Lawmakers push for emergency funding to secure elections

In a recent government meeting, lawmakers discussed a critical bill aimed at securing funding for the upcoming 2024 primary election in Guam. The proposed legislation seeks to appropriate $415,000 from excess general fund revenues for the Guam and Lakes Commission, addressing the need for additional resources due to increased voter registration and precinct realignment.

During the session, it was highlighted that existing legislation restricts the expansion of general fund revenues without legislative appropriation. The urgency of the matter was underscored by the Waimelech Commission's request to raise the funding amount from $400,000 to $415,000 to adequately cover staffing and equipment costs for new voting precincts.

Senator St. Augustine raised concerns regarding the availability of funds, to which the Director of Administration confirmed that there is a projected unobligated revenue surplus of $26 million for fiscal year 2024, ensuring that the requested amount is available.

Further inquiries from other senators focused on why these costs were not included in the annual budget for the Guam Election Commission. It was clarified that while the costs were part of the budget, cuts had necessitated the current appropriation request.

Vice Speaker Tina Munoz Barnes questioned the implications of not securing the appropriation, emphasizing the importance of having a funding source to conduct both the primary and general elections. The panel assured that funding for the general election is included in the budget request for fiscal year 2025, contingent on legislative approval.

The meeting concluded with a strong commitment from lawmakers to uphold democratic principles by ensuring that the 2024 primary election proceeds smoothly and without financial hindrance.