by Nick Delgado

Guam - Whether the Government of Guam actually has the money to give public safety and law enforcement personnel their legally mandated ten percent raises is now left in the hands of Superior Court Judge Michael Bordallo. Class attorney Daniel Somerfleck stressed that the court and government need to recognize the obligation that is mandated by law.

Yet the government's attorney, Ken Orcott, said the funds were not appropriated and therefore it's a legislative issue. But public safety oversight chair Senator Adolpho Palacios contends the money is there, saying, "[There is] nothing in the budget act right now that precludes the governor from paying the 10 percent, in other words it would not be illegal for him to pay the ten percent right now if he wants it."

Judge Michael Bordallo took the matter under advisement. The government meanwhile will have to submit a declaration from BBMR detailing the budget process and the plaintiffs will then have time to provide a response.