A mix of signatures and a veto from Adelup — as Governor Lou Leon Guerrero approves multiple bills reshaping public safety, elections, veterans services, and education, while rejecting a measure she says raises concerns over long-term public land leases.  

She signed a series of measures into law, advancing legislation affecting public safety, elections, veterans services, education, and government transparency — while vetoing one bill related to commercial lease extensions.

Among the newly enacted laws is Public Law 38-81, which transfers land in Piti to the Department of Parks & Recreation, expanding burial capacity at the Vicente A. Limtiaco Memorial Park — a move aimed at addressing the island’s long-term cemetery needs.

The governor also signed Public Law 38-83, strengthening penalties for third-degree criminal sexual conduct involving younger victims, creating an aggravated offense with significantly longer prison sentences.

Several measures focus on elections and government accountability, including updates to Guam’s election manual, campaign finance reporting rules, and voter registration timelines.

Veterans services also saw major changes under Public Law 38-90, which expands the authority of the Guam Veterans Commission and updates the legal definition of a veteran to align with federal standards.

Educators with decades of service are now eligible for a lifetime teaching certificate under Public Law 38-91, aimed at retaining experienced teachers and encouraging retired educators to return to the classroom.

However, the governor vetoed Bill 176-38, which would have allowed commercial tenants in good standing to extend public land leases. In her veto message, she cited concerns over inconsistent legislative oversight and the potential for long-term leases without competitive bidding.

The remaining bills signed into law also address motor vehicle ownership transfers, driver’s license validity for incoming residents, customs inspection facilities, and public notice requirements for government hiring.