Immigration Bills Have One Step to Go

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Apart from reviewing the proposed FY2017  budget, administration bills submitted during this session are also going through the regular review in both chambers.

The House of Representatives passed yesterday in second reading a bill already approved by the Senate which amends the required quorum for the Immigration board from 5 member to 4.

The governor has proposed the reduction because he says its been difficult trying to get a quorum for the board which approves non American Samoans and non us citizens who apply. to reside or work in the territory.

The Immigration Board meets weekly.

Some have suggested that instead of changing the quorum requirement, the governor should pick individuals who are committed to  serving on this very important and powerful board.

Also passed in second reading by the House yesterday, is a bill to double the number of foreigners granted permanent residency each year.

Under present law, only 50 permanent residents are approved annually.

The bill has already been approved by the Senate.

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