Governor Lemanu P.S. Mauga and Lieutenant Governor Laapui Talauega E. V. Ale extend heartfelt congratulations to Congresswoman Uifa’atali Radewagen and her team for their tireless efforts in championing H.R. 6062, which has successfully passed the United States Senate.
A press release from the Governor’s Office says this historic legislation restores the ability of the people of American Samoa to amend the territory’s constitution without requiring further congressional action, marking a significant milestone in the territory’s self-governance.
The bill, which has already passed the U.S. House of Representatives, now awaits President Joe Biden’s signature to become law.
The release says once enacted, Governor Lemanu and Lieutenant Governor Laapui are committed to working closely with the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Secretary of the Interior to implement the five amendments approved by the people of American Samoa in the 2022 referendum.
Governor Lemanu said, “We commend the Congresswoman for her leadership and commitment to ensuring the voices of American Samoans are heard at the federal level,” “This legislation is a victory for the people of American Samoa and a reaffirmation of their right to self-determination.”
Lieutenant Governor Laapui added, “This is a proud moment for our territory. With the passage of H.R. 6062, we are one step closer to taking greater ownership of our constitutional affairs. We eagerly await President Biden’s signature and are prepared to collaborate with Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland to ensure a smooth and efficient process for enacting the 2022 constitutional amendments.”
H.R. 6062 repeals Section 12 of Public Law 98–213, eliminating the requirement for congressional approval of amendments to the American Samoa Constitution.
