Bill requires 2014 vote on plebiscite

by Sabrina Salas Matanane

Guam - Guam's leaders are continuing their efforts to once and for all resolve the island's political status. It was the focus of a community forum last week, and the speaker's weekly address this week, and today Senator Judi Guthertz has introduced legislation that would amend local law that would lead to a 2014 vote on the question.

As it is now, Guam law ties holding a plebiscite to achieving a 70% registration of those defined as native inhabitants of Guam. Bill 154 would remove the 70% requirement and would direct the Guam Election Commission to setup a registration system at all island voting precincts in addition to the GEC.

The registration process would occur when voters head to the polls during next year's primary and general elections.