'Plan B' option for rape survivors among Guam's 24 bills signed into law

By Pacific Island Times News Staff

Acting Gov. Joshua Tenorio on Monday signed 24 bills into law, including a measure that standardizes access to emergency contraception for survivors of rape.

Bill 24-38, now Public Law 38-38, requires emergency health care facilities to provide medically and factually accurate information about the contraception option and to dispense the medication upon a survivor’s request.

During legislative debate, the bill's author, Sen. William Parkinson, emphasized that emergency contraception, often known as Plan B, is a preventative measure. 

“Emergency contraception works by preventing a pregnancy from occurring in the first place. Time is absolutely critical for a woman who wishes to prevent pregnancy after a rape, and this law ensures she is given that choice,” he said.

Also known as the “morning-after pill,” the emergency contraception is known to reduce the risk of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, including rape.

Parkinson noted that Guam has one of the highest rates of sexual assault in the nation, and a staggering number of those victims are minors.

 “The bill codifies what is already the accepted standard of care at Guam’s hospitals, ensuring this practice is protected and uniformly applied,” he said.

Another one of Parkinson’s proposals was Bill 45-38, now Public Law 38-40 and is titled the “Bentley’s Law,” which mandates that convicted offenders pay financial restitution directly for the support of the victim’s surviving minor children.

“When a drunk driver kills a parent, the consequences ripple through an entire family. A child loses not just a mother or father, but their financial security,” Parkinson said at a previous hearing. “This law recognizes that raising a child involves significant costs for food, housing, healthcare and education. It’s about accountability.”

Other newly signed bills cover Guam’s legal system, housing, veterans affairs and among others.

Bill 110-38, now Public Law 38-53, recognizes the importance of supporting the Criminal Justice Automation Commission now and into the future.

“The establishment of CJAC in statute as a permanent entity of the government of Guam is key to the collection, storage, and sharing of critical data among public safety agencies – ensuring consistent and reliable access to essential information for criminal investigations and officer safety,” said Sen. Shawn Gumataotao, author of Bill 110.

Bill 103-38, now Public Law 38-50, authorizes government agencies, including the Office of the Attorney General, Judiciary of Guam, and the Guam Department of Corrections, to hire college graduates or professionals if they secure temporary Peace Officer Standards and Training Commission certification.

Bill 125-38, now Public Law 38-55, creates a legal pathway for homes, apartments, and condominium units to be rented out if they meet the inspection requirements of certified home inspectors.

“This policy has the potential to literally open doors for individuals and families across our island while contributing to our economic recovery in the months and years ahead,” Gumataotao said.

“This new law is a responsible approach to helping us take on the critical housing shortage we face as real property and construction costs are influenced primarily by the unprecedented military growth in our part of the world.”

See the list of newly signed bills here.

Sen. Joe San Agustin is author of Bills 5 and 84, “each aimed at honoring military service while unlocking new opportunities in civilian life.”

Bill 84-38, now Public Law 38-47, allows military motor vehicle operator certifications to be used as qualifying credentials when applying for a Guam chauffeur’s license.

This new law streamlines the licensing process for chauffeur licenses, helping qualified individuals bypass redundant testing and fast-track employment.

This law is expected to fill critical driver shortages, reduce onboarding time for employers, and provide immediate job access for veterans, reservists, and transitioning active-duty personnel.

“It’s common sense and long overdue. We’re saying, ‘If you’ve already proven your skills in uniform, you shouldn’t have to start from scratch, let’s allow our veterans to use their skills in civilian life as they continue to serve our island,” San Agustin said.

 Bill 3-38, now Public Law 38-34, authorizes new veteran license plate designs that more accurately reflect the diversity of military service and personal sacrifice.

These personalized plates will serve not only as official identification but also as rolling tributes to the courage, sacrifice, and unique stories of Guam’s service members.

 “Every veteran’s journey is different. With these new plate options, we give them the opportunity to share their story with pride,” said San Agustin.

“These laws are about turning respect into action. Our veterans and service members deserve more than gratitude—they deserve systems that support their futures and reflect their sacrifices,” he added.

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