The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee gave its blessing to the American Samoa constitutional amendment bill, HR 6062 by a unanimous vote, sending it to the full Senate for expected final passage. KHJ News Washington DC correspondent Matt Kaye reports…
It was an historic vote for American Samoan self-determination, as Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata’s House-passed constitutional amendments bill, requested by the Fono, passed unanimously in the Senate Energy Committee…
Chairman Joe Manchin called the vote on HR 6062 as part of dozens of non-controversial bills voted together…
Play Audio mancini-vote
HR 6062 would restore to pre-1983 law, the ability of American Samoans to amend the territorial constitution without congressional approval, but just a sign-off by the Secretary of the Interior.
Thus, ending the outdated ’83 law with its extra legislative check, to a 1951 Executive Order that approved the local constitution and allowed amendments without Congress’ ok.
Water and Power Subcommittee Chair Ron Wyden gave his blessing to the bill in September…
Play Audio wyden-vote
Subcommittee top Republican James Risch stressed the importance of American Samoa and the Pacific to US security interests there.
Congresswoman Amata and Governor Lemanu with support from Hawaii Senator Mazie Hirono pushed for subcommittee action that resulted in HR 6062 advancing to full committee and next, the Senate floor.
The full panel’s business meeting was its last this Congress.
