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Latest Media Release From Faleomavaega Eni Hunkin  

   FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date:  October 24, 003

            Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he has followed up with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) on the on-going investigation of last year’s gas shortage in American Samoa.

            “Last year’s gas shortage was brought on, in part, by Exxon Mobil’s (and possibly BP’s) failure to add detergent additives to American Samoa’s gasoline supply,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “In fact, a Mobil tanker carrying 400 tons of fuel was diverted because the fuel was missing a detergent additive.

“Federal law (specifically the Clean Air Act) requires gasoline to contain a detergent additive to reduce the formation of deposits in motor vehicle engines.  To knowingly sell or distribute gasoline without this additive is a violation of federal law.”

“Although BP and Mobil are aware of these laws, one or both of these oil companies violated the law and, at my request, the USEPA began an investigation of this matter in November of last year,” Faleomavaega said.  “Because this has been an active and ongoing investigation, the USEPA has been limited in what it could say about this case.”

“However, I have been informed that as of June 2003 EPA Region 9 completed the investigative phase of my request and gathered and forwarded the evidence to USEPA headquarters in Washington, D.C.  This means that the case has entered the penalty phase and I have written to the Administrator-Designate, Mr. Michael Leavitt, and requested his assistance in expediting the outcome.”

            “In my letter dated October 24, 2003, I informed the Administrator that Exxon Mobil has admitted to my office that it failed to add federally required detergent additives to American Samoa’s gasoline supply for a period of two years or more.  I also said that while I am appreciative that Exxon Mobil has admitted to wrong doing, I am disappointed that Exxon Mobil failed to make this admission until I called for an investigation.”

            “Simply put, Exxon Mobil knew for a period of two years or more that it was supplying American Samoa with gasoline that did not meet federal requirements and at no time during this period did Exxon Mobil fully disclose that its gasoline was not compliant.  I have informed the USEPA that I do not believe that it takes a corporation more than two years to determine whether or not its gasoline complies with federal law and I object to Exxon Mobil’s last minute attempt to admit to wrong doing in hopes that its penalty will be reduced if this case is accepted under the terms of self-disclosure.”   

            “Given that Exxon Mobil supplied American Samoa with gasoline that was not compliant and did so for a period of two years or more, I can only conclude that Exxon Mobil’s actions were intentional and fraudulent,” Congressman Faleomavaega said, “and I believe American Samoa should be compensated accordingly for damages incurred.  At this time, it is my understanding that this case has entered into the penalty phase and USEPA is now considering what type of penalty to invoke.” 

“As I understand it, the USEPA could require any and all fines to be paid to the USEPA and this money would then be deposited in the U.S. Treasury for federal use.  The other penalty would require the guilty party or parties to compensate the American Samoa Government in some way that would be beneficial to the people who have been victimized by the actions of Exxon Mobil and/or BP.” 

            “Without question, I have informed the USEPA that I support a penalty which in some way compensates American Samoa.  Although I understand that the USEPA has undergone a change in Administrators since I first requested an investigation surrounding this matter, I have asked the USEPA to expedite the penalty phase of this investigation and do right by the people and government of American Samoa.  I am hopeful that Mr. Leavitt will support this request and will aggressively work to bring this case to a fair and expedited resolution,” the Congressman concluded. 

Date:  July 29, 2003

             Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that President Bush invited him to the White House for the signing of the Burmese Freedom and Democracy Act of 2003.  Only five other members of Congress attended the signing held in the Oval office on Monday July 28, 2003.  These members included Senator John McCain (R-AZ), Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Congressman Peter King (R-NY) and Congressman Tom Lantos (D-CA).  U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell also was in attendance.

             “More than 51 Members of Congress in the U.S. House of Representatives co-sponsored this important piece of legislation to sanction the ruling Burmese military junta to strengthen Burma’s democratic forces and support and recognize the National League of Democracy as the legitimate representative of the Burmese people,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “Congressman Tom Lantos, Ranking Member of the House Committee on International Relations, introduced this legislation and I am proud to also be an original cosponsor.”     

 “As the Ranking Member of the International Relations Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, I am also honored that President Bush invited me to be one of only six members of Congress to participate in this historic signing.  I also want to commend my good friend, Congressman Lantos, for his leadership and initiative.  Congressman Lantos is the only member of Congress who is a holocaust survivor and he is firmly committed to promoting democracy and peace throughout the world and in the Asia Pacific region.”

“Since a military junta took power in September 1988 and inflicted a wide array of human rights abuses against the Burmese people including rape, forced and child labor, and the drafting of child-soldiers, the U.S. has imposed sanctions against the government.  The Bush administration has called for international pressure on the government and Congress has also taken the matter very seriously by passing legislation which has now become Public Law 108-61,” Congressman Faleomavaega said. 

 “In brief, P.L. 108-61 authorizes the President to take such action as may be necessary to freeze funds and assets of the Burmese government until the military junta ends violations of human rights, stops the manufacturing and exporting of illegal drugs, and makes substantial progress in establishing a democratic government.  The military junta continues to suppress political liberties and has jailed thousands, and this legislation requires Burma to address these issues if it wishes to be the beneficiary of U.S. aid.”

 “Like my colleagues, I believe P.L. 108-61 is critical to maintaining peace and promoting democracy in the Asia Pacific region and I was honored to represent the people of American Samoa at this historic White House signing,” the Congressman concluded. 

Date:  July 18, 2003

            Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that a shipment of 21 monitors and 30 personal computers are enroute to the LBJ Tropical Medical Center and are expected to arrive in the territory on July 20, 2003.

             “These computers were procured for use by the LBJ Tropical Medical Center through the DOD surplus program,” the Congressman said.  “The DOD surplus program was established in 1972 and is responsible for offering excess military property to federal agencies or state and local governments.  The surplus program maintains an inventory of items such as air conditions, vehicles, furniture, clothing, and computers.”

 “At this time, I want to commend Chief Taufete’e Faumuina and Mr. Sandy Ilaoa for their hard work and commitment to improving health care services in America Samoa.  The computer equipment they have procured was located at a warehouse in Canadaigua, New York,” the Congressman explained.  “I contacted the DOD to arrange for shipment of the computer equipment to American Samoa.  The computer equipment was shipped to Travis Airforce Base in California and from there is scheduled to depart to American Samoa on July 18, 2003 and arrive July 20, 2003.”

 “This shipment comes at no cost to LBJ or ASG and this is as a result of legislation Senator Inouye and I worked on to provide free shipment via military flights for medical equipment and supplies bound for American Samoa.  As always, I would like to thank the DOD for its support in providing shipment of our computer equipment.  These computers will allow LBJ to upgrade its systems which will allow it to better serve the American Samoan public and provide better care and service to its patients.”

 “Once again, it was my honor to be able to assist LBJ and I would urge other governmental agencies to take advantage of the DOD surplus program,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “For more information regarding this program, please contact me at my DC or Utulei office.”

Date:  July 18, 2003

             Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that the House passed by a vote of 268 to 152 the Interior Appropriations bill for FY 2004 which includes $33, 240,000 for American Samoa.

 “As I have said before, all federal funding to ASG comes from Congress,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “Last night, the House decided how much money the Department of the Interior should get for fiscal year 2004.  The House also decided how much money the Department of the Interior should give to American Samoa.  I am pleased to announce that the House has informed the Department of the Interior to give American Samoa more than $33 million for FY 2004.”

“At this time, I want to thank the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Interior Appropriations, Congressman Charles Taylor, and the Ranking Member, Congressman Norman Dicks, for supporting my efforts to include funding for American Samoa in the Interior Appropriations bill.  I also want to thank Chairman Bill Young and Ranking Member David Obey of the full committee for their leadership and support.”

 “Although there have been efforts in the past to take away our $33 million from the Interior Appropriations bill, I have fought hard to keep our funding in place and I am pleased that my colleagues have supported my efforts to make sure that American Samoa’s funding remains in place despite the budget cuts this country is facing and despite our nation’s need to increase funding for the war on terrorism.”

“As I said in my statement before the House, more than 100 years ago, the traditional leaders of American Samoa ceded their islands to the United States and our sons and daughters have served in record numbers in every U.S. military engagement from WWII to present operations in our war against terrorism.  The people of American Samoa have stood by the United States in good times and bad and to this day American Samoa serves as a refueling point for U.S. naval ships and military aircraft.”

 “Given the sacrifices and contributions American Samoa has made in defense of our nation, my colleagues and I have always worked hard to put American Samoa first by making sure that American Samoa is given the federal assistance it needs.  In the past seven years, we have made sure that American Samoa has received more than $1 billion in federal aid and that $770 million has gone directly to ASG.”

 “For FY 2004, we have directed the Department of the Interior to give ASG more than $23 million for government operations and more than $10 million for capital improvement projects for a total of more than $33 million.  We are also directing other federal agencies to set aside millions more for ASG during FY 04.  In addition, we also included $10 million for ASG in the Tax Act of 2003,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.

 “As I have also done for the past 15 years, I will leave it to the discretion of our local leaders to decide how our $33 million from the Interior Appropriations bill should be spent.  In turn, I am hopeful that our $10 million from the Tax Act will be used to help us resolve Manua’s transportation problems as well as assisting us in upgrading our harbors, training doctors and nurses, improving our high school libraries, providing for a VA medical clinic and upgrading our village water systems.”

 “Once again, I want to thank my colleagues for working closely with me to see that American Samoa receives its fair share of federal funds.  To this day, no other State or Territory receives funding for the operations of its local government and I am pleased that we have been successful in keeping our Interior funding in place.”

 “I also want to thank the Governor and our local leaders for working with me to protect and build the future of American Samoa.  With your support and prayers, we are building a better tomorrow and you have my promise that I will continue to do everything I can to make sure that American Samoa gets the federal funds it needs to make a difference for generations to come,” the Congressman concluded.

Date:  July 11, 2003

             Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that Congress has authorized the Department of Homeland Security to give the American Samoa Government $3,926,000 for first responder preparedness, and to mitigate the costs of enhanced security at critical infrastructure facilities during the period of hostilities with Iraq and future periods of heightened threat.

             American Samoa will also receive an additional $1,482,000 for the purchase of emergency respond equipment, for costs related to planning, conducting and evaluating chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive (CBRNE) terrorism exercises, to establish CBRNE-related awareness level training capabilities in the territory, and for administrative and planning costs associated within the ODP State Homeland Security Grant Program and updating and implementing the State Homeland Security Strategy.

 “This has come about as a result of Congress passing the Emergency Wartime Supplemental Act of 2003.  On April 3, 2003, the U.S. House of Representatives agreed by a vote of 414-12 to pass the Emergency Wartime Supplemental Act.  This means that the majority of Democrats and Republicans voted in support of the bill and the Senate later agreed during Conference to its provisions.  On April 12, 2003, the bill was cleared for White House consideration and the President signed the Act into law on April 16, 2003.”   

 “On July 8, 2003, the Department of Homeland Security announced that States and Territories could begin to receive their share of funding.  These funds are non-competitive.  In other words, ASG will only have to fill out some paperwork to receive its funds but will not have to compete against other States or Territories for federal aid.”

 “Like my colleagues, I am pleased that Congress was able to provide these funds which will help every State and Territory in its efforts to defend our homeland.  As I have said before, all federal funding to ASG is appropriated through Congress and no matter who makes announcements that certain federal agencies are giving money to American Samoa, the truth is the real work is done in Congress.”

 “Simply put, the President makes a request and Congress decides how much money each federal agency gets.  For the most part, Congress also decides how much money each agency is to set aside for every State and Territory, including American Samoa,” Faleomavaega said.  “Put another way, no federal agency can distribute money to the States or Territories without authorization from Congress.”

 “This is why every single year I work to make sure that our needs are known and that American Samoa is included in every appropriation bill that Congress submits to the President for purposes of funding our federal agencies.  This includes all bills which provide funding for homeland security, education, health care, our roads and highways, and the Pago Pago International Airport, to name a few.”

 “In the past seven years, I am pleased to say that Congress has agreed to give American Samoa more than a billion dollars in federal aid.  In March of this year, Congress, through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), sent nearly $2.6 million for purposes of repairing our airport runway and for the purchase of a sweeper to keep our runway clear of debris.  As of yesterday, the U.S. Department of Transportation notified my office that ASG will be receiving $1,750,000 to construct an Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) training facility at the Pago Pago International Airport in American Samoa.”

 “At this time, I want to thank the FAA for working closely with my office to get inspectors to our airport and for working with our local leaders to get the runway open as quickly as possible.  I also want to commend Governor Tulafono for his efforts and leadership.  I am thankful that this crisis has been resolved and above all I am grateful that our people have been kept safe.”

 “I also want to thank my colleagues in the House and Senate, both Democrat and Republican, for supporting my efforts to make sure that American Samoa receives its fair share of federal funds.  I also want to thank the people of American Samoa for their continued support and prayers.  At a time when our nation faces serious unemployment and budget cuts,” Congressman Faleomavaega said, “you have my promise that I will do everything I can to protect our interests and build our future.” 

Date:  June 19, 2003

            Congressman Faleomavaega announced that he attended the annual Congressional picnic on Wednesday June 18, 2003.

            “Each year, the President invites Members of Congress and their families to an annual Congressional picnic,” the Congressman said.  “Invitations are extended to Members of Congress, their families, and members of the President’s administration.  Among those attending this year’s event was Vice President Dick Cheney, U.S. Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norm Mineta, and U.S. Secretary of Health Tommy Thompson.”

            “President and Mrs. Bush welcomed the crowd of about 500 and thanked Members of Congress from both political parties ‘for doing such a fine job on behalf of the United States of America.’  The President also said, ‘You know what I know.  We’re blessed to live in a great country.  And one of the things that makes us great is we’ve got tremendous values.  We believe in freedom, respect for others, personal responsibility.  And today is a day for us all to come together and to celebrate those fantastic values, and for us – for Laura and me and for Dick and Lynne to thank you on behalf of a grateful nation for serving our country so well.’”

            “After the President’s opening remarks, we were entertained by the Temptations and guests lined up to eat southern fried chicken, hot dogs, potato salad and cole slaw.  In this informal setting, President Bush also walked around and personally greeted and took pictures with his guests,” Faleomavaega said.

            “When President Bush saw my guest, Pita Elisara, a graduate of Tafuna High School who is now playing with the Washington Redskins, he put one arm around my shoulder and the other around Pita’s and lifted himself off the ground.  Sandwiched between two Samoans, the President laughed and smiled and took several pictures with us.  We also visited for a few moments and just had an enjoyable time.”

“All in all, it was a memorable occasion and a special evening,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “President and Mrs. Bush were gracious hosts and I thank them also for serving our country so well.”

Date:  June 10, 2003

             Congress announced today that he has requested a meeting with the Fono to discuss voting rights for American Samoa’s soldiers.

             “As a follow-up to my letter to the Governor and the Fono dated May 7, 2003 regarding federal elections in American Samoa, I have written to request an opportunity to once again testify before the Fono and to meet with the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House to discuss this important matter,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “As a matter of record, I also provided the Fono with another copy of my letter to the late Governor Sunia dated July 23, 2002 which offers a history of my involvement with this issue.”

             “On May 7, 2003, I also introduced another bill to protect the voting rights of members of the Armed Services in elections for the Delegate representing American Samoa in the U.S. House of Representatives.  H.R. 2010, which I have forwarded to the Fono and the Samoa News, will establish voting by plurality for the office of the Delegate until such time as the American Samoa Legislature provides for primary elections and majority voting if so desired.  In other words, at any time, the Fono may decide to provide for primary elections hopefully eight weeks prior to the general election,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.

             “While I have tirelessly worked to make sure that American Samoa’s active duty service members have the same rights and privileges as any other soldier serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, I am saddened that my critics have questioned my integrity by suggesting that I have introduced this legislation to gain political advantage.  Therefore, upon successful passage of this bill, I have informed the Fono that I am willing to forego any votes from our active duty service members in the 2004 elections.  Simply put, this bill is more important to me than my own political career and I am willing to do whatever it takes to see that this bill passes Congress, hopefully with the support of our local leaders.” 

 “As a Vietnam veteran, I firmly believe that American Samoa’s sons and daughters should have the right to vote and participate fully in federal elections.  Our men and women have fought and died for the right to vote and, whatever differences there may be, I believe we must be united in protecting the voting rights of every resident of American Samoa,” Faleomavaega said.

 “To be clear, Congress established our federal election laws some thirty years ago, and Congress established this law before we even had a Delegate in Congress.  The law states that a runoff election must be held two weeks after the general election if a candidate does not receive a majority of the votes.  In other words, it is federal law, not local law, which only provides two weeks between general and runoff elections and thirty years ago our people had no voice in determining whether two weeks between a general and a runoff election was enough time to ensure that our voters could fully participate in the federal election process.”

 “Thirty years ago, Congress could not foresee that American Samoa’s sons and daughters would serve in the military in record numbers,” the Congressman continued.  “Neither could Congress foresee that in 1986 the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA) would become law and permit active duty service members to vote by absentee ballot.  Congress also did not consider that limited air and mail service between the mainland and American Samoa would make it nearly impossible for our sons and daughters to vote by absentee ballot in the case of runoff elections.”

 “In good-faith, Congress simply enacted a law that no longer meets our needs and for years I have brought this matter to the attention of our local leaders.  I have also brought this matter to the attention of our people through press releases, newsletters, radio and tv programs.  Two years ago, I even conducted a survey in the Territory to see where our people stand on this issue.  Of those surveyed, more than 85% agree that our service members should be afforded the same rights and privileges as every other American serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.”

 “Now that I have addressed the concerns of our local leaders by introducing a bill which provides for both plurality and majority voting, I am hopeful that we will be able to work together to move this legislation forward.  American Samoa’s warriors deserve our support and the time has come for us to restore their voting rights,” the Congressman concluded.

May 9, 2003

             Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he is very displeased with the recent fare hikes for flights to and from American Samoa.  The increases were announced three weeks ago with little warning to the residents and travel agencies in the territory.  The Congressman has written to the President and Chief Operating Officer of Hawaiian Airlines, Mr. Mark Dunkerley, requesting an explanation.

            “In early April I received a letter from a concerned constituent communicating that the fare hikes not only were substantial, but completely unanticipated, providing travel agents and travelers little time to prepare for the transition.  We have also come to learn that Hawaiian Airlines, the only commercial passenger airlines operating between Pago Pago and Honolulu, raised fares only between Hawaii and American Samoa, but not to any other destinations,” the Congressman said.

             “In mid April, Hawaiian Airlines drastically increased its fares to and from Pago Pago and Honolulu by at least 26%.  The new fares are now 16% higher than comparable routes from Apia to Honolulu on Polynesian Airlines, and 31% greater than fares between Papeete and Honolulu on Hawaiian.  Furthermore, fares to other U.S. destinations on Hawaiian have remained unchanged.”

 “While routes originating in Honolulu on Polynesian and Hawaiian Airlines admittedly have comparable fares at present, prices for tickets in the opposite direction, that is originating from American Samoa, are significantly higher on Hawaiian compared to other carriers operating in the South Pacific.  These are the changes that are affecting the residents of American Samoa who frequently travel to Hawaii.  I believe these changes are inexplicably unfair”.

             “The people of American Samoa deserve an explanation, and I too expect Hawaiian Airlines to respond to my concerns regarding this issue.  As the only commercial passenger airline operating in American Samoa, Hawaiian Airlines should be cautious to prevent the impression that they are behaving like a monopoly,” the Congressman concluded.

Date:  May 8, 2003

             Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he was invited by President George W. Bush to attend the signing of an executive order to re-establish the Interagency Group on Insular Areas (IGIA).  The ceremony was attended by more than 200 people and, as the most senior member of the Congressional Delegation on Insular Areas, Congressman Faleomavaega stood right next to the President during the signing of the Executive Order. 

 Only six others were invited to stand by and be photographed with the President during the signing including Congresswoman Donna Christensen, Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo, the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, U.S. Secretary of Interior, U.S. Secretary of Labor, and the Governor of Guam, Felix Camacho.

             Prior to the signing of the Executive Order, Ambassador Sichuan Siv, Congresswoman Christensen, Congresswoman Bordallo, Governor Camacho, and Congressman Faleomavaega were escorted to the front row and President Bush then publicly acknowledged and personally welcomed each of them by name. 

             “I am deeply honored to have participated in this event and I am also pleased that the President has reestablished the Interagency Group on Insular Areas,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “As I announced earlier this week, Congresswoman Christensen, Congresswoman Bordallo and I wrote a letter to the President urging the President to reestablish the IGIA.  The IGIA is a valuable forum to address insular issues and we are very appreciative of the President’s support on this issue.”

             “This issue is not new.  The IGIA began during the Clinton administration and expired when Clinton left office.  With the signing of today’s executive order, President Bush has now reestablished the IGIA and during the ceremony he also included a proclamation in recognition of Asian Pacific Heritage month.”

             “At this time, I want to thank my good friend Republican Senator Orrin Hatch for his assistance today.  Traditionally, it has always been the practice of the White House to invite Members of Congress from the House and the Senate for the signing of the Asian Pacific Heritage Month proclamation.  This year, due to an oversight, there was some confusion about the matter and at my request Senator Hatch brought this to the attention of the White House.”

             “White House staff apologized for the confusion and immediately invited the Delegates to attend the signing to represent the insular areas,” the Congressman said.  “The President also publicly thanked us for attending the ceremony which was held at the White House in the Old Executive Office Building.  Although I wish many others in the audience could have also stood by the President as he signed this important Order, I am honored that he asked me to represent the people of American Samoa on this historic occasion and once again I commend President Bush for reestablishing the IGIA.”    

Date:  April 23, 2003

            Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that Congress has approved his request to provide ASCC with $500,000 to establish a computer lab for faculty and student use. 

             “On April 29 of last year, I submitted a request to the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Education,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “The Appropriations Committees in both the House and Senate are responsible in part for funding the operations of federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Education.”

             “Members of Congress may submit their funding requests to the Subcommittees which have responsibility for the request,” Faleomavaega explained.  “In this case, I submitted a request to the Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Education.  However, ASCC funding is usually provided by Interior Appropriations and is distributed to ASCC by the American Samoa Government.”

             “It is my understanding that ASCC then prioritizes its funds to be used for projects that it believes are most needed to assist our students in their pursuit of higher education,” the Congressman said.  “Although ASCC and its governing board have determined that the establishment of a computer lab is a high priority, funding for this project has been limited due to other competing priorities.”

             “For this reason, I did not want to make a public announcement that I had requested $500,000 to assist Dr. Satele-Galea’i in her efforts to establish a computer lab because I did not want to disappoint the students at ASCC if Congress was unable to support this request,” Faleomavaega said.

             “However, in accordance with the guidelines of the Subcommittee, I submitted a project questionnaire identifying ASCC as the grant recipient and I included the name, address and phone number of Dr. Adele Satele-Galea’i to be used as a point of contact.  I am pleased that the U.S. Department of Education informed Dr. Satele-Galea’i on Marc 27, 2003 that ASCC had been identified in the FY 2003 Department of Education appropriations as the recipient of a Congressionally authorized grant for $500,000.”

             “I am also pleased to report that these funds are not competitive.  In other words, ASCC does not have to enter a grant competition or compete in any way to obtain these funds.  Instead, Congress has directed that these funds be automatically sent to ASCC for the specific purpose of establishing a computer lab.  To expedite receipt of these funds, ASCC must submit a 10 page proposal required by the U.S. Department of Education to ensure that the funds are spent in accordance with federal guidelines.”

             “As I noted in my statement before the Subcommittee on April 29, 2002, the establishment of a computer lab at ASCC will provide our students with the opportunity to bridge the digital divide and engage in research and discourse that extends beyond the boundaries of our local villages,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “Currently, our students are at a disadvantage nationally due to isolation and limited local resources.”

             “Like I have said before, most states pay for 90% of the costs of educating their children.  Put another way, the federal government pays less than 7% of the costs associated with educating a child living in the states.  This is why states collect taxes from businesses, wealthy individuals and property owners.  By collecting local taxes, states can pay for the costs of education.”

 “However, in American Samoa, it is the opposite.  The federal government pays most of the costs associated with educating our children.  In fact, for K-12, American Samoa gets $2,800 per child in federal funds while the states only get $600 per child,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.

 “But even with federal assistance, many of our students are still unable to leave the island to pursue higher education.  This is why ASCC’s role in our community is so critical.  ASCC provides our students with the opportunity to pursue a two-year degree and I am pleased that many of our ASCC graduates become teachers in our public schools.”

 “As I explained in the project questionnaire that I submitted to the Subcommittee, a state of the art computer lab at ASCC will provide our students with increased opportunities for learning and will also make a positive impact on K-12 education in American Samoa,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.

 “Given the significance of this project, I am pleased that the Subcommittee chose to favorably support my request of $500,000 for assisting ASCC in its efforts to establish a computer lab.  I am also hopeful that the Subcommittee will support the requests I have submitted on behalf of ASCC for FY04.  After discussions with Dr. Satele-Galea’i, I have submitted requests for $500,000 to purchase books and research materials for the ASCC library and $500,000 to upgrade the Trades, Industries and Technology Program at ASCC.”

             “Once again, I want to thank Dr .Satele-Galea’i for her leadership, commitment and support,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “I also want to thank the Chairman and the Board of Higher Education for working to provide our students with the tools they need to succeed.  Together, we are making a difference and together we are building a better tomorrow.”

            Date:  April 2, 2003 

             Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that the House Committee on Resources met to mark-up the Energy Bill and that with support from both Republicans and Democrats an amendment offered as a result of his initiative was passed and included in the Republican Energy bill.   

             “This amendment is of considerable importance to the territories, as it will create a process that will address the energy needs of the insular areas,” the Congressman explained.  “At this time, I would like to thank my colleagues for their unanimous support of this amendment and for recognizing my need to be here in American Samoa to pay tribute to and honor Governor Tauese Sunia.”

             “This amendment will hold the Secretary of Interior, in consultation with the Energy Secretary and the heads of insular governments, responsible for updating the 1982 Territorial Energy Assessment, which is a comprehensive energy report on consumption, importation, and potential for indigenous alternative energy that can be used by insular areas,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “This amendment makes certain that recommendations are included to reduce the reliance on imported energy in favor of increasing energy production through the development of local energy sources.”

 “This amendment also makes sure that a grant program, administered by the Secretary of the Interior, will be created for projects to protect electrical power and distribution lines within the territories which are highly susceptible to damages caused by hurricanes and typhoons.  It is my hope that implementation of this amendment will begin to address our needs and move us towards a goal of giving us the tools we need to develop local sources of energy in a balanced and environmentally sound manner,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.

             “I want to thank the Republicans and Democrats on the Committee on Resources for working closely with my office on this important initiative.  I also want to thank Ranking Member Rahall for offering this amendment in my absence on behalf of myself and the other Delegates.  Both the Chairman and Ranking Member have been very supportive of my need to be here in American Samoa at this time and both have expressed their deepest condolences on the passing of Governor Sunia.  I know that Governor Sunia would be pleased to know that members of the Resource Committee also mourn his loss, and I am also sure he would be pleased to learn that as a result of today’s amendment the Republican Energy bill now includes a provision for American Samoa and the other insular areas,” the Congressman concluded.    

Date:   MARCH 17, 2003

             Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he is a member of the Committee on Small Business and has been since the Democratic Steering Committee met on February 26, 2003. 

             “In February of this year, the Democratic Steering Committee announced vacancies on the Committee on Small Business.  Although the Democratic rules of the House usually only allow a member to serve on two Committees, special provisions were made for members wishing to serve on the Committee on Small Business,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “At this time, I want to thank the Democratic Steering Committee for honoring my request to serve.”

 “The Committee on Small Business recognizes that small businesses are essential to the economic well-being of our communities.  Small businesses foster economic opportunity and it is our duty as a Committee to facilitate the growth of small businesses and to minimize government intrusion.”

             “This Congress, we have taken upon us the tasks of monitoring the effectiveness of the Small Business Administration and examining ways of improving access to medical care for small business owners and their employees,” Faleomavaega said.  “We will also be examining ways to expand export opportunities for small business.  We have a full agenda before us this session, which is already well underway.”

 “On March 5, 2003 Secretary Chao of the Department of Labor testified before us regarding the challenge we have before us to make certain that small businesses are provided access to affordable and quality health care.  This effort has wide-spread support from both Congress and the Bush Administration and I am pleased that I have the opportunity to sit on this Committee and help facilitate the creation of legislation that will benefit small business owners, including those in American Samoa,” the Congressman concluded.

Date:  March 11, 2003

             Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he has been notified by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that the grant application process for firefighter assistance is open.

             “There is approximately $750 million available through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program to help fire departments train, prepare and equip themselves,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “The grant program is administered by the U.S. Fire Administration which falls within The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Preparedness Division.  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) became part of the Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.”

             “Now, more than ever, American Samoa must be prepared for any emergency situation.  To assist ASG in its efforts to address our public safety needs, I was able to bring three fire-trucks valued at more than $400,000 to American Samoa at no cost to the local government.  I am now pleased that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is making more than $750 million available to us and others to help us prepare for whatever may come,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.

             “At this time, I want to encourage our local fire department to apply for these funds.  The application can be found on-line at www.usfa.fema.gov and fire departments have until April 11, 2003 at 5 p.m. to complete and submit their application.  As always, my office is prepared to assist with the application process and I am hopeful that our local officials and federal grant specialists will take advantage of this opportunity to ensure that our firefighters are better trained and equipped to protect our homeland,” the Congressman concluded.

Date:  March 10, 2003

            Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he has submitted a proposal to the House Committee on Transportation requesting $20 million in high priority project funding to address American Samoa’s transportation needs in Tutuila and Manu’a. 

 “In 1998, Congress put together a six-year plan known as the Transportation Equity Act for the 21^st Century (TEA-21).  Under the provisions of TEA-21, I was able to get over $32 million in funding for American Samoa, including $12 million to improve our village roads,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “TEA-21 will expire in 2004 and Congress is now working on a plan that will provide additional funding to the states and territories after 2004.”

 “Chairman Don Young and Ranking Member James Oberstar of the House Transportation Committee recently sent out a letter to members of Congress stating that they believe that Members of the House of Representatives are in the best position to help identify how funding should be appropriated in each Congressional district.  Both the Chairman and the Ranking Member have also informed Members that if we are interested in having the Committee consider specific high priority highway projects for our districts we should fill out a questionnaire and submit a proposal no later than March 14, 2003.”

 “Last week, I brought this matter to the attention of the Governor and the Fono and I also invited the Governor to write a letter to be included in the proposal.  As we have discussed in the past, there is a critical need to upgrade our Route 1 corridor program.  Route 1 is the only commercial and emergency link between the harbor, airport and hospital in American Samoa.  It is also the only link between the Western District and the main town and American Samoa could certainly use funds to accelerate the construction of this project,” Faleomavaega said.

 There has also been serious erosion of village lands along the coast of Route 1 due to high wave activity.  Although FHWA released emergency funds to assist with the damages incurred, American Samoa continues to contend with rockslides due to a lack of shore protection.  Landslides, erosion, and runoff also cause considerable flooding on the Tafuna Leone Plain.  Flooding in Tafuna is due in large part to lack of drainage and this is why I am seeking high priority funding to help mitigate drainage and expedite construction of Route 1.”

 “I also continue to be concerned about our roads in Manu’a,” the Congressman said.  “In 1998, I was able to get $12 million for Village Road Development on the islands of Tutuila and Manu’a.  This was the first time that Congress ever agreed to let federal highway funds be used for constructing roads that are not part of the federal highway system and I am pleased that Congress acted favorably on my request.  I also thank the Governor and his administration for ensuring that the money was used to expedite construction of village roads throughout the Territory.”          

“At this time, I am hopeful that Congress will once again be supportive of American Samoa’s request for additional funding,” Faleomavaega said.  “Nevertheless, with the United States on the brink of war, there is a possibility that Congress will simply increase overall funding for the Territories and therefore there is no guarantee that we will receive a specific earmark of $20 million for high priority projects.”

 “What I can say is that American Samoa receives about $3.3 million per year in federal highway funds and last year American Samoa also received an additional $2 million in emergency relief funds.  Since 1992, American Samoa has received more than $70 million in federal highway transportation funds.  I am also pleased to report that we have been able to secure Demonstration project funding comparable to the same amount allocated to Puerto Rico which has a population of almost 4 million residents,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.

 “I also believe it is important to explain how Congress authorizes transportation funds,” the Congressman continued.  “Simply put, a federal gas tax is collected nationally to fund the transportation bill.  Residents of American Samoa and other territories are not required to contribute to this fund or pay federal gas taxes.  Although we pay no federal gas taxes, Congress provides for our transportation needs by way of a direct-set aside for the Territories and this is known as the Territorial Highway Program.”

 “Put another way, Congress sets aside a lump sum of money for the Territorial Highway Program and this money is then divided between Guam, the Virgin Islands, the Northern Marianas and American Samoa according to a formula.  The formula is based on population, road mileage, area, and other factors.  However, this formula was not established by Congress.  The formula was established by the Federal Highway Administration and it is my understanding that the Territorial Governors have at times voiced some concerns about it.  Given the controversy surrounding the formula, I believe it is time for Congress to review the matter to ensure that everyone involved is being treated fairly, and especially American Samoa.”

 “Finally, if Congress is unable to fund high priority projects for the Territories due to the unknown costs of war, then I am hopeful that Congress will support my request for an overall increase in funding for the Territorial Highway Program,” Congressman Faleomavaega said.  “An increase in funding for the Territorial Highway Program will mean that American Samoa will get more than $3.3 million per year to address its critical transportation needs in Tutuila and Manu’a.”

 “The Chairman and Ranking Member have set a goal to complete this legislation by September and I am pleased that Senator Inouye has also agreed to help us.  As always, I look forward to working with the Governor and the Fono on this most important matter, and for the betterment of American Samoa I am hopeful that Congress will favorably support our request for additional federal highway funding,” the Congressman concluded.