Energy & Power Planning: The Hawaiʻi State Energy Office opened applications for the DOE Energy Technology Innovation Partnership Project (ETIPP) 2026 cohort, pairing Pacific and island communities with national lab researchers for planning and deep-dive technical help (deadline Nov. 18, 2026). Airport Solar Scrutiny: The American Samoa Chamber of Commerce is pressing the Port Administration over a Pago Pago International Airport solar project, asking for proof of environmental remediation, FAA review, and glint/glare analysis tied to the runway approach. Seabed Mining Pushback: Rep. Uifa’atali Amata told the IGIA/DOI that American Samoa opposes deep-sea mining, citing risks to ocean heritage and concerns about “unchecked” autonomous systems. Local Legal Challenge: Fa’asao Amerika Samoa and the Conservation Council for Hawaii sued the U.S. government over deep-sea mining plans near American Samoa, arguing the assessment of impacts on threatened species is insufficient. Telecom Governance: The House approved final passage of a bill establishing the American Samoa Telecommunications Authority by statute, setting board rules and giving it regulatory and procurement authority. Climate/Disaster Tools: NOAA’s Flood Inundation Mapping expanded to near full coverage, including U.S. territories, to help forecast where river flooding may hit. Industry & Community: Young people in Samoa are increasingly using Facebook to sell food, clothing, and beauty products as side hustles. Education & Workforce: The House also advanced ASTCA by law, while local youth continue to compete nationally (including American Samoa participation noted in the Civics Bee coverage). Sports: American Samoa is listed among teams for the FIBA Women’s Polynesian Cup in Tahiti (Oct. 19–24).