Senator Vincent Borja has introduced Bill No. 215-38 (COR), a measure that would waive sanitary permit fees for temporary food service facilities operated by student organizations. The bill, announced on Oct. 29, 2025, follows community feedback shared during a town hall at Tiyan High School and seeks to ease financial burdens for school groups raising funds for educational and extracurricular activities.
Under the proposal, public and private school groups—from elementary through post-secondary levels—would be allowed to host fundraising events for up to three consecutive days without paying the sanitary permit fee. The exemption would apply only if the groups comply with public health inspection and sanitation standards and submit a certification from a school administrator verifying the purpose of the fundraiser.
“This bill is a simple, common-sense measure to support our students’ initiative and hard work,” Borja said. “By waiving this fee, we are removing an unnecessary hurdle and allowing students to keep more of the funds they raise for their intended purpose.” The senator emphasized that the measure would not compromise public health, as all activities would remain under the supervision of the Department of Public Health and Social Services.
DPHSS would be responsible for developing regulations to implement the fee exemption within 90 days of the bill’s enactment. Borja added that the legislation promotes community engagement and teaches students valuable lessons in teamwork and financial management. “It is a small change that will make a big difference for our school communities,” he said.