Calvo is also expected to testify on war reparations immediately following the visa-waiver hearing. This will be the first time Calvo will formally testify before Congress since he took office.
The July 14 hearings will be heard by the Natural Resources Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife, Oceans and Insular Affairs, chaired by Congressman John Fleming, R-La. Guam Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo is a member.
Won Pat said she was invited to present a five-minute testimony on the visa waiver program, but was not invited to present testimony at the war reparations hearing.
Won Pat said her message to Congress is that the U.S. should allow the visa waivers to encourage economic growth on Guam, which is experiencing a “flat” economy. And with many uncertainties concerning the military buildup, Guam needs a “strong economic boost,” Won Pat said.
While Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano exercised parole authority to continue to allow Chinese and Russian visitors into the CNMI visa-free because of a possibility that their economy would collapse otherwise, not having the same accommodations for Guam is not consistent with congressional intent, said Bordallo.
The passage of the Consolidated Natural Resources Act of 2008 into law was intended for Guam and the CNMI to have a joint visa waiver program.
Bordallo cited “flawed” implementation by the Bush administration that led to the interim-final ruling. The ruling was posted on the Federal Register, effective March 23 of this year.
For her part, Sen. Tina Muña-Barnes said she felt that Guam leaders must maintain their pursuit of a revised Homeland Security rule in its final form.
“As long as we know what is required of us, Guam can meet the challenges which have prevented this program’s implementation,” the senator said.
The governor said in light of the expected delays in buildup construction projects, the waiver will provide economic relief to the island.
“The prospects are looking good. We just have to keep the pressure on and continue the dialogue with all stakeholders in the Obama administration,” Calvo said. “We understand the buildup timelines were adjusted to make them more workable. I’m hoping our friends in Washington can adjust this policy to make our economy more viable.”
