While tensions have run high over the past several years at the stymied progress of the bill to implement a nitrate system for decedent properties over Guam's aquifer, there was a bit of satisfaction from landowners at the Guam Congress Hall today as the bill was finally added to session agenda.

Elaine Santos has dealt with this issue for several years, wishing for the autonomy to be able to develop a homestead on she and her husband's family's land in order to provide for her ailing daughter. "Well, I'd like the senators to know that we got this property through our our deceased parents and they work hard to provide, so that we can have this property and only to find out that we're not able to build it or do anything with it," she shared with KUAM News prior to today's public hearing.

"The thing is, we inherited the property from our parents and they worked hard to provide for us and we just want to make sure that we follow through within their will."

Another landowner, Pete Pangelinan from Agana Heights, owns property passed down through his family in Adacao. And while he was generally pleased with the decision by lawmakers, his emotions took over when discussing his frustration. "It's good that it's moving forward," he began, then paused, fighting back tears.

"But they just need to help us. I'm just trying to build my house, I'm just trying to grow my my own vegetables. I'm just trying to retire, and I can't build on my own land? I can't get a building permit, an occupancy permit, because because of the current law and the way it's written."

Asked if he could say one thing to senators directly, he responded in native Chamorro, "Ayuda yu pago (Help me...now)". That's it."

Senator Sabina Perez issued a press release, saying forcing Bill 175-37 into session "breaks the public trust."