Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The Fono went on recess on Monday, September 30th, after completing 40 days of the Fourth Regular Session of the 38th Legislature.

Earlier last month, Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean explained that this recess was intended to allow members of both chambers to experience the proceedings of the final five days of the session inside the new Fono building.

This was supported by a Senate Concurrent Resolution which was unanimously passed on Monday that, “adjourns the Legislature sine die (with no appointed day of resumption) and allow for an extended recess of the Fourth Regular Session of the 38th Legislature.”

The concurrent resolution resolves that each respective chamber “shall reconvene on a business day of which both memberships shall agree upon, but shall not exceed the date in which current regular session adjourns and closes.”

According to the contract agreement between the government and Paramount Builders, Inc., construction of the main Fono building, which will accommodate both chambers, is scheduled to be completed by November 30th, 2024.

Hence the dedication of the new Fono building and the official closing of the 38th Legislature is anticipated for early December.

At the last Senate hearing on the new Fono building on September 17th, where Paramount Builders owner Papalii Laulii Alofa and DPW Director Faleosina Voight testified, President Tuaolo made it clear to the owner of Paramount Builders that regardless of whether the Fono building is completed by November, the building should be opened.

“This is the 38th Legislature of American Samoa,” Tuaolo said. "The fourth and final regular session should end on the 45th day, which falls on October 4th. However, we have decided to take a month-long recess after the 40th day and hold the session for the last five days, including the official closing of the 38th Legislature, in the new Fono building.

“This is my advice to you, Papalii: Whether the new Fono building is finished or not, the dedication ceremony must occur. I want Senate and House of Representatives members to occupy their seats in their respective chambers when the building is dedicated and officially opened because some will not return. That is my request.

Papalii Laulii had asked for two weeks to return and give an update on the construction.

But Senate President Tuaolo said Monday that Papalii will not appear before the Senate again. Instead, the committee will inspect the building and report back if it’s feasible to open the building in November.

A joint committee has been named to monitor the project and report back to the Fono leaders.

The House members are Chairman Vailoata Amituanai, Ape Mike Asifoa, Manumaua Wayne Wilson, Manavaalofa Manase, Avagafono Maiava, and Fiu Johnny Saelua. The Senate members are Chairman Satele Lilio Satele, Malaepule Saite Moliga, Utu Sila Poasa, Ponemafua Tapeni, and Ma’o Faauma Gogo.