31St GUAM LEGISLATURE

31sT GUAM LEGISLATURE

I MINA'TRENTAI UNU NA LIHESLATURAN GUAHAN

May 29, 2012 =:: -<~ N .____,.....,,_. --0 The Honorable Judith T. Won Pat, Speaker _ , I Mina'trentai unu na Liheslaturan Guahan 155 Hesler Place Hagatfia, Guam 96910

Re: Report on Resolution No. 375-31 (COR)

Hafa Adai Speaker Won Pat:

Transmitted herewith for consideration by the body is the Report on Resolution No. 375-31 (COR), "Relative to recognizing and agreeing with the desires of the Northern Mariana Islands Legislature to form the Mariana Islands Legislature Association and to establish within that entity a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative to explore areas of joint economic development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands," which was publicly heard on Wednesday, May 16, 2012.

Sincerely,

Attachment: Report on Resolution No. 375-31 (COR)

SENATOR FRANK F. BLAS, .JR. Minority leader Ste. 908, DNA Bldg., 238 Archbishop Flores St.. Hagiltiia, Guam 96910 Telephone: (671) 472-2527/31/32 •Facsimile: (671 472-2528 ... e-mail: [email protected] • web: www.guamlegislature.com I MINA'TRENTAI UNU NA LIHESLATURAN GUAHAN Vote Sheet Resolution No. 375-31 (COR), "Relative to recognizing and agreeing with the desires of the Northern Mariana Islands Legislature to form the Mariana Islands Legislature Association and to establish within that entity a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative to explore areas of joint economic development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

To do Notto Report Inactive Committee Members Initial Adopt Adopt Out Abstain File ~,' v/ Frank F. Blas, Jr. - Thomas C. Ada ~ /

V. Anthony Ada // Benjamin J. Cruz (1\t(7)~ \ -- Christopher M. Duenas

Judith P. Guthertz / ,/ Shirley A. Mabini ~ o/?'tf ''- I--- I j t

Tina Rose Mufia Barnes / d~/;-i- Adolpho B. Palacios, Sr. "'~v ~ ~ Vicente C. Pangelinan ~)U/1v Rory J. Respicio ~ /~/

Dennis Rodriguez, Jr. q~/;~ Mana Silva Taijeron ~ Sldf/!~ Judith T. Won Pat @ 7 I ;I Aline A. Yamashita fl/ ~ M l'0 u I MINA'TRENTAI UNU NA LIHESLATURAN GUAHAN 2012 (SECOND) Regular Session

Resolution No. 375-31 (COR) /~·· Introduced by: F. F. Blas, J/. , r,~

Relative to recognizing and agreeing with the desires of the Northern Mariana Islands Legislature to form the Mariana Islands Legislature Association and to establish within that entity a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative to explore areas of joint economic development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

1 BE IT RESOLVED BY I LIHESLATURAN GU HAN: 2 WHEREAS, the people of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern 3 Mariana Islands (CNMI) share a common heritage, history and language, our 4 separation caused by events of history outside our control; and 5 WHEREAS, the unincorporated territory of Guam and the Commonwealth of 6 the Northern Mariana Islands are both strategically located in the Western Pacific 7 chain of islands known as the Mariana Islands Archipelago; and 8 WHEREAS, the indigenous people of Guam and the CNMI have for long 9 freely established contacts and interacted with one another before being "discovered" 10 by Westerners; and 11 WHEREAS, the Mariana Islands that was once one was separated by 12 geopolitical necessity and strategic convenience; more importantly, Guam and the 1 1 CNMI proudly share the same indigenous culture, language, ethnicity, and history; 2 while at the same time, share common interests and concerns such as in the tourism 3 market, barriers to economic development in part due to the unanticipated effects of 4 federal statutes and regulations and indigenous ancestral ties; and 5 WHEREAS, the governments of Guam and the CNMI have the freedom and 6 power to enter into mutually beneficial agreements concerning public areas of 7 cooperation, including government and political exchange and cooperation; and 8 WHEREAS the members of I Liheslaturan Guahan recognize that the 9 Northern Mariana Islands Commonwealth Legislature is desirous in establishing an 10 alliance of legislators from the Mariana Islands evident by the adoption of House Joint 11 Resolution 17-1 calling for the formation of the Mariana Islands Legislature 12 Association; now, therefore be it 13 RESOLVED, that the members of I Liheslaturan Guahan believe that now is 14 an appropriate time for the representatives of the territory of Guam and the CNMI to 15 mutually discuss and explore areas of possible cooperation for mutual benefit, 16 including but not limited to joint economic development, law enforcement assistance, 17 academic and cultural exchanges, health care facilities, personnel and governmental or 18 political exchanges and cooperation and to examine the possibility of creating a 19 formal entity for these purposes consisting of an equal number of representatives from 20 the CNMI and Guam; and be it further 21 RESOLVED, that I Liheslaturan Guahan, on behalf of the people of Guam, 22 does hereby support the discussion and formation of the Mariana Islands Legislators 23 Association (MILA); and be it further 24 RESOLVED, that I Liheslaturan Guahan respectfully suggest the discussion of 25 a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative and the establishment of a sub-group within 26 the Mariana Islands Legislature Association to explore areas of joint economic

2 1 development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the 2 Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands; and be it further 3 RESOLVED, that the Speaker certify, and the Legislative Secretary attest to, 4 the adoption hereof, and that copies of the same be thereafter transmitted to the 5 Honorable Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo, Guam Delegate to the United 6 States Congress; to the Honorable Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan, 7 CNMI Delegate to the United States Congress; to the Honorable Eliceo Diaz Cabrera, 8 Speaker of the House, 1ih Northern Mariana Islands Commonwealth Legislature; to 9 the Honorable Paul A. Manglona, President of the Senate, 1ih Northern Mariana 10 Islands Commonwealth Legislature; to the Honorable Members of the 17th 11 Commonwealth Legislature; to the Honorable Benigno R. Fitial, Governor of the 12 Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands; and to the Honorable Edward J.B. 13 Calvo, I Maga'lahen Guahan.

3 SEVENTEENTH NORTHERN MARIANAS COMMONWEALTH LEGISLATURE

FIRST REGULAR SESSION, 2010 H.J. R. 17-1

A HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION

Supporting the alliance between the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam through the MARIANA ISLANDS LEGISLATURE ASSOCIATION (MILA); and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam are 2 both strategically located in the Western Pacific chain of islands known as the Mariana 3 Islands; and 4 WHEREAS, the indigenous people of these islands have for long freely 5 established contacts and interacted with one another before being "discovered" by 6 Westerners; and 7 WHEREAS, the Mariana Islands that was once one was separated by geopolitical 8 necessity and strategic convenience; and 9 WHEREAS, both the CNMI and Guam proudly share the same indigenous 10 culture, language, ethnicity, and history; and 11 WHEREAS, both island entities share common interests and concerns such as in 12 the tourism market, barriers to economic development in part due to the unanticipated 13 effects of federal statutes and regulations and indigenous ancestral ties; and 14 WHEREAS, with the anticipated military build-up on the island of Guam, it 15 opens an opportunity for the Commonwealth to benefit; and 16 WHEREAS, the signing of Public Law 110-229 by then President George W. 17 Bush, which took over immigration of the CNMI, tourist markets such as China and 18 Russia were excluded in the visa waiver; and 19 WHEREAS, the Chinese and Russian markets are fairly new, they're a fast 20 growing market and a vital part of the ailing tourism industry in the CNMI and Guam; 21 and HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION 17-1

1 12 P. Camacho, Governor of Guam; the Honorable members of the l 7 h Commonwealth 13 Legislature; the Honorable Melchor Mendiola, Mayor of Rota; the Honorable Ramon 14 Dela Cruz, Mayor of Tinian and Aguiguan, the Honorable Donald Flores, Mayor of 15 Saipan, the Honorable Ramona T. Rubuenog, Mayor of the Northern Islands; and the 16 Honorable Benigno R. Fitial, Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana 17 Islands.

Prefiled: 1/25/10

Date: January 28, 20 I 0 Introduced By: Isl Rep. Diego T. Benavente

Isl Rep. Joseph M. Palacios Isl Rep. Joseph P. Deleon Guerrero Isl Rep. Trenton B. Conner Isl Rep. Ray N. Yumul Isl Rep. Eliceo D. Cabrera Isl Rep. Antonio P. Sablan Isl Rep. Ramon A. Tebuteb Isl Rep. Francisco S. Dela Cruz

Isl Joey P. San Nicolas House Legal Counsel

Page 2 PCO: 211110 House Adopted: 2/1110 Report on

RESOLUTION No. 375-31 (COR) Relative to recognizing and agreeing with the desires of the Northern Mariana Islands Legislature to form the Mariana Islands Legislature Association and to establish within that entity a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative to explore areas of joint economic development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. REPORT on RESOLUTION No. 375-31 (COR) Relative to recognizing and agreeing with the desires of the Northern Mariana Islands Legislature to form the Mariana Islands Legislature Association and to establish within that entity a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative to explore areas of joint economic development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands,

Introduced by Senator Frank F. Blas, Jr.

PREFACE:

Pursuant to §2103(b) of Chapter 2 of Title 2 of the Guam Code Annotated, the Chairman of the Committee on Rules, authorized Senator Frank F. Blas, Jr., author of Resolution No. 198-31 (COR), to conduct necessary public hearings on the subject resolution. Upon receipt of the referral, Senator Blas scheduled a public hearing on Wednesday, May 16, 2012 at the Guam Legislature Public Hearing Room. The hearing will convene at 4:00pm.

HEARING:

Senator Frank F. Blas, Jr. convened a public hearing on Wednesday, May 16, 2012 at 5:00 pm in the Guam Legislature's Public Hearing Room. Among the items on the agenda was the consideration of Resolution No. 375-31 (COR), "Relative to recognizing and agreeing with the desires of the Northern Mariana Islands Legislature to form the Mariana Islands Legislature Association and to establish within that entity a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative to explore areas of joint economic development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands," and sponsored by Senator Frank F. Blas, Jr.

PUBLIC NOTICE REQUIREMENTS:

Notices were disseminated via hand-delivery/fax and/ or e-mail to all senators and all main media broadcasting outlets on Thursday, May 3, 2012; Tuesday, May 8, 2012; Friday, May 11, 2012 and Monday, May 14, 2012.

SENATORS PRESENT:

Senator Frank F. Blas, Jr.

TESTIMONY AND DISCUSSION:

There was no testimony submitted, and no individuals signed up to testify. Senator Blas stated that Resolution No. 375-31 (COR), "Relative to recognizing and agreeing with the desires of the Northern Mariana Islands Legislature to form the Mariana Islands Legislature Association and to establish within that entity a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative to explore areas of joint economic development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands," has been publicly heard. There being no witnesses, Senator Blas adjourned the hearing on Resolution No. 375-31 (COR) at 5:15 pm.

PROFILE OF Resolution No. 375-31 (COR) Short Title: "Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative." Date Introduced: Wednesday, April 4, 2012. Main Sponsor(s): Frank F. Blas, Jr. Referral: Tuesday, April 10, 2012 from the Committee on Rules to Senator Frank F. Blas, Jr. Official Title: Relative to recognizing and agreeing with the desires of the Northern Mariana Islands Legislature to form the Mariana Islands Legislature Association and to establish within that entity a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative to explore areas of joint economic development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Public Hearing: Wednesday, May 16, 2012, 4:00pm at the Guam Legislature Public Hearing Room. Reporting: Report submitted to the Committee on Rules on Tuesday, May 29, 2012. Recommendation: To adopted.

A CLOSER LOOK

The Mariana Islands that was once one was separated by geopolitical necessity and strategic convenience, Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) proudly share the same indigenous culture, language, ethnicity, and history; while at the same time, share common interests and concerns such as in the tourism market, barriers to economic development in part due to the unanticipated effects of federal statutes and regulations and indigenous ancestral ties.

The people of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) share a common heritage, history and language, our separation caused by events of history outside our control. The unincorporated territory of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands are both strategically located in the Western Pacific chain of islands known as the Mariana Islands Archipelago.

2 Now is the appropriate time for representatives from the territory of Guam and the CNMI to mutually discuss and explore areas of possible cooperation for mutual benefit, including but not limited to joint economic development, law enforcement assistance, academic and cultural exchanges, health care facilities, personnel and governmental or political exchanges and cooperation and to examine the possibility of creating a formal entity for these purposes consisting of an equal number of representatives from the CNMI and Guam.

FINDINGS

Having conducted the public hearing on Resolution No. 198-31 (COR), the author submits his findings to I Mina 'Trentai Unu na Liheslaturan Guahan for consideration.

The governments of Guam and the CNMI have the freedom and power to enter into mutually beneficial agreements concerning public areas of cooperation, including government and political exchange and cooperation.

The Northern Mariana Islands Commonwealth Legislature is desirous in establishing an alliance of legislators from the Mariana Islands evident by the adoption of House Joint Resolution 17-1 calling for the formation of the Mariana Islands Legislature Association

On Monday, May 21, 2012, Senator Frank F. Blas, Jr. met with Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Governor Benigno Fitial and several members of the Commonwealth Legislature to discuss Resolution 375-31 (COR).

In separate meetings, Senator Blas met with Governor Fitial, House Speaker "Eli" Cabrera, Senators Juan Ayuyu and Frank Cruz, Representative Joseph Palacios and talked about how the initiative could work in maximizing our collective efforts in areas of common interest such as tourism, government procurement, and regional collaboration.

The leadership saw the added value in the initiative of working together to identify opportunities for joint growth and development, and to communicate and coordinate more efficiently and effectively on national and international matters that could produce positive outcomes for both island entities.

RECOMMENDATION

The Author, to which was referred Resolution No. 375-31 (COR), Relative to recognizing and agreeing with the desires of the Northern Mariana Islands Legislature to form the Mariana Islands Legislature Association and to establish within that entity a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative to explore areas of joint economic development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands," has had the same under consideration, and now wishes to report back the same, with the recommendation to place said resolution on the Agenda and to adopt the same.

3 Senator Frank F. Blas, Jr. 31st Guam Legislature Public Hearing Wednesday, May 16, 2012 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Guam Legislature Public Hearing Room

AGENDA

I. CALL TO ORDER:

II. ROLL CALL:

III. ANNOUNCEMENTS: Referral of Resolutions to the Author by the Chairman, Committee on Rules to conduct public hearing.

IV. RESOLUTION: Resolution No. 167-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the President, the Speaker of the House and the Senate President to restore funding for the TRIO Programs."

Resolution No. 198-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the Commander, U.S. Naval Base, Guam to change the name of "US Naval Station, Guam" to reflect the cultural history of Guam by renaming it as the "Sumay US Naval Base, Guam."

Resolution No. 371-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting Guam's Delegate to the United States House of Representatives to introduce legislation to exempt Guam, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and Alaska from the U.S. Build provision of the Maritime Shipping Laws (Jones Act)."

Resolution No. 375-31 (COR), "Relative to recognizing and agreeing with the desires of the Northern Mariana Islands Legislature to form the Mariana Islands Legislature Association and to establish within that entity a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative to explore areas of joint economic development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands."

V. REMARKS:

VI. ADJOURNMENT: ,~2.~1~1~~r~: ~~l~~;7;~,fhan .11,c 3 J·sr·· Gua. m Legislanm_. · 15 5 Hi:skr Place. Hagarfo, Guam 96910 • u111 111•.g11,imlt;1,rd,a11n-.com E-mail: rm,r'fi1r;,;11,z111 (ji\w111il.mm • Td: (67 l ).'.172-7679 •Fax: (6; I ),172.354- •. ·.::-.:-: ::...... I I April 10, 2012 Senator 1· Rory J. Respicio CttAJRPERSON • MAJORITY LF.ADER I ! MEMORANDUM . ~Senator I Jud1t~ P. Gmhcrtz ., \ 'JCE CHAIRPERSON ASST. MAJORITY LEADER I i To: Pat Santos \ I Clerk of the Legislature MAJORITY I MEMBERS: I Attorney Therese M. Terlaje Speaker I Legislative Legal Counsel Judith T. Won Pat I Vice Speaker l From: Benjamin J. F. Cruz l Senator l Tina Rose Mui1a Barnes Subject: Referral of Res No. 375-31 (COR) LEGISl.ATIVE SECRETARY MAJORITY W'HIJ> As Chairperson of the Committee on Rules, I am forwarding my referral Senator . of Res No. 375-31 (COR). Please ensure that the subject resolution is Dennis G. Rodriguez, Jr. ASST. MAJORITY \X'ttll' referred, in my name, to the respective sponsor, as shown on the attachment. Senator 'Thomas C. Ada I I also request that the same be forwarded to all Senators of I Mina'trentai Senator I Unu na Liheslaturan Guahan. Adolpho B. Palacios, Sr. I Senator 1 Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office at Yiccntc c. pangdinan I 472-7679. I i\HNORITY l MEMBERS: I Si Yu'os ma'ase! Senacor J Aline A. Yamashita I ;\SST. MINORITY LEADER

Senator I Christopher M. Duenas (1) Attachments I I i I Mina' Trentai Unu Na Uheslaturan Guohan Resolutions Log Sheet

Resolution Date of Date Vote Date Committee/Office Sponsor Title Date Introduced Date Adopted No. Presentation Sheet Issued Referred Referred

375-31 (COR) F. F. Blas, Jr. Relative to recognizing and agreeing with the desires 04/09/12 10:03 a.m. 4/10/2012 Sponsor of the Northern Mariana Islands Legislature to form the Mariana Islands Legislature Association and to establish within that entity a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative to explore areas of joint economic development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

Intro/Ref/History 4/10/20125:15 PM fllE COPY

I MINA'TRENTAI UNU NA LIHESLATURAN GUAHA~' 2012 (SECOND) Regular Session ~ -;> ~ Resolution No. } 75" 7/ ~) ::) ~ Introduced by: F. F. Blas, Jr. ti

1 BE IT RESOLVED BY I LIHESLATURAN GU HAN : 2 WHEREAS, the people of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern 3 Mariana Islands (CNMI) share a common heritage, history and language, our 4 separation caused by events of history outside our control; and 5 WHEREAS, the unincorporated territory of Guam and the Commonwealth of 6 the Northern Mariana Islands are both strategically located in the Western Pacific 7 chain of islands known as the Mariana Islands Archipelago; and 8 WHEREAS, the indigenous people of Guam and the CNMI have for long 9 freely established contacts and interacted with one another before being "discovered" 10 by Westerners; and 11 WHEREAS, the Mariana Islands that was once one was separated by 12 geopolitical necessity and strategic convenience; more importantly, Guam and the 1 1 CNMI proudly share the same indigenous culture, language, ethnicity, and history; 2 while at the same time, share common interests and concerns such as in the tourism 3 market, barriers to economic development in part due to the unanticipated effects of 4 federal statutes and regulations and indigenous ancestral ties; and 5 WHEREAS, the governments of Guam and the CNMI have the freedom and 6 power to enter into mutually beneficial agreements concerning public areas of 7 cooperation, including government and political exchange and cooperation; and 8 WHEREAS the members of I Liheslaturan Guahan recognize that the 9 Northern Mariana Islands Commonwealth Legislature is desirous in establishing an 10 alliance of legislators from the Mariana Islands evident by the adoption of House Joint 11 Resolution 17-1 calling for the formation of the Mariana Islands Legislature 12 Association; now, therefore be it 13 RESOLVED, that the members of I Liheslaturan Guahan believe that now is 14 an appropriate time for the representatives of the territory of Guam and the CNMI to 15 mutually discuss and explore areas of possible cooperation for mutual benefit, 16 including but not limited to joint economic development, law enforcement assistance, 17 academic and cultural exchanges, health care facilities, personnel and governmental or 18 political exchanges and cooperation and to examine the possibility of creating a 19 formal entity for these purposes consisting of an equal number of representatives from 20 the CNMI and Guam; and be it further 21 RESOLVED, that I Liheslaturan Guahan, on behalf of the people of Guam, 22 does hereby support the discussion and formation of the Mariana Islands Legislators 23 Association (MILA); and be it further 24 RESOLVED, that I Liheslaturan Guahan respectfully suggest the discussion of 25 a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative and the establishment of a sub-group within 26 the Mariana Islands Legislature Association to explore areas of joint economic

2 ·. . -

1 development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the 2 Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands; and be it further 3 RESOLVED, that the Speaker certify, and the Legislative Secretary attest to, 4 the adoption hereof, and that copies of the same be thereafter transmitted to the 5 Honorable Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo, Guam Delegate to the United 6 States Congress; to the Honorable Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan, 7 CNMI Delegate to the United States Congress; to the Honorable Eliceo Diaz Cabrera, 8 Speaker of the House, 1ih Northern Mariana Islands Commonwealth Legislature; to 9 the Honorable Paul A. Manglona, President of the Senate, 1i 11 Northern Mariana 10 Islands Commonwealth Legislature; to the Honorable Members of the 17th 11 Commonwealth Legislature; to the Honorable Benigno R. Fitial, Governor of the 12 Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands; and to the Honorable Edward J.B. 13 Calvo, I Maga 'lahen Guahan.

3 SEVENTEENTH NORTHERN MARIANAS COMMONWEALTH LEGISLATURE

FIRST REGULAR SESSION, 2010 H.J. R. 17-1

A HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION

Supporting the alliance between the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam through the MARIANA ISLANDS LEGISLATURE ASSOCIATION (MILA); and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam are 2 both strategically located in the Western Pacific chain of islands known as the Mariana 3 Islands; and 4 WHEREAS, the indigenous people of these islands have for long freely 5 established contacts and interacted with one another before being "discovered" by 6 Westerners; and 7 WHEREAS, the Mariana Islands that was once one was separated by geopolitical 8 necessity and strategic convenience; and 9 WHEREAS, both the CNMI and Guam proudly share the same indigenous I 0 culture, language, ethnicity, and history; and 11 WHEREAS, both island entities share common interests and concerns such as in 12 the tourism market, barriers to economic development in part due to the unanticipated 13 effocts of federal statutes and regulations and indigenous ancestral ties; and 14 WHEREAS, with the anticipated military build-up on the island of Guam, it 15 opens an opportunity for the Commonwealth to benefit; and 16 WHEREAS, the signing of Public Law 110-229 by then President George W. 17 Bush, which took over immigration of the CNML tourist markets such as China and 18 Russia were excluded in the visa waiver; and 19 WHEREAS, the Chinese and Russian markets are fairly new, they' re a fast 20 growing market and a vital part of the ailing tourism industry in the CNMI and Guam; 21 and HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION 17-1

WHEREAS, it is in the best public interest that the Legislatures of these two 2 island entities work cooperatively for their mutual interests, concerns and benefits with 3 the United States; 4 NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the House of Representatives of 5 the Seventeenth Commonwealth Legislature, the Senate concurring, support the 6 formation of the Mariana Islands Legislature Association (MILA); and 7 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Speaker of the House of 8 Representatives and the President of the Senate shall certify and the House Clerk and the 9 Senate Legislative Secretary shall attest to the adoption of this resolution and thereafter I 0 transmit certified copies to the Honorable Judith T. Won Pat, Speaker of the 30th Guam 11 Legislature; the Honorable members of the 30th Guam Legislature; the Honorable Felix 12 P. Camacho, Governor of Guam; the Honorable members of the I i 11 Commonwealth 13 Legislature; the Honorable Melchor Mendiola, Mayor of Rota; the Honorable Ramon 14 Dela Cruz, Mayor of Tinian and Aguiguan, the Honorable Donald Flores. Mayor of 15 Saipan, the Honorable Ramona T. Rubuenog, Mayor of the Northern Islands; and the 16 Honorable Benigno R. Fitial, Governor of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana 17 Islands.

Prefiled: 1125110

Date: January 28, 20 I 0 Introduced By: Isl Rep. Diego T. Benavente

Isl Rep. Joseph M. Palacios Isl Rep. Joseph P. Deleon Guerrero Isl Rep. Trenton B. Conner Isl Rep. Rav N. Yumul Isl Rep. Eliceo D. Cabrera Isl Rep. Antonio P. Sablan Isl Rep. Ramon A. Tebuteb Isl Rep. Francisco S. Dela Cruz

Isl Joey P. San Nicolas House Legal Counsel

Page 2 PCO: 211110 House Adopted: 211II0 _...... _ .... G.\laro.:NMllawmakers_want trade. mwt with Korea . • • ,,_ '"' ,- • • ••••'••••• • •• •• • '-• ~~ • ••HO • '-• -- • •• • • •• -- ~ •" •''' •••

Guam-NMI lawmakers want trade pact with Korea Tuesday, May 222012 00:00 By Emmanuel T. Erediano - Reporter

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LAWMAKERS from Guam and the CNMI are organizing themselves to lobby for the inclusion of two territories in the U.S.-South Korea free trade agreement.

Visiting Guam Sen. Frank F. Blas Jr. also discussed with CNMI lawmakers yesterday morning the first meeting of the Mariana Islands Legislature Association that he wants to hold on Saipan next month. Blas has introduced Resolution 375-31 complementing former CNMI Rep. Diego T. Benavente's House Joint Resolution 17- I. Adopted two years ago by both houses of the CNMI Legislature, HJ.R. 17-1 supports the formation of the Marianas Islands Legislature Association. It states that both Guam and the CNMI "share common interests and concerns such as in the tourism market, barriers to economic development in part due to the unanticipated effects of federal statutes and regulations in the indigenous ancestral ties." Blas' resolution states that "now is an appropriate time for the representatives of Guam and the CNMI to mutually discuss and explore areas of possible cooperation for mutual benefit, including but not limited to joint economic development, law enforcement assistance, academic and cultural exchanges, health care facilities, personnel and governmental or political exchanges and cooperation and to examine the possibility of creating formal entity for these purposes consisting of an equal number of representatives from the CNMI and Guam." Blas said he already conducted a public hearing on this resolution and he is very confident it will be passed unanimously by Guam's Legislature later this month. "I anticipate that, based on conversations or discussion I had with my colleagues, it would pass unanimously," he said. He said it is very important for the lawmakers of neighboring territories to organize themselves because it will help them deal with many challenges and opportunities "that lay before us." Blas said one of the areas that they should look into is the free trade agreement with South Korea. The treaty was first signed on June 30, 2007; renegotiated in early Dec. 20 IO; passed by the U.S. Congress on Oct. 12. 2011; and ratified by the National Assembly of South Korea on Nov. 22, 2011. Blas said the treaty included all the 50 states, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico but not the CNMI and Guam. He noted that the Marianas are the closest U.S. soil to the Asian country so he wonders why they are not included in the treaty which would greatly benefit the two territories' economies.

" It would make sense that if you want to have a trade agreement like this, the Marianas would be an ideal place," he said. Blas said there are other free trade agreements the U.S. has been negotiating with other Asian countries but none of those would include Guam and the CNMI. " Why?" he asked.

Blas said the legislatures of Guam and the CNMI should lobby for the islands' inclusion in these free trade agreements. Rep. Joseph M. Palacios, R-Saipan, said he does not know if the White House "intentionally left us out or just forgot about us because we are very tiny islands." Sen. Juan M. Ayuyu, lnd.-Rota, said it is sad to hear that the U.S. did not include Guam and CNMI in treaties that could help boost the islands' economies.

http://mvariety.com/cnmi/cnrni-news/local/46625-guam-nmi-lawmakers-want-trade-pact-.. . 5/22/2012 ·- - -·:·;• -.-.·,:·:-:--:::::-:-: -: : ·.: -.:-·::--:-~ •• -· ·.- :.-;_-:-. :-:---..:::-RO .. ·... : ... '~. -: ·· ·:, ~- -

31sT GUAM LEGISLATURE

I MINA'TRENTAI UNU NA LIHESLATURAN GUAHAN

Press Release May 23 , 2012

Blas Meets With CNMI Governor and Legislature to Discuss Cooperative Initiative

Hagatfia - On Monday, May 21 , 2012, Senator Frank F. Blas, Jr. met with Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Governor Benigno Fitial and several members of the Commonwealth Legislature to discuss a resolution he introduced in April of this year. Resolution 375-31 (COR) recognizes the desire of the CNMI Legislature to form an alliance with the Guam Legislature to be kno\\'ll as the Mariana Islands Legislature Association. The resolution further adds to the desire by requesting the establishment of a cooperative initiative that would explore areas of economic development and mutual benefit between Guam and the CNMI.

"While the purpose of my meetings was to initially provide them with information on the resolution and to ask for their support, I was very encouraged by their enthusiasm and excitement towards the prospects of the initiative," said Senator Blas. "In separate meetings, Governor Fitial, House Speaker "Eli" Cabrera, Senators Juan Ayuyu and Frank Cruz, Representative Joseph Palacios and I talked about how the initiative could work in maximizing our collective efforts in areas of common interest such as tourism, government procurement, and regional collaboration. We also saw the added value in the initiative of working together to identify opportunities for joint growth and development, and to communicate and coordinate more efficiently and effectively on national and international matters that could produce positive outcomes for both island entities."

In his meeting with the CNMI Governor, Blas said that he was told that a similar discussion was being encouraged amongst the Chief Executives throughout Micronesia and was being led by Fitial. Senator Blas stated, "It was providence that I had the discussion with the Governor (Fitial) because I believe that our efforts complement each other. And we also further agreed that although our political statuses with the United States government were different, the buy-in and cooperative relationship between both our congressional representatives will be a vital component to any joint success."

Senator Blas will ask the Legislative Rules Committee for consideration to include Resolution 3 7 5-31 on the agenda for the next legislative session ###

SENATOR FRANK F. BLAS, JR. Minority Leader Ste. 908, DNA Bldg., 238 Archbishop Flores St.. Hag<\tfia, Guam 96910 Telephone: (671) 472-2527/31/32 •Facsimile: (671 472-2528 ... e-mail: [email protected] • web: www.guamlegislature.com 2 flattened e1'fecfi,-vdy i ' . ding ready s meteoro- d watches, for fl ood ing wind s. ; like thi s: m damag se outside n suitable 1. Keep an 1vailable,"

with thi s s the a11ni- 1ich pretty Working with the CNMI orm could here is no IN 20 l 0, members of the 17th Northern Mari and had no problems finding a parking space has never anas Commonwealth Legi slature unanimously close to the building. ) speak of. passed ajoin!f-louse resolution in support of the I was humbled that Gov. Filial, Speaker "Eli" 1ur WD40 creation of a Marianas Island Legislature Asso Cabrera, Sens. Juan Ayuyu and Frank Cruz, and le. l f they ciation. The resolution recognized the opportu Representative Joseph Palacios made time to : big trees nities that the anticipated military buildup and meet with me. And as a result of the meetings, ; that may the inclusion of China and Russia in the visa I am encouraged with the excitement and inter handy and waiver program would have for both Guam and est expressed by the leaders of the prospects ttteries. l n the CNML and that it was in the best public and opportunities that the es tab Iishment of this consumed interest that the Legislatures from the two island relationship could spur. f drinking entities work cooperatively for their mutual The CNMI leaders spoke of the many missed interests, concerns and benefits with the United opportunities the two island entities could have ring what States. benefitted from if we had been working collab rms occa In April of this year, I introduced Resolution oratively, and in some cases, not working against ies in the 375-31 that recognized and agrees with the each other. While it was acknowledged that for dwide for desires of the CNMI Legislature and further a few decades after World War 11 there existed ·king, and called for the establishment of a Marianas Island animosity beiween the two communities which If you ' re Cooperative Initiative. The Initiative would be strained earlier attempts at working together, here look established to explore areas of joint economic it was a common 'belief that the wounds were the steel- development and mutual benefit between Guam healing and that there is maturity in recognizing 1d bui It to and the CNMI. we ,can be more successful working together, I made of In keeping with the standing rules ofthe Legis tha/l we would ever be in competition with each lature, a public hearing was announced and held other. or injure j to receive public testimony in relation to the While my resolution only calls for the estab ,etter than I resolution. While no official testimonies were lishment of a formal cooperative agreement received, informal conversations suggested that between the two Legislatures, it is my belief, the Initiative was something worth pursuing. and the sentiment shared by everyone I' ve ~ · ---- -J This past Monday, I flew up to Saipan to meet spoken to, that the tenets of the agreement must with CNMI Gov. Benigno Fitial and members .be embraced by the executive branch and our of the CNMI Legislature to discuss the resolu congressional representatives as well. tion. While en route to Capitol Hill, I co.uldn't Our islands are too close together and our help but notice the many vacant and abandoned communities so intertwined that what occurs on Inc. buildings that not too long ago were business Guam has an effect in the CNMI and vice versa. centers, shops and restaurants. Tel Itale signs of I earlier wrote of my observation as I was driv a struggling economy. The state of the CNMI ing to my meetings in Saipan. lfwe d9n't seize economy was further evident as I arrived at the the opportunity to learn from the experiences building where the Governor's Office is . Where that has caused their downturn, and not recog one would expect the parking lot to be filled nize that if we work together, we can strengthen with cars, I was able to accurately count the our economy and help to rebui Id theirs, we' II number of vehicles parked there at first glance have nobody to blame but ourselves . .com

fOISCl.AiMtR :~ ~or ·vleft~ In thle~do not ~ · ~1hose~Jfle-editorial ~- ·l 1 - ~ ~of MariaMi Variefy. " .· -™~ Edtqr _.....,_ ~~~ 3l 6 T GUAM LEGISLATURE

I MINA'TRENTAI UNU NA LIHESLATURAN GUAHAN

May 11. 2012

MEMORANDUM

To: All Senators

From: Frank F. Blas. Jr.

Subject: Second Notice of Pu caring, Wednesday, May 16, 2012 Please be advised that I will conducting a public hearing on Wednesday. May 16, 2012 in the Legislature's Public Hearing Room, beginning at 4:00 p.m. This hearing is scheduled to receive public testimony on the following:

Resolution No. 167-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the President, the Speaker of the House and the Senate President to restore funding for the TRIO Programs.''

Resolution No. 198-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the Commander, U.S. Naval Base, Guam to change the name of "U.S. Nuvu/ Station. Guam" to reOect the cultural history of Guam by renaming it as the "Sumav US Naval Base, Guam."

Resolution No. 371-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting Guam's Delegate to the United States House of Representatives to introduce legislation to exempt Guam. Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and Alaska from the U.S. Build provision of the Maritime Shipping Laws (Jones Act).''

Thank you and Si Yu'os Ma'ase' for your time and I look forward to your attendance and participation.

FRANK F. BLAS, JR.

cc: Sergeant-At-Arms/Protocol/AV Clerk of the Legislature MIS All Media

SENATOR FRANK F. BLAS, JR. Minority leader Ste. 908, DNA Bldg .. 238 Archbishop Flores St .. Haglltna, Guam 96910 Telephone: (671) 472·2527131/32 • Facsimile: (671) 473·3528 e-mail: [email protected] •web: www.guamlegislature.com S~nator Frank F. Blas, Jr. 31"t Guam Legislature Public Hearing \Vednesday, May 16, 2012 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Guam Legislature Public Hearing Room

AGENDA

I. CALL TO ORDER:

II. ROLL CALL:

III. ANNOUNCEMENTS: Referral of Resolutions to the Author by the Chairman, Committee on Rules to conduct public hearing.

IV. RESOLUTION: Resolution No. 167-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the President, the Speaker of the House and the Senate President to restore funding for the TRIO Programs."

Resolution No. 198-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the Commander. U.S. Naval Base. Guam to change the name of "U.S. Naval Station, Guam" to reflect the cultural history of Guam by renaming it as the "Sumay U.S. Naval Base, Guam."

Resolution No. 371-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting Guam's Delegate to the United States House of Representatives to introduce legislation to exempt Guam, Puerto Rico. Hawaii, and Alaska from the U.S. Build provision of the Maritime Shipping Laws (Jones Act)."

V. REMARKS:

VI. ADJOURNMENT: ••? • :: ;:: --- ... ,, ••••... ~,

31 5 T GUAM LEGISLATURE

I MINA'TRENTAI UNU NA LIHESLATURAN GUAHAN

May 14, 2012

MEMORANDUM

To: All Senators

From: Frank F. Blas, J I , Subject: 48 Hour NoticWublic Hearing, Thursday, May 16, 2012

Please be advised that I will conducting a public hearing on Thursday, May 16, 2012 in the Legislature's Public Hearing Room, beginning at 4:00 p.m. This hearing is scheduled to receive public testimony on the following:

Resolution No. 167-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the President, the Speaker of the House and the Senate President to restore funding for the TRIO Programs."

Resolution No. 198-31 (COR), " Relative to requesting the Commander, U.S. Naval Base, Guam to change the name of "US. Naval Station, Guam " to reflect the cultural history of Guam by renaming it as the "Sumay US. Naval Base, Guam. "

Resolution No. 371-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting Guam' s Delegate to the United States House of Representatives to introduce legislation to exempt Guam, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and Alaska from the U.S. Build provision of the Maritime Shipping Laws (Jones Act)."

Thank you and Si Yu'os Ma'ase' for your time and I look forward to your attendance and participation.

FRANK F. BLAS, JR.

cc: Sergeant-At-Arms/Protocol/AV Clerk of the Legislature MIS All Media

SENATOR FRANK F. BLAS, .JR. Minority Leader Ste. 908, DNA Bldg., 238 Archbishop Flores St., Hagllti'ia, Guam 96910 Telephone: (671) 472-2527/31/32 •Facsimile: (671 ) 472-2528 ... e-mail: [email protected] • web: www.guamlegislature.com iI James P Castro

Public Hearing May may 16, 2012, Second Notice 1 message -i------·----·--·------···---·-··--·-----·· 4ames P Castro Fri, May 11, 2012 at 2:27 PM To: [email protected] Reminder notice for public hearing scheduled for Wednesday, May 15, 2012. See attached notice for Agenda and copies of resolutions. • James

5 attachments _,, Intro-Ref-History Resolution No. 371-31 (COR) ffb, jr.pdf CJ 555K

~ Intro-Ref-History Resolution No. 375-31 (COR) ffb, jr.pdf 462K £] Res. No. 167-31 (COR) ffb.pdf

I 153K ":'.) Res. No. 198-31 (COR) ffb, jr.. pdf 111 K 'Ll Public Hearing 5-16-12 Memo.pdf 99K

https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=Ofd9735acc&view=pt&search=sent&th= 13 73a27 l .. . 512312012 c~ i f James P Castro

\1\fednesday, May 16, 2012 public hearing 2messages

James P Castro Tue, May 8, 2012 at 8:44 AM To: [email protected]

~May 8, 2012

MEMORANDUM

To: All Senators

From: Frank F. Blas, Jr.

Subject: Notice of Public Hearing, Wednesday, May 16, 2012

·Please be advised that I will conducting a public hearing on Wednesday, May 16, 2012 in the Legislature's ·Public Hearing Room, beginning at 4:00 p.m. This hearing is scheduled to receive public testimony on the . following:

Resolution No. 167-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the President, the Speaker of the House and the Senate President to restore funding for the TRIO Programs."

Resolution No. 198-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the Commander, U.S. Naval Base, Guam to change the name of "US. Naval Station, Guam" to reflect the cultural history of Guam by renaming it as the "Sumay US. Naval Base, Guam. "

Thank you and Si Yu'os Ma'ase' for your time and I look forward to your attendance and participation.

FRANK F. BLAS, JR.

cc: Sergeant-At-Arms/Protocol/ AV Clerk of the Legislature MIS

https://rnail.google.corn/rnail/?ui=2&ik=Ofd9735acc&view=pt&search=sent&th=13 72979 .. . 512312012 All Media

Adam' Bearce Tue, May 8, 2012 at 8:58 AM Tb: James P Castro , Yong Pak

Hi. This is now posted. '[Quoted text hidden]

h~tps://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=Ofd9735acc&view=pt&search=sent&th= 13 72979 .. . 5/23/2012 c~ ii James P Castro

Public Hearing 1' messages

James P Castro Fri, May 4, 2012 at 5:08 PM To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], jonatwork201 [email protected], j¢>[email protected], [email protected], [email protected], Aline Yamashita , Benjamin JF Cruz , Bill Phillips , Carlos P , Chelsea Muna Brecht , Chris Budasi , Chris Duenas , Coy , Cyrus , Dennis fRedriguez , Elaine Tajalle , "Frank F. Blas, Jr." , Frank Torres , Frank Torres [email protected]>, "James P. Castro" , Judi Won Pat , "Judith P. Guthertz" , Lisa Cipollani , Mana Silva Taijeron , mark sayama , MIS , Nicole Santos , Olivia Palacios , "Rory J. Respicio" , Sam Mabini , Selena Onedera Salas , $tephanie mendiola , Therese Terlaje , Tina Muna Barnes , Tom Unsiog , "V. Anthony Ada" , "Vicente C. Pangelinan" , Vince Arriola , Yong Pak

May 4, 2012

MEMORANDUM

To: All Senators ~/ From: Frank F. Blas, Jr. .. Subject: Notice of Public 1 · ng, Thursday, May 16, 2012 Please be advised that I will conducting a public hearing on Thursday, May 16, 2012 in the Legislature's Public Hearing Room, beginning at 4:00 p.m. This hearing is scheduled to receive public testimony on the following:

Resolution No. 167-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the President, the Speaker of the House and the Senate President to restore funding for the TRIO Programs."

Resolution No. 198-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the Commander, U.S. Naval Base, Guam to change the name of "U.S. Naval Station, Guam" to reflect the cultural history of Guam by renaming it as the "Sumay U.S. Naval Base, Guam."

h~ps://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=Ofd9735acc&view=pt&search=sent&th=13716ad8 ... 5/23/2012 Resolution No. 375-31 (COR), "Relative to recognizing and agreeing with the desires of the Northern Mariana Islands Legislature to form the Mariana Islands Legislature Association and to establish within that entity a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative to explore areas of joint economic development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands."

Thank you and Si Yu'os Ma'ase' for your time and I look forward to your attendance and participation.

FRANK F. BLAS, JR.

cc: Sergeant-At-Arms/Protocol/AV Clerk of the Legislature MIS All Media

https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=Ofd9735acc&view=pt&search=sent&th=13716ad8 ... 5/23/2012 if James P Castro

Public Hearing 1•message

James P Castro Mon, May 7, 2012at11:41 AM To: [email protected]

, May 3, 2012

·Honorable Melissa B. Savares , President 'Mayors' Council of Guam Hagatfia, Guam 96910

Re: Notice of Public Hearing, Thursday, May 16, 2012

Dear Mayor Savares: Please be advised that I will conducting a public hearing on Thursday, May 16, 2012 in the Legislature's i Public Hearing Room, beginning at 4:00 p.m. This hearing is scheduled to receive public testimony on the • following:

Resolution No. 167-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the President, the Speaker of the House and the Senate President to restore funding for the TRIO Programs."

Resolution No. 198-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the Commander, U.S. Naval Base, Guam to change the name of "US. Naval Station, Guam" to reflect the cultural history of Guam by renaming it as the "Sumay US. Naval Base, Guam."

cc: All Mayors and Vice Mayors Executive Director

4 attachments

""!.'.\ Res. No. 167-31 (COR) ffb.pdf ,.w 153K

~ ~;~KNo. 198-31 (COR) ffb, jr.. pdf 1

ht!tps://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=Ofd9735acc&view=pt&search=sent&th=13 724 f51. .. 5/23/2012 2J Intro-Ref-History Resolution No. 371-31 (COR) ffb, jr.pdf . 555K

~ Intro-Ref-History Resolution No. 375-31 (COR) ffb, jr.pdf 462K

https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=Ofd9735acc&view=pt&search=sent&th= 13 724 f51... 5/23/2012 :,·. : ·.}" ... , '"''

31sT GUAM LEGISLATURE

I MINA'TAENTAI UNU NA LIHESLATURAN GUAHAN

Reminder: May 14, 2012 For Immediate Release

SENATOR BLAS TO CONDUCT PUBLIC HEARING ON RESOLUTION Nos. 167-31; 198-31; 371-31 & 375-31.

Hagatfia - Senator Frank F. Blas, Jr., announced that he will be conducting a public hearing on Wednesday, May 16, 2012 from 4:00 pm - 6:00pm on the following resolutions: Resolution No. 167-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the President, the Speaker of the House and the Senate President to restore funding for the TRIO Programs." Resolution No. 198-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the Commander, U.S. Naval Base, Guam to change the name of "U.S. Naval Station, Guam" to reflect the cultural history of Guam by renaming it as the "Sumay U.S. Naval Base, Guam." Resolution No. 371-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting Guam's Delegate to the United States House of Representatives to introduce legislation to exempt Guam, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and Alaska from the U.S. Build provision of the Maritime Shipping Laws (Jones Act)." Resolution No. 375-31 (COR), "Relative to recognizing and agreeing with the desires of the Northern Mariana Islands Legislature to form the Mariana Islands Legislature Association and to establish within that entity a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative to explore areas of joint economic development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands."

-end-

Written testimonies may be submitted on the day of, prior to, or up to ten days after the public hearing to the Office of Senator Frank F. Blas, Jr., 31st Guam Legislature, HagAtfta Guam 96910, via facsimile 472- 2528 or via email: [email protected]. We comply with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Should you require assistance or accommodations please contact Mark Sayam~ at 472-2532 or via email [email protected].

SENATOR FRANK F. BLAS, JR. Minority leader Ste. 908, DNA Bldg .. 238 Archbishop Flores St., Hagfitiia, Guam 96910 Te,lephone: (671) 472·2527/31/32 • Facsimile: (671 472-2528 ... e-mail: [email protected] • web: www.guamlegislature.com 31 5 T GUAM LEGISLATURE

I MINA'TRENTAI UNU NA LIHESLATURAN GUAHAN

May 7, 2012 For Immediate Release

SENATOR BLAS TO CONDUCT PUBLIC HEARING ON RESOLUTION Nos. 167-31; 198-31; 371-31 & 375-31.

Hagatfza - Senator Frank F. Blas, Jr., announced that on Wednesday, May 16, 2012 he will conduct a public hearing on the following resolutions: Resolution No. 167-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the President, the Speaker of the House and the Senate President to restore funding for the TRIO Programs." Resolution No. 198-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting the Commander, U.S. Naval Base, Guam to change the name of "U.S. Naval Station, Guam" to reflect the cultural history of Guam by renaming it as the "Sumay U.S. Naval Base, Guam." Resolution No. 371-31 (COR), "Relative to requesting Guam' s Delegate to the United States House of Representatives to introduce legislation to exempt Guam, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and Alaska from the U.S. Build provision of the Maritime Shipping Laws (Jones Act)." Resolution No. 375-31 (COR), "Relative to recognizing and agreeing with the desires of the Northern Mariana Islands Legislature to form the Mariana Islands Legislature Association and to establish within that entity a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative to explore areas of joint economic development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands." According to Senator Blas, the public hearing has been scheduled for Wednesday, May 16, 2012, 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm at the Guam Legislature Public Hearing Room.

-end-

Written testimonies may be submitted on the day of, prior to, or up to ten days after the public hearing to the Office of Senator Frank F. Blas, Jr., 3 lst Guam Legislature, Hagatfta Guam 96910, vi~ facsimile 472- 2528 or via email: [email protected]. We comply with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Should you require assistance or accommodations please contact Mark Sayama at 472-253 2 or via email [email protected]. SENATOR FRANK F". BLAS, JR. Minority leader Ste. 908, ONA Bldg., 238 Archbishop Flores St., Hagfltria, Guam 96910 Telephone: (671) 472-2527/31/32 • Facsimile: (671) 472-25 28 ... e-mail: [email protected] • web: www.guamlegislature.com Senator Frank F. Blas, Jr. Public Hearing Wednesday, May 16, 2012, 4:00 pm, Guam Legislature Public Hearing Room Attendance Sheet

Thomas C. Ada V. Anthony Ada / Frank F. Blas, Jr., v

Benjamin J. Cruz

Christopher M. Duenas

Judith P. Guthertz

Shirley A. Mabini

Tina Rose Muna-Barnes

Adolpho B. Palacios, Sr.

Vicente C. Pangelinan

Rory J. Respicio

Dennis Rodriguez, Jr.

Mana Silva Taijeron

Judith T. Won Pat

Aline A. Yamashita ;i :1

1,! Senator Frank F. Blas, Jr. ;1 Public Hearing ii Wednesday, May 16, 2012, 4:00 pm, Guam Legislature Public Hearing Room J ::J Witness Sign in Sheet :! Resolution No. 375-31 (COR), "Relative to recognizing and agreeing with the desires of the I Northern Mariana Islands Legislature to form the Mariana Islands Legislature Association and to establish within that entity a Mariana Islands Cooperative Initiative to explore areas of joint economic development and mutual benefit between the governments of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands."

•'I J NAME REPRESENTING AGENCY :1 PLEASE PRINT OR SELF FOR AGAINST OTHER ,J

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