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Senate to hold session next week
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Posted on Aug 24 2000
The Senate has readied several priority measures for passage during a scheduled session next week, its first in almost a month following a visit by some members in Washington D.C.
It is expected to approve a bill seeking additional funding of $6.51 million for the West Tinian International Airport expansion project, according to Senate President Paul A. Manglona.
Offered by Tinian Rep. Norman S. Palacios, HB 12-188 will tap the anticipated $60 million bond float to be undertaken by the Commonwealth Development Authority and matching federal construction grants.
The additional funds were prompted by shortfall in the initial estimated project costs of $17 million. The budget has now ballooned to over $20 million.
The passage of HB 12-188 or the Tinian Supplemental Capital Improvement Projects Appropriations Act of 2000 came three months after Tinian officials and the administration of Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio agreed to tap these funding sources for the much-delayed airport project in the island municipality.
Meanwhile, Mr. Manglona said the upper house has begun its review of the proposed banking reform law with possible amendments to be inserted into the House bill.
Senators met yesterday with representatives from the banking sector as well as officials of government agencies to discuss provisions of the legislation.
“Hopefully, we can get together and address those concerns right away,” said Mr. Manglona.
The Senate leader also hopes to have a report ready on the scholarship bill which will revamp the current government program on financial aid and grants provided to local students.
The session is set for August 31.
