In response to House passage of the Infrastructure Bill the American Samoa Democratic Party Chair, Patrick Reid & officers released the following statement:
“As he promised, President Biden worked across the aisle to forge consensus and deliver results. His Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal is now one step closer to creating good-paying jobs, growing our economy, and making much-needed improvements to critical infrastructure like our nation’s roads and highways, bridges and transit; drinking water systems; and broadband. Thanks to President Biden and Democrats, our country is primed to position American workers, farmers, and businesses to compete and win in the 21st century.”
Based on funding formula alone, the American Samoa would expect to receive:
● $24 million to improve roads and highways over five years.
● $7.5 million over five years to improve public transportation options across the state.
● A minimum of $25 million to help provide broadband coverage across the Territory, including providing access to the local residents and families who currently lack it. The Affordability Connectivity Benefit, which will help low-income families afford internet access.
● $2.5 million to protect against cyberattacks.
● $35 million over five years to improve water infrastructure across the Territory and
ensure that clean, safe drinking water is a right in all communities.
● $6 million over five years to improve American Samoa’s airport.
● American Samoa will also benefit from the bill’s historic $3.5 billion national investment in weatherization which will reduce energy costs for families.
The release says, “American Samoa families continue to enjoy the many benefits of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) through stimulus payments, Emergency Rental Assistance, Territory-wide vaccination efforts and incentives, and critical investments in our Territory’s limited healthcare infrastructure.
“We thank President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and Democrats in Congress for this once in a generation investment in American Samoa’s families through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal and look forward to the passage of the Build Back Better bill that will continue to deliver historic, sustainable investments in the areas of climate change, child care, and education.”
