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HAGATNA, GUAM – The Guam Chamber of Commerce recognizes that no budget process is ever simple, and no final product will satisfy all parties. However, on behalf of our membership, we are extremely pleased that this year’s budget bill includes reductions in the Business Privilege Tax (BPT). This long-overdue adjustment will provide much-needed relief to the many small businesses still working to recover from Guam’s economic challenges.
We extend our gratitude to Senator Shawn Gumataotao for spearheading the effort to reduce the BPT, and to Senator Chris Duenas, Chairman of the Office of Finance and Budget, for ensuring that a two-tier BPT reduction remained a central part of this year’s deliberations. While the process was far from perfect, the majority of Senators demonstrated persistence and leadership, and the issue ultimately prevailed.
At the same time, the Chamber notes with concern the potential legal implications of an amendment applying a higher BPT rate to federal projects. This matter warrants further review to ensure Guam’s laws remain sound and enforceable.
Despite these concerns, the budget bill passed this morning by a vote of 11 - 4 and now awaits the consideration of Governor Lou Leon Guerrero. On behalf of our business community, the Guam Chamber of Commerce respectfully urges the Governor to enact the Fiscal Year 2026 budget bill into law to deliver meaningful relief to small businesses, strengthen investments in tourism, secure funding for our hospital, and support our public safety agencies.
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August 22, 2025
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