Number: RL34013
Title: The Federal Minimum Wage and American Samoa
Authors: William G. Whittaker, Domestic Social Policy Division 
Abstract: At least since the 1950s, the companies involved in fish processing have suggested that, were the minimum wage to be raised to the national rate, they might consider leaving the island and operating out of a country where wage rates were more favorable. Now, with the new wage rate for American Samoa in effect, what will be the reaction of the tuna canning companies? Will they improve technology to raise labor productivity, change the type of production done in Samoa, absorb the new rates - or migrate? And, if they were to migrate, what alternative employment might be available for the people of American Samoa?
Pages: 38
Date: April 8, 2008