Public hearing on BPT rollback bill resumes July 7
The public hearing for bill 11-38 is set to resume on July 7 from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., according to Sen. Christopher M. Dueñas, chairman of the Committee on Finance and Budget of the 38th Guam Legislature.
Bill 11-38 aims to reduce the business privilege tax on Guam from 5% to 4%. The measure received support from the private sector and concerns from public officials panel during the first of the hearing held June 9. See story: Public and private sectors debate BPT rollback.
The Guam Chamber of Commerce rallied for support at the Government Procurement Summit on June 12. Photo by Skyler Obispo
Dueñas said that this second hearing will provide time for business owners and the public to testify.
“We know how hard it is to find time to testify and that’s why we’re giving business owners and the public this extended window,” he said. “The Committee needs your input before
moving forward, and we’re committed to a fair, open, and data-driven process.”
The Office of Finance and Budget is scheduled to present a detailed impact analysis during the July 7 hearing at the request from several senators.
Dueñas emphasized that decisions made by the Legislature need to be backed and guided by Guam’s financial reality, community input, and clear data.
“The goal is to strike a responsible balance. One
that considers the needs of our people and businesses, while safeguarding public services,” he said.
The hearing will take place at the Guam Congress Building and will be livestreamed on the Guam Legislature’s YouTube channel. mbj
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