8 MILA resolutions presented to Chamber members

Saipan Chamber of Commerce president Joe C. Guerrero presented eight resolutions passed by the 2nd General Assembly of the Mariana Islands Legislature Association during their general membership meeting yesterday at the Charley’s Room of Pacific Island Club Saipan.

One resolution—Resolution No. 01-GA-2—is of particular interest to the CNMI, given its challenges of attracting new airlines and high airline fares.

Resolution No. 01-GA-2 calls for a cabotage exemption for foreign carriers landing in Guam and the CNMI. Guerrero mentioned in his presentation that Delegate Gregorio Kilili C. Sablan (D-MP) and Delegate James C. Moylan (R-GU) recently submitted a similar resolution to U.S. Congress.

A special cabotage exemption for foreign carriers seeking to fly from Guam to another U.S. port would allow for competition for certain routes, which in turn should lead to more competitive pricing which ultimately benefits the consumers.

Resolution No. 02-GA-2, meanwhile, eyes the creation of the MILA Cybersecurity Working Group, while Resolution No. 03-GA-2 wants to eliminate the general Medicaid funding limitations for territories of the U.S.

Also discussed were Resolution No. 04-GA-2 and Resolution No. 05-GA-2. The former calls for the redistribution of unused territorial cap amounts under the Medicaid program, while the latter seeks the establishment of the Marianas Worker Visa and Marianas Regional Commission, where Guerrero mentioned that the CNMI Transitional Worker program will end in 2029.

He added that Guam lacks the population and workforce to support its economic growth as the island seeks economic tools from U.S. Congress to boost its industries.

Guerrero said reports also indicate that Guam needs external support to overcome its workforce challenges.

Same is true when it comes to the CNMI.

“Reports from the [Government Accountability Office] state that we do not have the population base and the workforce to allow us to grow for the foreseeable future,” Guerrero said.

Guerrero highlighted the proposal to establish a regional commission for Guam and the CNMI, as it would ultimately address workforce, education, and healthcare issues. He said this body will be co-chaired by the governors of Guam and CNMI and would have direct access to the White House and Congress and would be able to pursue challenges that outlast a single administration.

Guerrero added that the governor has a four-year term and changes in administration can affect long-range initiatives and cited Medicaid and Social Security Act as examples of long-term initiatives.

Meanwhile, Resolution No. 06-GA-2 calls for improved regional disaster response capabilities for Guam and the CNMI, while Resolution No. 07-GA-2 wants the creation of Educational Exchange Programs to promote a skilled workforce.

Lastly, Resolution No. 08-GA-2 wants the federal government to support local regenerative food production in the Marianas.

Meanwhile, House floor leader Rep. Edwin K. Propst (D-Saipan) talked about what transpired during the MILA confab and said that they had discussed economic challenges. He added that the meeting aimed to foster collaboration and address concerns raised by the private sector.

Propst discussed how travel expenses posed barriers for individuals and businesses, and emphasized the need for improved transportation solutions that will include exploring options of cabotage and resurrecting essential air service.

Propst also mentioned that the Guam Legislature will visit the CNMI Legislature for more discussions. He added that the eight resolutions were developed through collective efforts with the involvement of various stakeholders, including legislators, governors, and government representatives.

The representative ended his discussion by mentioning the importance of Unified Voice for Guam’s Economy as it was crucial for Guam’s strength and regional success. He said the entity recognized the need for a strong economy to support various sectors, including tourism. He added the military has consistently played a vital role in sustaining Guam’s economy, especially during challenging times like COVID-19.