Deep-Sea Minerals & Ocean Policy: American Samoa leaders and religious voices are pushing back hard as the U.S. moves toward deep-sea mining near the territory, with local commentary warning the risks aren’t matched by guaranteed jobs, revenue, or enforceable protections, and bishops urging “due care” when harm could be serious or irreversible. Fisheries & Maritime Security: Samoa is using the WCPFC scientific session to press for stronger monitoring and management of fish stocks and better protection of E-Zones, including coordination with partners to tackle illegal fishing, drugs, and trafficking—while also coordinating EEZ boundary issues with regional neighbors including American Samoa. Water Compliance for Industry: AS-EPA hosted a six-hour Clean Water Act training with USEPA Region 9, bringing together ASPA and StarKist Samoa, plus inspections of wastewater facilities and the shipyard to support compliance on permits and discharge rules. Local Governance & Safety: Raised crosswalks installed near schools are drawing complaints, but Public Works says they’re federally funded safety upgrades approved under FHWA research, not “speed bumps.” Public Safety & Courts: Police charged suspects in separate incidents, including an alleged burglary in Tafuna Industrial Park and an alleged private peace disturbance and assault/property damage tied to a long-running land dispute. Logistics Cost Shock (Neighboring Territory): Guam residents report higher shipping costs to the U.S. states after USPS required third-party duty collection via the Zonos Prepay app.