$10B for territories
House OKs healthcare reform legislation
Monday, 09 November 2009
by Mar-Vic Cagurangan
Marianas Variety News Staff
GUAM and other territories stand to receive $10.35 billion in new funding for Medicaid under a sweeping healthcare reform bill, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 220-215 on Saturday.
“H.R. 3962 puts Guam on a path toward full Medicaid funding and removes the Medicaid cap within the nine year cycle or by 2020 at the latest,” Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo said in a press statement following the passage of H.R. 3962, the Affordable Health Care for America Act.
The trillion dollar healthcare package, which proposes the biggest expansion of insurance to Americans, also offers the territories the option to either join in a health care exchange or use alternative local solutions to provide coverage to the uninsured.
For Guam, the bill assures increased Medicaid funding from $16 million in fiscal year 2010 to $47 million in fiscal year 2011.
H.R. 3962 also provides $4 billion in additional funding to territorial governments specifically for participation in the exchange.
“I was successful in inserting a provision into the Manager’s Amendment that authorizes the governors of the territories the option to include citizens of the Freely Associated States in the federal Medicaid program,” Bordallo said.
The U.S. Senate is currently working on its version of healthcare reform, which illustrates the huge divide that remains between the Republicans and the Democrats.
Most Republicans are particularly opposed to the proposed creation of a government-run insurance option as an alternative to private insurance companies, which they say is an excessive government intervention into healthcare.
Bordallo, meanwhile, said H.R. 3962 closes the gap in Medicaid funding for Guam and the other territories.
“H.R. 3962 is an important step forward to addressing the problem of rising health care costs for individuals and families,” the congresswoman added.
Under the House version of the bill, each additional year from 2011 to 2019, Guam’s Medicaid program will receive an additional $3 million. In fiscal year 2019, Medicaid funding will be $71 million, according to Bordallo said.
Showing posts with label Bills. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bills. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
No War Reparations This Year
News from Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo
Conference Committee Reaches Compromise on War Claims in FY10 National Defense Authorization Act:
Hearings and a Commitment to Readdress War Claims in NDAA FY 2011 Bill Secured
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 7, 2009 – Washington, D.C. –
Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo today announced that a compromise has been reached on H.R. 44, the Guam World War II Loyalty Recognition Act, as part of the final defense authorization bill that was reported out of Conference Committee. Earlier today, leaders from the House Armed Services Committee and the Senate Armed Services Committee signed off on the Conference Report for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010. The conference report has been referred to the House Committee on Rules and is expected to be debated and voted on by the full House of Representatives Thursday afternoon. The bill will then be sent over to the Senate for their consideration and a vote on final passage. If approved by the Senate the bill will be sent to the President for his signature.
Over the past month, leaders of the House and Senate Armed Services Committee have been in negotiations to resolve the differences between the House and Senate defense authorization bills. During these negotiations, Senator Carl Levin, Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Senator John McCain, Ranking Republican Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, raised serious concerns about keeping war claims in the final defense authorization bill. Their objections focused on two areas: 1) The precedent that might be set for future defense authorization bills if war claims remained in this year’s final defense bill, and 2) The payment of claims for personal injury to spouses and children of survivors who have since passed away after World War II.
Chairman Levin and Ranking Member McCain offered to keep war claims in the final defense bill if claims were awarded solely to those killed during the war and to living survivors of the occupation. Congresswoman Bordallo rejected this counter proposal. However, a compromise was reached whereby the House Armed Services Committee and the Senate Armed Services Committee will hold hearings on H.R. 44 and that the issue will be again be addressed in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011 if it has not been resolved by other legislative means in the Senate by next year.
“I did not accept the offer from the Senate conferees because it would not recognize all of those who endured Guam’s occupation,” Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo said today. “While I am disappointed that H.R. 44 was not included in the final defense authorization bill, the compromise that was reached allows another opportunity to build on the progress we have made and to bring closure to this issue within a year. I believe that hearings on H.R. 44 would allow the Senate’s concerns to be aired openly, and to have our concerns heard by the House and Senate Armed Services Committees. I will continue to build on the support that we have received from the House leadership, the Obama Administration and key committees in the Senate. I believe that our local leaders and our community would use this opportunity to help us make Guam’s case for H.R. 44 and for full inclusion of all those affected by the occupation. We are on a path to closure, and we have additional time to make our case. I hope that the commitments made by the House and Senate conferees to hold hearings and to readdress war claims in next year’s bill will give us the best opportunity to resolve this issue and to finally have closure.”
# # #
Contact: Matthew Mateo in Washington, D.C. at 202-225-1188 or Derek Mandell at 671-477-4272/4.
Conference Committee Reaches Compromise on War Claims in FY10 National Defense Authorization Act:
Hearings and a Commitment to Readdress War Claims in NDAA FY 2011 Bill Secured
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 7, 2009 – Washington, D.C. –
Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo today announced that a compromise has been reached on H.R. 44, the Guam World War II Loyalty Recognition Act, as part of the final defense authorization bill that was reported out of Conference Committee. Earlier today, leaders from the House Armed Services Committee and the Senate Armed Services Committee signed off on the Conference Report for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2010. The conference report has been referred to the House Committee on Rules and is expected to be debated and voted on by the full House of Representatives Thursday afternoon. The bill will then be sent over to the Senate for their consideration and a vote on final passage. If approved by the Senate the bill will be sent to the President for his signature.
Over the past month, leaders of the House and Senate Armed Services Committee have been in negotiations to resolve the differences between the House and Senate defense authorization bills. During these negotiations, Senator Carl Levin, Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Senator John McCain, Ranking Republican Member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, raised serious concerns about keeping war claims in the final defense authorization bill. Their objections focused on two areas: 1) The precedent that might be set for future defense authorization bills if war claims remained in this year’s final defense bill, and 2) The payment of claims for personal injury to spouses and children of survivors who have since passed away after World War II.
Chairman Levin and Ranking Member McCain offered to keep war claims in the final defense bill if claims were awarded solely to those killed during the war and to living survivors of the occupation. Congresswoman Bordallo rejected this counter proposal. However, a compromise was reached whereby the House Armed Services Committee and the Senate Armed Services Committee will hold hearings on H.R. 44 and that the issue will be again be addressed in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2011 if it has not been resolved by other legislative means in the Senate by next year.
“I did not accept the offer from the Senate conferees because it would not recognize all of those who endured Guam’s occupation,” Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo said today. “While I am disappointed that H.R. 44 was not included in the final defense authorization bill, the compromise that was reached allows another opportunity to build on the progress we have made and to bring closure to this issue within a year. I believe that hearings on H.R. 44 would allow the Senate’s concerns to be aired openly, and to have our concerns heard by the House and Senate Armed Services Committees. I will continue to build on the support that we have received from the House leadership, the Obama Administration and key committees in the Senate. I believe that our local leaders and our community would use this opportunity to help us make Guam’s case for H.R. 44 and for full inclusion of all those affected by the occupation. We are on a path to closure, and we have additional time to make our case. I hope that the commitments made by the House and Senate conferees to hold hearings and to readdress war claims in next year’s bill will give us the best opportunity to resolve this issue and to finally have closure.”
# # #
Contact: Matthew Mateo in Washington, D.C. at 202-225-1188 or Derek Mandell at 671-477-4272/4.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
House Bill Would Sharply Raise Cost of Guam Project
House Bill Would Sharply Raise Cost of Guam Project
By Walter Pincus
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Washington Post
A little-publicized provision in the fiscal 2010 defense authorization bill approved by the House last week would double the $10 billion cost of construction on Guam as part of the realignment of U.S. military forces in the Pacific.
The planned move of 8,000 U.S. Marines and about 3,600 other U.S. military troops and their dependents from Okinawa and mainland Japan to Guam over the next five years was originally expected to cost about $15 billion.
Of that total, $10 billion would be in construction of facilities, family housing and public utilities.
But a provision in last week's House bill would require that construction companies pay their employees working on Guam's realignment construction projects wages equivalent to rates in Hawaii, which are 250 percent higher than those on Guam, according to the Joint Guam Program Office.
The Congressional Budget Office report attached to the House bill estimates the growth in labor costs from this provision alone "would increase the need for discretionary appropriations by about $10 billion over the 2010-2014 period."
The provision was authored by Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii), the fourth-ranking Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee.
Another amendment Abercrombie added to the bill would limit to 30 percent the proportion of foreign workers that would be allowed to work on these projects.
"At a time when a depressed economy has dealt a body blow to our construction industry, the Department of Defense should not even consider turning over badly needed jobs to foreign workers at questionable wages," Abercrombie told his constituents.
"This is a huge opportunity to put Americans to work, in an American territory, building an American military base. My amendments provide clear guidelines to manage the buildup while ensuring quality work for our service members and their families," he added.
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Another provision would require the secretary of labor to report to the House and Senate Armed Services committees by June 30, 2010, "on efforts to expand the recruitment of construction workers in the United States to support this effort; on the ability of labor markets to support the Guam realignment."
Not everyone agreed with Abercrombie's proposals. Rep. J. Randy Forbes (R-Va.), also an Armed Services Committee member, said during debate on the bill, "This provision will lead to inflated wages in Guam, while taking American jobs from construction projects in Texas, Maryland and Virginia."
The realignment, first agreed to in 2006 by the Bush administration and Japanese government, was designed to reduce tensions caused by a large, unwanted American military presence on Okinawa. In February, during her trip to Japan, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton restated the U.S commitment "to modernize our military posture in the Pacific."
The government of Japan is expected to contribute about $2.8 billion to pay for the move. The U.S. government is to contribute $4.2 billion, and an additional $3.2 billion worth of family housing construction will be financed by third parties, who would then take a fee for managing those properties.
The Congressional Budget Office said it "does not expect the Japanese government to increase its share," thus leaving Washington to pick up the additional costs for construction projects if the provision remains in the bill.
A Government Accountability Office report in April raised questions about whether the U.S. government and the military had made adequate preparations on Guam. The GAO pointed out that military members and their families would create roughly a 14 percent increase in Guam's current population of 171,000, which would "substantially impact Guam's community and infrastructure."
There also would be a need for an estimated 22,000 additional construction workers, at least temporarily.
The GAO suggested that Guam's two major highways would need upgrading to carry the increased traffic. In addition, the island's major port would have to double its capacity.
Its electric capacity would need a major buildup, as would its water and wastewater systems, which the GAO said are near capacity already. The estimate was that the latter would have to be increased by 25 percent.
One question was who would fund the additional demands on Guam's roads, schools and public utilities. In last week's bill, the House expressed its "sense of the Congress that utility improvements on Guam should incorporate military and civilian utilities on Guam into a unified [electric] grid."
By Walter Pincus
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Washington Post
A little-publicized provision in the fiscal 2010 defense authorization bill approved by the House last week would double the $10 billion cost of construction on Guam as part of the realignment of U.S. military forces in the Pacific.
The planned move of 8,000 U.S. Marines and about 3,600 other U.S. military troops and their dependents from Okinawa and mainland Japan to Guam over the next five years was originally expected to cost about $15 billion.
Of that total, $10 billion would be in construction of facilities, family housing and public utilities.
But a provision in last week's House bill would require that construction companies pay their employees working on Guam's realignment construction projects wages equivalent to rates in Hawaii, which are 250 percent higher than those on Guam, according to the Joint Guam Program Office.
The Congressional Budget Office report attached to the House bill estimates the growth in labor costs from this provision alone "would increase the need for discretionary appropriations by about $10 billion over the 2010-2014 period."
The provision was authored by Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii), the fourth-ranking Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee.
Another amendment Abercrombie added to the bill would limit to 30 percent the proportion of foreign workers that would be allowed to work on these projects.
"At a time when a depressed economy has dealt a body blow to our construction industry, the Department of Defense should not even consider turning over badly needed jobs to foreign workers at questionable wages," Abercrombie told his constituents.
"This is a huge opportunity to put Americans to work, in an American territory, building an American military base. My amendments provide clear guidelines to manage the buildup while ensuring quality work for our service members and their families," he added.
ad_icon
Another provision would require the secretary of labor to report to the House and Senate Armed Services committees by June 30, 2010, "on efforts to expand the recruitment of construction workers in the United States to support this effort; on the ability of labor markets to support the Guam realignment."
Not everyone agreed with Abercrombie's proposals. Rep. J. Randy Forbes (R-Va.), also an Armed Services Committee member, said during debate on the bill, "This provision will lead to inflated wages in Guam, while taking American jobs from construction projects in Texas, Maryland and Virginia."
The realignment, first agreed to in 2006 by the Bush administration and Japanese government, was designed to reduce tensions caused by a large, unwanted American military presence on Okinawa. In February, during her trip to Japan, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton restated the U.S commitment "to modernize our military posture in the Pacific."
The government of Japan is expected to contribute about $2.8 billion to pay for the move. The U.S. government is to contribute $4.2 billion, and an additional $3.2 billion worth of family housing construction will be financed by third parties, who would then take a fee for managing those properties.
The Congressional Budget Office said it "does not expect the Japanese government to increase its share," thus leaving Washington to pick up the additional costs for construction projects if the provision remains in the bill.
A Government Accountability Office report in April raised questions about whether the U.S. government and the military had made adequate preparations on Guam. The GAO pointed out that military members and their families would create roughly a 14 percent increase in Guam's current population of 171,000, which would "substantially impact Guam's community and infrastructure."
There also would be a need for an estimated 22,000 additional construction workers, at least temporarily.
The GAO suggested that Guam's two major highways would need upgrading to carry the increased traffic. In addition, the island's major port would have to double its capacity.
Its electric capacity would need a major buildup, as would its water and wastewater systems, which the GAO said are near capacity already. The estimate was that the latter would have to be increased by 25 percent.
One question was who would fund the additional demands on Guam's roads, schools and public utilities. In last week's bill, the House expressed its "sense of the Congress that utility improvements on Guam should incorporate military and civilian utilities on Guam into a unified [electric] grid."
Sunday, June 28, 2009
House Bill May Complicate Things at Camp Schwab
Bill may complicate planned Camp Schwab airstrip
By Leo Shane III and David Allen
Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Sunday, June 28, 2009
The House version of the Fiscal 2010 Defense Authorization Bill could hamper plans to replace Marine Corps Air Station Futenma on Okinawa with a new airstrip on Camp Schwab.
Under the bill, the Defense Department "may not accept … a replacement facility in Okinawa (for Futenma) unless the Secretary certifies to the congressional defense committees that the replacement facility satisfies at least minimum Naval Aviation Safety requirements."
The language was prompted by concerns raised by Naval Air Systems Command about hazards surrounding the new airstrip location, including utility poles in the proposed flight path, a nearby school and the planned V-shaped runway into Oura Bay, said Dave Helfert, a spokesman for U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie, D-Hawaii, a member of the House Armed Services Committee.
The bill allows for safety improvements to be made at Camp Schwab to make it an acceptable replacement for Futenma, Helfert said.
The House approved its version of the authorization bill with the Futenma language Thursday, by a 389-22 vote.
However, the White House Office of Management and Budget issued a statement Thursday citing concern that the clause would "limit the Secretary’s authority to exercise reasonable judgment regarding airfield operations."
"The current FRF (Futenma Replacement Facility) configuration was agreed to during bilateral negotiations with the government of Japan, and this provision places the resulting International Agreement at risk," the office stated.
A Pentagon spokesman echoed the White House concerns.
"There have been public reports in the U.S. pertaining to safety issues with the Futenma replacement plan," the spokesman said Thursday.
"There are processes in place to address these concerns without making changes to the agreement itself. Moving a runway or reconfiguring a facility would be examples of major changes that the U.S. would not support."
Madeleine Z. Bordallo, the House delegate from Guam, said House Armed Services Committee chairman Ike Skelton, D-Mo., raised concerns about the design of the facility. But, she said, the language in the bill is not mean to scuttle the far-reaching realignment plans.
"The continued commitment to the military build-up on Guam is evident in the significant military construction funding for Guam in the bill," Bordallo said. "The issue of the Futenma Replacement Facility is a provision that the committee leadership will continue to address in conference committee with the Department of Defense."
Japanese officials Thursday said the clause flies in the face of a bilateral plan to replace the air station, close U.S. military bases south of Camp Foster, and to transfer some 8,000 Marines and their families to Guam in 2014.
The plan is part of a well-thought-out agreement made by both governments, said a spokeswoman for the Ministry of Defense.
"The plan was not made by a suggestion from one side, but it was a fruit of discussions and studies from various aspects by both governments," she said.
Japanese opposition parties and some Okinawa officials have serious concerns about the safety of the current plan. Okinawa Gov. Hirokazu Nakaima has demanded the runways be placed farther offshore.
The 2010 appropriations bill allots $934 million for defense projects on Guam for the coming year. That’s just the start of some $4 billion the U.S. plans to spend to build housing and other infrastructure for the move of Marines, including several major Marine commands now based on Okinawa.
The total cost of relocation has been budgeted at $10.27 billion, with Japan paying $6.07 billion, or 59 percent.
But replacing MCAS Futenma has always been a sticking point. The United States and Japan have been searching for a way to replace the air station ever since they signed an agreement in 1996 for the return of some 21 percent of the land on Okinawa used by the U.S. military.
A spokesman for Japan’s Ministry of Defense said he was aware of the clause in the authorization bill, but was hopeful the realignment plan would move forward as planned.
"It has been affirmed by Prime Minister Aso and President Obama that both countries would steadily carry out realignment plans according to the road map, which both governments agreed to in 2006, including facility relocation and closure of the Futenma air station facility," he said.
"Also, it is stipulated in a pact signed by both governments, an international promise, that both governments have an intention to complete the replacement facility," he said.
Stars and Stripes reporters Chiyomi Sumida and Jeff Schogol contributed to this report.
By Leo Shane III and David Allen
Stars and Stripes
Pacific edition, Sunday, June 28, 2009
The House version of the Fiscal 2010 Defense Authorization Bill could hamper plans to replace Marine Corps Air Station Futenma on Okinawa with a new airstrip on Camp Schwab.
Under the bill, the Defense Department "may not accept … a replacement facility in Okinawa (for Futenma) unless the Secretary certifies to the congressional defense committees that the replacement facility satisfies at least minimum Naval Aviation Safety requirements."
The language was prompted by concerns raised by Naval Air Systems Command about hazards surrounding the new airstrip location, including utility poles in the proposed flight path, a nearby school and the planned V-shaped runway into Oura Bay, said Dave Helfert, a spokesman for U.S. Rep. Neil Abercrombie, D-Hawaii, a member of the House Armed Services Committee.
The bill allows for safety improvements to be made at Camp Schwab to make it an acceptable replacement for Futenma, Helfert said.
The House approved its version of the authorization bill with the Futenma language Thursday, by a 389-22 vote.
However, the White House Office of Management and Budget issued a statement Thursday citing concern that the clause would "limit the Secretary’s authority to exercise reasonable judgment regarding airfield operations."
"The current FRF (Futenma Replacement Facility) configuration was agreed to during bilateral negotiations with the government of Japan, and this provision places the resulting International Agreement at risk," the office stated.
A Pentagon spokesman echoed the White House concerns.
"There have been public reports in the U.S. pertaining to safety issues with the Futenma replacement plan," the spokesman said Thursday.
"There are processes in place to address these concerns without making changes to the agreement itself. Moving a runway or reconfiguring a facility would be examples of major changes that the U.S. would not support."
Madeleine Z. Bordallo, the House delegate from Guam, said House Armed Services Committee chairman Ike Skelton, D-Mo., raised concerns about the design of the facility. But, she said, the language in the bill is not mean to scuttle the far-reaching realignment plans.
"The continued commitment to the military build-up on Guam is evident in the significant military construction funding for Guam in the bill," Bordallo said. "The issue of the Futenma Replacement Facility is a provision that the committee leadership will continue to address in conference committee with the Department of Defense."
Japanese officials Thursday said the clause flies in the face of a bilateral plan to replace the air station, close U.S. military bases south of Camp Foster, and to transfer some 8,000 Marines and their families to Guam in 2014.
The plan is part of a well-thought-out agreement made by both governments, said a spokeswoman for the Ministry of Defense.
"The plan was not made by a suggestion from one side, but it was a fruit of discussions and studies from various aspects by both governments," she said.
Japanese opposition parties and some Okinawa officials have serious concerns about the safety of the current plan. Okinawa Gov. Hirokazu Nakaima has demanded the runways be placed farther offshore.
The 2010 appropriations bill allots $934 million for defense projects on Guam for the coming year. That’s just the start of some $4 billion the U.S. plans to spend to build housing and other infrastructure for the move of Marines, including several major Marine commands now based on Okinawa.
The total cost of relocation has been budgeted at $10.27 billion, with Japan paying $6.07 billion, or 59 percent.
But replacing MCAS Futenma has always been a sticking point. The United States and Japan have been searching for a way to replace the air station ever since they signed an agreement in 1996 for the return of some 21 percent of the land on Okinawa used by the U.S. military.
A spokesman for Japan’s Ministry of Defense said he was aware of the clause in the authorization bill, but was hopeful the realignment plan would move forward as planned.
"It has been affirmed by Prime Minister Aso and President Obama that both countries would steadily carry out realignment plans according to the road map, which both governments agreed to in 2006, including facility relocation and closure of the Futenma air station facility," he said.
"Also, it is stipulated in a pact signed by both governments, an international promise, that both governments have an intention to complete the replacement facility," he said.
Stars and Stripes reporters Chiyomi Sumida and Jeff Schogol contributed to this report.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Senators Want to Define Marriage
Senators want to define marriage
Monday, 22 June 2009 02:12 by Therese Hart
Marianas Variety News Staff
Senator Frank Blas Jr. is personally opposed to same-sex marriages. That’s why he wants the term “marriage” to be clarified locally by law – specifically, whether “marriage” should also mean same-sex civil unions. Toward that effort, Blas and Sen. Tina Rose Muña-Barnes last week introduced Bill 158, which seeks to define marriage as a personal relationship between one male and one female arising out of a civil contract.
Blas has gone on record with the Variety saying that he opposes same-sex marriage, but looks forward to having a discussion on the same-sex union measure introduced by the office of Senator B.J. Cruz. Bill 138, authored by the Guam Youth Congress, would seek to establish civil unions on Guam for same-sex couples.
“Let’s have a discussion on the civil union bill, but I’m opposed to gay marriage. And we’ll have this discussion with the same-sex civil union bill. My bill just defines marriage,” said Blas.
Blas said that discussions he’s had with members in the community prompted him to introduce the bill.
“The bill was spurred by the discussions that were going on about the same-sex (civil) union bill and in those discussions, one of the things that came up was marriage. I did research and wanted to find out what the differences were. Our current statute defining marriage is defined as two persons with a union contract,” said Blas.
Under the third section of his bill, “Incompetency of Parties,” Blas includes “persons of the same gender,” saying that this inclusion would make the relationship between same-sex partners illegitimate.
Section three reads, “Marriages between parents and children, ancestors and descendants, persons of the same gender, and between brothers and sisters of the half as well as the whole blood, and between uncles and nieces or aunts and nephews, are void from the beginning whether the relationship is legitimate or illegitimate.”
Blas said that in listening to arguments on same-sex unions, “one of the things that came out of those discussions was that they’re not looking for marriage, they’re looking for rights and benefits. I hope they don’t see this as an affront to them, because that is not my intention.”
Now that local leaders and the community are discussing same-sex civil unions and there is a bill that will eventually receive a public hearing, Blas said he felt it was necessary to define marriage as a union contract between one man and one woman.
“This basically falls in line as defining marriage everywhere else in the nation. Across the nation, the states have defined marriage as one man and one woman union, I just want to clarify that in this bill,” said Blas.
In 1996, the U.S. Congress adopted the Defense of Marriage Act. A section of the Act defined “marriage” for the purposes of federal law and the other affirming federalism principals under the authority granted to it.
The first section states that for purposes of federal law, marriage means a legal union between a man and a woman. The second section reaffirms the power of the states and territories to make their own decisions about marriage.
“I find it necessary to amend our statute defining marriage so that it falls in line with the Defense of Marriage Act,” said Blas.
Monday, 22 June 2009 02:12 by Therese Hart
Marianas Variety News Staff
Senator Frank Blas Jr. is personally opposed to same-sex marriages. That’s why he wants the term “marriage” to be clarified locally by law – specifically, whether “marriage” should also mean same-sex civil unions. Toward that effort, Blas and Sen. Tina Rose Muña-Barnes last week introduced Bill 158, which seeks to define marriage as a personal relationship between one male and one female arising out of a civil contract.
Blas has gone on record with the Variety saying that he opposes same-sex marriage, but looks forward to having a discussion on the same-sex union measure introduced by the office of Senator B.J. Cruz. Bill 138, authored by the Guam Youth Congress, would seek to establish civil unions on Guam for same-sex couples.
“Let’s have a discussion on the civil union bill, but I’m opposed to gay marriage. And we’ll have this discussion with the same-sex civil union bill. My bill just defines marriage,” said Blas.
Blas said that discussions he’s had with members in the community prompted him to introduce the bill.
“The bill was spurred by the discussions that were going on about the same-sex (civil) union bill and in those discussions, one of the things that came up was marriage. I did research and wanted to find out what the differences were. Our current statute defining marriage is defined as two persons with a union contract,” said Blas.
Under the third section of his bill, “Incompetency of Parties,” Blas includes “persons of the same gender,” saying that this inclusion would make the relationship between same-sex partners illegitimate.
Section three reads, “Marriages between parents and children, ancestors and descendants, persons of the same gender, and between brothers and sisters of the half as well as the whole blood, and between uncles and nieces or aunts and nephews, are void from the beginning whether the relationship is legitimate or illegitimate.”
Blas said that in listening to arguments on same-sex unions, “one of the things that came out of those discussions was that they’re not looking for marriage, they’re looking for rights and benefits. I hope they don’t see this as an affront to them, because that is not my intention.”
Now that local leaders and the community are discussing same-sex civil unions and there is a bill that will eventually receive a public hearing, Blas said he felt it was necessary to define marriage as a union contract between one man and one woman.
“This basically falls in line as defining marriage everywhere else in the nation. Across the nation, the states have defined marriage as one man and one woman union, I just want to clarify that in this bill,” said Blas.
In 1996, the U.S. Congress adopted the Defense of Marriage Act. A section of the Act defined “marriage” for the purposes of federal law and the other affirming federalism principals under the authority granted to it.
The first section states that for purposes of federal law, marriage means a legal union between a man and a woman. The second section reaffirms the power of the states and territories to make their own decisions about marriage.
“I find it necessary to amend our statute defining marriage so that it falls in line with the Defense of Marriage Act,” said Blas.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Patience Wearing Thin on JFK
Patience continues to wear thin for JFK High community
By Michele Catahay
Published Jun 22, 2009
KUAM NEWS
Monday morning at the Guam Economic Development Authority a meeting was held between the agency, GPSS and International Bridge Corporation. While the dialogue from that meeting sounds good for the construction of a brand new Home of the Islanders, it doesn't look so good for some senators.
"This delay, I'm not sure why don't have a solution already," said Joanie Tomasiak. "We all now we're constituents. We are voters. We are taxpayers and we understand the game and we need to stop doing that. Why are we suffering?" The JFK social studies teacher and ESL coordinator is tired of the blame game and politics. A year since the Upper Tumon campus was shutdown and enduring a school year of double-session, it's no wonder her patience has worn thin. This morning at GEDA it was announced that negotiations with IBC to build the new JFK are 90% complete.
However, instead of using federal stimulus funding, it now turns out GEDA will use a portion of the recently-received bond revenues to go toward the construction of the new school. IBC president Robert Toelkes said the sooner the contract is signed, the better. Once it is signed, by law, the new school must be constructed in nine months. "Right now what it is that if we do an early august groundbreaking, we're expecting the facility to be completed by may and our hope and intent is to let the 51st anniversary graduating class graduate at the facility - that's our goal," he told KUAM News.
Meanwhile, GEDA administrator Tony Blaz expects for negotiations to be completed by next month. But while all this shows a significant step forward in the construction of a brand new JFK, it could potentially set back the contract discussions with Core Tech International for the interim campus in Tiyan.
Here's why: Bill 1 (4-S), which was passed by lawmakers requires that federal stimulus funds be used for the construction of the new JFK, the measure also sets other provisions in the tentative agreement which has already been signed by Core Tech. With news now that bond money instead will be used to fund the permanent JFK, GEDA administrator Tony Blaz said it's likely the governor will veto the bill.
"I'm sure they want a win-win," said Blaz. "For all of us, we want a new JFK. They're tired of double-sessions. We're all tired of double-sessions. The governor, I guess, gave the proposals and the Legislature gave a different version. I know the governor said he wants to continue with this JFK project. You can't cancel this. We're so close to making the touchdown."
According to Senator Matt Rector, however, using those funds could cost taxpayers a large chunk of change. Instead, GovGuam should use the money from USDOE. He said, "I think that's kind of crazy. I mean we've already the burden our children with $500 million in debt, why would we want to burden them some more if we have the cash right now and we can pay it. It's somebody else's cash and we can build them a good, state of the art school instead of slapping together the first cheap thing we can. That just doesn't make any sense to me."
While we wait to see the outcome of this latest issue to arise surrounding the JFK situation. Students like Eileen Calleja just want to see a resolution to a problem that government leaders knew a year ago. "There are so many decisions that need to be made. How many rallies do we need to do in order for the leaders to listen to us," she said. "We've been out there voicing our concerns. We've been through meetings and so much. I mean, when are they going to listen?"
Core Tech's Josh Tenorio says the government needs to make a decision soon on how it plans to carry out both the interim and permanent JFK campuses. He says if the governor vetoes Bill 1 (4-S), it's likely they'll be back to square one, as they were last Monday.
By Michele Catahay
Published Jun 22, 2009
KUAM NEWS
Monday morning at the Guam Economic Development Authority a meeting was held between the agency, GPSS and International Bridge Corporation. While the dialogue from that meeting sounds good for the construction of a brand new Home of the Islanders, it doesn't look so good for some senators.
"This delay, I'm not sure why don't have a solution already," said Joanie Tomasiak. "We all now we're constituents. We are voters. We are taxpayers and we understand the game and we need to stop doing that. Why are we suffering?" The JFK social studies teacher and ESL coordinator is tired of the blame game and politics. A year since the Upper Tumon campus was shutdown and enduring a school year of double-session, it's no wonder her patience has worn thin. This morning at GEDA it was announced that negotiations with IBC to build the new JFK are 90% complete.
However, instead of using federal stimulus funding, it now turns out GEDA will use a portion of the recently-received bond revenues to go toward the construction of the new school. IBC president Robert Toelkes said the sooner the contract is signed, the better. Once it is signed, by law, the new school must be constructed in nine months. "Right now what it is that if we do an early august groundbreaking, we're expecting the facility to be completed by may and our hope and intent is to let the 51st anniversary graduating class graduate at the facility - that's our goal," he told KUAM News.
Meanwhile, GEDA administrator Tony Blaz expects for negotiations to be completed by next month. But while all this shows a significant step forward in the construction of a brand new JFK, it could potentially set back the contract discussions with Core Tech International for the interim campus in Tiyan.
Here's why: Bill 1 (4-S), which was passed by lawmakers requires that federal stimulus funds be used for the construction of the new JFK, the measure also sets other provisions in the tentative agreement which has already been signed by Core Tech. With news now that bond money instead will be used to fund the permanent JFK, GEDA administrator Tony Blaz said it's likely the governor will veto the bill.
"I'm sure they want a win-win," said Blaz. "For all of us, we want a new JFK. They're tired of double-sessions. We're all tired of double-sessions. The governor, I guess, gave the proposals and the Legislature gave a different version. I know the governor said he wants to continue with this JFK project. You can't cancel this. We're so close to making the touchdown."
According to Senator Matt Rector, however, using those funds could cost taxpayers a large chunk of change. Instead, GovGuam should use the money from USDOE. He said, "I think that's kind of crazy. I mean we've already the burden our children with $500 million in debt, why would we want to burden them some more if we have the cash right now and we can pay it. It's somebody else's cash and we can build them a good, state of the art school instead of slapping together the first cheap thing we can. That just doesn't make any sense to me."
While we wait to see the outcome of this latest issue to arise surrounding the JFK situation. Students like Eileen Calleja just want to see a resolution to a problem that government leaders knew a year ago. "There are so many decisions that need to be made. How many rallies do we need to do in order for the leaders to listen to us," she said. "We've been out there voicing our concerns. We've been through meetings and so much. I mean, when are they going to listen?"
Core Tech's Josh Tenorio says the government needs to make a decision soon on how it plans to carry out both the interim and permanent JFK campuses. He says if the governor vetoes Bill 1 (4-S), it's likely they'll be back to square one, as they were last Monday.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Legislature Approves Gatewood Lawsuit
MARIANAS VARIETY
Senators OK Lawsuit vs Gatewood
Wednesday, 20 May 2009 23:32 by Therese Hart
THE legislative committee on rules on Tuesday voted to adopt Vice Speaker B.J. Cruz’s resolution that endorses a legal action against federal court chief judge Frances Tydingco-Gatewood to challenge her March 20 contempt order against the government of Guam.
The adoption of Resolution 114 authorizes the legislature to move forward with filing the action in the Ninth Circuit against Tydingco-Gatewood.
Resolution 114 was adopted by eight affirmative votes, one more than the minimum number of votes required to make it the official position of the 30th Guam Legislature.
The Committee on Rules is the legislative standing committee authorized to act on behalf of the legislature when the body is not in session. This panel, chaired by Sen. Rory Respicio, has jurisdiction over matters relating to the defense or initiation of court action on behalf of the legislature.
The district court used the supremacy clause of the U.S. Constitution to make null and void Section 6 of Public Law 30-1.
Section 6, prohibition on payments without appropriations states that the legislature asserts its authority to appropriate funds and determine the conditions for expending such appropriations.
After the government was held in contempt, it paid out over $5 million in weekly cash payments to federal receiver Gershman, Bricker & Bratton to fund the consent decree projects.
Prior to the vote, Respicio wrote to his colleagues, saying that Cruz has commissioned legal work on the merits of bringing a case against the district court.
The issue centers on the powers of the legislature and “it is our duty and obligation to defend an institution to which we were elected, and tasked with upholding the laws of the Constitution of the United States,” Respicio wrote.
Respicio said Cruz “has expressed his strong belief that we have faithfully done just that, in spite of the Chief Judge’s statement that we “resorted to frivolous modes of self-help, such as enacting patently unconstitutional laws…”
Committee members who voted to adopt Resolution 114 were Cruz, Respicio, Speaker Judi Won Pat, Sens. Judi Gutherz, Tina Muna-Barnes, Frank Aguon Jr., Adolpho Palacios, and Frank Blas Jr.
Senators OK Lawsuit vs Gatewood
Wednesday, 20 May 2009 23:32 by Therese Hart
THE legislative committee on rules on Tuesday voted to adopt Vice Speaker B.J. Cruz’s resolution that endorses a legal action against federal court chief judge Frances Tydingco-Gatewood to challenge her March 20 contempt order against the government of Guam.
The adoption of Resolution 114 authorizes the legislature to move forward with filing the action in the Ninth Circuit against Tydingco-Gatewood.
Resolution 114 was adopted by eight affirmative votes, one more than the minimum number of votes required to make it the official position of the 30th Guam Legislature.
The Committee on Rules is the legislative standing committee authorized to act on behalf of the legislature when the body is not in session. This panel, chaired by Sen. Rory Respicio, has jurisdiction over matters relating to the defense or initiation of court action on behalf of the legislature.
The district court used the supremacy clause of the U.S. Constitution to make null and void Section 6 of Public Law 30-1.
Section 6, prohibition on payments without appropriations states that the legislature asserts its authority to appropriate funds and determine the conditions for expending such appropriations.
After the government was held in contempt, it paid out over $5 million in weekly cash payments to federal receiver Gershman, Bricker & Bratton to fund the consent decree projects.
Prior to the vote, Respicio wrote to his colleagues, saying that Cruz has commissioned legal work on the merits of bringing a case against the district court.
The issue centers on the powers of the legislature and “it is our duty and obligation to defend an institution to which we were elected, and tasked with upholding the laws of the Constitution of the United States,” Respicio wrote.
Respicio said Cruz “has expressed his strong belief that we have faithfully done just that, in spite of the Chief Judge’s statement that we “resorted to frivolous modes of self-help, such as enacting patently unconstitutional laws…”
Committee members who voted to adopt Resolution 114 were Cruz, Respicio, Speaker Judi Won Pat, Sens. Judi Gutherz, Tina Muna-Barnes, Frank Aguon Jr., Adolpho Palacios, and Frank Blas Jr.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
GYC Passes Same Sex Civil Union Bill
Youth congress pass bill to legalize same sex civil unions
By Yvonne S. Lee
Pacific Daily News
April 10, 2009
The 27th Guam Youth Congress has passed a bill to legalize same sex civil unions on Guam. This is the second attempt by Speaker Derick Baza Hills to pass such a measure. A similar bill failed in the 25th Youth Congress by one vote.
As a Democrat, "I must press forward with realizing that every person is created equal, and all men carry the same weight in society," Hills said in a press release yesterday.
He cited recent coverage of same-sex marriage being legalized in Vermont and Iowa by major media outlets in the U.S. mainland, and said it would require action by the courts to "allow for equal rights" across America, according to a press release yesterday.
On April 7, Vermont became the first state to legalize gay marriage through a legislative vote by overriding the governor's veto, according to the Associated Press. It was the fourth state to recognize gay marriage in the United States. The other states are Iowa, Massachusetts and Connecticut.
Rhode Island and the District of Columbia recognize same-sex marriages from other states; New Jersey and New Hampshire allow for same sex civil unions. In California and Oregon, statewide laws provide nearly all state-level spousal rights to unmarried couples, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
"I don't feel we should initiate same sex marriage... but that doesn't mean we shouldn't allow for equal rights for those with alternative lifestyles," Hills said.
Hills called for the Guam Legislature to introduce legislation to legalize same sex civil unions on island.
"We do have advocates in the Legislature ... I do feel and know that there are senators comfortable supporting this legislation," Hills said.
By Yvonne S. Lee
Pacific Daily News
April 10, 2009
The 27th Guam Youth Congress has passed a bill to legalize same sex civil unions on Guam. This is the second attempt by Speaker Derick Baza Hills to pass such a measure. A similar bill failed in the 25th Youth Congress by one vote.
As a Democrat, "I must press forward with realizing that every person is created equal, and all men carry the same weight in society," Hills said in a press release yesterday.
He cited recent coverage of same-sex marriage being legalized in Vermont and Iowa by major media outlets in the U.S. mainland, and said it would require action by the courts to "allow for equal rights" across America, according to a press release yesterday.
On April 7, Vermont became the first state to legalize gay marriage through a legislative vote by overriding the governor's veto, according to the Associated Press. It was the fourth state to recognize gay marriage in the United States. The other states are Iowa, Massachusetts and Connecticut.
Rhode Island and the District of Columbia recognize same-sex marriages from other states; New Jersey and New Hampshire allow for same sex civil unions. In California and Oregon, statewide laws provide nearly all state-level spousal rights to unmarried couples, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.
"I don't feel we should initiate same sex marriage... but that doesn't mean we shouldn't allow for equal rights for those with alternative lifestyles," Hills said.
Hills called for the Guam Legislature to introduce legislation to legalize same sex civil unions on island.
"We do have advocates in the Legislature ... I do feel and know that there are senators comfortable supporting this legislation," Hills said.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Monday, November 10, 2008
Guam Power Bills to Drop
Power bills to drop: Fuel surcharge rollback will take effect Dec. 1
By Bryan C. Sualog
Pacific Daily News
November 11, 2008
Guam Power Authority customers can look forward to lower power bills for at least the next few months.
The Public Utilities Commission unanimously voted to approve the Guam Power Authority's request to lower the Levelized Energy Adjustment Clause, or fuel surcharge, at a special meeting yesterday.
The surcharge, which makes up about two-thirds of power bills, was lowered from 18.775 cents per kilowatt-hour to 17.105 cents per kilowatt-hour.
The lower surcharge represents a 6.95-percent decrease in the total bill for an average customer.
"We're very pleased that they concurred with our recommendation," said Guam Power Authority General Manager Joaquin C. Flores.
The change effectively rolls back Guam's last increase. On Oct. 3, the fuel surcharge was increased from 17.044 cents per kilowatt-hour to 18.775 cents per kilowatt-hour.
The reduction will go into effect Dec. 1.
"Meters read after the first of December will enjoy the new rate," Flores said. "If you're consuming power and you're on or about the beginning of the month, when you get billed for December, then your consumption would be affected by this new rate decrease."
Flores said any break in prices would be helpful to ratepayers.
"It's about $16 to $17 for the average user," Flores said of the reduction.
Barrigada resident John Rosario said even though his power bill wasn't too bad, he was looking forward to a lower bill.
"Nowadays, every little thing to save money would be a big help," he said.
Rosario said he recently found out he needed to go to the Philippines for medical treatment., The money he will save from the fuel surcharge reduction would go toward his trip, he said.
Prior to the surcharge reduction, Rosario said he and his family implemented power-saving measures to save money, such as only turning on the air conditioner before they go to sleep and running the water heater for only one hour, at night.
"It's become a way of life now. It's easier for us," he said.
Rosario said he plans on continuing with the energy conservation practices to save even more money.
While some residents are excited and looking forward to the drop in their power bills, other residents aren't so optimistic.
Jaelene San Nicolas of Mangilao said she wasn't expecting much from the reduction because she expects the fuel surcharge will just go up again.
"I don't think it will help me. That's my point of view," she said.
Emergency filing
Normally, the LEAC is adjusted every six months, but in October, GPA received informal approval from the Consolidated Commission on Utilities to begin a petition to lower power rates because of the rapidly falling price of fuel.
Any changes in oil pricing that are $2 million over or under the cost of fuel recovery allows the power agency to approach the PUC on an emergency basis.
Flores said a filing would have to be submitted Dec. 15 for the next LEAC adjustment in February. He said the next adjustment would "depend on how prices behave and whether they stay below $75 a barrel."
Flores said if crude oil stays below $75 a barrel, ratepayers will be able to enjoy the decrease through February.
"I think we made it very clear that it would be a reduction, subject to oil prices staying where they're at."
GPA Spokesman Art Perez said GPA's Web site will be updated to reflect the reduction in the fuel surcharge. The Web site is:
www.guampowerauthority.com
"They can log on, see what that change is going to be and make that adjustment," he said. "That will be a welcome relief for everybody as we continue to monitor this."
The site's calculator should be updated by the end of the week, Perez said.
By Bryan C. Sualog
Pacific Daily News
November 11, 2008
Guam Power Authority customers can look forward to lower power bills for at least the next few months.
The Public Utilities Commission unanimously voted to approve the Guam Power Authority's request to lower the Levelized Energy Adjustment Clause, or fuel surcharge, at a special meeting yesterday.
The surcharge, which makes up about two-thirds of power bills, was lowered from 18.775 cents per kilowatt-hour to 17.105 cents per kilowatt-hour.
The lower surcharge represents a 6.95-percent decrease in the total bill for an average customer.
"We're very pleased that they concurred with our recommendation," said Guam Power Authority General Manager Joaquin C. Flores.
The change effectively rolls back Guam's last increase. On Oct. 3, the fuel surcharge was increased from 17.044 cents per kilowatt-hour to 18.775 cents per kilowatt-hour.
The reduction will go into effect Dec. 1.
"Meters read after the first of December will enjoy the new rate," Flores said. "If you're consuming power and you're on or about the beginning of the month, when you get billed for December, then your consumption would be affected by this new rate decrease."
Flores said any break in prices would be helpful to ratepayers.
"It's about $16 to $17 for the average user," Flores said of the reduction.
Barrigada resident John Rosario said even though his power bill wasn't too bad, he was looking forward to a lower bill.
"Nowadays, every little thing to save money would be a big help," he said.
Rosario said he recently found out he needed to go to the Philippines for medical treatment., The money he will save from the fuel surcharge reduction would go toward his trip, he said.
Prior to the surcharge reduction, Rosario said he and his family implemented power-saving measures to save money, such as only turning on the air conditioner before they go to sleep and running the water heater for only one hour, at night.
"It's become a way of life now. It's easier for us," he said.
Rosario said he plans on continuing with the energy conservation practices to save even more money.
While some residents are excited and looking forward to the drop in their power bills, other residents aren't so optimistic.
Jaelene San Nicolas of Mangilao said she wasn't expecting much from the reduction because she expects the fuel surcharge will just go up again.
"I don't think it will help me. That's my point of view," she said.
Emergency filing
Normally, the LEAC is adjusted every six months, but in October, GPA received informal approval from the Consolidated Commission on Utilities to begin a petition to lower power rates because of the rapidly falling price of fuel.
Any changes in oil pricing that are $2 million over or under the cost of fuel recovery allows the power agency to approach the PUC on an emergency basis.
Flores said a filing would have to be submitted Dec. 15 for the next LEAC adjustment in February. He said the next adjustment would "depend on how prices behave and whether they stay below $75 a barrel."
Flores said if crude oil stays below $75 a barrel, ratepayers will be able to enjoy the decrease through February.
"I think we made it very clear that it would be a reduction, subject to oil prices staying where they're at."
GPA Spokesman Art Perez said GPA's Web site will be updated to reflect the reduction in the fuel surcharge. The Web site is:
www.guampowerauthority.com
"They can log on, see what that change is going to be and make that adjustment," he said. "That will be a welcome relief for everybody as we continue to monitor this."
The site's calculator should be updated by the end of the week, Perez said.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Bill Will Waive Fishing and Hunting Fees for Veterans
Bill 354 seeks to waive fishing & hunting fees for veterans
by Ronna Sweeney, KUAM News
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Lawmakers have recently introduced a measure that seeks to waive fishing and hunting license fees for veterans. If Bill number 354 is passed into law, no fee, including application and issuance fees, may be charged to an applicant who is a veteran for a license, permit, stamp, tag, certificate to hunt, fish, trap or otherwise lawfully take fish or wildlife.
Under the proposed law authored by Senators B.J. Cruz, Frank Blas, Judi Guthertz, Rory Respicio and Tina Muna-Barnes, the veteran would need a copy of their military discharge form or DD-214, which they would then to present to the Guam Department of Agriculture for the waiver.
by Ronna Sweeney, KUAM News
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Lawmakers have recently introduced a measure that seeks to waive fishing and hunting license fees for veterans. If Bill number 354 is passed into law, no fee, including application and issuance fees, may be charged to an applicant who is a veteran for a license, permit, stamp, tag, certificate to hunt, fish, trap or otherwise lawfully take fish or wildlife.
Under the proposed law authored by Senators B.J. Cruz, Frank Blas, Judi Guthertz, Rory Respicio and Tina Muna-Barnes, the veteran would need a copy of their military discharge form or DD-214, which they would then to present to the Guam Department of Agriculture for the waiver.
Monday, August 11, 2008
Guam Legislature All-Nighter
Guam Senators Pull All-Nighter Saturday;
Fund GPSS, Nuclear Leak Study, Support Agent Orange Legislation
Written by Patti Arroyo,
Pacific News Center - Guam, Saipan, CNMI, Asia-Pacific
Monday, August 11, 2008 08:38 AM
Guam - Barely into Sunday morning, lawmakers had just voted on a number of measures, including legislation to further aid the schools.
They passed a measure that gives the Guam Public School System (GPSS) $7.8 million for a late book order. Earlier, they heard the news that the school lunch program was short nearly $3 million on outstanding commodity invoices. This threatened the school lunch program.
Lawmakers reluctantly included an appropriation from next fiscal year’s revenues, to give fund GPSS needs. Finance senator Eddie Calvo was the sole vote against the legislation, calling it a pork barrel bill since the measure originally lifted population caps for newly constructed schools.
But Superintendent Nerissa Bretania Shafer said, “ It’s like Christmas for the children”.
Lawmakers also unanimously passed bills that provide funding to start an independent study on the nuclear leak in Apra Harbor and aid in the eradication efforts for the rhinoceros beetle; begin a graduated pay raise for law enforcement officials; and limit the term of acting directors and commission members. They also passed that measure that restricts travel to Guam from areas deemed a health hazard by the Centers for Disease Control.
They also voted to support Agent Orange legislation introduced by a California Congressman, which would extend benefits to include military and civilian employees exposed to stored agent orange.
Fund GPSS, Nuclear Leak Study, Support Agent Orange Legislation
Written by Patti Arroyo,
Pacific News Center - Guam, Saipan, CNMI, Asia-Pacific
Monday, August 11, 2008 08:38 AM
Guam - Barely into Sunday morning, lawmakers had just voted on a number of measures, including legislation to further aid the schools.
They passed a measure that gives the Guam Public School System (GPSS) $7.8 million for a late book order. Earlier, they heard the news that the school lunch program was short nearly $3 million on outstanding commodity invoices. This threatened the school lunch program.
Lawmakers reluctantly included an appropriation from next fiscal year’s revenues, to give fund GPSS needs. Finance senator Eddie Calvo was the sole vote against the legislation, calling it a pork barrel bill since the measure originally lifted population caps for newly constructed schools.
But Superintendent Nerissa Bretania Shafer said, “ It’s like Christmas for the children”.
Lawmakers also unanimously passed bills that provide funding to start an independent study on the nuclear leak in Apra Harbor and aid in the eradication efforts for the rhinoceros beetle; begin a graduated pay raise for law enforcement officials; and limit the term of acting directors and commission members. They also passed that measure that restricts travel to Guam from areas deemed a health hazard by the Centers for Disease Control.
They also voted to support Agent Orange legislation introduced by a California Congressman, which would extend benefits to include military and civilian employees exposed to stored agent orange.
Friday, August 01, 2008
Chamorro Fishing Rights Debated
Native fishing rights nets debate at Legislature
by Clynt Ridgell, KUAM News
Friday, August 01, 2008
The Guam Legislature was filled to capacity as activists and agriculture officials testified on legislation on Thursday that would provide special fishing rights to native Chamorros. Josephine Jackson has spearheaded several protests to promote native fishing rights.
She testified, "We're not saying anything about the preserve is bad but you know give us Chamorros the Taotaotano to go fishing in our own homeland. It's been 11 years since the preserve was open and just recently just last year two of our people got arrested and ever since last year they started opening the preserves little by little so what we're trying to do is open the preserve for the Chamorros here on Guam to go start fishing in our ocean waters.
Bill 327 would allow for special rights for chamorros to off-shore fishing and harvesting of resources. According to the Department of Agriculture's Acting Chief of the Aquatic and Wildlife Division Tino Aguon by allowing fishing in marine preserves it would hamper efforts to replenish fish stocks.
Aguon said, "We are at a stage in which we've set up these marine preserves areas and basically the way the bill is written will provide basically negate many of the accomplishments and land mark forward accomplishments and great strides that we've done to regain and restore a lot of the marine resources that we enjoy in those marine protected areas."
by Clynt Ridgell, KUAM News
Friday, August 01, 2008
The Guam Legislature was filled to capacity as activists and agriculture officials testified on legislation on Thursday that would provide special fishing rights to native Chamorros. Josephine Jackson has spearheaded several protests to promote native fishing rights.
She testified, "We're not saying anything about the preserve is bad but you know give us Chamorros the Taotaotano to go fishing in our own homeland. It's been 11 years since the preserve was open and just recently just last year two of our people got arrested and ever since last year they started opening the preserves little by little so what we're trying to do is open the preserve for the Chamorros here on Guam to go start fishing in our ocean waters.
Bill 327 would allow for special rights for chamorros to off-shore fishing and harvesting of resources. According to the Department of Agriculture's Acting Chief of the Aquatic and Wildlife Division Tino Aguon by allowing fishing in marine preserves it would hamper efforts to replenish fish stocks.
Aguon said, "We are at a stage in which we've set up these marine preserves areas and basically the way the bill is written will provide basically negate many of the accomplishments and land mark forward accomplishments and great strides that we've done to regain and restore a lot of the marine resources that we enjoy in those marine protected areas."
Saturday, May 03, 2008
Federalization Now With Bush
Federalization bill now with Bush
The Saipan Tribune
5/4/08
The omnibus bill that extends federal immigration laws to the Northern Marianas is now with President Bush and it is expected to be signed within the next 10 days.
According to a status report on S.2739, the U.S. Congress' website states that the measure, officially called the Consolidated Natural Resources Act of 2008, was presented to the President on May 1 (Friday, Saipan time).
The bill authorizes certain programs and activities in the Department of the Interior, the Forest Service, and the Department of Energy, extends immigration laws to the CNMI, and amends the Compact of Free Association. It also gives the CNMI a non-voting delegate to Congress
The bill was sponsored by Sen. Jeff Bingaman (D-NM) and introduced on March 10, 2008. It passed the U.S. Senate on April 10, 2008, on a vote of 91 - 4.
The U.S. House passed it on April 29, 2008, on a vote of 291 - 117, and was cleared for the White House that same day.
It was presented to President Bush on May 1, 2008.
The Fitial administration and the private sector have warned that the bill would further hurt the CNMI’s struggling economy. They believe that a federalized immigration system would make it difficult for the CNMI to hire alien workers to fill jobs on the islands. They also fear the CNMI will lose its edge as a destination for Russian and Chinese tourists.
Proponents of the immigration measure had hailed the passage of the bill.
Local business groups have committed to working with the administration and the federal government in the education effort and in the drafting the implementing rules and regulations.
“We need to think as practically as possible about this, and business people can help think things through. We’ve got a lot of work ahead of us,” said Hotel Association of the NMI chair Lynn Knight in a previous interview.
The Saipan Tribune
5/4/08
The omnibus bill that extends federal immigration laws to the Northern Marianas is now with President Bush and it is expected to be signed within the next 10 days.
According to a status report on S.2739, the U.S. Congress' website states that the measure, officially called the Consolidated Natural Resources Act of 2008, was presented to the President on May 1 (Friday, Saipan time).
The bill authorizes certain programs and activities in the Department of the Interior, the Forest Service, and the Department of Energy, extends immigration laws to the CNMI, and amends the Compact of Free Association. It also gives the CNMI a non-voting delegate to Congress
The bill was sponsored by Sen. Jeff Bingaman (D-NM) and introduced on March 10, 2008. It passed the U.S. Senate on April 10, 2008, on a vote of 91 - 4.
The U.S. House passed it on April 29, 2008, on a vote of 291 - 117, and was cleared for the White House that same day.
It was presented to President Bush on May 1, 2008.
The Fitial administration and the private sector have warned that the bill would further hurt the CNMI’s struggling economy. They believe that a federalized immigration system would make it difficult for the CNMI to hire alien workers to fill jobs on the islands. They also fear the CNMI will lose its edge as a destination for Russian and Chinese tourists.
Proponents of the immigration measure had hailed the passage of the bill.
Local business groups have committed to working with the administration and the federal government in the education effort and in the drafting the implementing rules and regulations.
“We need to think as practically as possible about this, and business people can help think things through. We’ve got a lot of work ahead of us,” said Hotel Association of the NMI chair Lynn Knight in a previous interview.
Friday, May 02, 2008
Obama's Letter to the People of Guam
Obama's open letter to the people of Guam
The Marianas Variety - 5/2/08
Growing up in Hawaii, I learned firsthand about the unique issues facing Pacific island communities, while also appreciating the wonderful traditions of Pacific islanders. As a candidate to be the first President of the United States born and raised in the Pacific, I am determined to bring about real change for the people of Guam.
Our campaign is based on the premise that change happens from the bottom up, no matter how far you may be from Washington. That's why we have extended our grassroots movement to Guam, where we've opened a campaign office, put a leadership team in place that was born and raised on Guam, and drawn support from elected officials and community leaders from across the island.
On Monday, we presented a comprehensive policy agenda to make sure that Washington works better for Guam. As President, I will ensure that the people of Guam are heard during any military build-up, and make investments that lead to more jobs, improved infrastructure, and lasting development on the island. I'll also work with Congresswoman Bordallo to address Compact Impact reimbursements, while extending access to quality health care and education.
My commitment to making these changes is backed by a record of working for Pacific islanders in the Senate. I've stood up for Guam War claims, recognized the status of Native Hawaiians, and worked to tackle the unique health care challenges that Pacific island communities face.
That's why it's so disappointing that some have chosen to play politics and question my commitment to critical issues related to Filipino veterans. Because as a native son of Hawaii – and grandson of a World War II veteran – I know that the patriotism of Pacific islanders is rooted in shared values and the legacy of shared sacrifices during World War II.
Let me set the record straight. I co-sponsored the Filipino Veterans Equity Act in the Senate because I believe deeply that we must honor the heroic sacrifices of Filipinos who fought side by side with Americans on behalf of freedom. My staff stayed in close contact with key national organizations like the American Coalition for Filipino Veterans as well as the National Alliance for Filipino Veterans Equity, which heralded my support "at a critical juncture for this bill."
Earlier last year I was proud to join my friend Chairman Daniel Akaka in voting to pass key elements of this important measure out of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee and send it to the full Senate as part of an omnibus package of long overdue benefits for our veterans. I was on the campaign trail when the Senate voted on final passage of this measure, but since the bill passed with a comfortable margin, I knew my vote was not needed.
I strongly support swift action on getting this package, the Veterans' Benefits Enhancement Act (S.1315), sent to the president for signature. This bill finally provides Filipino veterans and their survivors with the benefits that they were promised, and that they bravely earned in battle. Indeed, throughout my time in the Senate, I have fought to increase care and benefits for our veterans and their families And I will continue to fight to ensure we are keeping that sacred trust.
The United States has a special relationship with Guam and the Chamorro people. But under Democratic and Republican administrations, Washington has failed to keep its promises to the people of Guam. If you support me on May 3rd, we can finally bring about the change that is needed in Washington to benefit the people of Guam. If you stand for change, I will stand up for you as President.
Barack Obama
Senator
U.S. Senate
The Marianas Variety - 5/2/08
Growing up in Hawaii, I learned firsthand about the unique issues facing Pacific island communities, while also appreciating the wonderful traditions of Pacific islanders. As a candidate to be the first President of the United States born and raised in the Pacific, I am determined to bring about real change for the people of Guam.
Our campaign is based on the premise that change happens from the bottom up, no matter how far you may be from Washington. That's why we have extended our grassroots movement to Guam, where we've opened a campaign office, put a leadership team in place that was born and raised on Guam, and drawn support from elected officials and community leaders from across the island.
On Monday, we presented a comprehensive policy agenda to make sure that Washington works better for Guam. As President, I will ensure that the people of Guam are heard during any military build-up, and make investments that lead to more jobs, improved infrastructure, and lasting development on the island. I'll also work with Congresswoman Bordallo to address Compact Impact reimbursements, while extending access to quality health care and education.
My commitment to making these changes is backed by a record of working for Pacific islanders in the Senate. I've stood up for Guam War claims, recognized the status of Native Hawaiians, and worked to tackle the unique health care challenges that Pacific island communities face.
That's why it's so disappointing that some have chosen to play politics and question my commitment to critical issues related to Filipino veterans. Because as a native son of Hawaii – and grandson of a World War II veteran – I know that the patriotism of Pacific islanders is rooted in shared values and the legacy of shared sacrifices during World War II.
Let me set the record straight. I co-sponsored the Filipino Veterans Equity Act in the Senate because I believe deeply that we must honor the heroic sacrifices of Filipinos who fought side by side with Americans on behalf of freedom. My staff stayed in close contact with key national organizations like the American Coalition for Filipino Veterans as well as the National Alliance for Filipino Veterans Equity, which heralded my support "at a critical juncture for this bill."
Earlier last year I was proud to join my friend Chairman Daniel Akaka in voting to pass key elements of this important measure out of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee and send it to the full Senate as part of an omnibus package of long overdue benefits for our veterans. I was on the campaign trail when the Senate voted on final passage of this measure, but since the bill passed with a comfortable margin, I knew my vote was not needed.
I strongly support swift action on getting this package, the Veterans' Benefits Enhancement Act (S.1315), sent to the president for signature. This bill finally provides Filipino veterans and their survivors with the benefits that they were promised, and that they bravely earned in battle. Indeed, throughout my time in the Senate, I have fought to increase care and benefits for our veterans and their families And I will continue to fight to ensure we are keeping that sacred trust.
The United States has a special relationship with Guam and the Chamorro people. But under Democratic and Republican administrations, Washington has failed to keep its promises to the people of Guam. If you support me on May 3rd, we can finally bring about the change that is needed in Washington to benefit the people of Guam. If you stand for change, I will stand up for you as President.
Barack Obama
Senator
U.S. Senate
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