Law requires DPHSS to conduct feasibility study for providing after-hour urgent care at public health centers; cellular phone use while driving prohibited
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 1, 2012
Acting Governor Ray Tenorio signed 13 bills into law this week. Several bills prioritize the safety of island residents on Guam’s roads and urgent care services.
Acting Governor Tenorio signed Public Law 31-184 into law. The law focuses on requiring the Department of Public Health and Social Services to conduct a feasibility study on providing after-hour urgent care services at public health centers. The measure, introduced by Senator Tony Ada, is a step toward finding out whether there should be urgent care services made available to island residents. This should alleviate heavy traffic at the Guam Memorial Hospital, and provide better services to the general public.
Governor Calvo, in his 2012 State of the Island Address, highlighted plans to implement after-hours medical care at Community Health Centers to provide urgent care whenever possible.
The Acting Governor applauded Sen. Ada for introducing the measure saying that there is clearly a need for urgent care after business hours, and the senator is checking to see if it is a viable option for the island community. “Sen. Tony Ada is doing a great job to ensure that residents get the proper attention they need and he’s providing practical legislation to do so,” said Acting Governor Tenorio.
Additionally, Tenorio signed PL31-192 implementing a restriction on the use of mobile phones while driving a vehicle. The law also calls for public awareness and education about the restrictions.
Other bills signed into law include:
PL 31-182, by Senator Aline Yamashita, is relative to drivers license road testing. It allows for driver’s license applicants to be tested by alternative entities approved by the Department of Revenue and Taxation to alleviate delays at the agency.
Senator Judi Guthertz’s PL 31-183 abolishes the Office of the Adequate Education Suruhanu. With no specific enforcement authority and little regulatory power, the position has not fully realized its intent and vision.
PL 31-185, written by Senator Chris Duenas, is relative to the “Disaster Service Volunteer Leave Act”. The legislation allows for the inclusion of non-governmental and faith-based in assisting the American Red Cross with varous volunteer efforts outlined in the Guam Emergency Response Plan. The Guam Office of Homeland Security or Office of Civil Defense will act as the official government entity responsible for the coordination of relief efforts.
Senator Sam Mabini wrote PL 31-186 authorizing the Department of Agriculture to administer and collect fees derived from the sale and rental of articles from the department, the fees associated with “Clearing, Grading, and Construction” permits.
PL 31-187, authored by Senator Mana Silva-Taijeron, requires all government of Guam departments and agencies to accept applications, filings, and forms for services through the Internet. The law provides easy access to the various agencies’ websites and improves government services for island residents.
PL 31-188, by Senator B.J. Cruz, gives the power to village mayors to close roads for village events, including funerals and fiestas.
Senator Frank Blas, Jr.’s PL 31-189 helps reduce the likelihood of injury or death by requiring all bicycle operators and passengers wear helmets.
PL 31-190, written by Senator Ben Pangelinan, is an act to zone the previously unzoned lot no. 1060-5-1, in Barrigada to single-family dwelling (R-1). The landowners are seeking full utilization of the land.
PL 31-191, written by Senator Ben Pangelinan is an act to zone the previously unzoned lot no. 1060-5-2, in Barrigada to single-family dwelling (R-1). The property owners are seeking full utilization of the land.
Senatory Ben Pangelinan’s PL 31-193 is a consolidation and clarification of the various amendments made to sections in Guam Code Annotated addressing minor or dependent survivor benefits.
Senator Adolpho Palacios authored PL 31-194, allows the Guam Parole Board to conduct deliberations in closed meetings and may vote using secret ballots regarding inmate parole matters.
For more information, please call Raymond D. Gibson at 475-9380.
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