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Guam Legislature approves FY2026 appropriations bill, 11–4, amid debate over tax cuts and hospital funding
Summary
On third reading the Guam Legislature passed Bill No. 44‑38 COR, an appropriations act for fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2026, by an 11–4 vote. Supporters said the measure balances tax relief and spending; critics warned the business-privilege-tax cut and other allocations leave shortfalls for Guam Memorial Hospital and other services.
Bill No. 44‑38 COR, “an act making appropriations for the operations of the executive, legislative and judicial branches of the government of Guam for the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2026,” passed third reading by the Guam Legislature by a roll-call vote of 11 yeas to 4 nays.
The measure, introduced on the floor as substituted and amended and described by the clerk under the Organic Act of Guam, funds government operations for FY2026, reduces the business-privilege tax (BPT) in staged cuts and includes targeted appropriations for agencies and projects. The body recorded the tally on the chamber floor and opened the floor for brief extensions of remarks following the vote.
Supporters said the bill balances fiscal restraint with policy priorities. “Every decision made in this budget had a reason, a consequence, and a purpose,” Senator Borja told colleagues and viewers, arguing the bill represents pragmatic governing after extended negotiations. Senator Chris Duenas said the package reflects “a guiding…
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