The group that’s organizing a peaceful demonstration against the bill to increase lawmakers salaries, United Citizens of American Samoa, is also circulating an on line petition.
The petition posted on change.org and titled, “No to the Fono pay raise” says in part that the total cost of the salary hikes will cost $800,000 and would raise the President and Speaker‘s pay by from $30,000 to $50,000 and that of Representatives and Senators from $25,000 to $45,000 and the Swains delegate pay from $20,000 to $40,000.
Says the petition these figures are based on a typical 90 day working period (two 45-day sessions) and do not include the office allowances they also receive annually.
The allowances are $40,000 for the Fono leaders and $30,000 for members.
The petition names the four lawmakers who voted no to the salary increase bill: Larry Sanitoa (District #15 – Tualauta), Vui Florence Saulo (District #15 – Tualauta), Vailoata Amituana’i (District #7 – Maoputasi I), and Rep Maugaoalii Leapai Anoa’i (District #8 – Maoputasi II)
The petition says, “The United Citizens of American Samoa (UCAS) is opposed to both the timing and outcomes of this bill especially in such trying economic times for the territory and government. A recent audit reported a $13.1 million dollar deficit for FY 2014 and frequent news articles speak to the ongoing austerity measures (increment, hiring freezes, etc) taken on to reduce the ongoing budgetary issues. With the hospital in disarray, schools and classrooms lacking basic supplies, and a crumbling critical infrastructure (roads) we strongly believe that there are certainly more pressing issues to be addressed in this legislature than that of their own personal benefits.
“As our elected officials and district representatives, they have been entrusted to be a voice for their constituents and to fight for the greater good and we do not feel that the motives behind this bill aligns with those duties and expectations.”
The petition asks, “Please support our and express your opposition to this bill by signing this petition, sharing it on your social media timelines or emailing them to your friends and family, and if possible by attending our peaceful demonstrations on Tuesday (02/02) and Thursday (02/04) in Fagatogo from 6AM – 8:30 AM.”
