The congressional representatives of American Samoa and Guam have requested an oversight hearing in the U.S. House Committee on Resources to focus on political, economic development, health and education issues in their territories.
American Samoa Congressman Faleomavaega Eni Hunkin and Guam Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo have joined Congresswoman Donna Christensen of the US Virgin Islands in making the official request
They have specifically requested that the hearings be held to coincide with the presence of local leaders in Washington, DC for the upcoming National Governor's Association Winter Meeting.
Faleomavaega says if the hearing request is granted, it would represent an excellent opportunity for Governors and legislative leaders to engage in a meaningful dialogue with the Members of the Resources Committee.
He says each of the insular areas "has similar concerns regarding economic development, health issues, education, and progress on self-governance."
Faleomavaega believes discussions with the Committee on Resources and the Department of the Interior will help guide their legislative work in the future.
