Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga has signed his first budget bill into law.
This is the Fiscal Year 2021 budget for the American Samoa Government totaling $465.9 million. It mirrors the one that former Governor Lolo Moliga sent the 36th Legislature.
That Fono reduced the budget amount by more than $6 million and the former Governor did not sign it. Lolo issued an executive order to keep ASG funded until a new budget is approved.
The 37th Legislature which took office in January approved the budget bill without any changes.
The spending plan includes the new salary grade for high school and ASCC graduates of $12,000 and $16,000 respectively and covers the period from October 1, 2020 to September 30, 2021.
Lemanu said in a letter dated February 11th to Senate President Tuaolo Manaia Fruean and House Speaker Savali Talavou Ale, “This approved budget allows for the continued operations of ASG but most importantly grants us the means to execute plans for the betterment of our people and the advancement of our territory.”
He added, “We share a mutual commitment to serve the people of our territory and our collaboration is evidence of this. We must continue to foster a spirit of cooperation between the Legislative branch and the Executive branch.
The governor expressed his thanks to the Fono leaders and members. “You and your colleagues have my sincere gratitude for your vigilance in preparing and submitting this budget bill. Your due diligence during this Legislative Session is greatly appreciated.”
