21 Apr 2011

American Samoa legislators have expense cheques withheld again

6:41 pm on 21 April 2011

American Samoa's Treasury has still not paid out expense allowances due to lawmakers.

This is the second pay period that they haven't got cheques to cover the expenses they incur in carrying out their duties as legislators.

The senate president and house speaker have sent letters to governor Togiola Tulafono protesting against the action, which is believed to be in retaliation for the Fono not passing new tax initiatives.

Last week, each chamber held separate meetings to discuss how the Fono should proceed if the administration doesn't release the cheques.