Amata Welcomes One-Year Extension for Tax and Jobs Priority

Washington, D.C. – Monday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata welcomed a positive development in Congress for an ongoing policy priority for American Samoa's jobs and economy.

"Extending the American Samoa Economic Development Credit simply makes sense," said Aumua Amata. "This policy supports the long-term presence of jobs that are important to American Samoa's economy and community. A one-year extension is another good step in the right direction. A longer-term extension would allow for better planning and stability, so we will continue to make that case."

"On behalf of StarKist Co. and StarKist Samoa, the largest private-sector employer in American Samoa, we commend Congress for passing the Bi-Partisan Budget Act of 2018 which included a provision reinstating the American Samoa Economic Development Tax Credit (30(A) for the 2017 tax year. We also are especially appreciative of the leadership of Congresswoman Amata Radewagen (R-AS) on this critical effort," said Andrew Choe, President & CEO of StarKist Co. "Without this 30(A) credit, it would not be economically viable to continue to manufacture in the American Samoan Territory. The 30(A) tax credit helps to level the playing field and enables American Samoa to better compete globally."

Late in the week, as part of a larger bipartisan compromise bill funding the U.S. government, Congress extended for one year the American Samoa Economic Development Credit. Sometimes known as a "tax extender," this credit has been in place since 2006 through both Republican and Democratic administrations because it provides stability and increases employment. The extension is for the 2017 tax year, in time for the current tax preparation season. A long term extension will require further legislation.

"In a place the size and population of American Samoa, these jobs that this policy protects have a tremendous economic impact," concluded Congresswoman Amata. "American Samoa's economic and geographic situation is unique among U.S. states and territories. I appreciate the widespread bipartisan support in Congress for this jobs initiative."