Key bills passed to provide support for vulnerable residents & public services

Bill 24, authored by Senator William Parkinson, codifies the existing practice of providing medically factual information about contraception and sexually transmitted diseases to survivors of rape, as well as the option to receive emergency contraception.

Lt. Governor Josh tenorio praised the bill saying it “continues to advance our collective responsibility to protect the health, dignity, and autonomy of survivors of sexual assault.”

Bill 30, by Senator Sabina Perez, establishes an islandwide collection plan for the Guam Solid Waste Authority. 

A similar bill in the 37th Guam Legislature was vetoed last year for lacking protections for vulnerable residents, such as our manåmko’ and families living on fixed incomes.

Tenorio said these communities “expressed valid concerns that a mandatory collection service without proper support would have placed a heavy burden on their budgets.”

But with opt-out options and financial safeguards now in place, he states, “This bill will help curb illegal dumping, protect public health, and strengthen gswa’s ability to operate independently and efficiently.”

And Bill 103 by Sen. Shawn Gumataotao, allows temporary certification for peace officers who hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent but have not completed all advanced training. 

This measure comes as recruitment levels fall and fewer graduates make it through the police academy.

One bill, however, did not receive Tenorio's signature.

Bill 17, also by Sen. Perez, proposed changes to how agencies implement public auditor recommendations. 

While framed as procedural, the lieutenant governor says the bill removes the key safeguard ensuring each branch of government retains authority over its own affairs, as required by the Organic Act: The Committee on Rules having the final authority over the legislature, the Chief Justice over the judiciary, and the Governor over the Executive Branch.

Without this safeguard, he warned, the bill would give the public auditor excessive power over all three branches.