Some lawmakers are not even bothering with the FY2017 budget hearings because of the way that the joint chairmen are conducting the sessions.
Early this week during review of the American Samoa Community College budget, the co chairs were quick to put a motion to excuse the witnesses to a vote.
Several members raised their hands for an opportunity to speak but the chairs did not recognize them, and the motion was carried.
Rep Maugaoalii Sipa Anoai and Vui Florence Saulo had asked the committee chairs Senator Laolagi Vaeao and Rep. Faimealelei Anthony Allen to please give members the chance to ask the witnesses questions.
Maugaoalii said he had several questions he wanted to ask the ASCC witnesses concerning financial aid for students as some parents have reported that their children are not receiving the assistance they believe they are entitled to.
House Speaker Savali Talavou Ale advised lawmakers that even if they’re not given the floor, they should abide by decisions made by the co chairs .
ASCC is in a precarious financial situation as it nears the end of FY2016.
As reported by KHJ News the ASCC CFO Amey Silafau sent out an email asking that divisions not make any purchases unless absolutely essential to their operations.
The email revealed that ASG owed ASCC a total of $942,592 beginning from April.
