Acting Gov. Josh Tenorio signed 24 bills into law Monday, including measures addressing criminal justice, housing, and victim protection. Among the new laws are proposals from Senators Shawn Gumataotao and Will Parkinson, both highlighting public safety and community well-being as key priorities.
Sen. Gumataotao’s legislation includes Public Law 38-53, which permanently establishes the Criminal Justice Automation Commission (CJAC) to improve data sharing among law enforcement agencies. Another measure, Public Law 38-50, allows agencies to hire recruits with temporary Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification to help fill urgent staffing gaps. His third bill, Public Law 38-55, creates a pathway for homeowners and landlords to rent properties if they meet inspection standards, a move aimed at tackling Guam’s ongoing housing shortage.
Sen. Parkinson’s legislation focuses on victim restitution and survivor care. Public Law 38-40, known as “Bentley’s Law,” requires convicted offenders to provide financial support for the minor children of victims killed by crimes such as drunk driving. Meanwhile, Public Law 38-38 ensures rape survivors have access to emergency contraception in emergency rooms, requiring hospitals to provide accurate information and dispense the medication upon request.
Both senators emphasized the broader impacts of the laws — from strengthening law enforcement tools and addressing housing needs, to providing justice for victims and care for survivors. With Tenorio’s approval, the measures join a package of new laws set to shape public safety, justice, and community stability across the island.