by Ken Quintanilla

Guam - Legislation aimed at waiving rent for Guam Customs and Quarantine to have office space at the Guam International Airport went up for a public hearing this morning.

Bill 137, introduced by Vice Speaker B.J. Cruz, essentially copies federal regulation at an attempt to equalize what is practiced throughout international airports in the country where federal agencies are provided with free space.

Guam Customs and Quarantine director Pedro Leon Guerrero spoke in favor of the measure, saying, "Although eliminating our payment of rent at the airport is certainly one viable option towards resolving our funding dilemma, and for bringing us into parity with the federal government we believe the value of this program and its importance to the people of Guam would benefit most with a thorough review of the issues and with that determination the best course of action."

He adds whiles Customs pays over $3 million a year in rent, raised concern over possible conflicts with federal laws. Airport executive manager Chuck Ada meanwhile submitted written testimony opposing the measure, saying it was problematic due to potential interference with GIAA's mandate to collect rent for all of its rental property and its violation of federal anti-head tax laws.