Senate approves key bills on utilities and elderly care
The Senate recently passed two key measures—House Bill 23-97, SB1 CCS1, which updates the Commonwealth Public Utilities Commission Act, and Senate Resolution No. 23-29, focused on improving elderly care services across the CNMI.
These actions highlight the Senate’s commitment to addressing critical issues affecting both public utilities and the well-being of vulnerable populations within the community.
House Bill 23-97, SB1 CCS1, authored by Rep. Vincent S. Aldan (Ind-Saipan), centers on amending the Commonwealth Public Utilities Commission Act of 2006. The bill, introduced through Conference Committee Report 23-04, proposes modifications to the framework governing public utilities, aiming to enhance oversight and management. Following thorough discussions, the Senate voted unanimously in favor of the bill, demonstrating broad consensus on the need to update and strengthen the regulation of public utilities, ensuring better services for the CNMI.
In addition to tackling utilities, the Senate passed Senate Resolution No. 23-29, introduced by Senate President Edith E. DeLeon Guerrero (D-Saipan), with the aim of improving elderly care services. This resolution emphasizes collaboration between key agencies—such as the Office on Aging, Commonwealth Healthcare Corp., CNMI State Medicaid Agency, and the Northern Marianas Housing Corp.—encouraging them to pool resources and align strategies to provide comprehensive care for the CNMI’s growing elderly population. Recognizing the rising demand for senior care, the Senate stressed the importance of coordinated efforts to ensure that seniors receive the support they need to live dignified, healthy lives.
The passage of Senate Resolution 23-29 underscores the Senate’s broader initiative to strengthen services for vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly. As the CNMI’s population continues to age, this legislative move reflects a forward-thinking approach to addressing future demands on social services. The unanimous approval of both the bill and the resolution indicates strong bipartisan support for addressing community needs, from infrastructure improvements to ensuring the well-being of senior citizens.
The session also saw updates on other community matters. Sen. Jude Hofschneider (R-Tinian) announced the upcoming return of Rota’s Agriculture Fair, which had been absent for nine years. The fair is expected to revive local agricultural engagement and foster community spirit.
Rep. Vincent S. Aldan
