Senator Frank Ishizaki (R) and Speaker Judi Won Pat (D) have teamed-up to introduce a bill targeted at shutting down institutions that they claim have opened up on Guam, purporting to be institutions of higher education.  Such organizations offer diplomas, degrees and programs for a cost without added work of going into a classroom, meeting with an instructor, or turning in term papers.  

These institutions are typically referred to as "diploma mills".

Won Pat says there have been several illegitimate universities that have been springing up not only here, but also in Saipan.  "The most important thing is that at least we can protect our citizens or students here who would like to receive a degree," the speaker said.  "We're not saying you must go to just our schools, but we want to make sure they're not being railroaded or shortchanged or lied to or deceived in any way that they're going to have a certificate and it's not legitimate."

If Bill 390 passes into law, institutions without a valid, active certificate issued will be charged with a 2nd degree misdemeanor, and anyone who conceals information relating to violations regarding such provisions will be charged with a misdemeanor in the 3rd degree.  The measure also establishes the Council on Post-Secondary Institution Certification, which will be tasked with the responsibility to authorize the granting of diplomas and degrees by any non-public post-secondary institution operating on Guam.

Won Pat hopes to have a public hearing soon so that the bill could be brought up on the Session floor in December.