In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around an amendment concerning submerged lands and cable landing facilities in Guam. The amendment aimed to ensure that all cable operators, including those from off-island, adhere to the same licensing and leasing requirements as local companies. This initiative was framed as a means to promote fairness and consistency across the board.

One key point raised was the ownership of submerged lands, which are currently under the jurisdiction of the Department of Defense and have not yet been returned to the government of Guam. Concerns were expressed regarding the implications of the amendment on existing leases, particularly those held by AT&T, which has perpetual easements for cable runs but does not currently include submerged lands in its lease agreements.

Senator Chirlahe acknowledged the intent behind the amendment but raised objections, emphasizing that it could complicate the leasing process since the submerged lands are not owned by the government of Guam at this time. He highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach that includes input from all relevant parties, including the Attorney General and the Ancestral Lands Commission.

Vice Speaker Munoz Barnes supported the amendment, advocating for equitable treatment of local and off-island companies. He stressed the importance of ensuring that local businesses are not held to stricter standards than their off-island counterparts.

Minority Leader Blaise called for a recess to address discrepancies in the amendment's language, particularly regarding its alignment with the section on real property taxes. He expressed concerns that the amendment's proposed changes did not adequately reflect the title of the section, which could hinder further discussion.

The meeting underscored the complexities surrounding the management of submerged lands and the need for clear regulations that ensure fair treatment for all stakeholders involved in cable operations in Guam.