Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata has announced that the Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) is providing a $250,000 grant to the American Samoa Government (ASG) Department of Treasury. The funding comes through the OIA Technical Assistance Program and was also communicated to Governor Pulaali’i Nikolao Pula.
“Congratulations to Governor Pulaali’i for proposing and acquiring these funds, and their use in necessary efforts,” said Congresswoman Amata. “Thank you to OIA for recognizing this need and responding promptly to the Governor’s application. Thank you to everyone at ASG who works on this and other projects that allow our territory to qualify for important federal support, as dollars that start in Congress have requirements at every step in order or funding to be delivered to serve our people.”
The grant will be used for Single Audit Assistance, according to a proposal submitted by ASG on August 12, 2025. William W. Hague, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Insular and International Affairs, wrote in an August 27 notification letter: “Timely and high-quality audits are crucial for the transparency and accountability of U.S. taxpayer funds allocated to the insular areas. Therefore, OIA has awarded this non-competitive discretionary grant, and I expect these funds will enable the Department of Treasury to bolster its efforts related to producing timely and high-quality Single Audits.”
Hague added that the funding is intended for hiring staff with financial and accounting experience who can produce accurate auditable financial data and develop improved written processes. These steps are aimed at ensuring required annual single audits are completed on time. A portion of the funds may also be used for software, supplies, or equipment directly related to supporting audit activities.
