A move to officially recognize a longstanding commission that supports Guam’s law enforcement and justice systems is gaining momentum. Lawmakers, public safety officials, and the Judiciary of Guam came together in strong support of legislation that could enhance how justice is served across the island.

A public hearing lead by Senator Telo Taitague, chairwoman of the Legislative Committee on Economic Investment, Military Buildup, Regional Relations, Regulatory Affairs, Technology, Justice, Elections, and Retirement, was held on Bill 110, introduced by Senator Shawn Gumataotao.

"I know that this effort has and will continue to contribute to the growth of our criminal justice system. Now and into the forseeable future. The system laid the ground work in the development of a technical infrastructure that has greatly improved access to critical criminal justice records for Guam's law enforcement agencies" said Gumataotao.

If passed, the measure would officially recognize the Criminal Justice Automation Commission in Guam law. Though the CJAC has existed and functioned for years, the Judiciary says formalizing it ensures long-term support for systems that serve everyone—from police to prosecutors to federal partners. A handful from the island’s justice and law enforcement agencies came out in force—backing Bill 110, including Theresa Arriola, director of the Department of Public Health and Social Services, who says the bill will have a vital impact if passed.

"Particularly the division of wellness- the Bureau of Social Services Administration (BOSSA), which includes Child Protective Services depends on timely access to information from the National Crime Information Center, especially during active investigations into child abuse or neglect. Accurate criminal data can make a critical difference between a child being safe or remaining in harm's way," she said.

Also speaking in support was Park Police chief Joey Terlaje, who says this piece of legislation is a signifi

cant step forward. "By establishing a dedicated commission to oversee and implement automation initiatives. The automation of the criminal justice processes is essential in today's digital age providing the means to streamline operations, improve data sharing, and ensure the timely and accurate exchange of critical information. The formation will not only benefit the law enforcement agencies but the community as a whole."

CJAC has guided key tech upgrades, including the islandwide fingerprinting system and improved criminal case tracking. Senator Gumataotao, who once worked in the Judiciary himself, says it's time the commission gets its due.