Three key legislative measures aimed at improving Guam’s election system received strong support during a public hearing held on Wednesday. 

The measures, introduced by the Chairperson for the Legislative Committee on Elections, Senator Telo Taitague, focus on election security, voter privacy, and government accountability.  

Despite the bills being introduced at the request of the GEC and in collaboration with their office, Taitague faced uncertainty from the GEC on one of the bills. As a result, Senator Taitague announced at the beginning of the hearing that she is withdrawing Bill No.52-38, and had removed the legislation from the public hearing agenda.

“As the author of Bill No. 52-38(COR), I am formally withdrawing the bill at this time. Following further discussions with the Guam Election Commission (GEC), it has become clear that adjustments are necessary to align with their recommendations and ensure the legislation effectively serves its intended purpose. I will be working closely with the GEC to develop new legislation that incorporates the necessary changes they previously supported while also exploring cost-cutting measures to implement a more fiscally responsible approach. I am committed to producing and supporting policies that serve the best interests of our community, and I appreciate the GEC’s collaboration in refining this effort. I intend to introduce a revised measure that better meets Guam’s needs while prioritizing financial sustainability,” Taitague said.

The remaining bills on the agenda were heard. 

Bill No.53-38 safeguards voter privacy by ending the outdated practice of posting hardcopies of voter registration indexes for unmonitored access. 

Bill No. 54-38 enhances voter registration processes, election procedures, and ballot handling with clearly defined guidelines and established timelines. 

Bill No.55-38 improves campaign finance reviews by clarifying campaign finance reporting requirements, and implements a quarterly financial reporting system. 

The Guam Election Commission voiced general support for the bills, emphasizing the need for greater transparency, streamlined processes, modernized systems, and improving voter confidence in Guam’s election process.