“Last week, the Senate was supportive of our efforts to include the Territories in this tax package and as a result of this week’s negotiations, it is my understanding that American Samoa will now receive a one time payment of $5 million for FY03 and another $5 million in FY04 to address our transportation, health and education needs,” the Congressman said.  “We will also receive about $460,000 for Medicaid.”   

       “At this time, I have worked with the leadership on both sides of the aisle to direct the Secretary of Treasury to allocate our funds in the following ways and for the following purposes.  For FY03, $1 million shall be used for feasibility studies for harbor renovations at Tau and Aunu’u, $1.5 for village water renovation projects in Leone, Olosega/Sili, and Tau, $1 million for the LBJ Medical Center to train nurses and doctors, and $1.5 million to improve high school libraries.  For FY04, $5 million shall be used to purchase a ferry to transport passengers and cargo between the islands of Manu’a and Tutuila.”

       “I am pleased that this funding has been provided to help us address these critical issues that have been brought to my attention by the people of American Samoa,” Faleomavaega said.  “I am especially pleased that we are making progress to obtain the necessary funds to help Manu’a resolve its transportation needs.” 

       “Again, I want to thank Chairman Thomas and the Ranking Member, Congressman Charles Rangel, for their support in including the intent of the Collins amendment in the conference report which was helpful in providing flex aid to the States and Territories.  I am also appreciative that during Conference the House and Senate agreed to provide the Territories with more money than the Collins amendment initially proposed.  Our hard work has paid off for American Samoa and I am pleased by the outcome,” the Congressman concluded.