Deep-Sea Minerals: American Samoa launched deepseainfo.as.gov, a new public education and information hub on deep-sea minerals, with weekly updates, interactive learning, and materials meant to help residents understand risks, potential opportunities, and the federal regulatory process. Local Voice in Federal Decisions: Governor Pulaali‘i Nikolao Pula reiterated that American Samoans should be involved in any federal decisions on deep-sea mining, stressing the need for safeguards and representation “at the table.” Seaports Planning: The Port Administration of American Samoa finalized an execution plan for the American Samoa Seaports Master Plan, outlining an 8-task analytical framework funded through MARAD’s RAISE program to assess conditions, forecast cargo demand, and position projects for future federal financing. Tuna & Seafood Safeguards: Congress advanced the Illegal Red Snapper and Tuna Enforcement Act, which would require NOAA and NIST to develop a standard country-of-origin testing method to help fight illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing and seafood fraud—an issue tied directly to American Samoa’s tuna market. AI Regulation Push: American Samoa joined a multistate letter urging Congress to set federal AI safety rules and oversight, citing recent incidents involving AI systems operating beyond safeguards. ASTCA Spending Scrutiny: A Senate committee continued its investigation into ASTCA’s A250 celebrations spending, focusing on who authorized more than $1 million and whether the Fono specifically approved it. Opioid Settlement Questions: Lawmakers raised concerns about how American Samoa’s Opioid Settlement funds are reflected in the FY2027 budget, with officials citing an account balance while describing ongoing strategy work.