Deep-Sea Mining Watch: The U.S. Department of the Interior is moving ahead with a proposed deep-sea mining lease sale off American Samoa—an effort that could open the first commercial leasing of its kind worldwide, with Interior saying it supports “critical minerals” supply chains while American Samoa leaders and environmental groups warn it’s dangerous and reckless. Local Jobs & Ports: MMA’s proposed leasing notice says bidders should make “every reasonable effort” to hire American Samoans, use local businesses, and use the Port of Pago Pago. Travel Planning Alert: Port Administration added new voyage email notifications and clearer vessel-tracking updates on ManuateleSchedule.com, helping Manuʻa travelers follow departures, arrivals, delays, and weather holds. Manuʻa Transport Disruption: MV Manu’atele is grounded for at least two weeks after a U.S. Coast Guard inspection found new mechanical and safety issues—Port Administration says safety comes first and urges alternative travel by air or charter. Time Change Talk: The U.S. House passed the Sunshine Protection Act to make daylight saving time permanent nationwide (with Senate action next), a move that could affect travel schedules even though American Samoa does not observe DST. Citizenship & “Birth Tourism”: A new push in Congress would end birthright citizenship in most U.S. territories, keeping the debate focused on how citizenship rules apply beyond the 50 states. Off-Island Connectivity: Starlink updated its Roam policy by grouping countries into shared regions—its North American region includes the U.S., Canada, and U.S. territories including American Samoa, potentially reducing how often the 30-day international roaming cap triggers.