Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The ASG Workmen’s Compensation Commission (WCC) Fund, “is up to $5 million since August 2022 — unconsolidated — compared to $1.2 million in FY2021,” according to the Governor’s State of the Territory Comprehensive Report, distributed to lawmakers early last week.

This is one of the Commission’s accomplishments last year, cited in the report, which notes that the Commission — which is under the Governor's Office — is established and locally funded under local law.

WCC oversees and enforces the local Workmen’s Compensation Act. It establishes and maintains injury/ death compensation for all working government and private sector employees injured on the job.

Other accomplishments by WCC last year, as cited in the Comprehensive Report, includes drafting and finalization of more than 200 proposed rules and regulations for the American Samoa Administrative Code.

Additionally, it initiated virtual informal hearings conducted by the Commission online. “This technological feat is now integrated as a set standard of the Commission’s operation,” according to WCC.

Furthermore, the Commission mediated a total of 32 compensation claim cases to successful settlements.

And finally, it implemented employer’s new and renewal Certificates of Compliance and Certificates of Non-Coverage for FY2023, which coincides with the commencement of the Commerce Department’s recent business license cycle.

Late last year, WCC issued a notice to “Employers/Business Owners” that regardless of the type of industry or business, any employer or business owner conducting official business in American Samoa must acquire:

• Workers Compensation Insurance with an authorized Insurance Carrier;

• Certificate of Compliance by WCC; and

• Certificate of Non-Coverage by the WCC - for exempt employers.

Employers/business owners are required to show and present these compliance records during random visitation or upon summoning by the Commission’s Office.

The notice also summarized penalties for violating the territory’s Workmen’s Compensation law.

The WCC is headed by Commissioner, Sagatea L. Filoialii.