Deep-Sea Mining Watch: Interior Secretary Doug Burgum says U.S. deep-sea mining permits could arrive “within months,” but the near-term reality for American Samoa is the BOEM lease-sale timeline, with a proposed PACM-1 sale set for Nov. 19, 2026, and a governor review period tied to BOEM’s process. Local Governance & Legal Pressure: A formal public comment letter to Gov. Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula urges a firm “NO” on deep-sea mining, citing risks to ecosystems, tuna fisheries, and cultural heritage, while separate lawsuits challenge federal conclusions that mining won’t harm protected species. Territorial Accountability: CNMI Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds pushes the Pacific Minerals Economic Security Act (PACMESA) for a 50-50 revenue split and stronger bonding/consultation rules for territories potentially affected by seabed mining. Drinking Water Safety: Residents served by the Nu’uuli Water Filtration Plant must keep boiling water after turbidity treatment violations tied to federal standards. Public Health Enforcement: DOH inspectors shut down two retail food stores in Vaitogi and Futiga for sanitation and public health violations. Fisheries Monitoring: A regional workshop in Samoa trained staff on fisheries monitoring tools and biological sampling, supporting better data for sustainable management across American Samoa and neighbors. Community Infrastructure: PAAS met with the Aunu’u community on wharf expansion and boat ramp repairs, focusing on safety concerns after June 2026 extreme tidal impacts. Marine Education: The American Samoa Visitors Bureau launched “Our Paogo,” a children’s book linking culture and conservation around the territory’s pandanus flower.