Guam Legislature passes multiple bills including lease-term change and ADU rules; resolution urging federal funding for air-raid shelters fails

At a session of the Guam Legislature, members voted to approve a series of bills on land leases, housing, public employee benefits and agency procedures, and to confirm several nominations. Lawmakers passed a measure extending the government lease term from five to 15 years, approved legislation to permit accessory dwelling units in certain residential zones, authorized an appropriation to the University of Guam and moved several other items. A resolution asking the federal government to fund air-raid shelters and civil-defense infrastructure on Guam failed.

The votes reflect contested views on transparency, land control and environmental and fiscal risk. Multiple senators spoke during brief extensions of remarks after the votes, with critics warning that reduced legislative oversight over long-term leases could bind future legislatures and supporters saying the changes will encourage investment and infrastructure. Lawmakers also debated the housing and groundwater impacts of allowing more accessory dwelling units (ADUs) over the island’s primary aquifer.

Votes at a glance:

- Bill No. 8-38 COR — Extend government lease term from 5 to 15 years: Introduced as an amendment to sections of Title 5 of the Guam Code Annotated to extend certain Government of Guam leases from five to 15 years. Final tally: 10 yays, 5 nays. Outcome: Passed. Notes: The floor vote followed substantial public and senator commentary about removing or reducing legislative oversight for long-term leases; several senators warned this could permit multi-decade contracts without future legislative approval.

- Bill No. 10-38 COR — Public safety…