Bill 89-38, also known as the Inafa’maolek Food Donation Act, is designed to strengthen food security and divert food waste on Guam.

The bill was introduced by Senator Sabina Perez and cosponsored by Vice Speaker Tony Ada, Senators Shelly Calvo, Chris Barnett, and Therese Terlaje.

It seeks to clarify liability protections for food donors, encourage greater food recovery efforts and ensure that safe, edible food reaches families.

Nationally, food waste comprises 24% of U.S. landfills but emits 58% of methane gas released into the atmosphere. Methane is the second-largest contributor to climate change following carbon dioxide emissions.

In Guam, food comprises 26% of Guam’s waste stream with an estimated 20,000 tons of wholesome food landfilled per year. If recovered, this amount could feed around 12% of our island’s population.

This legislation builds upon the federal Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Food Donation Act by formally codifying liability protections in Guam law. It also encourages the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services to increase awareness and provide information about food donation laws, thereby promoting businesses to participate in food recovery programs and waste reduction.

Guam's food banks and nonprofits currently struggle to meet growing demands, especially amidst the rising cost of food and groceries. By incentivizing food donation and reducing landfill waste, the Inafa’maolek Food Donation Act aligns with sustainable environmental practices while fostering a culture of generosity and community support.