Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he has been informed that the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources intends to hold an oversight hearing on March 1, 2006 at 10:00 am in room SD-366 of the Dirksen building. 

The purpose of the oversight hearing is to receive testimony regarding the state of the economies and fiscal affairs in the Territories of Guam, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the United States Virgin Islands.  Members of Congress and Territorial Governors have been invited to testify.

 “Given the unique challenges the territories face, I am pleased that Chairman Pete Domenici (R-NM) and Ranking Member Jeff Bingaman (D-NM) are holding this hearing and taking a serious look at how the Senate may be able to assist with healthcare, education and economic development and other issues important to the insular areas,” Faleomavaega said.  “I am also pleased that Senator Akaka who is one of the most senior members of the Committee will play a vital role in these hearings.  Senator Akaka is a true friend to all of us and his influence is far-reaching.” 

“The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources is like the House Resources Committee.  Both have general oversight for the territories and insular possessions and I welcome the opportunity to testify before this esteemed Committee,” Faleomavaega concluded.