American Samoa $2 million Richer in Federal Funds

The American Samoa has been boosted with $2 million in federal funds for security purposes through the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Congresswoman Aumua Amata welcomed the funds. She said the local investments are great news for their Territory and federal support like this is necessary for operations that would otherwise be too expensive. The grant amount are as follows: $1 million through the State Homeland Security Program (SHSP); another $100,000 under the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP); and $907,271 under the Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) program. Furthermore, the EMPG is authorized by Congress, in the Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act assists States and Territories in preparing for a variety of hazards. The SHSP was also authorized by the Congress in the Homeland Security Act. It provides training, equipment, planning and other response preparation to catastrophic events.

American Samoa is eligible to apply for funds in the FY 2019 under the Operation Stonegarden (OPSG) program, which enhances security at all US travel and entry points, including international water borders.