Guam Memorial Hospital Administrator Lillian Perez-Posadas asked that the Legislature’s upcoming hearing on bills addressing the governor’s emergency powers be held at the hospital, but the chair of the Committee on Finance and Government Operations declined.
In a letter to committee chair Chris Dueñas, the hospital CEO said GMH "is at the heart of the issues under discussion," and having the hearing at the facility would allow senators to see firsthand the realities faced by patients and staff every day.
In his response, Dueñas said that official notices under the Open Government Act have already been sent, and a venue change would mean a delay in the hearing.
He said parking at the hospital was also a consideration, and technical setup and livestreaming are better supported at the Legislature.
The bills submitted by the governor would allow the extension of her ability to declare emergencies, and would designate American Rescue Plan funds for infrastructure supporting a new medical center complex in Mangilao.
The hearing will be held at 9 a.m. Sept. 12 at the Guam Congress Building.
