Press Releases
Washington, D.C. – Tuesday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata welcomed Congressional action authorizing the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) for six years, and ending the unnecessary government shutdown late Monday. Congresswoman Amata is pleased that CHIP, a priority which helps ensure access to medical care for many children in American Samoa, is no longer dependent on short term authorization, but in place for the traditional six years. President Trump signed the bill into law immediately Monday night.
Washington, D.C. – Monday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata requested that the U.S. House of Representatives delay her paycheck until the federal government reopens, federal employees are being paid, military personnel are supported and services are restored. Her statement is as follows:
Washington, D.C. – Friday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata welcomed this week's combined hearing of two Subcommittees of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs regarding the needs of the veteran homeless population.
Washington, D.C. – Thursday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata announced nominations of fourteen students for consideration by the service academies. These select nominations were based on the students' academic records, essays and letters of recommendation from their teachers, church leaders and local community leaders, along with the required verification that they have already applied separately to the academy or academies of their choice.
Washington, D.C. – Thursday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata announced the Wounded Warrior Fellowship Program will be considering applications from a wounded warrior or medically retired veteran for a position at her American Samoa office in Pago Pago. To be considered, all applications must be directed to the Wounded Warrior Fellowship Program via the USAjobs.gov website.
Washington, D.C. – Wednesday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata cosponsored and highlighted a bill unanimously passed by the Natural Resources Committee to expand and improve the Century Conservation Service Corps (21CSC) program. The bill creates more opportunities for veterans, strengthens national parks, encourages outdoor activities, and offers interesting career pathway experiences for youth.
Washington, D.C. – Thursday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata welcomed nearly $10 million in a variety of grants from the U.S. Interior Department to American Samoa.
"I'm pleased to welcome this extensive federal funding for projects in American Samoa," said Aumua Amata. "This is some great news for American Samoa and will allow much-needed improvements to go forward. These U.S. government resources for infrastructure projects are an essential addition to these efforts. This federal support will improve facilities and strengthen the local economy."
Washington, D.C. – Tuesday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata released a statement honoring the life and ministry of Thomas S. Monson, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints:
"I was saddened to hear of the passing of President Thomas S. Monson last week. He dedicated a lifetime to his ministry, and will be remembered in high regard for many years of exceptional service.
Washington, D.C. –Friday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata welcomed a $2,321,000 federal grant for the American Samoa Department of Health, for the Pacific Basin Health Center Cluster program.
"I appreciate this funding for American Samoa," said Aumua Amata. "Access to quality health services can be a major challenge in American Samoa, and federal support like this is part of the constant process of ensuring that care is available."
Washington, D.C. -- Wednesday, Congresswoman Aumua Amata welcomed an important decision by the Justice Department adding the American Samoa Government to the agreement between StarKist and federal agencies. This action, in response to inquiries by Congresswoman Amata and Governor Lolo, redirects $2.6 million in agreed upon funds back from Washington to American Samoa.