The Department of Human Resources is not moving to reinstate payroll deductions until the government determines how much the service will cost.
DHR Director Le’i Sonny Thompson had told the Fono in early August that it’s most likely payroll deductions would be reinstated.
It was also revealed at a press conference of the Board of Directors of the American Samoa Economic Development Authority, that the Territorial Bank of American Samoa was requesting payroll deductions for its customers.
The Director of Human Resources said today in response to KHJ News enquiries they are still reviewing the pros and cons of reinstating payroll deductions.
He said they need to determine the full costs of providing this service before resuming payroll deductions.
Le’i had testified at the August House hearing that if the service is resumed it would be at a cost.
Payroll deducations were discontinued in 2013 by the late Treasurer Falema’o Dr. Phil Pili citing the expense and that it was not fair to taxpayers who are not government employees.
The only payroll deductions currently offered by ASG are for ASPA, ASTCA, LBJ Hospital and Development Bank of American Samoa.
In the past, banks and insurance companies were able to deduct customers’ loan payments and insurance premiums from the ASG payroll.
