Amata Highlights VA Ribbon-Cutting and Thanks Faleomavaega Clinic Personnel

Pago Pago - Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amata was delighted to attend the ribbon-cutting at the Faleomavaega Eni Fa'aua'a Hunkin VA Clinic, and she appreciates the remarks of Acting Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr. at the event, as Governor Pula'ali'i Nikolao Pula has responsibilities in Washington, D.C. She congratulates the Clinic's leadership, medical professionals and staff, and the veterans who rely on these important services.

Ribbon Cutting at the Faleomavaega Eni Fa'aua'a Hunkin VA Clinic

"As always, thank you most of all, today and every day, to our Veterans for their service, leadership and wisdom throughout our islands," said Congresswoman Aumua Amata, who serves as Vice Chairman of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee. "Thank you to Acting Governor Pulu, Veteran Healthcare Pacific Interim Director Dr. Thomas Steinbrunner, Associate Director/Chief Operating Officer Devin Woods, American Samoa CBOC Business Manager Eti Falaniko, who led the benediction, American Samoa CBOC Chief Medical Officer Dr. Fred Urhle Jr., LBJ Chief Medical Officer Dr. Aitofele James Sunia, and all others taking part and attending."

Congresswoman Amata with Acting Governor Pulumataala Ae Ae Jr. at the event

This week, as announced by the Clinic and American Samoa Government, the Clinic officially opened their newly expanded laboratory, a $2 million investment to improve healthcare and provide better access to Veterans. The project and purpose were detailed by both VAPIHCS Interim Director Dr. Thomas Steinbrunner, emphasizing long-lasting improvements, and Associate Director of Operations Devin Woods, focusing on specifics of faster laboratory testing, quality clinical decision-making and access to care, and securing access to medical services.

Overall, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is funded through Congress, requiring two major yearly bills, each of which have hearings and votes at the Committee levels - an authorization bill directing VA national spending, reforms and priorities, and a corresponding appropriations bill that provides that recommended funding. Currently, the VA is operating under the 2026 legislation, with 2027 bills under consideration. The 2027 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill, in process, includes a three percent increase, and $2 billion for capital improvements nationwide. Additionally, a host of legislative efforts are underway in the House Veterans' Affairs Committee seeking to improve specific VA's nationwide services, timeliness, records and technology, retention, and mental health provisions, as well as strengthen oversight.

In 2017, Congress named American Samoa's VA Clinic (Public Law No: 115-16) in honor of the extensive public service and military service of the late Congressman Eni Fa'aua'a Hunkin Faleomavaega.

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