The Fono was back in session today after a week long break.
Today Senators voted unanimously to approve in 3rd reading the Senate Joint Resolution to give Manu’a two additional senators.
All 14 senators present supported the constitutional amendment: Galea’i, Laolagi, Fuiava, Matautia, Tialavea, Tuaolo, Afoa, Uti, Soliai, Alo, Gaea, Atualevao, Avegalio, and Senate President Gaoteote Palaie.
Gaoteote said after the vote that there was no difference between Manu’a and his own district regarding the need for additional senators however he will not stand in the way of the amendment.
He said at least the Senate can now wash its hands clean of this matter, and the measure now goes to the House for its decision before it’s presented to the governor and to the people for a vote.
The House of Representatives had already adjourned by the time the Senate had approved the joint resolution, so it will only be introduced in the House tomorrow.
If approved Manu’a will have 5 senators and three Representatives in the Fono.
The final session of the legislature ends on Friday so there wont be enough time to have a final reading of the bill.
The Fono is planning to dedicate its new Fale Samoa on Friday
