Sen. Christopher M. Dueñas is urging the Department of Revenue and Taxation to issue an immediate public notice regarding delays in 2025 real property tax statements and to provide accommodations for taxpayers affected by the billing disruption.
In a Feb. 4 letter to DRT Director Marie P. Lizama, Dueñas said his office received an anonymous call raising concerns about the absence of property tax bills and the lack of communication about when statements will be released. The caller alleged DRT management was aware prior to the traditional Dec. 15 release date that technical issues would delay billing.
Dueñas said his office contacted DRT for clarification and was told the property tax roll is expected to be finalized soon, after which the department would be able to provide a timeline for issuing statements.
The senator said the delay is creating uncertainty for residents, particularly families living paycheck to paycheck, who rely on predictable billing cycles for household budgeting. He warned that compressed payment timelines could unfairly burden taxpayers through no fault of their own.
Dueñas requested that DRT immediately notify the public that 2025 statements have not yet been generated, explain the delay at a high level and provide a realistic timeframe for release. He also asked the department to post regular updates and ensure taxpayers receive the customary amount of time to pay once bills are issued, including any necessary accommodations.
“This is about fairness, transparency, and protecting both the public and the Government of Guam’s revenue stream,” Dueñas wrote, adding that his office is seeking a written update on the status of the property tax roll, anticipated issuance dates and planned taxpayer accommodations.
Dueñas chairs the Legislature’s Committee on Finance and Government Operations.