Guam’s senators passed a slate of bills this session  from enhancing emergency preparedness to expanding access to Medicaid and food assistance. 

But with other key proposals, like hospital reform, voted down, this session also highlighted the delicate balance between change and caution.

One of the most community-focused wins this session: Bill 78, which allows certain SNAP recipients, including seniors and individuals with disabilities, to use their benefits on hot meals through the Restaurant Meals program.

But not every proposal aimed at community healthcare made it through. 

Bill 13, which would have created a public-private partnership to stabilize Guam Memorial Hospital, was voted down.

As to our session, I rise with a mix of gratitude and some disappointment,” said Sen. Therese Terlaje. “The reality is this: GMH continues to face serious problems and Bill 13 was a practical solution to address these challenges with the goal of improving operational efficiency and reducing financial losses.”

Lawmakers also unanimously passed Bill 33, strengthening Guam's Criminal Code by expanding the definitions of first and second-degree criminal sexual conduct. 

Meanwhile, Bill 118 passed, offering medicaid providers a BPT rebate on medicaid receipts to help ease the cost of operation and increase access.

Senators also voted to repeal the legalization of consumer-grade fireworks through Bill 20, citing safety and public health concerns. The measure passed putting stricter controls back in place.

On the business side, Bill 67 passed, giving the Antonio B. Won Pat International airport authority greater freedom to award contracts.but the move sparked concern from senators who say it cuts out transparency and oversight.

For businesses and consumers alike, Bill 59 will now require the itemization of the Business Privilege Tax on all receipts and invoices.

It sets out to provide a new level of transparency that benefits both sides.

While it’s not financial relief, it’s reputational relief, helping customers better understand the true cost of doing business on Guam.

With a packed session now behind them, some senators say the legislature should be doing more, and meeting more often, to truly fulfill its responsibilities as public servants.

“This 38th Guam Legislature is six months old. We’ve been in session twice. That might be one of the most significant accomplishments of this new majority: turning this legislature into a part-time legislature with full-time pay,” said Sen. Chris Barnett.

In the wake of these votes and with session now adjourned, the legislature leaves behind a mix of progress and hesitation — showing how each decision is shaped by both the urgency to act and the caution to get it right.