Lawmakers advanced bill 157‑38 to the third‑reading file after committee and floor work that incorporated Attorney General guidance and removed proposed amendments that would have caused overlap with existing felony statutes.

The bill creates an aggravated third‑degree criminal sexual conduct offense for certain offenses involving victims aged 14–16 and increases sentencing ranges in specified circumstances. Sponsors and supporters described the measure as filling gaps in sentencing for teenage victims and as a companion to past reforms such as Guam’s Jessica’s Law. The committee worked with the Attorney General’s Office through multiple markups to ensure the new language aligned with Guam’s criminal code and sentencing structure.

During floor debate, a senator raised the risk of overlap with first‑degree offenses where elements such as force, coercion or the actor’s position of authority may already elevate charges. After additional review during a short recess, the senator withdrew proposed amendments that would have created overlap; committee members confirmed AG review and the bill’s alignment with existing statutory structure. Lawmakers added cosponsors and sent the bill to the third‑reading voting file without recorded objection.

What’s next: The bill is scheduled for third‑reading consideration and, if enacted, will change the criminal code’s sentencing structure for specified crimes against teenagers; judges’ application of the new provisions will determine practical effects in individual cases.