In light of the upcoming 80th anniversary of World War II, a new bill in Guam was proposed. Bill 149-38 focuses on waiving the annual license plate registration fees for veterans of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The bill was introduced by Senator Therese Terlaje on May 30, 2025, and it was referred to the legislative committee on June 5, 2025.
Inside the bill, it explains the details of those affected. Any veteran who has been determined fully disabled or unemployed due to military-related injuries may qualify. However, unlike before, this bill expands on that idea even more. The goal is to make the waiver accessible to all veterans, regardless of direct physical effects. To properly receive the waived fee, veterans must register through the Guam Office of Veterans Affairs.
On July 10, 2025, a committee hearing was held for this bill, one that received outstanding support.
“It’s an honorable way to say thank you for all those who sacrificed,” Daniel Cogar, Vietnam War veteran, said. He stayed strong in showing his support for this bill, as his personal experiences shone through.
“We often hear the words ‘thank you for your service,’ but what do those words really mean?” Veteran Joe Mafnas said regarding this bill. “After 36 years serving our country, I still struggle to find a clear answer. It is a step forward in acknowledging the sacrifice we have made.”
The bill is seen as a step towards the future, while also understanding the past. For veterans in Guam, it is clear they feel this is a needed start in the right direction.
“As they slowly depart to their final journey as they age, as a small token to our elderly veterans, the passing of this bill will serve as a true testimony and commitment of appreciation to our older generation veterans,” Office of Veterans Affairs Director Jose San Agustin said.
Even though the support is strong, there are some financial aspects to be considered. The Bureau of Budget and Management Research estimated a potential annual revenue loss of around $60,000 if these fees are waived. In response to this, Speaker Tony Ada suggested an alternative option. He recommended redirecting any estimated funds to the upkeep of veteran memorials.
“That’s the money we put out as veterans going right back into veteran monuments,” Speaker Ada said.
Currently, the bill is under legislative review as all aspects must be considered. The support and want for this bill is clear, but there is another perspective that lies within the financial side.
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