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Serious questions force House to recall three bills
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Posted on Nov 08 2000
The lower house yesterday reconsidered its actions on three bills, including the Toxic Substances Exposure Compensation Act and an amendment to the Youth Congress Act, after Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio tossed them back due to serious questions on their provisions.
Representatives will await similar action from the Senate before they draft new proposals that will address concerns raised by the governor and other administration officials.
The recall by lawmakers will avoid veto by Mr. Tenorio. House Floor Leader Oscar M. Babauta expressed gratitude that the governor made such a gesture in ensuring smooth relations between the two branches of the government.
HB 12-177, or the “Toxic Substances Exposure Compensation Act” offered by Rep. Dino M. Jones, drew concerns largely because of the failure by the proposal to put a cap on the amount of liability that can be sought by complainant.
According to Mr. Babauta, it is necessary that the legislation considers provisions of the “Torque Liability Act” to be consistent with the amount.
The measure was intended to provide island residents the means to seek compensation for injuries and loss as a result of exposure to toxic substances.
It would establish the legal framework if and when such situation occurs, while providing a public policy of the CNMI to grant rights to the victims for compensation and other relief.
The legislation was also an offshoot to the planned lawsuit against federal agencies and manufacturers of the polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) which has contaminated the coastal village of Tanapag over the last three decades.
On the other hand, the amendment to the Youth Congress Act was questioned by the youth senators since it would propose that the age requirement be lowered from 14 to 13 years old.
Likewise, the incumbent members of the Youth Congress have expressed objection to a provision extending their one-year term to two years, noting such change is too long for them.
The third bill, meanwhile, is an appropriation act which lawmakers must review again to determine availability of funds. (BS)
