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HAGATNA, GUAM – The Guam Chamber of Commerce thanks the Senators who supported Senator Shawn Gumataotao’s amendment to reduce the Business Privilege Tax (BPT) from 5% to 4%, effective October 1, 2026. The amendment passed with eight votes. Voting YES were Republican Senators Tony Ada, Frank Blas Jr., Vince Borja, Shelly Calvo, Chris Duenas, Shawn Gumataotao, Jesse Lujan, and Sabrina Salas-Matanane. Senator Telo Taitague joined Democratic senators in opposing this future reduction.
This amendment is included in the Government of Guam’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Bill, and deliberations will continue through August 20, 2025.
The Chamber also commends Senators for advancing immediate relief. Senator Chris Duenas’ measure to reduce the BPT from 5% to 4.5% effective October 1, 2025 passed with 11 votes—the same eight Republican Senators joined by Senators Tina Muña-Barnes, Joe San Agustin, and Telo Taitague—ensuring the voices of the private sector were heard.
While these are important wins for Guam’s business community, the budget process is not yet complete. The final budget bill must still be acted upon by Governor Lou Leon Guerrero, who may sign it into law, allow it to lapse into law, or issue a veto. If vetoed, an override would require 10 votes. We therefore urge Chamber members to continue engaging with lawmakers to see BPT relief through to enactment.
Since 2018, Guam’s businesses have shouldered higher taxes to support government operations, and many continue to face financial strain. The proposed BPT relief comes at a critical time and would help employers reinvest in operations, support their employees, and rebuild prudent reserves. The Chamber remains optimistic and committed to working with policymakers to deliver this relief.
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August 14, 2025
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