The American Samoan youth and women's ministry commends attempts to introduce paid maternity leave for government workers.
At the moment, new mothers have to take their annual or sick leave when their baby is born.
A new bill proposes a one-month paid maternity leave for women working in government jobs.
The ministry's spokesperson, Ramona Toeaina, says the initiative is an important first step.
"That's proper and I'll support the issue. But I think it should be extended to other women as well because we should all have the same rights."
Ramona Toeaina says women should receive the pay they usually earn.
