Maritime Security: Governor Pulaalii Nikolao Pula reaffirmed his formal request for a permanent U.S. Coast Guard station in American Samoa, including cutters and personnel based in Pago Pago Harbor, citing rising narcotics trafficking and other transnational crime concerns. Deep-Sea Mining Pushback: The Congregational Christian Church of American Samoa passed a resolution opposing deep-sea mining in or near the territory’s waters and EEZ, warning of ecological, cultural, and long-term risks. Deep-Sea Mining Policy Watch: A new U.S. proposal would hold a deep-sea mining lease sale in federal waters off American Samoa, with an auction tentatively set for Nov. 19, 2026—drawing criticism from environmental advocates and scientists. Local Budget & Pensions: The Governor sent the Fono legislation to amend ASG’s Retirement Fund contribution rate, moving toward an 8% rate for FY2026–FY2027 after calling the current 14% “unsustainable.” Immigration & Labor: A bill headed to the Fono would impose a 12-month moratorium on the “special provisions” clause used to bring in foreign workers, with a review report due from the AG and Immigration Board. Public Safety Oversight: The Senate Public Safety Committee scheduled a hearing on the territory’s spate of fires and related concerns, including fire hydrant water availability and unpaid police overtime. Consumer Protection (National): Attorneys general nationwide urged the FCC to strengthen “Know Your Customer” rules to curb illegal robocalls and scams—an issue that also intersects with local telecom and consumer safety.