Legislature advances bill creating aggravated third‑degree CSC and stiffer penalties for certain teen victims
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Summary
Bill 157‑38 would create a new aggravated third‑degree criminal sexual conduct offense and increase mandatory sentencing and restrictions for some offenders who assault 14–15‑year‑olds; the committee revised the bill after Attorney General review and the measure was sent to the third‑reading file.
Vice Speaker and sponsors brought Bill 157‑38 to the floor to create an aggravated third‑degree criminal sexual conduct (CSC) offense and strengthen punishments for offenders who commit certain sexual offenses against 14‑ and 15‑year‑old victims.
The author said the bill sets a sentencing range that includes 15 to 25 years for aggravated offenses in defined circumstances and removes parole, work release, and alternatives for certain offenders; the committee worked with the Attorney General’s office to align the new offense with the existing code and sentencing framework.
Why it matters: senators cited local crime statistics and judicial data during debate, noting high rates of sexual assault in Guam and the need for stronger tools to protect teenagers and the community. Supporters argued the bill would close gaps in sentencing that now allow certain offenders to receive lighter penalties.
Key floor actions and concerns: several senators raised questions about potential overlap with first‑degree offenses and whether the bill could create unintended sentencing inconsistencies. The author and committee said they consulted with the Attorney General and revised language; one senator withdrew proposed amendments after confirming overlap and AG guidance.
Outcome: after discussion and cosponsor additions, the body ordered Bill 157‑38 as amended to the third‑reading voting file with no recorded objections. Committee members said the markup reconciled the bill with existing statutes and the Attorney General’s assessment.
Next steps: the bill will appear on the third‑reading calendar for a recorded vote; the Legislature noted the AG had been consulted during markup and that the committee made changes to address statutory alignment and sentencing structure.