A women's group in American Samoa says the senate did not have a thorough enough look at a bill to raise the marriage age of girls from 14 to 18-years-old before rejecting it.
The bill was defeated last week, nine votes to seven.
The American Samoa Legislature Fono building in Fagatogo Photo: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Pae ma Auli president Leiataua Leuga Turner said it was a surprise for her, working in women's advocacy, that the first she had heard of the bill was in the paper when it was rejected.
Leiataua wants to get the bill back to the senate but only after there has been significant public education and feedback.
She said Pae ma Auli is organising a survey to establish public opinion on the bill before lobbying for its reintroduction.
"And then, should this bill be [re]introduced, we will like to be part of that development by sharing the information from the survey," she said.
"Also to give people who are knowledgeable with child development an opportunity to assist."
Leiataua Leuga Turner said all the information will be incorporated and offered to the fono for their consideration.