Moylan Outlines Legislative Milestones, Federal Investments & Priorities for Guam in 2026 Congressional Address

(Hagåtña, Guam) - Congressman James Moylan delivered his 2026 Congressional Address Friday evening at the Guam Congress Building, highlighting legislative accomplishments, federal investments secured for Guam, and his continued efforts to lower the cost of living, strengthen the island's economy, and expand opportunities for Guam's families.

Addressing members of the 38th Guam Legislature, government leaders, community partners, and residents, Moylan reflected on nearly four years of congressional service, emphasizing the importance of bipartisan cooperation, strong federal partnerships, and ensuring that Guam's priorities are represented in Washington.

"Let's build a Guam where a good job can support a family, where our children can pursue their ambitions, and where growing older does not mean having to leave the place we love. That is the future I will keep working for, with everyone willing to help us get there. It is an honor to serve you. Through every challenge ahead, my commitment remains: Guam first. Guam always", said Congressman Moylan.

Among the major legislative accomplishments highlighted was House passage of two standalone bills introduced by Moylan during the 119th Congress: the Deliver for Veterans Act, which would require the Department of Veterans Affairs to cover shipping costs for adaptive vehicles provided to eligible veterans, and the Territorial Student Access to Higher Education Act, which would provide qualifying students from Guam and other U.S. territories access to in-state tuition at covered public colleges and universities.

Moylan also highlighted federal funding secured for FY2026 to support critical road infrastructure, healthcare, public safety, emergency preparedness, housing assistance, and community facilities across Guam. Building on these investments, his office has submitted 20 additional Community Project Funding requests totaling nearly $145 million for FY2027, aimed at addressing further infrastructure needs and strengthening essential services throughout the island.

A central focus of the address was the rising cost of living. Moylan outlined ongoing efforts to expand Guam's access to affordable energy, pursue Jones Act relief and greater shipping competition, and address high airfares through the Pacific Island Flight Alternatives Act. He also reiterated his push to restore the $800 de minimis exemption for Guam and other U.S. territories, citing the financial burden that increased shipping costs, fees, and administrative requirements place on residents and local businesses.

The Congressman further discussed efforts to strengthen Guam's food security through expanded local agriculture, aquaculture development, and opportunities for local farmers, ranchers, and fishermen to supply fresh products to military installations. On economic development, Moylan highlighted initiatives to expand Guam's role in Navy ship repair, improve federal contracting opportunities for locally owned businesses, strengthen workforce training, and support tourism through the proposed inclusion of the Philippines in the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program. He also discussed plans to pursue major regional summits on Guam to generate additional economic activity and strengthen the island's role in the Pacific.

During the address, Moylan recognized the late Sergeant Major Juan Ogo Blaz, whose nomination for the Medal of Honor has advanced to presidential consideration following a favorable determination by the Secretary of War. Blaz's daughter, Darlene, was also recognized as the Congressman reflected on her father's extraordinary courage and military service. Other priorities included establishing a Veterans Benefits Administration Regional Office on Guam, expanding access to passport services, advancing radiation exposure compensation legislation, and ensuring that the ongoing military buildup creates meaningful opportunities for Guam's workers, businesses, and communities.

Looking ahead, Moylan introduced his vision for stronger coordination between Guam's elected leadership and the federal government through the Guam-Federal Consultation Act, legislation that would establish a formal consultation process involving the White House and Guam's leaders to address federal policies affecting the island's future.

The Congressman also acknowledged Governor Lou Leon Guerrero and Lieutenant Governor Joshua Tenorio for their eight years of service and recognized the collaboration between their administration, local agencies, and his congressional office in advancing Community Project Funding priorities.

Throughout the address, Moylan emphasized that Guam's progress depends on sustained engagement in Washington, cooperation among local leaders, and a shared commitment to building an island where future generations can live, work, and thrive.

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