Deep-Sea Minerals: American Samoa launched deepseainfo.as.gov to explain deep-sea mining science, risks, and decision steps, with weekly updates and interactive learning; the governor reiterated the territory doesn’t support commercial extraction “at this time.” Legal Fight Over Seabed Mining: Fa’asao Amerika Samoa and the Conservation Council for Hawaii sued the U.S. government over deep-sea mining plans, challenging the assessment that the lease would not harm threatened or endangered species. NOAA Mapping for Critical Minerals: Deep Sea Minerals Corp. says NOAA began another mapping expedition near American Samoa, adding to recent ROV and seafloor mapping work in the U.S. EEZ. Local Infrastructure Planning: The Port Administration of American Samoa finalized an execution plan for the American Samoa Seaports Master Plan, funded through MARAD’s RAISE program, with cargo forecasts and facility condition work. Telecom Governance: The House approved a bill establishing the American Samoa Telecommunications Authority by statute, setting board structure and procurement authority. Fishing Safeguards: Rep. Uifa’atali Amata welcomed House passage of a Senate companion bill to strengthen science-based U.S. fishing safeguards against IUU seafood and fraud. AI Regulation Push: American Samoa joined a coalition of attorneys general urging Congress to set federal safety rules for rapidly evolving AI systems. Environment & Biosecurity: A Hawaii advisory committee recommended readopting interim import bans for Molokai tied to coconut rhinoceros beetle prevention.