Jim Moylan

(Hagåtña, Guam) — Congressman James Moylan announced during a press conference Wednesday morning that the years-long effort to award the Medal of Honor to the late U.S. Army Sergeant Major Juan Ogo Blaz has reached its final stage, with the nomination now awaiting the approval of signature from President Donald Trump. Joined by Blaz's daughter Darlene Blaz and his wife Dionisia Blaz, local leaders, and Guam veterans, Moylan shared the historic development following a favorable determination by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth supporting the upgrade of Blaz's Distinguished Service Cross to the Medal of Honor. The announcement marks the closest Guam has ever come to securing the nation's highest military honor for one of its own. Following the President’s signature, Blaz will become the first ever CHamoru servicemember from Guam to receive the Medal of Honor. “As a U.S. Army veteran myself, this moment is deeply personal and emotional. Sergeant Major Blaz represents the very best of who we are as a people. His extraordinary courage and sacrifice reflect generations of sons and daughters of Guam who have answered our nation's call to serve,” said Congressman Moylan. “For an island whose people have given so much in defense of our country, this recognition would be more than an honor for one extraordinary warrior. It would be a profound acknowledgment of the patriotism, courage, and sacrifice of generations of Guam service members. We have come closer than ever before, and we will soon finally see Sergeant Major Blaz receive the recognition he so rightfully deserves.” During the press conference, Moylan recounted the extraordinary acts of valor that earned Blaz the Distinguished Service Cross, the Army's second-highest military decoration for valor. On January 18, 1969, during the Vietnam War, Blaz, then a Staff Sergeant serving with the 82nd Airborne Division, assumed command after his platoon leader was wounded. Under intense enemy fire, he helped evacuate injured soldiers and led an assault against enemy positions. Despite suffering a wound to his shoulder, Blaz continued fighting. When his platoon was pinned down by heavy machine-gun fire, he charged across a ravine to silence an enemy weapon, sustaining a second wound in the process. Refusing medical evacuation, he continued risking his life to mark enemy positions with smoke grenades, enabling supporting helicopter gunships to strike their targets. Only after the enemy positions had been neutralized did he accept medical treatment. Moylan emphasized that the historic milestone represents years of sustained advocacy and cooperation among Blaz's family, Guam veterans, congressional colleagues, and senior defense officials. During his first term in Congress, Moylan worked alongside Colonel Danny Santos to advance the effort. In 2024, he successfully offered an amendment to the FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act authorizing the President to award Blaz the Medal of Honor. He also entered letters from Guam veterans and community leaders supporting Blaz's recognition into the Congressional Record. Moylan continued advocating directly with senior defense leadership, personally raising Blaz's case with Secretary Hegseth during his visit to Guam and maintaining subsequent dialogue with the Department of War. He also joined former Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo at the Pentagon, where they discussed the case directly with Secretary of the Army Daniel Driscoll. Most recently, Moylan led a bipartisan congressional letter joined by 16 Members of Congress formally urging President Trump to grant final approval for Blaz's Medal of Honor. Sergeant Major Blaz passed away on September 3, 2024, at the age of 78. Just months earlier, Moylan had personally informed Blaz that the House had advanced legislation authorizing the Medal of Honor for his service. Following his passing, Moylan honored Blaz on the House floor and pledged to continue pursuing the recognition on his behalf. Darlene Blaz, daughter of Sergeant Major Blaz reflected on the historic moment. “My heart feels quite heavy, and yet, it has never felt more light. Heavy, because it saddens me to know that my father is no longer with us to experience the reality of this long awaited moment—his moment, and knowing that it is one step away is incredibly exciting,” said Blaz. “We are truly grateful for the people who made this possible. Congressman Moylan, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Danny Santos, you have played a big role over the years campaigning towards this effort. It’s hard to believe this moment is becoming a reality. Fifty seven years is a lifetime. Although I am saddened that my father is not here, I know he is in spirit.” Wednesday's press conference also brought together members of Guam's veteran community and local leaders, including Army Veteran Vice Speaker Tony Ada and Senator Sabrina Salas Matanane, Chairperson of the Committee on Health and Veterans Affairs, in recognition of the significance of this milestone for Guam. With the nomination now awaiting the President's final signature, Moylan expressed optimism that the long-awaited recognition will soon become a reality, honoring not only Blaz's extraordinary heroism but also the enduring legacy of military service and sacrifice among the people of Guam. ###

(Hagåtña, Guam) — Congressman Moylan is pleased to announce that $1,025,000 in federal funding he secured through the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process has now been formally awarded to the Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency (CQA) for new inspection and border security equipment. Moylan submitted the request through the Community Project Funding process, which allows Members of Congress to seek federal support for specific projects in their districts, and worked to successfully advance the project through FY2026 appropriations. The funding was awarded on September 30 by the U.S. Department of Justice and will support the procurement, installation, and deployment of advanced inspection equipment for passenger processing, commercial air cargo, and international mail operations. The project includes two passenger baggage X-ray inspection systems, one commercial air cargo X-ray inspection system, one international mail X-ray inspection system, and a digital CCTV system supporting CQA inspection operations at the airport. “This is exactly why we fight to get Guam’s priorities included in the federal budget, so that the needs identified here at home ultimately become resources our agencies can put to work,” said Congressman Moylan. “We worked with Guam Customs to advance this funding through the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process, and I am pleased to see the $1.025 million now formally awarded so they can move forward with these critical upgrades. I’m thankful for Director Peredo and the entire hardworking team behind Guam CQA for protecting our borders.” The new equipment will strengthen Guam’s public safety and border security by giving Customs officers better tools to detect illegal drugs, contraband, and other prohibited items before they enter our communities. Greater inspection capability across passenger baggage, commercial cargo, and international mail will also strengthen deterrence by making it more difficult to move illegal drugs and contraband through Guam’s ports of entry. “Our Customs officers are one of Guam’s first lines of defense,” Moylan continued. “Every illegal shipment we can identify and stop at the point of entry is one less opportunity for drugs and contraband to reach our streets and hurt our families. These new systems will give our officers better tools to protect our people and strengthen the security of our island.” The new equipment will also improve officer safety and strengthen CQA’s overall inspection and enforcement capabilities. “Every day, our officers stand between Guam and the various threats that approach our borders. This federal investment gives us the tools to see beyond what is visible; to strengthen our ability to make informed decisions as we strive to improve upon the standards we have built, advance the way we work, and continually sharpen our enforcement capabilities to safeguard Guam’s people, economy, and natural resources,” said Guam Customs and Quarantine Agency Director Ike Peredo.

(Hagåtña, Guam)Congressman Moylan delivered remarks during the 2026 Midyear Senior Plenary Session of the Interagency Group on Insular Areas (IGIA), hosted by the U.S. Department of the Interior, highlighting efforts to lower the cost of living on Guam while pressing for further federal action on energy costs and other priorities impacting island families. The September 29 virtual meeting brought together federal officials, territorial governors, and congressional representatives from Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and Puerto Rico. Moylan joined Governor Lou Leon Guerrero in representing Guam during the territorial officials presentations. “We should not be satisfied with simply discussing our issues. We must remain committed to improving the lives of residents of the territories and delivering on the things that matter: lowering costs, improving healthcare, growing the economy, and making the territories a place where Americans can raise their families,” said Congressman Moylan. Moylan placed particular focus on Guam’s high energy costs and the need for greater federal investment in the Guam Power Authority, calling for efforts to strengthen and underground Guam’s power infrastructure while providing relief to ratepayers. “We are not asking for special treatment. We are asking for the Federal Government to work together with us to address the real and immediate need to protect ratepayers and to help mitigate the price spikes that are driving up costs on our island,” Moylan said. The Congressman urged the Federal Government to assist GPA through options including joint procurement, greater access to domestic refining capacity, and expedited outstanding reimbursement requests from FEMA. Moylan also raised several other Guam priorities, including restoring the de minimis exemption for Guam and other U.S. territories outside the U.S. Customs Zone, Supplemental Security Income parity, reauthorization of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, Jones Act and air cabotage relief, expanding the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program to include the Philippines, childcare affordability, economic and workforce development, and stronger federal services for Guam’s veterans and rural communities. Moylan emphasized that Guam’s challenges require sustained coordination between Congress, the Administration, and territorial leaders, particularly as federal policies continue to have an outsized impact on the island’s economy, infrastructure, and cost of living. The Congressman concluded by emphasizing the need to turn continued federal-territorial dialogue into tangible results for the people of Guam. ###

(Washington D.C.) — Congressman Moylan, along with fellow members of the Congressional Territories & Commonwealths Caucus, sent a letter to key federal officials pressing for a meeting with the Administration to address recent de minimis changes affecting residents and businesses across the U.S. territories. Moylan was joined by Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández (D-Puerto Rico), Congresswoman Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen (R-American Samoa), Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett (D-U.S. Virgin Islands), and Congresswoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R-CNMI). Together, the members requested a meeting with representatives from the White House, Department of the Treasury, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and U.S. Postal Service to discuss recent duty collection requirements affecting mail originating from the territories and work toward a resolution for their constituents. The Caucus raised concerns over the elimination of the $800 de minimis exemption and the resulting changes to customs processing requirements. While the suspension of duty-free de minimis treatment was intended to address broader trade concerns, the members said its application is now affecting individuals and businesses in U.S. territories outside of the U.S. customs territory. “This is affecting people across the territories, not just Guam,” said Congressman Moylan. “That is why we are raising this issue together. Our residents and businesses already deal with higher shipping costs and fewer options. We should be looking for ways to make things easier for them, not adding another hurdle. We want to sit down with the Administration, work through these concerns, and find a solution that recognizes the realities our communities face.” The members noted that Guam, the CNMI, American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands already face unique logistical and economic challenges, including higher shipping costs, geographic isolation, and limited transportation options. They expressed concern that federal trade and customs policies can place an added burden on territorial residents and businesses when those circumstances are not taken into account. Through the requested meeting, the Caucus is seeking to better understand how the new requirements are being implemented, identify possible administrative solutions, and discuss a path toward restoring de minimis treatment for the territories. Moylan is also backing a legislative solution. Last November, Congresswoman King-Hinds introduced H.R. 5960, the Territorial De Minimis Exemption Act, alongside Moylan, Congresswoman Radewagen, and Congresswoman Plaskett. The legislation would permanently provide a de minimis exemption for U.S. territories outside of the U.S. customs territory. ###

(Hagåtña, Guam) — Congressman Moylan joined Congresswoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R-CNMI) in introducing the Marianas Tourism Advancement Act of 2026, legislation that would add the Philippines to the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program. Under the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program, eligible foreign nationals may travel to Guam and the CNMI for business or tourism for up to 45 days without obtaining a traditional U.S. visa. The program does not authorize onward travel to other parts of the United States. The Marianas Tourism Advancement Act would expand eligibility to include the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, India, and Mongolia while maintaining federal security and admissibility requirements. For Guam, the proposal would provide greater access to several major visitor markets in the region while creating opportunities to strengthen air service, support local businesses, and diversify an island economy that continues to depend heavily on tourism. “Expanding the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program is about creating new opportunities for Guam’s economy and strengthening our connections throughout the Pacific. The Philippines, in particular, shares deep family, cultural, and economic ties with our island, and making travel easier has the potential to bring more visitors, support our businesses, and strengthen regional air service. I’m proud to join Congresswoman King-Hinds as an original cosponsor of this legislation and to continue moving this effort forward responsibly while maintaining the safeguards necessary to protect our borders and national security,” said Congressman Moylan. The measure would also change the process for suspending a country from the program. Before most suspensions could take effect, the Department of Homeland Security would be required to make a written determination based on specific concerns, consult with federal officials and the Governors of Guam and the CNMI, consider alternative safeguards, and assess the potential economic and fiscal effects on the islands. The bill preserves DHS authority to act immediately in the event of an imminent and substantial threat to national security or public safety. “The Philippines has a special relationship with the Marianas, and there is tremendous opportunity to strengthen that relationship through greater travel and tourism,” said Congresswoman King-Hinds. “Including the Philippines in the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program would make it easier for families to stay connected, create new opportunities for our tourism industry, support air service, and deepen the ties between our islands. Tourism is the lifeblood of our islands, and rebuilding it requires us to look throughout the region for opportunities to reconnect the Marianas with our neighbors. This legislation gives us additional tools to grow our visitor economy while maintaining the safeguards necessary to protect our islands and our nation.” The legislation builds on the work of the Guam-CNMI-Philippines Working Group, an effort that has brought together officials and stakeholders from Guam, the CNMI, the Philippines, and the federal government to advance the case for including the Philippines in the Visa Waiver Program. Guam Senate Majority Leader Jesse Lujan has helped lead the Working Group’s efforts, including discussions surrounding tourism, regional air service, traveler vetting, data sharing, and security safeguards. “This legislation shows what can happen when Guam, the CNMI, the Philippines, and our federal partners work together toward a common goal. I thank Congresswoman King-Hinds for carrying this effort forward in Congress. Adding the Philippines to the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program would strengthen tourism, deepen regional ties, and create new economic opportunities for our island,” said Senator Lujan. Moylan emphasized that the legislation reflects a broader regional effort built through collaboration among federal, territorial, and industry partners. “I commend Delegate King-Hinds for her leadership in spearheading this bill in the House,” Moylan added. “This is a truly regional effort. Alongside local leadership like Guam Senate Majority Leader Jesse Lujan and our industry partners at the Guam Visitors Bureau, we are presenting a united Marianas front to Washington. I look forward to working closely with Rep. King-Hinds and leadership in the Department of Homeland Security to advance this vital measure through Congress.” ###

(Hagåtña, Guam) — Congressman James Moylan congratulated the Western Pacific Maritime Academy following its designation by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) as a 2026 Center of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education. Western Pacific Maritime Academy, with training locations in Barrigada Guam, and Saipan, is one of just 16 institutions newly selected nationwide for the federal designation. The Centers of Excellence program recognizes qualified institutions that have demonstrated success in training, graduating, and placing students into the maritime workforce. Designated centers support the nation’s maritime industry by preparing skilled workers for careers both afloat and ashore. “Congratulations to Western Pacific Maritime Academy on earning this well-deserved federal recognition,” said Congressman Moylan.“Guam’s strategic importance comes with an opportunity to create lasting economic benefits for our people. That means building the skilled workforce needed to support our growing maritime industry and giving our people pathways to good careers here at home. Through the FY2026 NDAA, we secured a review of Guam’s ship repair capabilities, including opportunities to expand Navy maintenance activity, strengthen our maritime workforce, and support local businesses. Western Pacific Maritime Academy’s designation as a Center of Excellence builds on that effort and strengthens Guam’s ability to prepare our own people for the maritime opportunities ahead.” The designation places Western Pacific Maritime Academy among a national network of institutions supporting U.S. maritime workforce development, supply chain capacity, and national defense priorities. The designation is valid for five years. “As Guam continues to see significant federal investment and increased maritime activity, we need to ensure our people are prepared to take advantage of the jobs and opportunities that come with it,” Congressman Moylan continued. “Having a federally recognized Center of Excellence right here on Guam strengthens our ability to train that workforce at home and positions our island to play an even greater role in America’s maritime future. I will continue fighting to expand workforce opportunities on Guam and ensure our people are positioned to benefit from this unprecedented growth.” With the 16 institutions newly designated for 2026, MARAD now recognizes 48 Centers of Excellence across 87 training locations in 28 states and U.S. territories. MARAD estimates the new designations will increase annual training capacity by approximately 20,000, bringing total capacity to roughly 58,000 mariners, apprentices, and students each year. *Attached is the relevant language on Guam ship repair capabilities and maritime workforce development included in the Joint Explanatory Statement (JES) released alongside the FY2026 NDAA. ###

(Hagåtña, Guam) — Congressman James Moylan pressed Guam’s priorities directly with U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin during the Secretary’s stopover on Guam Thursday, focusing on expanding the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program to include the Philippines and strengthening Coast Guard capabilities in the region. Moylan emphasized the economic opportunity that increased travel from the Philippines could bring to Guam while maintaining the screening, information-sharing, and security safeguards necessary to protect the island and the nation. “Including the Philippines in the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program remains a top priority of mine,” Moylan said.“This is an opportunity to strengthen our tourism economy and deepen our ties with the Philippines while ensuring the proper safeguards remain in place.” Moylan also recognized Guam Senate Majority Leader Jesse Lujan for his advocacy on the local and regional front and CNMI Delegate Kimberlyn King-Hinds for her work to advance the effort federally, including developing legislation aimed at adding the Philippines to the program. “I appreciate Senator Lujan’s leadership and Delegate King-Hinds’ work to move this forward,” Moylan said. “This is a shared priority for Guam and the CNMI, and I’m excited to work with Delegate King-Hinds when Congress returns to session to keep building on this effort.” The meeting was hosted by Capt. Jessica Worst, commander of U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam. Moylan also emphasized the need for additional Coast Guard personnel, aircraft, vessels, and resources in Guam to strengthen regional patrols, combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, support humanitarian response, and strengthen the Coast Guard’s presence throughout the region. “Guam is on the front lines of America’s engagement in the Indo-Pacific,” Moylan said. “Strengthening the Coast Guard’s presence here gives us greater capacity to protect our waters, combat illegal fishing, respond to emergencies, and strengthen America’s partnerships throughout the region.” “I appreciate Secretary Mullin taking the time to hear directly about Guam’s priorities,” Moylan added. “We have important work ahead, and I’ll continue working with our federal and regional partners to deliver results for Guam.”

(Hagåtña, Guam) — Congressman James Moylan announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is awarding more than $16 million in federal funding for disaster resilience and hazard mitigation projects at Guam Memorial Hospital Authority (GMHA) and the University of Guam (UOG). The funding is being awarded through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program following Typhoon Mawar, with the majority supporting a new secondary power source at GMH and additional funding supporting three mitigation and planning initiatives at UOG. GMHA will receive $16,154,009.73 toward the installation of a secondary power source, along with $94,354.51 for eligible project management costs. The project will help protect the hospital from power disruptions and provide stable, uninterrupted emergency power during extended utility outages. “Keeping Guam Memorial Hospital operational during and after a disaster is not optional, it is essential to protecting our people,” said Congressman Moylan.“The recent storms we’ve weathered have shown us how important it is to strengthen Guam’s critical infrastructure. This more than $16 million federal investment will help provide GMH with a reliable secondary power source, strengthen the hospital’s emergency preparedness, and ensure it can continue providing critical care when our community needs it most.” FEMA is also providing approximately $401,000 in federal funding to the University of Guam for three hazard mitigation initiatives: $154,441.85 for the University of Guam Extreme Weather Resilience Plan; $154,440.85 for mitigation planning for the Pago Bay Watershed; and $92,361.52 for advance assistance, education, and outreach related to the use of recycled concrete for flood mitigation. Moylan also recognized the local and federal partners whose work helped advance the projects. “I want to thank the leadership and staff at GMH and the University of Guam for their hard work in moving these important projects forward. Their efforts, together with our federal partners at FEMA, are helping strengthen our island’s preparedness and ensure these investments make a real difference for our community,” said Moylan. The awards stem from the federal disaster declaration issued following Typhoon Mawar on May 25, 2023, and are authorized under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. FEMA will obligate the funding directly to the Government of Guam, which is responsible for ensuring the eligible subrecipients receive their respective awards. ###

(Hagåtña, Guam) — Congressman James Moylan announced the introduction of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act of 2026(RECRA), bipartisan legislation that builds upon his efforts since his first year in Congress to ensure Guam and other communities harmed by the nation's nuclear testing receive the compensation and recognition they deserve. Congressman Moylan has long been an advocate for expanding RECA. Since first co-leading legislation to include Guam and other impacted communities, he has advanced bipartisan efforts through standalone legislation, the National Defense Authorization Act, and other legislative vehicles. This latest proposal seeks to address the remaining gaps left after Congress partially expanded RECA in 2025. The legislation would expand eligibility to additional impacted communities, including Guam, extends the filing deadline by fifteen years, increases compensation, authorizes reimbursement of medical expenses, broadens the list of eligible diseases, streamlines the claims process through the use of affidavits where records are unavailable, and establishes a process for adding future classes of eligible individuals without requiring additional acts of Congress. The bill also recognizes the unique challenges faced by many rural, Tribal, Native, and territorial communities, expands eligibility for atomic cleanup veterans, and directs a comprehensive study into the long-term and multi-generational health effects of radiation exposure. "This legislation brings together a strong bipartisan coalition of Members of Congress, survivors, advocates, and communities who have refused to give up this fight,” said Congressman Moylan. “Together, our voices are stronger, and together, we will keep fighting until every American harmed by radiation exposure receives the justice they have been denied. I’m not backing down until we get this across the finish line for the people of Guam who were impacted and all those still left behind.” Moylan’s measure is backed by a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers including co-lead Representatives Wesley Bell (D-MO), Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM), and Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), while additional members have signed on as cosponsors in support of their communities affected by radiation exposure "Long before I got to Congress, I heard from St. Louisans who endured decades of health crises, economic struggles, and neglect after radioactive contamination from the Manhattan Project upended their lives. Families from across my district have suffered from terrible cancers, thyroid issues, and even death because of the improper storage of this deadly waste,” said Congressman Wesley Bell (D-Missouri). "While no legislation can truly rectify that harm, this expansion of compensable diseases and increase in RECA benefits from $50,000 to $150,000, in addition to covering medical expenses, is a huge step in the right direction. Nothing can fully right this wrong, but this effort tips the scales toward justice — for everyone from St. Louis to Guam.” "For generations, New Mexico's downwinders and uranium workers have carried the cost of our nation's nuclear legacy in their bodies, their families, and their communities,”said Rep. Leger Fernández (D-New Mexico). “Last year, after years of bipartisan work and relentless advocacy from survivors, advocates, and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, we finally expanded RECA. That was a historic victory, but our work is not finished. This legislation recognizes a simple truth: more people were harmed than our laws have acknowledged. It expands access to compensation, extends the deadline so families have the time they need to come forward, and provides medical benefits because surviving radiation exposure should not mean facing the cost of care alone. It also recognizes the reality that many records have been lost to time by allowing affidavits to help prove work history and physical presence. New Mexicans deserve justice." “For too long, Coloradans have been impacted by radiation from U.S. nuclear weapons production, testing, and uranium mining at Rocky Flats and Cotter Mill without the compensation they deserve. This bipartisan legislation could finally offer some relief for communities that have suffered without federal support despite decades of documented exposure,” said Rep. Brittany Pettersen (D-Colorado). “I'm going to continue to do all I can to push not only to extend RECA, but to expand it so that everyone who has been affected by these radioactive sites in my district and across the country gets the care they deserve.” “For decades, Pacific communities have lived with unanswered questions about the long-term consequences of America’s nuclear weapons program,” said Congresswoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R-CNMI). “The Northern Mariana Islands deserves answers too. This issue was recently raised with me by members of our community who asked whether radioactive fallout from nuclear testing in the Pacific may have reached the Northern Mariana Islands and what that exposure could have meant for the health of our people. I want to give them credit for raising an important question that deserves to be examined. My responsibility as your Delegate is to listen when concerns are brought to me, look at the facts, and then determine what we can do about them. That is what we did here. We began examining the issue, brought the CNMI’s concerns to our federal partners, and now this legislation calls for research into radiation exposure and its potential impacts on the Northern Mariana Islands, while also expanding compensation and improving access to health resources for communities affected by America’s nuclear testing program. I am grateful to Congressman James Moylan for his partnership and for working with me to ensure the CNMI was included in this legislation. We should not presume what the science will tell us. But our people deserve to have the question asked, the history examined, and the research done. This is how representative government should work: our community raises a concern, we listen, and then we get to work finding answers.” “Communities in my district have lived with the devastating legacy of radioactive contamination for far too long,” said Rep. Nikki Budzinski (D-Illinois). “Since my first term in Congress, I’ve fought to ensure these families receive the compensation and support they deserve. They shouldn’t have to wait a second longer. This legislation is about righting that wrong by not only expanding access to compensation to the Metro East but also increasing the support available to those who were harmed. I am proud to lead this bill with Congressman Moylan to ensure impacted families and communities finally receive the relief and resources they deserve.” "Nevadans are still paying the price for decades of nuclear testing, with families across our state facing cancer, disease, and the loss of loved ones to radiation exposure," said Rep. Steven Horsford (D-Nevada). "For too long, these families have had to fight just to be recognized and receive the compensation they are owed. Expanding RECA eligibility means more Nevadans will finally have access to that support. We cannot give families back the years they lost or the loved ones taken from them, but we can make sure they are not forgotten. I will keep fighting until every Nevadan harmed by this testing gets the recognition and compensation they deserve." "For decades, communities across the West, especially in Nevada, have lived with the fallout from our nation's nuclear weapons program," said Rep. Congresswoman Dina Titus (D- Nevada). “Many were exposed to harmful radiation without even knowing it, and those who did know understood little about the long-term consequences. The Radiation Exposure Compensation Reauthorization Act ensures these Cold Warriors receive the benefits they need and deserve. Radiation doesn't stop at county or state lines, and we need to ensure that all affected people get justice." "I stand with the Tularosa Basin Downwinders Consortium and all those that refuse to let the world forget what happened at the Trinity Site in July 1945. It is past time the U.S. government took full responsibility for the harm it has wrought on our Downwinder and other impacted communities, and this bill marks a major step in the right direction toward the compensation and recognition they deserve," said Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-New Mexico). "By cutting red tape for claimants, extending the filing period by 15 years, covering additional diseases caused by radiation, and so much more, this bill will make a meaningful difference in the lives of Downwinder communities in New Mexico and beyond, and I am proud to support it." Moylan emphasized that the fight for justice continues. "This fight is far from over,” said Moylan. “I will continue working with survivors, advocates, and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to build support for this legislation until our people receive the recognition, justice, and compensation they deserve. I will not stop until Guam and every other excluded jurisdiction is heard and included."

(Hagåtña, Guam) — Congressman James Moylan welcomed members of the U.S. House Committee on Education and Workforce to Guam for a congressional delegation (CODEL) visit focused on strengthening education, expanding workforce opportunities, and ensuring Guam's priorities are represented in federal policymaking. The delegation included nine members of Congress: • Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI) • Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC) • Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT) • Rep. Michael Rulli (R-OH) • Rep. James Moylan (R-GU) • Rep. Bob Onder (R-MO) • Rep. Mark Harris (R-NC) • Rep. John Mannion (D-NY) • Rep. Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ) The visit included two stakeholder roundtable discussions that brought together leaders from Guam's education community, workforce agencies, labor organizations, the private sector, and local government. "I want to sincerely thank Chairman Tim Walberg and my colleagues on the House Committee on Education and Workforce for making the trip to Guam and taking the time to engage directly with our community," said Congressman Moylan. "Their presence here demonstrates a recognition of Guam's importance and a commitment to ensuring our island's perspectives are included in the conversations taking place in Washington. Too often, decisions that affect Guam are made thousands of miles away without the benefit of hearing directly from our local community, and while I make it a point to bring Guam’s story to Washington in every conversation, there is no substitute for seeing our island firsthand and hearing directly from our people.” Chairman Tim Walberg expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to visit Guam and emphasized the importance of ensuring that federal policies account for the island's unique needs as a U.S. territory. "We’re delighted to be here on Guam, in the home and District of Representative Moylan. Representative Moylan never lets us forget the various aspects of the specific needs here in Guam," said Chairman Walberg. "What you've made very clear is that Guam is a unique entity because you're an island, you're a territory, you're unto yourself in many ways, but you're also part of the United States, and there ought to be some flexibility in that, so we'll keep working at that." During the education roundtable, participants discussed classroom infrastructure, teacher recruitment and retention, student achievement, and opportunities to strengthen collaboration between local educational institutions and the federal government. Participants stressed the importance of maintaining a strong partnership with the federal government while ensuring Guam has the flexibility to tailor programs and funding to meet local needs. Chairman Walberg echoed that perspective and requested additional information identifying areas where Guam could benefit from increased flexibility in federal education funding and how those resources could be better aligned to support the island's priorities. Following discussions surrounding Guam's aging school facilities, Rep. Adelita Grijalva requested additional information regarding the island's infrastructure needs, including estimated funding requirements and proposals aimed at creating a more unified educational system. The workforce roundtable focused on preparing Guam's workforce to meet the demands of a changing economy while creating opportunities that extend beyond defense-related industries. Participants emphasized the importance of investing not only in projects, but also in the people behind them through workforce training, apprenticeship programs, career and technical education, and policies that create long-term economic opportunities for local residents. Stakeholders also emphasized that addressing Guam's workforce challenges will require sustained federal partnerships and policies that reflect the realities of a small island economy. Discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening apprenticeship and workforce training programs, expanding opportunities across emerging industries, supporting key federal initiatives such as the H-2B program and the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program, and identifying policies that will help build a stronger, more resilient, and self-sufficient economy. "This visit reaffirmed what we've always known: Guam's challenges are unique, but so are our opportunities," said Moylan. "I thank Chairman Walberg and my fellow colleagues for valuing Guam’s voice and recognizing that the best policies are developed by listening directly to the people they affect. By bringing members of Congress to our island, we've created an opportunity for meaningful dialogue that will help shape the policies impacting our students, our workforce, and our economy. I look forward to turning those conversations into meaningful action and strengthening the partnerships that will help move Guam forward." ###

(Hagåtña, Guam) — Congressman James Moylan joined Governor Lou Leon Guerrero, Lt. Governor Joshua Tenorio, and the Port Authority of Guam to celebrate nearly $60 million in federal funding to replace the Port of Guam’s three aging gantry cranes. The funding comes through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Port Infrastructure Development Program and will allow the port to purchase three new Ship-to-Shore cranes. The current cranes were built in the 1980s and purchased secondhand in 2009. “Our island depends on the Port Authority of Guam,” Congressman Moylan said. “This investment is critical for Guam’s future, and we will continue fighting for the modernization of our port.” Congressman Moylan also sent a letter to U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy supporting the project, noting the port handles more than 90% of Guam’s imports and plays a major role in military and regional operations in the Indo-Pacific. Governor Leon Guerrero called the award “a long time coming” and praised the partnership between local and federal leaders that helped secure the funding. The announcement comes shortly after Typhoon Sinlaku impacted Guam and highlighted the importance of reliable port infrastructure. Two of the port’s three cranes were affected during the storm. Port officials say the procurement process is already underway, with bids expected to open within weeks. “This is a historic moment for Guam,” said PAG General Manager Rory Respicio. “We’ve been preparing for this for years, and we’re ready to move forward.” The Port Authority of Guam has also applied for an additional $32 million federal grant to upgrade the crane rail system as part of a broader modernization effort. “This is a major investment in Guam’s future,” Congressman Moylan added. “It strengthens our economy, our supply chain, and Guam’s role in the region for generations to come.” Please find attached, Congressman Moylan's letter of support to U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy in support of PAG's PIDP grant application.

It was great to meet and speak with @SecRubio at a recent @HouseForeignGOP hearing. Sec. Rubio committed to establishing a regional passport office in Guam. I look forward to working more with him as we deliver for the country and Guam! https://t.co/bYwb5qtxU4

I am proud to co-lead this bill which will ensure our guardsmen, veterans, and service members are treated with dignity and respect. https://t.co/9DRlXDAqUE

Need help with a federal agency? Contact our district office today at (671)922-7673. https://t.co/Gxg5tG10K6

Happy Mothers’s Day to the incredible women who contribute so much to our families, communities, and society! https://t.co/auDaKSH03Q

Today is a wonderful day as we celebrate the election of Pope Leo XIV—the first American pope. I pray for his success, guidance, and wisdom as he assumes this immense role. May God bless him and may God bless America!

Happy National Teachers Week! Educators play a significant role in shaping our island and the minds of our future generations. Thank you to all teachers for your dedication and commitment. https://t.co/4Tak8zpR6U

It’s been a busy month working to improve our island! https://t.co/epcKhqnt9e

It is important that we work to enhance US foreign policy in the Indo-Pacific, and that includes supporting economic activity in Guam. https://t.co/GMrNjaRJko

Our office has worked hard to announce new investments into our national defense capabilities in Guam. These investments made will not only strengthen our capabilities but also reaffirm our commitment to the security of our allies in the Indo-Pacific. https://t.co/Kjdqkq1ZG8

Today, the committee on Education and Workforce passed reform to federal higher education programs, which will result in over $330 billion in taxpayer savings within 10 years. These reforms to federal student aid programs will boost student success while safeguarding taxpayer funds.

Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and our office is working hard to reinstate Guam’s SBA office. https://t.co/jy0HJARJfs