Babauta reaffirms need for reparations legislation

by Heather Hauswirth

Guam - U.S. Department of Interior for Insular Affairs Assistant Secretary Tony Babauta reaffirmed the Obama Administration's commitment to advancing war claims legislation and securing funding for Compact impact aid and improving civilian infrastructure during a congressional oversight hearing today.  Babauta committed to making the island's compact impact funding a priority. 

Senator Frank Blas, Jr. recently sent the assistant secretary a letter, asking him to address the issue.  "I'm putting their feet to the fire," the senator said in summary of his correspondence. "You say that your in discussion, I would like to know what your discussions are, what your course of action is and how can I help?"

Babauta is also working to identify federal funds for civilian infrastructure to support the buildup.