Deep-Sea Mining Push: The U.S. plans to auction about 33 million acres of deep ocean around American Samoa for mineral exploration, with a proposed lease sale tentatively set for Nov. 19—an effort critics say moves too fast amid major environmental data gaps. Regional Fallout: Leaders in Guam and the CNMI say they were caught off guard by the U.S. announcement and warn about impacts to food security and island livelihoods. Local Opposition: American Samoa’s church and community voices are also mobilizing against seabed mining, arguing it threatens marine life, fisheries, and Indigenous ways of life. Telecom Investment: DXN won an AU$1.2 million contract to deliver a modular cable landing station for the Adamasia Cable System in the Solomon Islands, extending a regional subsea network that already includes American Samoa landing infrastructure. Immigration & Labor: Governor Pulaalii Pula has submitted a bill to the Fono proposing a 12-month moratorium on the “Special Provision” clause that allows foreign labor beyond statutory limits—setting up renewed debate over jobs and public pressure. Public Safety Oversight: Senators questioned the Fire Division after July fires, citing slow response concerns and reports of dry hydrants, with officials subpoenaed to explain failures. Health Services Scrutiny: A Senate Health Committee hearing focused on reliability and staffing at the LBJ Hemodialysis Clinic, including water filtration breakdowns that can delay treatment. Cyber Hygiene: The Department of Education warned staff about phishing emails targeting ASDOE accounts, urging no clicks on links or attachments and prompt reporting. Business Climate Watch: A World Bank report flags higher AI job-displacement exposure in high-income countries, a reminder that automation risk is uneven across economies.