Guam delegate urges better federal consultation, excess-land returns and ESA reform for Pacific interests
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Summary
Representative Moylan (Guam) told the committee he will reintroduce the Guam Excess Land Return Act to transfer excess federal land in Guam back to original owners and asked for improved consultation amid a U.S. military buildup; he also urged ESA reforms sensitive to Pacific cultural practices.
Representative Moylan told the committee Guam's relationship with the federal government requires enhanced dialogue and consultation, especially given increased U.S. military activity and the Pacific pivot.
Moylan said nearly one-third of Guam is federally owned and said his Guam Excess Land Return Act — which he plans to reintroduce — would authorize return of excess federal lands to original private landowners or their heirs. He described the transfer as critical to his constituents and said any change in political status must first come from the people of Guam via a plebiscite.
Moylan also urged the committee to consider Endangered Species Act reforms sensitive to Pacific Islands' cultural practices and to improve avenues for state and territorial authorities to participate in management and listing decisions. His testimony was delivered as member-day remarks; the committee did not take formal action during the session.