Downtown at the Guam Congress Building today, lawmakers took up several bills addressing issues such as taxes on vehicle transfers to improving emergency management. During the first half of today’s session, senators focused their energy on measures aimed at updating key government functions, protecting and uplifting vulnerable communities, and easing some of the strain on our returning workforce.

The first bill on the agenda was Bill 88, introduced by Senator Telo Taitague, which seeks to change how taxes on vehicle transfers are assessed. The veteran policymaker argued that relying on Kelly Blue Book values often overestimates taxes on vehicles, unfairly burdening residents.

She suggested, “Our cars are exposed to unique environmental challenges: constant salt air, rough terrain, high mileage, and prolonged use, which all contribute to much lower market value than KBB typically estimates.”

Senator Shawn Gumataotao says the bill would also be a step toward solving the issue of abandoned cars degrading our communities.

 Moving forward, Bill 66 by Speaker Frank Blas, Jr. would would codify the Guam Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan, as well as require annual reviews and exercises. Senator Gumataotao says as tropical storm season approaches, having this plan in place is critical.

Senator Shelly Calvo also rose in support of the bill, saying, “The intent of this measure is to ensure that Guam’s emergency management system is not a reactionary tool, pulled from a shelf after crisis, but a living, practiced framework – embedded in our government operations year round.”

Up for debate as well was Bill 95, authored by Senator Tina Muña Barnes, which would allow childcare facilities to operate as intergeneration daycare centers – a move she believes reflects Guam’s values. The bill comes with it’s own safety standards for such facilities, their education, and safety provisions, but in addition, she noted, “This measure gives the Department of Public Health and Social Services 60 days to draft rules and regulations to implement this new license.”

Finally, Senator Chris Barnett’s Bill 50 would allow for sick leave accrual for rehired retired Government of Guam employees, helping those who step up to fill in the gaps, such as the teacher shortage.

“These retirees," the second-term senator said, "they’re coming back because they love what they do. Whether it's in the Guam Department of Education or in the Department of Corrections, please restore this dignity.”

All of these bills have now advanced to the Third Reading File.