March 12, 2018. Governor Moliga issued a proclamation to continue the "State of Emergency" for the Territory on Monday, March 12, 2018.
Extending the State of Emergency enables the Governor to take immediate action to provide assistance to those in need and alleviate the hardships that the residents of American Samoa continue to endure as a result of Tropical Storm Gita. The following is the full text of the Governor's Declaration:
PROCLAMATION
CONTINUED STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARATION
March 12, 2018
Whereas, on February 8, 2018, Tropical Storm Gita hit the Territory of American Samoa causing serious damage to infrastructure, homes and businesses; and
Whereas, on February 9, 2018, I proclaimed a State of Emergency for all of American Samoa; and
Whereas, debris from damaged homes, uprooted trees and brush, and personal property continue to litter the island; and
Whereas, hundreds of homes were damaged and many families remain displaced; and
Whereas, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has just opened their Disaster Recovery Center to start the process of rebuilding the lives of affected individuals; and
Whereas, emergency powers are needed to facilitate a speedy recovery and to limit the loss of property and to protect the health of residents; and
Whereas, this Proclamation is issued to continue the state of emergency to expedite recovery efforts and to provide a setting conducive to rapid and orderly restoration and rehabilitation of persons and property affected by this disaster.
NOW THEREFORE, I, LOLO M. MOLIGA, Governor of American Samoa hereby continue the State of Emergency for the entire Territory of American Samoa. Furthermore, I continue to call upon the government, non-government organizations, private sector and residents of the Territory of American Samoa to assist and cooperate with the authorities to safeguard lives and property. Therefore, emergency powers of procurement and hiring and any other lawful emergency powers remain in effect.
LOLO M. MOLIGA
Governor