Guam Legislature advances bill letting GDOE lease school property; floor set, reporting rules debated

The Guam Legislature advanced Bill 70-38 COR, which would authorize the Guam Department of Education (GDOE) to enter commercial leases for unused or underused school property, after senators adopted a series of amendments and moved the measure to third reading.

Sponsor and floor debate: Senator Perez, speaking as the bill’s floor sponsor, proffered multiple amendments intended to require GDOE to establish a fee schedule and rules under the Administrative Adjudication Act (AAA). Perez said, “what it states is that, GDOE shall establish fees and regulations pursuant to the administrative adjudication law found in chapter 9, title 5, Guam Code Annotated for the implementation of this section,” and asked colleagues for support.

Why it matters: Supporters said the bill aims to generate revenue for school maintenance, renovation and capital improvements, reduce the number of idle, deteriorating buildings, and create opportunities for workforce development through internships and apprenticeships tied to leases. Opponents warned the Legislature should not inadvertently undercut GDOE revenue by allowing steep discounts for other government entities or charter schools.

Key amendments adopted: Senators approved several amendments that change how lease revenues and processes would be handled: - Fees and rulemaking: An amendment requiring…