Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula delivered the State of the Territory Address on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, when the 39th Legislature of American Samoa convened its Third Regular Session at the Gov. H. Rex Lee Auditorium. Following the Governor’s address, Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean spoke on behalf of the Fono, offering a counter balance to the governor’s highlights of his admin’s economic development efforts.

Attending the event were members of the Senate and House of Representatives,  which included the President of the Senate Tuaolo, Speaker of the House Savali Talavou Ale; and, Lieutenant Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr., Cabinet members, and honorary guests.

Invocation for the event was offered by Reverend Elder Faigata Manase of CCCAS Malaeloa, with their choir's beautiful voices resonating throughout the event.

STATE OF THE TERRITORY ADDRESS

In his Address, Governor Pulaalii highlighted economic development in the territory as their top priority, pointing to their efforts to diversify the economy, strengthen local businesses, and build long-term resilience following the COVID-19 pandemic. He stated that federal recovery funding has been strategically used to improve infrastructure and public services, and commended the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Office and partner agencies for their teamwork and progress.

In particular, Gov. Pualaali’i noted a forthcoming collaboration with Google —the "Le Vasa" cable — with it in the works to improve internet reliability, reduce service disruptions, and will expand access to online education, healthcare, and digital services.

In closing, Governor Pulaali’i encouraged the three branches of government — Judiciary, Legislature and Executive to continue collaboration, responsible leadership, and service to the people of American Samoa. He emphasized that lasting progress is achieved through unity and a shared dedication to building a stronger future for the Territory.

“Let us have a great year of love, respect, and hope,” the governor concluded.

FONO RESPONSE

The Senate President’s response on behalf of the Fono expressed concern that legislators had not yet received any substantive documentation or evidence to support the numerous accomplishments cited by the governor in his address. He said the State of the Territorial Comprehensive Report which should be available in the coming weeks would allow the Fono to respond accordingly.

(The State of the Territorial Comprehensive Report comprises detailed information of the progress from all ASG departments.)

Tuaolo continued that to date, no new revenue measures or financial proposals have been submitted for the Fono's review and approval. This lack of transparency, he said, raises questions about fiscal responsibility and legislative oversight, both crucial to maintaining the integrity of government operations.

In light of these issues, Tuaolo urged the government to explore new revenue sources, including the possibility of introducing sales taxes, to ensure the long-term sustainability of vital government services and infrastructure.

In addition to revenue concerns, Tuaolo reminded attendees that funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) is expected to expire at the end of 2026, prompting urgent consideration of the territory's financial strategies.

He further pointed out that while ARPA funding is expected to cover $15 million of the costs for the critical Google cable installation project, the total project budget is $45 million. This raises significant concerns about the remaining $30 million needed to complete the project, prompting Tuaolo to question from where the additional funds will come.

Another issue raised by Tuaolo concerned the immigration bond for foreign nationals seeking to reside in American Samoa.

He urged the Attorney General to consider raising the bond to $10,000, given the increasing number of immigrants arriving in the territory, which has implications for local resources and community dynamics.

BACKGROUND

In November, the Attorney General’s office announced new immigration bond fees, which have significantly affected fees across various countries. These new regulations have led to bond amounts doubling for many countries, while approximately 30 others will retain their existing lower bond levels.

Notably, China's immigration bond remains capped at $2,300, while in contrast, Portugal has the highest bond fees exceeding $5,000, followed by Iran, Israel, and Slovenia, each with bond amounts surpassing $4,000.