Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata has updated the territory of her push to use the last remaining legislative path to save ASG’s expiring ARPA funds, through possible inclusion in a year-end Continuing Resolution (C.R.), often called stopgap funding, that will be necessary to extend funding into 2027 for the U.S. government.

At the same time, Congresswoman Amata is sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent making the same case and once again highlighting the additional challenges of an island economy that relies heavily on shipping for necessary construction materials and equipment, and the need for additional leeway to complete projects.

“We’re fighting for more time for ASG while facing a firm deadline for ARPA use,” Amata said. “The fact that there are states that also are coming up against the deadline and facing loss of funds with unfinished projects means we’re not alone in urging this extension. In addition to calling for inclusion in the funding legislation, I’m making the same case again to Secretary Bessent, urgently asking for his support in providing more time for ASG.”

The current stopgap funding measure expires on December 11, 2026. With government funding set to expire, lawmakers must act to pass either full-year appropriations bills, another stopgap, or a hybrid package to avoid a partial government shutdown.

“I’m calling for Congress to avoid a shutdown, extend federal funding across the board, and include an ARPA extension in any funding legislation,” concluded Congresswoman Amata. “This would give time for the new Congress to work together on the funding priorities the American people want and expect.”

Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula wrote to the US Treasury last month asking for a 6-month extension of ARPA funding to allow projects it is funding to be completed. 

Fagaima Larry Sanitoa this month wrote to Congresswoman Amata asking for her urgent assistance for an extension of ARPA funding. In his letter, he points to legislative help as a possible avenue for the extension.