An OHSU pediatric eye team is in American Samoa for a week to screen about 230 students, starting at Matafao Elementary, with follow-ups in Manu‘a. Broadband Push: Federal Commerce grants total $30 million for the Le Vasa Google Cable project, aimed at building a digital economy. Public Safety: A coordinated Fagatogo drug bust led to four arrests. Local Governance: Lawmakers questioned the Zoning Board’s enforcement after concerns about multiple ventures operating in one location. Education: ASCC leadership transition is underway with an ad hoc committee reviewing operations and needs. Consumer Rules: The Senate passed a Product Labeling Standards Act requiring clear labels, English plus Samoan when feasible, and penalties for deceptive packaging.

Public Health Funding: The American Samoa Department of Health received a $324,271 CDC grant to strengthen health data collection and health equity through BRFSS surveys. More CDC Support: A separate CDC award of $255,100 backs vaccine-preventable disease prevention and response efforts in the territory. Local Crime: A coordinated Fagatogo operation involving DHS, DPS, and the AG’s investigative team led to four arrests tied to drug charges. Consumer Rules: The Senate passed the Product Labeling Standards Act of 2026, setting new requirements for labels on consumer goods, including English and Samoan translation rules where feasible, plus penalties for misleading labeling. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: Environmental and community groups are urging Gov. David M. Apatang to use federal authority to stop a Northern Marianas lease sale, while American Samoa’s Gov. Pula submitted comments to BOEM opposing commercial extraction for now. Governance Watch: Lawmakers questioned the Zoning Board’s enforcement role after concerns about multiple ventures operating from one location. Tech Scam Warning: A new report highlights how AI-driven voice scams are draining household accounts, especially targeting older residents.

Deep-Sea Mining Response: American Samoa Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula submitted formal comments to BOEM on the proposed PACM-1 lease, saying the territory does not support commercial deep-sea mineral extraction now and urging any early steps to stay focused on science and environmental study. Fisheries Access Clarity: The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council clarified that once monument-based fishing prohibitions are removed, large vessels in American Samoa’s longline limited-entry program can fish from 12 to 50 nautical miles—while waters within 12 miles of Muliāva remain closed. Local Governance & Oversight: In a joint Fono budget hearing, ASTCA CEO Folasaitu Sorepa Thomas faced direct questioning over a child support payment reportedly made using ASTCA funds for former CEO Chuck Leota, with lawmakers also probing A-250 spending. Public Health Notice: The American Samoa Power Authority says residents served by the Nu’uuli Water Filtration Plant must keep boiling water because the plant can’t consistently meet federal turbidity treatment standards. Infrastructure Update: Renovations to the A.P. Lutali Executive Office Building are now projected to finish by February 2027, with ARPA funding and rental costs for displaced departments part of the budget discussion. Community & Safety: Police reported domestic and assault cases across the territory, including a machete threat arrest and additional arrests tied to assaults in Aua. Education: Southern New Hampshire University named multiple American Samoa students to its Summer 2026 President’s and Dean’s Lists. Culture & Language: A Samoan mother’s journey learning te reo Māori is gaining attention online through videos comparing te reo Māori and Gagana Sāmoa. Swains Island Voting: The Senate approved procedures for electing the Swains Island Delegate, setting rules for eligible voters and candidate petitions before the bill goes to the House.

Daylight Saving Time: Americans still have to “fall back” on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026 at 2 a.m., even though a House-passed bill to make DST permanent is still stuck in the Senate. Tax Refunds: Treasury says tax refund checks for April 24 and April 27 filers will be available for pickup today (Sept. 17) at the Disbursing Office in Pago Pago starting at 12 p.m., with ID required. Public Safety: Tafuna Police arrested a man after an alleged machete threat during a domestic dispute involving a pregnant victim; charges include private peace disturbance and assault. Water Safety: ASPA issued a boil-water notice for customers served by the Nu’uuli Water Filtration Plant after turbidity treatment failed federal standards; it says this is not an emergency but requires boiling. Deep-Sea Mining: Gov. Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula submitted formal comments to BOEM opposing commercial deep-sea mineral extraction for now, urging science-based safeguards if federal steps move forward. Fisheries Access: The Western Pacific Fishery Council clarified rules around Muliāva/Rose Atoll, including how longline access may work once monument-based prohibitions are lifted. Governance & Accountability: The Fono pressed ASTCA leadership over spending questions tied to the A-250 celebrations and a child support payment made using ASTCA funds. Swains Island Voting: The Senate approved procedures for electing the Swains Island Delegate, setting eligibility and nomination rules before the bill goes to the House.

Deep-Sea Mining Watch: Interior Secretary Doug Burgum says U.S. deep-sea mining permits could be issued within months, as American Samoa’s 60-day governor review of BOEM’s PACM-1 lease sale nears its Sept. 15 deadline. Local Governance & Accountability: The Senate grilled ASTCA board members over American250 spending, including a claim ASTCA funds were used for a child support payment without board approval. Public Health: ASPA issued a boil-water notice for residents served by the Nu’uuli Water Filtration Plant after the system couldn’t consistently meet federal turbidity standards. Courts & Voting Rights: Alaska dropped felony voter misconduct charges against 11 American Samoan residents in Whittier after an appeals ruling required proof of intent to deceive. Fisheries: The Western Pacific Fishery Council advanced discussions on fishing access around Rose Atoll (Muliāva) and other Western Pacific measures, including longline sea turtle rules. Health Funding: American Samoa’s Department of Health received a CDC grant to strengthen vaccine-preventable disease prevention and response. Community Safety: Police reported arrests tied to alleged assaults in Aua, and a separate domestic violence case in Vailoa involving threats and assaults. Education: A new Pacific literacy report found less than half of Year 4 students met reading benchmarks in 2025.

Public Safety: Police say alleged domestic violence in Vailoa led to arrests after a firearm threat and multiple assaults, with charges including private peace disturbance and assault counts. Water Safety: Nu’uuli Water Filtration Plant customers are told to keep boiling water after the plant failed to consistently meet federal turbidity treatment standards. Local Governance: The Senate Government Operations Committee grilled ASTCA board members over American250 spending, including claims ASTCA money was used for a child support payment without board approval. Deep-Sea Mining Watch: Interior Secretary Doug Burgum says U.S. deep-sea mining permits could come within months, while American Samoa’s 60-day governor review of BOEM’s PACM-1 proposal is nearing its end. Fisheries & Marine Access: The Western Pacific Fishery Council advanced discussions on fishing access around Rose Atoll (Muliāva) and other monument-related measures affecting American Samoa. Health Funding: Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata announced a CDC grant to strengthen American Samoa’s vaccine-preventable disease prevention and response. Community & Culture: Vaitogi village begins its annual “SA” curfew tradition at 6 p.m. Tuesday, running to 6 p.m. Wednesday. Regional Note: Alaska dropped felony voter misconduct charges against Whittier residents born in American Samoa after a court ruling required proof of intent to deceive.

Deep-Sea Mining Push: American Samoa’s 60-day review of BOEM’s proposed deep-sea mining lease sale is due to end Sept. 15, with a potential Nov. lease sale ahead; the proposal covers millions of acres offshore and hinges on BOEM’s next steps. Territory Water Safety: Nu’uuli Water Filtration Plant customers must keep boiling water because the plant can’t consistently meet federal turbidity treatment standards, with ASPA working under a corrective action order. Fisheries Access Talks: The Western Pacific Fishery Management Council advanced discussions on fishing access in Pacific marine monuments, including possible changes around Rose Atoll (Muliāva), while deferring some actions to Sept. 16. Public Health Funding: American Samoa’s Department of Health received a CDC grant ($255,100) to strengthen vaccine-preventable disease prevention, monitoring, and response. Local Governance Scrutiny: Senate hearings questioned ASTCA spending on A-250 celebrations and the spending’s budget basis. Crime & Courts: Alaska dropped felony voter misconduct cases against Whittier residents born in American Samoa after a ruling required proof of intent to deceive. Community Notices: Vaitogi village begins its annual “SA” curfew at 6 p.m. Sept. 15 through 6 p.m. Sept. 16.

Deep-Sea Mining Deadline: American Samoa Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula has until Sept. 15 to review and comment on the U.S. proposed deep-sea mining lease sale offshore, with a potential Nov. 19 auction next. Local Governance: The Fono refused to hold an ASTCA budget hearing, saying the authority lacked a board—despite a new board being appointed—adding fresh tension between the legislature and the governor. Health Alert: ASPA is keeping a boil-water notice in place for areas served by the Nu’uuli Water Filtration Plant, urging residents to boil water and take extra care if they’re pregnant, elderly, or immunocompromised. Food Safety Crackdown: DOH shut down two retail food stores—Gold Conda Store (Vaitogi) and JKL Food Center (Futiga)—after sanitation and public health violations. Fisheries Monitoring: Samoa hosted a regional fisheries monitoring workshop with training on the Ikasavea data system and fish biological sampling for American Samoa, Samoa, and Tokelau. Maritime Security: The USCGC Joseph Gerczak returned to Honolulu after a 52-day Operation Blue Pacific patrol, including boardings with Pacific partners and a stop in American Samoa. Voting Case Update: Alaska dropped felony voter misconduct charges against American Samoan residents in Whittier after a court ruled prosecutors must prove intent to deceive.

Deep-Sea Mining Deadline: American Samoa Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula has until Sept. 15 to review and comment on a proposed U.S. deep-sea mining lease sale, with a potential Nov. 19 auction and final leasing notice expected in October. Regional Governance: CNMI is pushing to keep its Pacific Islands Forum observer status and may seek associate membership to strengthen its regional voice. Maritime Security: The USCGC Joseph Gerczak returned to Honolulu after a 52-day Blue Pacific patrol, including port calls in American Samoa and operations targeting illegal fishing. Public Health: A boil water notice remains in effect for areas served by the Nu’uuli Water Filtration Plant, with vulnerable residents urged to take extra precautions. Food Safety Crackdown: DOH Environmental Health Services shut down two more stores—Gold Conda Store (Vaitogi) and JKL Food Center (Futiga)—over sanitation and public health violations. Fisheries Monitoring: Samoa hosted a regional workshop on fisheries monitoring, including the Ikasavea data system and fish biological sampling, with American Samoa among participants. Courts: U.S. prosecutors dropped felony voter misconduct cases against Whittier, Alaska residents born in American Samoa after an appeals court said an honest mistake on voter forms wasn’t enough to prove criminal intent. Local Governance Tension: The Fono refused to hold an ASTCA budget hearing, citing the authority’s lack of a board, as the governor appointed a new ASTCA board.