Deep-Sea Mining Fight: U.S. Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata told the IGIA/DOI that American Samoa’s top concern is the “rush” to deep-sea mine Samoan waters, warning against “unchecked” AI-driven operations and urging federal agencies to reject the plan. Local Legal Action: An American Samoa environmental group, Fa’asao Amerika Samoa, and the Conservation Council for Hawaii sued the U.S. government over deep-sea mining plans, challenging how risks to threatened and endangered marine life were assessed ahead of a Nov. 19 lease sale. Energy & Aviation: The American Samoa Chamber of Commerce raised questions about a solar project under construction at Pago Pago International Airport, asking for proof of environmental remediation, FAA review, and glint/glare analysis near the runway approach. Energy Planning Opportunity: Hawaiʻi’s State Energy Office opened applications for the DOE Energy Technology Innovation Partnership Project (ETIPP) 2026 cohort, offering technical assistance for coastal, remote, and island communities. Telecom Governance: The House approved final passage of a bill establishing the American Samoa Telecommunications Authority by statute, setting board structure and regulatory authority. Climate & Coasts: NOAA’s Flood Inundation Mapping tool expanded to near nationwide coverage, including U.S. territories, to help forecast river flooding impacts. Sports & Community: American Samoa is listed among teams for the FIBA Women’s Polynesian Cup in Tahiti (Oct. 19–24).