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 and minimum bids of $3 million—while opponents warn it’s a major step toward commercial mining. Local Opposition: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa formally passed a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in/near American Samoa waters and EEZ. Retirement Fund Changes: Gov. Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula sent legislation to the Fono to cut ASG’s Retirement Fund contribution rate from 14% to 8% for FY2026–FY2027, then 10% for FY2028, citing the current rate as “clearly 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, amid concerns about trafficking and other transnational crime. Public Safety Oversight: A Senate Public Safety Committee hearing will look into the territory’s fire response after reports of hydrants lacking water, and also into alleged unpaid overtime for corrections officers. Immigration Pressure: The administration is moving toward a 12-month moratorium on the “special provisions” clause that allows companies to bring in foreign workers, with a review of whether foreign populations can be sustained economically and socially. Robocall Crackdown (Policy Ripple): Attorneys general are urging the FCC to strengthen “Know Your Customer” rules to curb illegal robocalls and scams—an issue that could affect communications costs and enforcement across U.S. territories.