Concerns over the urgent need for a new correctional facility dominated discussions at the 37th Guam Legislature Regular Session on December 11, 2024. Officials highlighted the dire state of the Department of Corrections (DOC), emphasizing that current facilities are outdated and pose significant safety risks for both inmates and staff.

The director of DOC pointed out that while the administration has budgeted $45 million for fiscal year 2025, much of this funding is allocated for personnel costs and medical bills, leaving little for essential upgrades. The director stressed that the existing domes, which house inmates in open bays, are particularly hazardous. "I'm surprised no one has gotten killed or injured," he remarked, underscoring the critical need for a more secure environment.

A proposed modernization plan estimates a staggering $180 million for a new prison, but the director lamented that even the initial $16 million needed for preliminary processes is currently out of reach. He warned that without significant investment in new facilities, the DOC will continue to face the same challenges, regardless of changes in leadership.

The discussion also touched on the allocation of funds, with the director expressing frustration that other government projects, such as school renovations, have taken precedence over the urgent needs of the DOC. He called for immediate action to address security systems and infrastructure, stating, "We need to fix the security systems... we have to ensure that their rights are protected, but more importantly, your staff."

As the session concluded, the pressing need for a new correctional facility remained a focal point, with officials urging the administration to prioritize the safety and well-being of both inmates and corrections staff in future budget considerations.