Deep-Sea Mining Push Faces Pushback: A House Rules Committee blocked a bid to keep seabed mining off the FAST-41 fast-track, even as the House passed the Protecting Domestic Mining Act—raising fresh alarms about rushed environmental review in the Pacific. Local Ocean Governance: Western Pacific scientists will review fishing rules and set science-based bottomfish catch guidance for 2027–2030, including possible changes to the American Samoa Large Vessel Prohibited Area around Rose Atoll. El Niño Climate Warning: The National Weather Service says a strong El Niño is likely to intensify into early 2027, with risks to crops and fisheries, heat and water stress, higher tropical cyclone chances, and coral bleaching—urging residents to prepare now. Public Health Signal From Wastewater: Hawaiʻi DOH detected dengue virus in Hilo wastewater, with no active cases currently reported, but the finding underscores mosquito-borne risk across the region including American Samoa. Community Concern Over NOAA Mapping: American Samoan youth and activists confronted NOAA’s Okeanos Explorer, saying they welcome ocean science but worry deep-sea mineral mapping could feed future mining leases. Regional Enforcement Against IUU Fishing: At the Pacific Islands Forum, the U.S. announced a Pacific IUU Fishing Project aimed at countering illegal fishing, including support for compliance and training tied to protecting American Samoa’s waters. National Park Spotlight: Rep. Uifa’atali Amata highlighted the National Park of American Samoa during National Park Week, emphasizing wildlife and bird habitat and the park’s offshore coral reefs.