A bill to require legislative approval to extend a public health emergency was discussed today in a public hearing.

The measure by Sen. Chris Duenas would also limit some of the governor's powers in such situations.

If it sounds familiar, it's because Duenas tried to push through a similar bill last term. But multiple attempts to override the governor's veto failed along party lines.

Testifying in support of the measure today was former Governor's Physicians Advisory Group chairman Dr. Hoa Nguyen.

Nguyen stepped down midway through the pandemic over disagreements with how Adelup was asserting its emergency powers.

"We kinda learned a lot during pandemic," he said. "I think that somehow we should limit the power of anyone to make decision especially to protect the private side of how we run our business. And as a medical provider it doesn't matter what the govenor say or anyone say, we'll continue to support the community the best we can, in a way that's safe for our provider, our medical staff and provide the best care for the people of Guam."

The bill would also prohibit executive orders from limiting a number of things including the freedom to assemble on private property, free exercise of religion, and diminish or suspend a person's second amend rights.