American Samoan Senators have unanimously backed a resolution requesting the American Samoa Power Authority not to go ahead with an increase in utility rates at the beginning of next month.
The rate increase would affect water, waste water and ground water protection charges.
An identical measure is now before the House of Representatives.
The chairman of the Authority's board, Asaua Fuimaono, says the utility had delayed an earlier rate increase out of consideration for the hardship faced by residents.
He told a Fono hearing last month that the Authority needs the revenue for basic operations and to improve aging infrastructure.
