url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://sablan.house.gov/kilili-eyes-education-subcommittee-chairmanship,Kilili eyes education subcommittee chairmanship,2018-12-28,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Marianas Variety- U.S. Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan wants to chair the U.S. House Committee on Education and the Workforce- Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education. A senior member of the full committee and the current ranking member of its Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor and Pensions, Kilili caucuses with the U.S. Democrats who have won control of the incoming 116th U.S. House of representatives. In a press conference at his Saipan office on Thursday, Kilili, who won a sixth term in November, said he will be in a position that will make him very effective for the people of the CNMI. Kilili is interested in chairing the early childhood, elementary and secondary education subcommittee which, he added, has a broad oversight on many issues involving elementary and secondary education, Head Start, career and technical training, among others. Since he was elected as the CNMI's first delegate to the U.S. Congress in 2008, Kilili said he has successfully obtained federal funding for the Public School System. This, he added, includes $5.3 million through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, which will benefit all individuals in the CNMI, 3 to 21 years, with disabilities, as well as the islands' early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities, and their families. In the Every Student Succeeds Act, Kilili said he came up with a formula change for insular areas that increased Title I-A funding for elementary and high schools in the CNMI by more than $4 million for a total of $11 million, with further increases through 2020. My focus has been to get myself ready for what will come in the 116th Congress, he said. I would like to get more money for our schools, our teachers, our students maybe money to build new schools, money to pay teachers higher salaries. Education is my top priority. Kilili said he will also continue to work hard on disaster recovery. Recently, he said he was able to include the CNMI in a disaster supplemental bill, H.R. 695, which would provide the Commonwealth $100 million if it becomes law. Kilili said he is thankful to incoming Speaker Nancy Pelosi, incoming Appropriations Committee Chair Nita Lowey, current Appropriations Committee Chair Rodney Frelinghuysen and incoming House Subcommittee on Nutrition Chairman Sanford Bishop for their assistance in the disaster supplemental appropriations bill. Kilili said there is also plan to turn the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resource-Subcommittee on Indian, Insular and Alaska Native Affairs into a separate full committee. If that happens, he said he will seek its vice chairmanship. When you are in the minority it is so hard to explain or lay out your vision because you don't control the gavel. Now that we are in the majority and now that I'm going to be taking over leadership positions, it gives me a chance to influence legislation, to work on bills that benefit us, he added. Asked for comment, Education Commissioner Glenn Muna said it would be great news for the CNMI if Kilili becomes chairman of the education subcommittee. Our office has always worked with our congressional delegate, he added. We want to make sure that we continue that partnership so we can continue to see how else the federal government can help our school district and provide services to our students. Muna said one of the things he brought up during his recent meeting with Kilili was the need for federal assistance to build a new middle or high school.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/week-congress-2018-year-review,THIS WEEK IN CONGRESS - 2018: The Year in Review,2018-12-27,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"2018: The Year in Review January Sablan, Murkowski intro CW bill Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) and I introduced theNorthern Mariana Islands U.S. Workforce Act.The bill gives the Marianas access to foreign labor for another 10 years and allows for 13,000 CW workers. The bill also creates a new category to give long-time foreign workers more certainty. (See box above for more details.) I have been working with Senator Murkowski, who chairs the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, since July 2017 on this long-term solution. She formed a working group to draft the new policy with myself and key Republicans and Democrats from the Senate and the House to help ensure the success of the legislation. I am very grateful to the Chairman and all the members of the working group. We put in many hours of discussion to reach today's agreement. There will be more fine-tuning in the days ahead, but we now have a solid foundation for a long-term labor policy for the Northern Marianas.See our news release for a more complete discussion of the bill. February Confronting the opioid crisis.As Ranking Member of HELP the Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions Subcommittee I opened our joint hearing with the Workforce Protection Subcommittee this week on the nationwide opioid epidemic. Billions are lost and the human toll is incalculable from the injuries, absenteeism, and lost productivity stemming from opioid abuse. We need safer workplaces, stronger consumer protections in health law, and greater access to treatment through Medicaid and other forms of health insurance to combat this problem. March Students lead to stop gun violence.Along with Washington, D.C.-area students, I walked out on National Walkout Day. Sensible gun control policy is what these young adults seek. And I could not agree more. With at least 65 school shootings in the United States since the 2013 slaughter at Sandy Hook Elementary, we have to act. Students like thesesmart, articulate, politically engagedshould give us all hope both for our country's future and its present. Their fearlessness can lead us all to take action on gun control. $1.3 trillion spending bill passes Congress enacted a $1.3 trillion omnibus appropriations law that funded the federal government through September 30, 2018. We kept funding steady or even increased for many federal programs President Trump wanted to cut back or eliminate. Many are important to the Marianas and on my priorities list submitted to the Appropriations Committee, including the preserved 1.5 percent set-aside in water and sewer grants for the Marianas and other insular areas that we began in 2010, and adds another $600 million for the programs nationwide. See the text of the 2,232 page bill and explanatory reports and documents here. CODEL Murkowski.Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) led a congressional delegation, including Congresswoman Amata Aumua Coleman Radewagen (R-American Samoa) and myself, through the Pacific. Here, at Fiesta Resort, we gathered some of the island's female leaders to meet Rep. Radewagen and Sen. Murkowski and celebrate Women's Month in the Marianas. That time spent building consensus has made it possible to keep the bill moving quickly forward since we introduced it in January. April Veterans Resource Fair a success. More than 300 veterans, service members, military family members, providers, and members of the public turned out for the 2018 Northern Marianas Veterans Resource Fairs, held on Rota, Tinian, and Saipan nearly double last year's turnout. Improving access to services for Marianas veterans and their families is one of my top priorities as a member of House Veterans Affairs Committee. And better access begins with raising awareness about the services that exist. Thanks to all who made this year's resource fairs such a success. For those who couldn't make it, theNMI Veterans Resource Directoryis available online. App Challenge winners impress in DC.Daniel Villarmero and Chenoa Bunts-Anderson, Marianas winners of the Congressional App Challenge, showcased their work at the#HouseOfCodeDemo Day in Washington. Above, Rep. Steny Hoyer, the second highest ranking Democrat in the House, gets a rundown from Chenoa on the app,the Student Companion. Congratulations, Daniel and Chenoa! May New funds bring iPads to PSS. PSS is putting 3,000 new iPads in students' hands this year thanks to a funding formula I added to the Elementary Student Suceeds Act,U.S. Public Law 114-95, in 2015 bringing in $4.1 million this year. Dandan Elementary Tottots (above) showed off their new iPads when I came to visit. Kagman High School students are using iPads and robots to learn about coding, math, and problem-solving. Renovated troop store. The newly-renovated Saipan Army Reserve Center was unveiled and dedicated to the memory of Army SSG Wilgene Lieto and SPC Derence Jack of the 100th Battalion, 442nd Infantry. The two soldiers gave their lives during service in Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2005. The $8 million project includes solar panels and a solar heater, water efficient fixtures, an expanded gym, a motor room, improved storage facilities, and central air conditioning. At the same time the Army and Air Force Exchange Service troop store had its grand opening. A study I included in the2011 National Defense Authorization Actdetermined the project to be viable and led to the 5,000-foot expansion of the store at a cost of $2.8 million. The facility serves 4,000 active and reserve service members, retirees, and their families. June Veterans Clinic Signed Into Law Marianas veterans, who are not registered for VA health benefits, need to do so now. On Wednesday, President Trump signed theVA MISSION Act, which requires a feasibility study for a veterans' health clinic in the Marianas. I putSection 213into the legislation to advance the goal of getting our own Community-Based Outpatient Clinic. We are the only Pacific jurisdiction without a C-BOC. But, for the study to prove a need, we need every veteran to be counted. The more vets we have signed up with the VA, the more likely the study will justify the cost of building a clinic and hiring full-time VA medical staff to provide services. The VA now has 180 days to complete the study. Once doneand assuming we get the result we wantthen funding will be at the top of my to-do list, when the next Congress begins in January 2019. Getting a favorable feasibility study is the same strategy we used successfully to expand the AAFES troop store on Saipan. U.S. Workforce Act passes Congress. It's done! The U.S. Senate passed theNorthern Mariana Islands U.S. Workforce Actat 7:35 p.m. on June 28. Now the Act goes to the President for signature into law. It was a photo finish in the Senate. Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's office e-mailed at 7 p.m. it won't clear tonight. But we scrambled to identify which senator had a problem and resolved it in time to get unanimous consent for passage 35 minutes later. President Trump signed the bill into law on July 24. July CODIFY CNMI is up and running. Last year, Codify CNMI organizers Blane Wilson and Darren Demapan, both Stanford University graduates and passionate advocates for STEM education, asked me to introduce them to the CNMI Public School System's leadership to collaborate on a summer program to teach coding to middle and high school students. I put them in touch and got to see the results: a workshop in full swing at Dandan Middle School, with over a dozen students learning how to code. They are under the tutelage of Jailene Miranda-Enriquez, a computer science and education student at Stanford.Amazing work, students!. Thanks to Stanford, PSS, and Codify CNMI for making this wonderful opportunity available. August NDAA is law, $51m to Tinian divert President Trump signed theJohn S. McCain National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2019authorizing $50.7 million forAir Force divert airfield projects on Tinian. $46 million will go towards construction of a cargo pad with taxiway extension and $4.7 million for a maintenance support facility north of the Tinian airport.Section 2863bars any expenditure by the Defense Department for public infrastructure in the Marianas until an Economic Adjustment Committee reports to Congress on what civilian projects are needed to support proposed military activities. The report is due in May 2019. Only then would Congress decide whether to fund civilian infrastructure on Tinian or elsewhere. In all, the 2019 NDAA authorizes $717 billion for defense spending for fiscal 2019. It raises military pay by 2.6 percent and increases troop levels across the Armed Forces by about 16,000. September Making sure Rota is cared for.The people of Rota bore the brunt of Typhoon Mangkhut, so I was there the next day visiting families and making sure that federal agencies are doing everything to help Rota and the Commonwealth government respond. My job is to make sure that federal agencies are fully and quickly responsive to the needs of the families affected and are working well with the Commonwealth government and private organizations, like the Red Cross. October More CIP for water possible The Marianas could see twice as much funding for water projects thanks to theAmerica's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018, signed into law by President Trump. The new law doubles the authorization for the Safe Drinking Water Act from the current $1 billion to $1.95 billion in 2021. This money is why CUC can now report all households on Saipan have 24-hour water. When I came into office, the Marianas only received $286,000 from the Safe Drinking Water Act. But in 2010I began increasing the insular area set-aside from 0.33 to 1.5 percent. The result, an average of $3.5 million annually or $34 million in total. A similar change in the set-aside formula for the Clean Water Act has meant another $37 million. The two programs work together. One brings water into the home. The other helps make sure that disposal is environmentally sound. The new law also cancels a proposed deauthorization of$20 million for Saipan water infrastructure, from the 2007 Water Resources Act. The Army Corps sought the deauthorization for this and hundreds of other projects nationwide, but Congress pushed back. Keeping the $20 million authorization means we can keep working for that funding in the next Congress. We need the money: theEnvironmental Protection Agency estimates $198.4 million is needed in the Marianasto provide potable water to all households and protect our environment. November Hearing probes disaster response. As a guest of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, I questioned FEMA Administrator Brock Long on his agency's delivery of services in the Marianas after Typhoon Mangkhut and Super Typhoon Yutu. The hearing was focused on recurring problems with disaster response nationwide, many of which we have seen in the Marianas. Watch a clip of my exchange with Mr. Long byclicking here. December $100M+ for Marianas recovery There is at least $100 million for the Marianas inlegislation passed by the Houseon Thursday nightthe first time ever for our islands to be included in special disaster relief above and beyond what FEMA provides. The bill's fate in the Senate is undecided, as we go to press, because it includes a controversial $5 billion President Trump has demanded for a border wall. Incoming Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi gave meher pledge of supportfor Marianas recovery a few days after Yutu struck, as did the incoming Chairman of the Appropriations Committee Nita Lowey, whenshe called on November 10. Since then, I have worked with appropriators on both sides of the aisle to ensure that any help for U.S. areas hit by natural disasters this year includes the Marianas. Mourning President Bush. Former President George H.W. Bush lay in state in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol the week of his funeral. With other Members of Congress and thousands of the public, I paid my respects there to our 41st President, who is remembered as an unassuming man of the highest integrity and deepest patriotism. As Vice President, Bush visited Saipan in 1985, making him the highest-ranking U.S. government official ever to set foot in the Northern Marianas. He was laid to rest at the George Bush Presidential Library at Texas A&M University.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/100m-marianas-recovery,$100M+ for Marianas recovery,2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"$100M+ for Marianas recovery Dec 23, 2018 There is at least $100 million for the Marianas inlegislation passed by the House on Thursday nightthe first time ever for our islands to be included in special disaster relief above and beyond what FEMA provides. The bill's fate in the Senate is undecided, as we go to press, because it includes a controversial $5 billion President Trump has demanded for a border wall. Incoming Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi gave meher pledge of supportfor Marianas recovery a few days after Yutu struck, as did the incoming Chairman of the Appropriations Committee Nita Lowey, whenshe called on November 10. Since then, I have worked with appropriators on both sides of the aisle to ensure that any help for U.S. areas hit by natural disasters this year includes the Marianas. What's in the bill Much ofwhat I asked for in my formal request on November 26is in the bill: $1.1 billion for community development block grants is available to the Marianas as one of the areas most impacted by a disaster in 2018. The money can be used for long-term recovery efforts, restoration of infrastructure and housing, economic revitalization, or as a local match for other federal grants. $56 million for solid waste for the Marianas, enough for new sanitary landfills on Rota and Tinian and to open a new cell at the existing Marpi landfill on Saipan. A $20 million territorial set-aside for highway repairs. $2 million to the Marianas for additional technical assistance from the Office of Insular Affairs. $8.5 million for the Marianas Nutrition Assistance Program, or food stamps. $300 million for grants from the Economic Development Administration for relief, recovery, and restoration from typhoons Mangkhut and Yutu, hurricanes Florence, Michael, and Lane, and other natural disasters. Other funding I requested and the bill makes the Marianas eligible for includes: School and college restart: $50 million Public transportation: $10.5 million Head Start: $25 million Community health centers: $7.5 million National Parks: $128 million Watershed and flood protection: $125 million Crop loss and reforestation: $1.3 billion Legal Services Corporation: $5 million for local branches, like Micronesian Legal Services, that aided typhoon survivors. What comes next? Whether this bill is enacted now or dies because of the controversial wall funding, there will certainly be disaster assistance taken up in the new Congress. And what the House approved on Thursday will be the basis for any future legislation. The task now is to increase fundingparticularly for food stampsand make even more programs available to us. We already have a very good start. My thanks to Appropriations Chairman Rodney Frelinghuysen, Ranking Member Nita Lowey, and all the Members who are helping me with typhoon recovery.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/116th-congress-open-house,116th Congress Open House,2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Office 2411 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-2646, Toll Free: 1-877-446-3465 Fax: (202) 226-4249 Hours: M-F 9AM-6PM EST",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/179-million-yutu-recovery,$17.9 million for Yutu recovery,2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"$17.9 million for Yutu recovery Dec 23, 2018 The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced Public Assistance Grants for the Northern Marianas for Super Typhoon Yutu recovery.A total of $6,929,271 was awarded for temporary classrooms and $13,447,432 for power restoration. FEMA obligates funding for these projects directly to the Commonwealth, which is then responsible for reimbursing agencies for costs associated with those activities. To date, FEMA has approved more than $7.8 million under the Individual and Households Program and more than $20.5 million for Public Assistance projects. The funds are authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/disaster-tax-relief-passes-house,Disaster tax relief passes House,2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Disaster tax relief passes House Dec 23, 2018 The House passed a year-end tax package with tax relief for the Marianas and other communities hit by natural disasters this year. Under the bill, qualified disaster relief distributions will be exempt from the 10-percent penalty levied on retirement money withdrawn before age 59 and a half. The bill also allows homebuyers to re-contribute retirement plan withdrawals for home purchases that were cancelled due to eligible disasters, and provides flexibility for loans from retirement plans for qualified hurricane relief. To help disaster-affected employers retain employees, the bill provides a tax credit for 40 percent of wages (up to $6,000 per employee). There is also a temporary suspension of limitations on charitable contributions associated with qualified disaster relief made before December 31, 2018. And families that lost income in 2018 may use their 2017 income to determine their Child Tax Credit for this year. Any loss of revenue for the Commonwealth resulting from these tax changes will be covered by the U.S. Treasury. The bill must still pass the Senate and be signed by the President to be effective.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/farewell-mr-speaker,"Farewell, Mr. Speaker",2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Farewell, Mr. Speaker Dec 23, 2018 Retiring Speaker of the House Paul Ryan invited Members for a commemorative photo this week. The Wisconsin representative and once-vice presidential candidate is leaving after 20 years in Congress. We did not always agree, but thank you for your public service, Mr. Speaker.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/farm-bill-signed,Farm bill signed,2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Office 2411 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-2646, Toll Free: 1-877-446-3465 Fax: (202) 226-4249 Hours: M-F 9AM-6PM EST",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/keeping-tabs-va-mission-act,Keeping tabs on the VA Mission Act,2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Keeping tabs on the VA Mission Act Dec 23, 2018 Implementation of the VA MISSION Act, which authorizes the study needed for a Veterans Community-Based Outpatient Clinic in the Marianas, was the purpose of a joint hearing of the House and Senate Veterans Affairs Committees on Wednesday. I was there along with Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Rep. Beto O'Rourke (D-TX). Your congressional office has held veteran registration drives throughout the year to increase the numbers of Marianas vets and help justify having our own C-BOC.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/merry-christmas,Merry Christmas!,2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Office 2411 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-2646, Toll Free: 1-877-446-3465 Fax: (202) 226-4249 Hours: M-F 9AM-6PM EST",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/typhoon-yutu-relief-updates-1221,Typhoon Yutu relief updates (12/21),2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Typhoon Yutu relief updates (12/21) Dec 23, 2018 Water Saipan has 95 percent of its water restored. Tinian has all its water service restored. Power 63 percent of power has been restored on Saipan with Tinian still operating at 20 percent power restored. Transitional shelters There are about 40 families about 150 people still at the Kagman transitional shelter. Tents 1,593 tents have been installed on Saipan. 203 tents have been installed on Tinian. SBA Loans The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved a total of 737 loans to home and business owners totaling to over $46.8 million.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/we-must-address-climate-change,We must address climate change,2018-12-23,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"We must address climate change Dec 23, 2018 With two typhoons this year, the Marianas understands the impact of climate change. That is why I joined 100 of my colleagues this week urging President Trump to pay attention to his administration's ownNational Climate Assessment. The report is a comprehensive, science-based evaluation of the consequences of climate change, the risks of inaction, and strategies we can adopt. President Trump has dismissed the findings. I believe our nation should follow the scientific evidenceand what we have seen with our own eyesand, in collaboration with nations across the globe, act to address climate change.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/101m-water-sewer-projects,"$10.1M for water, sewer projects",2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"$10.1M for water, sewer projects Dec 17, 2018 The Commonwealth Utilities Corporation got $10.1 million for water and sewer infrastructure this week. The money is especially useful now as CUC works to restore water service after Super Typhoon Yutu. As of June, CUC was supplying 96 percent of Saipan with 24-hour water, a welcome change from my first year in Congress, when only 25 percent of households had water around the clock. I was able to change the funding formula for the Clean Water and Safe Drinking Water State Revolving Funds, so that beginning in 2010 the average grant to the Marianas went from $1 million per year to over $6 million. In fact, this year's total is $7.1 million, plus another $3 million in carryover that was re-obligated back to CUC. All together, that is an increase of $3.8 million over 2017 for Marianas water infrastructure and $73 million in total since the formula change went into effect. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which administers the water grant funds, also awarded $2.1 million to the CNMI Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality. Congratulations, CUC and BECQ!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/dhs-rule-threatens-child-nutrition,DHS rule threatens child nutrition,2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"DHS rule threatens child nutrition Dec 17, 2018 Non-U.S. citizen families should not have to choose between providing healthy food for their children and protecting their immigration status. That is why I joined 16 of my fellow Democrats in the House Committee on Education and the Workforcein a letter opposing the Department of Homeland Security's proposed changes to the definition of public charge.Thenew proposalwould allow DHS to deny status to immigrants based on their use of certain public benefits such as food stamps, Medicaid, or Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits. The rule threatens many children's access to needed benefits at home and at school. And the rule makes it tougher for schools to use the community eligibility provision, which streamlines the process for allowing all children in high-poverty schools and communities to receive free meals.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/holiday-greetings-our-troops,Holiday greetings to our troops,2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Holiday greetings to our troops Dec 17, 2018 Our brave service men and women overseas are always on my mind, especially during the holidays. This week, at the American Red Cross Holiday Mail for Heroes event I wrote cards for our troops stationed in Kuwait and Iraq. I thanked these heroes for their sacrifices and wished them a safe and joyous holiday season.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/interparliamentary-visitors,Interparliamentary visitors,2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Interparliamentary visitors Dec 17, 2018 Chairman Wu Yuliang and other members of the Supervisory and Judicial Affairs Committee of China's National People's Congress met with me on Thursday. During its visit to the United States, the group has been particularly interested in learning how our nation manages corrections facilities. We also discussed China's activities in the South China Sea, trade issues, and the importance of maintaining good relations between our two countries.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/marianas-micro-grants-farm-bill,Marianas micro-grants in farm bill,2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Marianas micro-grants in farm bill Dec 17, 2018 A proposal by Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) to provide micro-grants in Alaska, the Marianas, and other non-continental areas was included in the farm bill passed by the House and Senate this week. The grants are meant to increase local gardening and animal husbandry in areas that import much food. Grants can be up to $5,000 for an individual and $10,000 for a food bank, Head Start program, school, or similar entities. $250,000 will be available in the Marianas in 2019. TheAgricultural Improvement Act of 2018, which President Trump has yet to sign, also prohibits the slaughter of dogs and cats for human consumption and extends the national ban on animal fighting to include the U.S. territories. The representatives from Guam, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and I all opposed the animal fighting ban because of its effect on cockfighting. The provision had too much bipartisan support, however. Perhaps, if the Commonwealth Legislature had acted on Rep. Ed Propst's Animal Protection Act,H.B. 20-24, last year we could have used it to help defeat the ban. Now it is too late.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/noaa-marianas-coral-reefs-%E2%80%98fair%E2%80%99,NOAA: Marianas coral reefs fair,2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"NOAA: Marianas coral reefs fair' Dec 17, 2018 The coral reefs around our islands are in only fair condition and continue to be threatened by climate change, unsustainable fishing, pollution, and overuse, according to a newreport by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program assessment of the Northern Marianas Islands coral reefs covers the period 2012-2017. Coral reefs are critical to the people of the Marianas for cultural and economic reasons. They are a source of food for both subsistence and commercial use, provide opportunities for recreational tourism, and protect our islands from storms. The report highlights improvements made by 3 Conservation Action Plans focusing on stormwater management in Garapan, erosion and sedimentation at Laolao Bay, and reforestation on Rota. Individually, we can also all do more by fishing responsibly, keeping household chemicals out of the water, avoiding physical damage to reefs, and reducing our carbon footprint. Let's make sure our grandchildren can enjoy the coral reef.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/protecting-our-child-workers-harm,Protecting our child workers from harm,2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Protecting our child workers from harm Dec 17, 2018 The Trump administration wants to take away protections for teenagers working in hazardous industries, such as health care, a move I joined over 30 of my colleagues this week in opposing. The Fair Labor Standards Act prohibits 16 and 17-year-olds from certain jobs deemed dangerous by the evidence-based research of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. The Trump administration wants to ignore that evidence. Seeour letter to Labor Secretary Alex Acostadisagreeing with the proposal to alter child labor laws in a way that puts teenagers at risk.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/typhoon-yutu-relief-updates-1214,Typhoon Yutu relief updates (12/14),2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Typhoon Yutu relief updates (12/14) Dec 17, 2018 Power The Commonwealth Utilities Corporation estimates 63 percent of Saipan customers have grid power. On Tinian, about 20 percent of electricity has been restored. Water Saipan has 95 percent of its wells producing water. Tinian has all of its water service restored. Tents 1,344 emergency tents have been installed on Saipan. Friday, December 14 was the last day to submit right of entry forms. The TETRIS program has closed on Tinian, with 202 tents installed. Schools Classes have started for all public school students, including online courses for the PSS Distance Education Program. Northern Marianas College classes have resumed at Saipan Southern High School in Koblerville.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/welcoming-ambassador-susaia,Welcoming Ambassador Susaia,2018-12-17,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Welcoming Ambassador Susaia Dec 17, 2018 His Excellency Akillino H. Susaia (center), Ambassador of the Federated States of Micronesia to the United States, met with me on Wednesday. We discussed the 2023 expiration of the U.S.-Micronesia Compact and pledged to work together on the issues confronting our Pacific region. The new ambassador was accompanied by his Deputy Chief of Mission, Jackson Soram. Thank you, Ambassador Susaia, for your visit.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/kilili-101m-marianas-water-projects,Kilili: $10.1M for Marianas water projects,2018-12-13,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC The Commonwealth Utilities Corporation will get another boost of $10.1 million toward the goal of 24-hour water for all Saipan residents, Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan announced today. The new money to CUC comes on top of the $73 million in Clean Water and Safe Drinking Water State Revolving Funds the Congressman had already brought in for water and sewer projects since 2010. Super Typhoon Yutu was a setback, Sablan said. In June, CUC reported that 96 percent of Saipan was receiving water around the clock, but we lost that level of service in the storm. Now we have to rebuild and the $10.1 million CUC is getting will help that recovery effort. Congress increased Clean Water and Safe Drinking Water funding this year nationwide. As a result, the Marianas is getting $3.8 million more than in 2017. It is also a big increase from the days when the Marianas had no representation in Congress and only received about $1 million annually for water infrastructure. In his first year in office, Congressman Sablan worked to get the insular area set-asides for the water and sewer programs increased from 0.28 percent and 0.33 percent, respectively, to 1.5 percent for each. Congress has kept the improved funding formulas in place ever since, although the decision is still made on an annual basis. Without the formula change CUC ratepayers would have had to pay for the $73 million investment in the water system on their monthly bills. Clean Water and Safe Drinking Water grant funds are administered by the Environmental Protection Agency. EPA also awarded $2.1 million to the CNMI Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality today. The grant will support BECQ's inspections, emergency responses, radon assessments, coral reef protection, monitoring of beaches and water quality, drinking water improvements, cleanups of contaminated lands and polluted streams, and support for safe use of pesticides. As always, I want to thank our friends at EPA for the work they do to make sure all the money Congress appropriates for the Marianas is used effectively, said Congressman Sablan. I also want to thank CUC. When I came into office only one in every four households on Saipan had 24-hour water. With the extra funds from Congress and hard work from CUC we have seen big changes; and people's lives are better as a result. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/application-deadline-extended,Application deadline extended,2018-12-10,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Application deadline extended Dec 10, 2018 Due to the devastation caused by typhoons Mangkhut and Yutu, and the ensuing power outages and extended school closures, we have decided to extend the deadline for aspiring young individuals to apply for a congressional nomination to the U.S. service academies. The new deadline is Friday, December 14, 2018. Young men and women who are interested in an exceptional college education at no cost and are committed to serving our country have seven additional days to apply. There are openings for appointees from the Northern Marianas at theU.S. Air Force Academy, theU.S. Merchant Marine Academy, theU.S. Naval Academy, and theU.S. Military Academyfor next year's incoming class. As your Congressman, I may make nominations, but the final selection among nominees is made by academy admissions officials. They look for strong grades, high SAT or ACT scores, physical ability, and leadership potential. Service academy graduates receive an officer's commission and must serve for five years. More information and an application form are available athttps://sablan.house.gov/serving-you/academy-nominations, and at your local congressional office.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/government-funding-extended,Government funding extended,2018-12-10,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Government funding extended Dec 10, 2018 Congress enacted atwo-week funding extensionon Wednesday to cover the seven FY2019 appropriations bills still awaiting enactment. Friday, December 7, had been the deadline for action, but ceremonies at the Capitol surrounding the passing of former President George H.W. Bush gave a reason to delay until December 21. The real sticking point continues to be President Trump's insistence on $5 billion for a border wall. Disaster relief for the Northern Marianas and those areas affected by Hurricanes Florence and Michael and the wildfires in California could also be acted upon -- a goal that I continue to work on in both chambers and on both sides of the aisle to address the post-Mangkhut/Yutu recovery needs of our islands.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/rip-president-bush,R.I.P. President Bush,2018-12-10,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"R.I.P. President Bush Dec 10, 2018 Former President George H.W. Bush lay in state in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol this week. With other Members of Congress and thousands of the public, I paid my respects there to our 41st President, who is remembered as an unassuming man of the highest integrity and deepest patriotism. As Vice President, Bush visited Saipan in 1985, making him the highest-ranking U.S. government official ever to set foot in the Northern Marianas. He was laid to rest at the George Bush Presidential Library at Texas A&M University on Thursday.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/seeking-answers-va,Seeking answers from the VA,2018-12-10,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Seeking answers from the VA Dec 10, 2018 On Friday, members of the House Committees on Veterans Affairs and Education and the Workforceasked Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert Wilkiewhether his department will make retroactive payments to student veterans affected by delays in implementing theHarry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act. The Act, known as the Forever GI Bill, made two changes to the way the monthly housing allowance (MHA) is calculated for student veterans. One change requires the MHA be calculated based on the zip code of the campus where the student attends classes. The second change requires the MHA be based on the Department of Defense's reduced basic allowance for housing(BAH). These provisions were to take effect on August 1, 2018. Issues with the VA computer system, however, delayed implementation until December 2019. In the interim, VA stated it would pay MHA rates at the uncapped DOD BAH rates and would eventually make back payments to student veterans who received less than required by the Forever GI Bill. Our letter points out that the VA is only addressing impacts of delaying the change in the MHA rate. Questions remain about how the agency will resolve underpayments to students who would have received a higher housing allowance under the Forever GI Bill calculation. And we want answers.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/typhoon-yutu-relief-updates-127,Typhoon Yutu relief updates (12/7),2018-12-10,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Water Water production on Saipan is at 84 percent with 110 of the 138 water wells in operation.Seven of the 9 feeders on Saipan are partially online. Water production on Tinian remains at 100 percent. Water is now stable on both islands, meaning water no longer needs to be boiled for consumption. The percentage of households now receiving water has not been reported. Power Power has been restored to 44 percent of households on Saipan. Power restoration on Tinian is at about 20 percent. Of four feeders, only Feeder 2 is online. SBA disaster loans The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved more than $1.5 million in low interest disaster loans to help business and homeowners recover after Typhoon Mangkhut, and over $25 million in loans in response to Super Typhoon Yutu. Private nonprofit organizations have less than one month left to apply for SBA federal disaster loans for property damage caused by Super Typhoon Yutu. The deadline to apply is December 31, 2018. Transitional shelters Around 200 occupants remain in shelters as of December 6. Tents 1,054 tents have been set up on Saipan and 202 on Tinian as of December 3. Schools Half of Saipan's public school students returned to classes this week while the other half will return Monday. CNMI Public School System Distance Education Program will resume online courses Sunday, December 9. Northern Marianas College reopened this week on the Saipan Southern High School Campus in Koblerville. Food stamps The Nutrition Assistance Program reports that as of Tuesday, 11,209 households were issued Disaster Nutrition Assistance Program benefits totaling $6.9 million. Approximately 1,346 NAP households have received supplemental benefits of $282,713. DNAP was extended this week. About 1,600 applicants are being seen daily.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/application-deadline-friday,Application deadline Friday,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Application deadline Friday Dec 3, 2018 Young men and women from the Northern Marianas, who are interested in an exceptional college education at no cost and are committed to serving our country should apply now for a congressional nomination to one of the U.S. service academies. There are openings for the Marianas at theU.S. Air Force Academy, theU.S. Merchant Marine Academy, theU.S. Naval Academy, and theU.S. Military Academyfor next year's incoming class, as a result of legislation I have had enacted over the last 10 years. Though, as your Congressman, I make nominations, the final selection among nominees is made by academy admissions officials. They look for strong grades, high SAT or ACT scores, physical ability, and leadership potential. Service academy graduates receive an officer's commission and must serve for five years. More information and an application form are availablehere, and at your local congressional office. Applications are due on Friday, December 7.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/democrats-choose-their-leaders,Democrats choose their leaders,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Democrats choose their leaders Dec 3, 2018 As a member of the House Democratic Caucus, I voted in leadership elections this week on behalf of the people of the Mariana Islands. The Caucus chose: Nancy Pelosi, California, Speaker of the House Steny Hoyer, Maryland, House Majority Leader James Clyburn, South Carolina, House Majority Whip Ben Ray Lujan, New Mexico, Assistant Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, New York, Caucus Chair Katherine Clark, Massachusetts, Caucus Vice-Chair Cheri Bustos, Illinois, Congressional Campaign Committee Chair David Cicilline, Rhode Island, Policy and Communications Committee Chairs Matt Cartwright, Pennsylvania; Debbie Dingell, Michigan; and Ted Lieu, California, Policy and Communications Committee Co-chairs Jamie Raskin, Maryland, Caucus Leadership Representative The full House of Representatives will vote for Speaker on January 3, when the 116th Congress convenes. The Congressional Hispanic Caucus also this week elected Joaquin Castro of Texas as our new Chairman. Ruben Gallego, Arizona, will be 1st Vice Chair; Nanette Barragan, California, 2nd Vice Chair; and, Adriano Espaillat, New York,Caucus Whip.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/hearing-probes-disaster-response,Hearing probes disaster response,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Hearing probes disaster response Dec 3, 2018 As a guest of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Thursday, I questioned FEMA Administrator Brock Long on his agency's delivery of services in the Marianas after Typhoon Mangkhut and Super Typhoon Yutu. The hearing was focused on recurring problems with disaster response nationwide, many of which we have seen in the Marianas. Watch a clip of my exchange with Mr. Long byclicking here.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/marianas-disaster-tax-relief,Marianas in disaster tax relief,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Marianas in disaster tax relief Dec 3, 2018 The Marianas have been included in theDisaster Tax Relief billintroduced in the House this week. The legislation allows individuals affected by named disasters, such as Typhoon Mangkhut and Super Typhoon Yutu, to withdraw money from retirement accounts to use for recovery and and later re-contribute money to the account. Survivors would als be eligible to extend loan repayments. Employers, who keep their staff after a storm, would get a a tax credit for 40 percent of wages paid, up to $6,000 per employee. Special rules would also be applied to income qualifying for the Child Tax Credit. The bill specifically provides that the U.S. Treasury make payments to the Commonwealth government equal to any revenue losses resulting from these disaster tax relief provisions.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/meeting-guams-delegate-elect,Meeting Guam's delegate-elect,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Meeting Guam's delegate-elect Dec 3, 2018 Guam Delegate-elect Michael San Nicolas (D) was on Capitol Hill last week, along with his incoming class of new members for the 116th Congress. We spoke at length about how to be effective as a Delegate and about the issues that both Guam and the Marianas face in the years ahead. I look forward to a continuing strong working relationship between our neighboring districts. Welcome, Delegate San Nicolas.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/more-funding-disaster-relief,More funding for disaster relief,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"More funding for disaster relief Dec 3, 2018 With the number of disasters nationwide this yearhurricanes Florence and Michael, wildfires in the west, the Marianas typhoonsit is likely that Congress will take action to supply assistance above and beyond what the Federal Emergency Management Agency can do. In response to 2017 disasters Congress included special supplemental aid in four separate laws, most recently last month in theFAA Reauthorization Act. Even before leaving Saipan I spoke with the incoming Chair of the House Appropriations Committee, Nita Lowey, about what the needs would be for the Marianas and received her assurance of help. I have been working since my return to Washington to develop more detailed assessments. I am particularly concerned that federal programs, like food stamps, that are block granted to the Marianas be made whole again after spending unbudgeted money for disaster relief. And I want to make sure that infrastructure, like the power and water systems that are repeatedly put out of commission by typhoons, are hardened against future storms.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/kilili-questions-fema-yutu-response,Kilili questions FEMA on Yutu response,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan joined the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform at a hearing on Thursday to question FEMA Administrator Brock Long on the recurring problems that keep the Federal Emergency Management Agency from responding quickly to disasters such as Super Typhoon Yutu. At the hearing, Sablan took Long to task on a list of complaints the Congressman received from Marianas residents after Typhoon Yutu from the delayed opening of Disaster Recovery Centers, to the long wait for damage inspections, to the mailing confusion that rendered many FEMA inspection notices and payments undeliverable. I want to acknowledge the work that the 1,345 federal employees assigned to the Marianas are doing, Sablan told the Oversight Committee. But I am not satisfied with their work. How can I be, when so many of the people I represent remain without power and water, living in shelters and tents, their children not in school, without jobs and income, struggling day by day? Reading the Committee's report on the federal response in other parts of our country, I see that I am not alone in my dissatisfactions, Sablan added. He was referring to a report titled Recurring Problems Hinder Federal Disaster Response and Recovery Efforts, by the House Oversight Committee staff. A copy of the full report is available at https://oversight.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Federal-Disaster-Response-and-Recovery-Report-1.pdf. Response delays Super Typhoon Yutu struck the Marianas on October 24. FEMA took a week to open an intake center for initial registrations for disaster assistance, and another week to establish a full-scale Disaster Recovery Center. A DRC is a centralized location where people can register with FEMA, follow up on their applications, and obtain information from other agencies and organizations involved in the relief and recovery efforts. At the hearing, Sablan also noted that FEMA inspections are taking longer than the seven- to 10-day turnaround time that the agency had communicated to the public. And he questioned why FEMA sent notices and checks to the physical location of damaged homes, instead of to post office boxes, causing mail to be returned to FEMA. Disaster-proof infrastructure In response, Long proposed that Congress work with the private sector, particularly telecommunications companies, to build disaster-resilient infrastructure. It's hard for us when the communication system is totally knocked out, Long said at the hearing. Being able to mobilize several thousand miles away disaster support teams to manually register people door to door is a painstaking process. The FEMA Administrator also emphasized the responsibility of local governments to build the capacity to withstand and recover from natural disasters by insuring public infrastructure with private insurers, by enforcing building and zoning codes, and by establishing rainy day funds that local jurisdictions can draw down after a storm. I have long stressed that FEMA cannot be solely responsible for disasters. Long said. Watch a clip of the Congressman Sablan's exchange with FEMA Administrator Brock Long at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYSAztOJgcg. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/typhoon-yutu-relief-updates,Typhoon Yutu relief updates,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Water Water restoration and water production on Saipan now exceeds 80% complete, with 104 of 131 water wells operating. On Tinian, Maui Pump Station remains operational and water is 100% online in San Jose, Marpo Valley, Carolina Heights and Marpo Heights I and II. Power 47.9% of power feeders on Saipan are restored (based on feeder loads). All feeders on Tinian remain offline. SBA disaster loans The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved more than $1.3 million in low interest disaster loans to help businesses and homeowners recover from Typhoon Mangkhut, and more than $11.3 million in loans post-Typhoon Yutu. Private nonprofit organizations have one month left to apply for SBA federal disaster loans for property damage caused by Super Typhoon Yutu. The deadline to apply is December 31, 2018. Transitional shelters 379 occupants remain in shelters as of Thursday, November 29. Tents 804 tents have been installed on Saipan and 203 have been installed on Tinian as of Thursday, November 29. The Temporary Emergency Tent and Roofing Installation Support (TETRIS) program continues through coordination between the CNMI government and FEMA. To apply for the program, residents must complete a Right of Entry (ROE) form, which can be picked up at the Saipan Disaster Recovery Center (Multipurpose Center) or Fire Station #4 in Koblerville. Deadline for ROE submissions is Saturday, December 8. For questions on the program, call 644-9083. Schools The Public School System will reopen schools on a staggered basis on December 3 and 10. Depending on the extent of damage at each campus, some students will not return to their own campus and may experience altered schedules.Click herefor details. Northern Marianas College will reopen on December 3 at the Saipan Southern High School campus in Koblerville.View the adjusted calendar, schedule and campus map here. Food stamps The Disaster Nutrition Assistance Program has been extended next week. Only 1,000 applicants are being processed daily.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/vets-benefits-counselor-week,Vets benefits counselor this week,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Vets benefits counselor this week Dec 3, 2018 This Thursday, a Veterans Affairs Counselor will be on Saipan to assist veterans who have questions and concerns about benefits and to assist with the claims process. The counselor will be at the Saipan VA Clinic at the MH II Building, Suite 206 in Garapan from 9:30 am to 4 pm. For more information call (670) 322-0035.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/visitors,Visitors,2018-12-03,2018,2018-12,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Visitors Dec 3, 2018 Lino Olopai, Francisco and Patricia Kapileo, Dr. Ignacia Demapan, Leoloni Taule and Paul Ythemar were in Washington, DC this week to attend the annual grantee meeting of the Administration for Native Americans. They visited the congressional office and toured the U.S. Capitol on Thursday. Mr. and Mrs. Kapileo and Mr. Olopai will go on a tour of the White House on Saturday morning.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/kilili-mhs-team-wins-congressional-app-challenge,Kilili: MHS team wins Congressional App Challenge,2018-11-29,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"WASHINGTON, DC A team of Marianas High School students won this year's Congressional App Challenge in the Northern Marianas, Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan announced today. Ian Rei Cataluna, Mimi Sakano, Guaen Yang, and Celina Wu worked as a team to design the winning submission. Their Health Buddy: Diabetes app bested 12 other entries to the district-level coding competition. Congratulations to Ian Rei, Mimi, Guaen, and Celina on their innovative and educational app, Sablan said. Their app is testament not just to their coding expertise, but also to their commitment to our community. Health Buddy: Diabetes is an Android app that provides medical information about diabetes. It includes resources available both physically and online to the many Marianas residents who suffer from the disease. Future upgrades include a personal medicine scheduler, iOS and web-based versions of the app, and a series of apps for other diseases. Along with other App Challenge winners from across the country, Health Buddy will be eligible for display in the U.S. Capitol. And the Marianas High School team will be invited to attend the House of Code reception, scheduled for spring next year in Washington D.C. Their fellow Dolphins, Daniel Villarmero and Chenoa Bunts-Anderson, who won last year's competition, showcased The Student Companion app at the same reception in Washington, DC last April. Sablan also extended his congratulations to the 24 other students who worked individually or in teams to participate in the competitition. The runners-up include two game apps designed by teams from Mount Carmel School: DODGE! BUB by Suhwan Bae and Hyo Lim Cho, and One of those Nights by Joanie Paraiso, Angelo Manese, and Gary Camacho. All of this year's participants displayed impressive creativity and programming skills. They can be proud of their work, Sablan said. TheCongressional App Challengeaims to promote computer science and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education by giving students an opportunity to have their creations recognized by their Member of Congress. The competition is open to all students in grades K-12, regardless of coding experience. Submissions were evaluated based on creativity, design, and demonstrated programming skills. Selection of the winning entry was made by volunteer judges Dana Bullister of the computer software company Project Zen, Ed Knoeckel of Howell Cheney Technical High School, and Dr. Mollie Ramon of La Joya Independent School District. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/335k-homeland-security,$335k to Homeland Security,2018-11-21,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"$335k to Homeland Security Nov 21, 2018 The Commonwealth's Homeland Security and Emergency Management Office has been awarded $335,000 from the State and Local Implementation Grant Program. The funds are intended to support states and territories plan for the deployment of the nationwide public safety broadband network,a wireless broadband network created to help police, firefighters, emergency medical services personnel and other public safety entities stay safe anddo their jobs. The program was authorized in theMiddle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2012. This is the second increment of funding for the Commonwealth under the SLIGP 2.0 grant award.The Commonwealth received the first award of $200,000 in May of this year.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/protecting-our-heritage,Protecting our heritage,2018-11-21,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Protecting our heritage Nov 21, 2018 This week I joined 26 Senators and 91 House Members insubmitting an amicus briefin a series of cases before the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, challenging the President's attempt to shrink two national monuments in Utah. Besides the policy objectionover 1.8 million acres of public land would no longer be protectedthe cases represent an important separation of powers issue. In 1906, Congress enacted theAntiquities Actand gave the President the authority to designate national monuments, of which there are now 158. In the view of those of us who filed the amicus, however, only Congress can reduce or re-designate the lands in a national monument once it is created. This is an important congressional authority that must be defended, just as our natural heritage must be defended for the use and enjoyment of those who come after us.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/so-much-be-thankful,So much to be thankful for,2018-11-21,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"So much to be thankful for Nov 21, 2018 So much to be thankful for.As I do every year at Thanksgiving, I have written to each member of the U.S. House of Representatives to say thank you for their support and for the generosity of their constituents to the people of the Northern Mariana Islands. The American taxpayer sends tens of millions of dollars each year to our islands to pay for roads, schools, airports, health care, food assistance, water systems, the operation of Commonwealth government offices, and a myriad of other services that otherwise we would have to do without or pay for ourselves. Particularly now, when so many federal dollars are coming to our islands to help with the recovery from typhoons Mangkhut and Yutu, is a good time to say thank you.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/visitor,Audrina Tenorio Visits,2018-11-21,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Audrina Tenorio Visits Nov 21, 2018 Former Saipan resident Audria Tenorio visited the congressional office in Washington, DC on Monday. Ms. Tenorio now lives on Guam. Thank you for stopping by.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/kilili-congratulates-governor-torres-0,Kilili congratulates Governor Torres,2018-11-15,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Kilili congratulates Governor Torres Nov 15, 2018 NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan congratulated Governor Ralph Torres today on his election. I congratulate Governor Ralph Torres, Lt. Governor-elect Arnold Palacios, and everyone who was elected to office on Tuesday. We may have been competitors before, but as of today the people of the Marianas have decided they want us to work together in the best interests of our islands. The Governor and all our elected officials have my pledge to listen to that decision, especially in the face of the work we need to do to recover from typhoons Mangkhut and Yutu. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/kilili-wins-commitment-supplemental-disaster-funding,Kilili wins commitment for supplemental disaster funding,2018-11-12,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS In-coming Democratic Chair of the House Appropriations Committee Nita Lowey (New York) has told Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan that she will support supplemental disaster funding for recovery in the Marianas. The two spoke on Saturday morning. Although the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Disaster Relief Fund gives substantial assistance to individuals and to rebuild public infrastructure, there are other federal programs that could help the Marianas and that may need special appropriations. Congressman Sablan has asked Governor Torres to work together to formulate a package of requests to congressional appropriators. Needs assessments from the Governor will be critical to set the level of funding that we ask for, Congressman Sablan explained. The congressional office staff in Washington has already identified about 20 separate programs, above and beyond what FEMA can supply. Now, we need the Governor to help fill in the blanks on how much funding is needed for a full recovery. I know the Governor is focused on the day-to-day recovery, but I remain hopeful that he will find time to work with us on quantifying needs. Congress could act quickly on a supplemental disaster bill to cover hurricanes Florence and Michael and wildfires in the West. We want to be sure to have Yutu assistance be part of that emergency bill. And I am grateful to incoming Chair Nita Lowey for her commitment to help us. One item on Congressman Sablan's list is food stamp funding. The Commonwealth has received permission to use some $9 million of the $30.5 million that Sablan included in the Agricultural Act of 2014 for disaster food assistance on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. But the money was originally to be used for the regular food stamp program to increase benefits and make more families eligible. We do not want to rob Peter to pay Paul, Congressman Sablan said. We need that disaster food aid now, of course; but at the end of the day Congress should pay for it separately. We want to be able to keep benefits up and go through with the plan to increase eligibility. So, replacing the money we need to make that possible will be one of my supplemental appropriations requests. Sablan is also requesting more funding for the Medicaid program that serves about 15,000 people in the Commonwealth. Both Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islandsreceived more Medicaid money and a waiver of the local match for a year and three-quarters after last year's hurricanes in the Caribbean. Puerto Rico also got funding for Army Corps projects in the disaster bill. And that is a precedent I want to use, said Sablan. We just got a $20 million authorization for Saipan water projects renewed in the Water Resources Development Act of 2018. That is one Army Corps project that could be funded. And Tinian still needs a breakwater to protect its harbor from future typhoons. Sablan leaves for Washington on Wednesday morning to follow up with face-to-face meetings with appropriators. A waiver of the local cost-share for FEMA grants, authority to rebuild infrastructure by burying electrical lines and using other resiliency measures, and administrative flexibility for disaster unemployment assistance are other items on his agenda. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/american-red-cross-financial-assistance-typhoon-yutu,Red Cross Financial Assistance for Typhoon Yutu,2018-11-11,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"The NMI Red Cross is providing financial assistance to families on the island of Tinian and to families on Saipan whose households have been destroyedor majorly damagedby Typhoon Yutu. *Notes* One structural element is a Roof or Wall. For damage to count as structural, it must be a failure of the rafters or wall studs and not only flooding, window or tin damage Destroyed means 2 or more structural elements damaged Majorly Damaged means 1 structural element damaged SERVICE CENTERS Tinian - Tinian Community Gym 9 am to 5:30 pm, daily Saipan - Tanapag: Social Hall, 9 am to 6 pm, November 12, 13 & 14. - Kagman: 9 am to 6 pm, November 15 & 16. (Specific location to be announced.) - CK, San Antonio, Koblerville: 9 am to 6 pm November 17, 18 & 19. (Specific location to be announced.) - San Vicente, Dan Dan: 9 am to 6 pm November 17, 18 & 19 (Specific location to be announced.) To minimize wait time, please visit the Service Center closest to your home. ONLY one head of household needs to come to the Service Center. What to bring ID as proof of residence (examples: official photo ID, Lot number, phone and CUC bill, rental or lease agreement) Pictures of household damage (Saipan only) For questions, please call 234-3459",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/drop-locations-household-hazardous-waste-other-materials,Saipan Drop-Off Sites for Household Hazardous Waste & Other Materials Nov 12 - Dec 2,2018-11-11,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"DROP-OFF LOCATIONS FOR HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE, WHITE GOODS AND ELECTRONICS FROM TYPHOON CLEAN-UP The Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality and the US Environmental Protection Agency will accept household hazardous waste, white goods, and electronics generated as part of the clean-up from Typhoon Yutu. Household Hazardous Waste Types Cleaners (such as bleach & ammonia) Pesicides Paint & Workshop Supplies Automotive Products Flammable Products (such as oil, gas, and propane) Lawn & Garden Products Fluorescent Light Bulbs Thermometers Batteries Other Household Chemicals White Goods Types Air Conditioners Refrigerators Freezers Microwave Ovens Washing Machines Dryers Water Heaters Electronic Types Televisions Computer Processors Computer Monitors Printers Other electronic products DROP-OFF LOCATIONS AND SCHEDULE Lower Base Transfer Station November 12th-December 2nd 8:30 AM 4:00 PM 7 days a week As Gonno Staging Area (Kobler Airfield, near Tottottville) November 12th-December 2nd 8:30 AM 4:00 PM 7 days a week WE DO NOT accept: commercial or industrial waste, medical waste, construction materials. YOU MUST BRING ALL ITEMS TO DROP-OFF LOCATIONS. DO NOT PLACE ITEMS BY THE ROAD. For more information on household hazardous waste or white goods disposal, please contact the CNMI BECQ at 664-8500.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/shark-fin-climate-change-fisheries-health%E2%80%A6-kilili-huffman-plan-agenda-116,"Shark fin, climate change, fisheries health Kilili, Huffman plan Agenda 116",2018-11-11,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS Environmental issues will get serious attention when the new Democratic majority House of Representatives convenes in January. Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan is already working together with the likely Chairman of the Subcommittee on Water, Power, and Oceans, Rep. Jared Huffman of California, on their agenda for the next two years. Sablan is a member of the Subcommittee. One item at the top of the two legislators' list isSablan's legislation that bans the sale of shark fins nationwide. Sablan introduced the bill, which is modeled after Commonwealth law, in the 114thCongress and then handed it over to Republican Ed Royce in the 115thCongress to give it a better chance of success in the Republican majority House. We have 259 cosponsors to H.R. 1456, more than enough votes to pass the bill in the House, Congressman Sablan reports. But even with Chairman Royce's sponsorship and strong, bipartisan support the Republican leadership in the House refuses to move the bill. Mr. Huffman and I think that will change, once the new Democratic House gets started, said Sablan. Democratic leadership is going to be much more respectful of what the rank-and-file membership wants, rather than controlling everything from the top down. In the current CongressRepublican leadership has brought more closed rules to the floor than ever before in U.S. history. A closed rule means that no oneRepublican or Democratcan offer an amendment. As a result, there can be much less compromise, bipartisan legislation. In his letter to Sablan mapping out their agenda, Huffman said the people of the Marianas should be proud that they had the foresight and the political will to protect shark populations in the waters of the Marianas. Huffman, a former member of the California Assembly, co-authored legislation there that banned the sale, trade, and possession of shark fins in California. He is also an original co-sponsor of H.R. 1456. While the bill bans the commercial sale of shark fins, it protects noncommercial subsistence use. Climate change, fisheries part of a broader environmental agenda The two veteran legislators are also interested in keeping the oceans healthy. Through our leadership, we can work to keep fisheries sustainable and keep up the success of a strong Magnuson Act, Huffman said. The Magnuson Act sets up regional fisheries boards, such as WESPAC, the Western Pacific Fisheries Council, to regulate fishing around the United States and maintain healthy stocks of fish. As part of planned increased oversight by House committees, Sablan wants to get a long-overdue management plan for fisheries and other uses in the Marianas Trench Marine National Monument. This was supposed to be in place two years after President Bush created the Monument, Sablan said. The Obama administration did nothing and now the Trump administration is sitting on it. People in the Marianas are fed up with the delay. Another area of concern for both Huffman and Sablan is the impact of climate change. Huffman represents areas of California that have been hard hit by wildfires. And the Marianas is just beginning to recover from Typhoon Mangkhut and Super Typhoon Yutu. Increasing temperatures in the atmosphere and in the ocean are having a negative effect on us all, Sablan said. The accelerated intensification of Yutu and of Hurricane Michael that hit Florida last month happens because the ocean is warmer and storms rapidly pick up energy as they pass over those waters. Huffman pledged to work together to address the significant impacts of climate change on ocean ecosystems and coastal and island communities. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/tinian-community-service-opportunity-31st-marine-expeditionary-unit,Tinian Community Service Opportunity with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit,2018-11-11,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Tinian Community Service Opportunity with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit Nov 11, 2018 ANNOUNCEMENT Community Service Opportunity with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, Tinian (Novernber 11, 2018) The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit will be conducting a beach clean-up on Monday November 12, 2018, from 8:00AM to 5:00PM. The clean-up will start at Kammer Beach and extend to Tachogna Beach. The community is invited to join our men and women in uniform as they help clean our beaches. If you are interested in participating, we recommend that you bring any of the following items: - Rakes - Wheelbarrows - Shovels - Chainsaws - Machetes - Gloves - Trash Bags Additionally, we will pause the beach clean-up to participate in the Veterans Day Ceremony at 11:00AM at the Veterans Memorial Park. All are welco1ne to attend. Thank you and Si Yu'us Ma'ase!",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/tinian-drop-sites-household-hazardous-waste-other-materials-nov-14-26,"Tinian Drop-Off Sites for Household Hazardous Waste, White Goods, & Electronics from Typhoon Clean-Up - November 14-26",2018-11-11,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality and the US Environmental Protection Agency will accept household hazardous waste, white goods, and electronics generated as part of the clean-up from Typhoon Yutu. DROP OFF LOCATION AND SCHEDULE Tinian Port, Near CPA Building November 14th - November 26th 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Monday - Saturday Household Hazardous Waste Types Cleaners (such as bleach & ammonia) Pesicides Paint & Workshop Supplies Automotive Products Flammable Products (such as oil, gas, and propane) Lawn & Garden Products Fluorescent Light Bulbs Thermometers Batteries Other Household Chemicals White Goods Types Air Conditioners Refrigerators Freezers Microwave Ovens Washing Machines Dryers Water Heaters Electric and Gas Oven Ranges Electronic Types Televisions Computer Processors Computer Monitors Printers Other electronic products WE DO NOT accept: commercial or industrial waste, medical waste, construction materials. YOU MUST BRING ALL ITEMS TO DROP-OFF LOCATIONS. DO NOT PLACE ITEMS BY THE ROAD. ***We will also accept HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE ONLY, from 10:00 am-2:00 pm based on the following schedule: Housing/Broadway Estates Housing Basketball Court Thursday, 11/15/2018 Subdivision Little League Baseball Field Saturday, 11/17/2018 San Jose Village Tinian Baseball Field Monday, 11/19/2018 District 1 Highway 25 (Across Hofschneider Compound) Wednesday, 11/21/2018 Marpo Heights Bus Stop No. 6 (Near the residence of David Evangelista, Sr.) Friday, 11/23/2018 Marpo Valley Intersection of Highways 24 and 201 (Near the residence of Ray Iglecias) Saturday, 11/24/2018 Carolinas Heights Million Gallon Water Tank Monday, 11/26/2018 For more information on household hazardous waste or white goods disposal, please contact the CNMI BECQ at 664-8500.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/475k-coral-reef-conservation,$475k for coral reef conservation,2018-11-10,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"$475k for coral reef conservation Nov 10, 2018 CNMI Bureau of Environmental and Coastal Quality is getting $475,000 under the FY17-18 Coral Reef Conservation Agreement, NOAA announced this week. Congress provides the funding to NOAA for this program to help with protecting coral reefs against the harmful impacts of global warming, ocean acidification, degradation of water quality, and other changes in the marine environment. The Commonwealth will also benefit from a $335,000 grant to the Western Pacific Fishery Management Council for their work assessing and managing coral reef system fisheries. Congratulations to BECQ.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/democratic-majority-gives-marianas-clout,Democratic majority gives Marianas clout,2018-11-10,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Democratic majority gives Marianas clout Nov 10, 2018 The Democratic party will have the majority of seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, when it convenes in January, giving the Marianas more clout. By working in a bipartisan way, I have been able to do well for the Marianas over the last eight years even with a Republican majority U.S. House of Representatives: But when Democrats had the majority in my first two years in Congress: Those were good years for the Marianas. And I am looking forward to good years ahead with Democrats back in the majority. With my ten years' seniority, we are also in line for a chairmanship in the Education Committee or the Natural Resources Committee, which has jurisdiction over insular affairs. After Tuesday's election, I sent congratulations to all the new Democratic members, especially Michael San Nicolas, the new Democratic Delegate from Guam.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/expedite-construction-h-visas,Expedite construction H visas,2018-11-10,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"We do not want a lack of construction workers to slow down our recovery efforts. So, I have asked Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen and Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta to expedite H-2B visa applications for these workers, while at the same time respecting preferential hire for U.S. workers. The Northern Mariana Islands U.S. Workforce Act, enacted on July 24, gives the Marianas unlimited access to H visas through 2029. And the H-2B visa should be available to hire temporary construction workers, when there is a special, short-term demand, as that caused by Super Typhoon Yutu. I asked Secretary Nielsen to confirm that reading of the law, so construction companies can apply for the visas with confidence. H-2B visas are renewable for up to three years, giving us plenty of time for rebuilding. And no visa may be issued without certification from the Secretary of Labor that no U.S. worker is able, willing, qualified, and available for the job. I also used the opportunity to thank Nielsen for the work FEMA, one of her agencies, is doing in the Marianas and to thank Acosta for a grant of $2.8 million to employ workers who lost their jobs because of Yutu.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/lowey-help-extra-funding-0,Lowey to help with extra funding,2018-11-10,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"In-coming Democratic Chair of the House Appropriations Committee Nita Lowey (New York) spoke with me today about providing supplemental disaster funding for recovery in the Marianas. Although the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Disaster Relief Fund gives substantial assistance to individuals and to rebuild public infrastructure, there are other federal programs that can help us and may need special appropriations. I wrote Governor Torres this week requesting that we work together to formulate a request and I remain hopeful that he will agree. Among programs and agencies from which I think we can reasonably expect assistance and/or which may require supplemental funding are: Community Development Block Grant Disaster Relief (CDBG-DR) (Department of Housing and Urban Developement) To address unmet needs in housing and infrastructure and to support economic recovery and tourism. Medicaid. Yutu will reduce Commonwealth resources to match federal funds or make up for loss of Obamacare funding in 2019. Army Corps of Engineers. With only half of Saipan's water capacity now restored the need to strengthen the system is apparent. Funding a $20 million authorization in the recent America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018 could help. Federal Emergency Management Agency Cost-Share Waivers. A waiver of the local matching requirements for FEMA funding. Nutrition Assistance (Department of Agriculture). See, Seeking food aid. Immediate Aid to Restart School Operations, Temporary Emergency Aid for Displaced Students, and Project School Emergency Response to Violence (SERV) (Department of Education). Funding to help PSS restart school operations, reopen schools, and reenroll students. Emergency Assistance to Institutions of Higher Learning (Department of Education). Funding to assist Northern Marianas College restart operations and reopen to students. Resiliency Provision (Federal Emergency Management Administration). Request for authority to rebuild Marianas infrastructure to incorporate resilient design. Federal Highway Administration Emergency Relief Program. Funding for repair and reconstruction of federal-aid highways. Small Business Administration Disaster Loan Program. Assurance of adequate funding for this program, already approved for Marianas recovery. Office of Insular Affairs (Department of Interior). Funding for technical assistance and Capital Improvement Project grants beyond the ability of other federal agencies to provide. Department of Veterans Affairs. Assistance to provide veterans medical services, including transportation and medical supplies. National Dislocated Worker Grant (Department of Labor). Additional funding as necessary. Disaster Unemployment Assistance (Department of Labor). Report language urging administrative flexibility for the Commonwealth to comply with the stringent requirements of the program given the lack of an unemployment insurance system. I will be returning to Washington immediately next week to pursue these disaster funding requests and look forward to working with Ms. Lowey and other members of the new Democratic leadership to ensure the Marianas receives rapid and robust support.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/usda-approves-disaster-food-assistance-tinian-application-period-begins-nov-15-saipan,UPDATED: USDA Approves Disaster Food Assistance,2018-11-10,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Governor Ralph DLG. Torres announced on Saturday that the US Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) approved his request to operate the Emergency Food Assistance for Victims of Disaster pursuant to Part XI and Exhibit D of the Nutrition Assistance Program (NAP) manual of operation due to impacts from Super Typhoon Yutu. ""Every household on Saipan, Tinian, and the Northern Islands is eligible for disaster food assistance, regardless of citizenship. Households must apply to avail of disaster food assistance. Benefits will be determined by household composition, and an additional determination will be made for households that experienced food loss or a reduction/termination of income as a result of the disaster, Governor Torres said. D-NAP APPLICATION PERIOD AND HOURS OF OPERATION TINIAN November 15 - November 21. 2018 Tinian Public Gymnasium 8:00 am to 2:00 pm SAIPAN November 25 - December 1, 2018 CNMI NAP Office, As Lito 8:00 am to 6:00 pm WHAT TO BRING WHEN APPLYING FOR DISASTER FOOD ASSISTANCE: Valid Photo ID Birth certificates or passports for household members Social Security cards/numbers for household members Pay stubs or income verification for household members Bank statements for savings and checking accounts Disaster related expenses (receipts and/or listing with estimate of costs) Food loss (receipts and/or listing with estimate of costs) Costs of repairing or replacing any damages to home (receipts and/or listing with estimate of costs) Generator and other related equipment needed for disaster/post-disaster (receipts and/or listing with estimate of costs) Medical expenses (receipts and/or listing with estimate of costs) Benefit (or Disaster) Period CNMI DCCA will determine eligibility based on a household's income, resources, disaster-related expenses, and other circumstances between October 23 and November 22, 2018. CNMI DCCA will certify eligible households for 1 month, and issue one month of benefits based on household size according to Table 3 included in your request letter (refer to attachment). Eligibility Only households that resided and/or worked in the Northern Islands, Saipan, and Tinian on October 23, 2018, are eligible for D-NAP. Household composition as it existed on October 23, 2018, will be used in determining D-NAP eligibility. Households that experienced food loss alone as their only disaster-related expense may be eligible for D-NAP. Households that experienced a reduction or termination of income as a direct result of the disaster may be eligible for D-NAP. CNMI DCCA will adhere to the verification requirements included in the request letter for the D-NAP, which includes mandatory verification of identity; verification of residency and loss of income or inaccessibility of resources, where possible; and verification of household composition and food loss, if questionable. In the event that households do not have the documentation to provide proof of identity, residency, income/resources, etc., affidavits will be used to declare such information. Certain verification requirements may be waived. Ongoing Households Disaster supplements provide for equity in disaster assistance between new D-NAP households and ongoing NAP households, as supplements bring the benefits of ongoing NAP households up to the maximum allotment for their household size. Ongoing households that lived and/or worked in the Northern Islands, Saipan, and Tinian may request disaster supplements on an individual basis by completing a Disaster Application Form for the record-keeping purposes required under Exhibit D, IV(B)(1) of the NAP Manual of Operations. Ongoing NAP households already receiving the maximum monthly allotment are not eligible for disaster supplements. Coupons used for the D-NAP and supplements will be effective through January 31, 2019. Local Coupons FNS approves the Governor's request to lift the local coupons restriction and allow the local coupons to be used to purchase imported eligible foods through December 31, 2018. This flexibility only applies to eligible applicants from Saipan, Tinian, and the Northern Islands. DCCA will issue a written authorization to each authorized retailer on Saipan and Tinian allowing these items for purchase with disaster or supplemental benefits. Hot Foods FNS approves the Governor's request to allow NAP and D-NAP households the ability to purchase hot foods and hot food items for immediate consumption with NAP benefits through December 31, 2018.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/water-bottle-exchange-koblerville-youth-center-mon-1112,"CNMI Water Bottle Exchange at Koblerville Youth Center, Mon 11/12",2018-11-10,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"CNMI Water Bottle Exchange at Koblerville Youth Center, Mon 11/12 Nov 10, 2018 Yutu Relief The CNMI Government will be exchanging full five-gallon water bottles for empty or damaged bottles at the following distribution site: Monday, November 12, 2018 Koblerville Youth Center Distribution starts at 10:00 a.m. Residents must bring empty or damaged five-gallon water bottles to exchange for new bottles. Limit (1) five-gallon water bottle per family. Follow CNMI on Social Media The CNMI Joint Information Center (JIC) urges the community to follow the following social media platforms to get the latest weather updates and information: CNMI EOC State Warning Point Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cnmieocswp/ CNMI Office of the Governor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CNMIGov/ Governor Ralph DLG. Torres Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ralphdlg.torres/ CNMI Joint Information Center: https://www.facebook.com/JICNMI/ The CNMI JIC also encourages residents to download HSEM's readyCNMI App available for FREE in the Apple iStore or Google PlayStore to receive the latest weather updates and notifications. For more information or media inquiries, contact Nadine Deleon Guerrero, HSEM External Affairs Officer at ncdlg@cnmihsem.gov.mp. -# # #-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/scott-agrees-wagner-peyser-fix,Scott agrees Wagner-Peyser fix,2018-11-10,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Scott agrees Wagner-Peyser fix Nov 10, 2018 Republicans blocked efforts to get the Marianas and American Samoa into the Wagner-Peyser jobs grant in 2014, when the program was last up for reauthorization. But with Democrats in controland the possibility I could chair the subcommittee responsible for Wagner-Peyser in the next Congressthat could change. The program is up for reauthorization again in 2019. And the incoming Chairman of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, Rep. Robert Scott (D-Virginia), agreed to make this fix part of our agenda for the 116th Congress. Please know that you have my commitment to work with you to make the Marianas an eligible entity for Wagner-Peyser Act assistance when Congress takes up the reauthorization of [the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act], Mr. Scott wrote to me on October 22. And he pledged to explore other opportunities to increase and strengthen the U.S. workforce in the Marianas. The annual Wagner-Peyser grant, about $300,000, would provide referrals to training for job seekers and match employers to workers with needed experience and skills.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/seeking-food-aid,Seeking food aid,2018-11-10,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Seeking food aid Nov 10, 2018 The United States Department of Agriculture has disaster related programs I have asked Secretary Sonny Perdue to use to help our recovery from Typhoon Mangkhut and Super Typhoon Yutu. Foremost, I asked for Disaster Nutrition Assistance to be quickly available for Saipan and Tinian, as it is for Rota. This will allow current beneficiaries of the Commonwealth's food stamp program to replace food lost in the storm and and also help those not presently receiving benefits to get assistance feeding their families. It is important that the cost of this disaster assistance not drain away the $32.5 million that I secured in the last Farm Bill, but comes from new money. The Farm Bill funds are supposed to move us toward income eligibility standards similar to the national Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, SNAP. I also asked Secretary Perdue for help restoring forest areas and crops wiped out by the storms. And I requested a moratorium on payments for USDA Rural Loan borrowers, which he granted the next day. The moratorium is good for up to 24 months. Borrowers whose accounts were in good standing prior to Yutu will be receiving moratorium letters shortly or you may call the USDA at 67.472.7490.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/shark-fin-climate-fisheries-planning-environmental-agenda-116,"Shark fin, climate, fisheries... Planning environmental Agenda 116",2018-11-10,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Environmental issues will get serious attention when the new Democratic majority House of Representatives convenes in January. I am already working with the likely Chairman of the Subcommittee on Water, Power, and Oceans, Rep. Jared Huffman of California, on our agenda for the next two years. At the top of the list, legislation that bans the sale of shark fins nationwide. I introduced the bill, modeled after Commonwealth law, in the 114th Congress and then handed it over to Republican Ed Royce as H.R. 1456 in the 115th Congress to give it a better chance of success in a Republican-majority House. But even though we now have 259 cosponsors, more than enough votes for passage, the Republican leadership in the House refuses to move the bill. I think that will change, once the new Democratic House gets started. Rep. Huffman said the people of the Marianas should be proud that they had the foresight and the political will to protect shark population in the waters of the Marianas. Huffman, a former member of the California Assembly, co-authored legislation there that banned the sale, trade, and possession of shark fins in California. He is also an original co-sponsor of H.R. 1456. The bill bans the commercial sale of shark fins, but protects noncommercial subsistence use A broader environmental agenda Rep. Huffman and I are also both interested in keeping the Magnuson Act strong, protecting fish stocks from overuse. And we share a concern about climate change. Jared represents areas of California that were hard hit by wildfires over the last years. The Marianas, of course, are just beginning to recover from typhoons Mangkhut and Yutu. The accelerated intensification of Yutu and of Hurricane Michael that hit Florida last month happens because the ocean is warmer and storms rapidly pick up energy as they pass over those waters. Huffman pledged to work together with me to address the significant impacts of climate change on ocean ecosystems and coastal and island communities.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/amended-major-disaster-declaration,Amended Major Disaster Declaration,2018-11-09,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"PUBLIC NOTICE MAJOR DISASTER DECLARATION FEMA-3408-EM-MP/FEMA-4404DRMP The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) hereby gives notice to the public of its intent to provide financial assistance to the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Island (CNMI), local governments, and private nonprofit organizations under emergency declaration FEMA-3408-EM-MP and major disaster declaration FEMA-4404-DR-MP. This notice applies to the Individual Assistance (IA), Public Assistance (PA), and Hazard Mitigation Grant (HMGP) programs implemented under the authority of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 5121-5207. This public notice concerns activities that may affect historic properties, activities that are located in or affect wetland areas and the 100-year floodplain and may involve critical actions within the 500-year floodplain. Such activities may adversely affect the historic property, floodplain or wetland, or may result in continuing vulnerability to flood damage. Public Notice Emergency Declaration FEMA-3408-EM-MP and Major Disaster Declaration FEMA 4404DRMP - Overview of Authorized Assistance The President signed an emergency declaration on October 23, 2018 to provide support for emergency protective measures on the CNMI islands of Rota, Saipan, Tinian and the Northern Islands. Under 3408-EM-MP FEMA is authorized to provide emergency protective measures (Category B) limited to direct federal assistance, under the Public Assistance Program. On October 26, 2018, the President signed a major disaster declaration for the CNMI islands of Rota, Saipan, Tinian and the Northern Islands. These declarations were signed in response to Typhoon Yutu that occurred October 24, 2018, pursuant to his authority under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, Pub. L. No. 93-288 (1974) (codified as amended at 42 U.S.C. 5121 et seq.) (Stafford Act). The major disaster declaration, numbered FEMA 4404DRMP, has authorized reimbursement through the Public Assistance Program, including direct federal assistance, for emergency work (Category B) and Individual Assistance for the islands of Rota, Saipan, Tinian, and the Northern Islands. On October 31, 2018 FEMA 4044-DR-MP was amended to include funding for debris removal (Category A) for Rota, Saipan, and Tinian; and permanent work (Categories C-G) for the islands of Saipan and Tinian. The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program is available for all areas of CNMI. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by CNMI and warranted by the results of further damage assessments. Individual Assistance is authorized by Section 408 of the Stafford Act. FEMA may provide Individual Assistance program funding for disaster-related emergency housing. These actions may adversely affect a floodplain/wetland or may result in continuing vulnerability to floods. These actions may include repair, restoration or construction of housing or private bridges, purchase and placement of travel trailers or manufactured housing units, or repair of structures as minimum protective measures. This will be the only public notice concerning these actions. The Public Assistance Program is authorized by Sections 403, 406, and 407 of the Stafford Act. FEMA may provide financial assistance under the Public Assistance Program for CNMI, local governments, and private nonprofit organizations to perform debris removal, emergency protective measures, and permanent restoration of facilities damaged or destroyed by the incident. In the case of permanent restoration of damaged or destroyed facilities, FEMA may provide financial assistance for the restoration of facilities to their pre-disaster condition, in conformity with applicable codes and standards, and including hazard mitigation measures to reduce the effects of future flooding or other hazards. A facility is any publicly or privately-owned building, works, system, or equipment, built or manufactured, or an improved and maintained natural feature. Land used for agricultural purposes is not a facility. The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program is authorized by Section 404 of the Stafford Act. Under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, FEMA may provide financial assistance for CNMI, local governments, and private nonprofit organizations to implement mitigation measures to reduce the risk of life and property from future disasters during the recovery from the major disaster. In the course of developing project proposals, subsequent public notices will be published if necessary, as more specific information becomes available. I. Public Notice Financial Assistance for Activities that Affect Historic Properties or Located in or that Affect Wetlands Areas or Floodplains Some of the activities for which FEMA provides financial assistance under its Individual Assistance, Public Assistance, and Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs may affect historic properties, may be located in or affect wetland areas or the 100-year floodplain, and/or may involve critical actions within the 500-year floodplain. In those cases, FEMA must comply with Executive Order 11988, Floodplain Management; Executive Order 11990, Protection of Wetlands; the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, Pub. L. No. 89-655 (1966) (codified as amended at 16 U.S.C. 470 et seq.) (NHPA); and the implementing regulations at 44 C.F.R. pt. 9 and 36 C.F.R. pt. 800. The executive orders, NHPA, and/or regulations require FEMA to provide public notice for certain activities as part of approving the award of financial assistance for specific projects. A. Federal Actions in or Affecting Floodplains and Wetlands Executive Orders 11988 and 11990 require that all federal actions (including federal awards of financial assistance) in or affecting floodplains or wetlands be reviewed for alternatives to avoid adverse effects and incompatible developments in those areas. FEMA's regulations at 44 C.F.R. part 9 set forth the policy, procedure, and responsibilities for implementing the Executive Orders. As detailed in those regulations, FEMA will identify and evaluate practicable alternatives to carrying out a proposed action in the wetlands or floodplain and use social, economic, historical, environmental, legal, and safety factors when analyzing the practicability of the alternatives. Where there is no practicable alternative, FEMA will undertake a detailed review to determine what measures can be taken to minimize potential harm to lives and risk from flooding, the potential adverse impacts the action may have on others, and the potential adverse impact the action may have on floodplain and wetland values. FEMA has determined that there are normally no practicable alternatives outside the floodplain or wetlands for repairs to certain damaged facilities and structures for which FEMA is providing financial assistance under the Public Assistance Program. Specifically, these are facilities that meet all of the following criteria: 1. The FEMA estimated cost of repairs is less than 50% of the estimated replacement cost of the entire facility and is less than $100,000. 2. The facility is not located in a floodway or coastal high hazard area. 3. The facility has not sustained structural damage from flooding in a previous Stafford Act major disaster or emergency. 4. The facility has not sustained structural damage on which a flood insurance claim has been paid. 5. The restoration of the facility is not a critical action. A critical action means an action for which even a slight chance of flooding is too great. For a facility meeting the above criteria, FEMA may provide financial assistance under the Public Assistance Program to restore the facility to its pre-disaster condition, in conformity with applicable codes and standards, and including hazard mitigation measures to reduce the effects of future flooding or other hazards. Hazard mitigation measures could include, for example, increasing the size of a culvert to decrease the risk of future washouts. This is the only public notice that FEMA will provide before providing financial assistance for such restoration activities. Other restoration activities and those involving facilities that do not meet the criteria above must undergo more detailed review, including an evaluation of practicable alternatives. FEMA may publish subsequent public notices regarding such projects as necessary as more information becomes available. B. Federal Actions Affecting Historic Properties Section 106 of the NHPA requires FEMA to consider the effects of its activities (known as undertakings) on any historic property and to afford the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP) an opportunity to comment on such projects before the expenditure of any federal funds. An Individual Assistance, Public Assistance, or Hazard Mitigation Grant Program activity is an undertaking for the purposes of the NHPA, and a historic property is any property that is included in, or eligible for inclusion in, the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). For historic properties that will not be adversely affected by FEMA's undertaking, this will be the only public notice. FEMA may provide additional public notices if a proposed FEMA undertaking would adversely affect an historic property. II. Further Information or Comment This will be the only public notice regarding the actions described above for which FEMA may provide financial assistance under its Individual Assistance, Public Assistance, and Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs. Interested persons may obtain information about these actions or a specific project by writing to the Federal Emergency Management Agency Joint Field Office, Retirement Fund Building, Isa Drive, Capitol Hill, Saipan, MP. Comments should be sent in writing to Mr. Benigno Bern Ruiz, Federal Coordinating Officer, at the above address within 15 days of the date of this notice.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/cuc-saipan-water-tank-service-areas-nov-9-2018,"CUC Saipan Water Tank Service Areas for Nov 9, 2018",2018-11-09,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"CUC Saipan Water Tank Service Areas for Nov 9, 2018 Nov 8, 2018 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS Office of the Governor CNMI JOINT INFORMATION CENTER Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management Yutu Relief The CNMI Government will be exchanging full five-gallon water bottles for empty or damaged bottles at the following distribution site: Saturday, November 10, 2018 San Antonio Basketball Court Residents must bring empty or damaged five-gallon water bottles to exchange for new bottles. Distribution starts at 3:00 PM Limit (1) five-gallon water bottle per family. Follow CNMI on Social Media The CNMI Joint Information Center (JIC) urges the community to follow the following social media platforms to getthe latest weather updates and information: CNMI EOC State Warning Point Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cnmieocswp/ CNMI Office of the Governor Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CNMIGov/ Governor Ralph DLG. Torres Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ralphdlg.torres/ CNMI Joint Information Center: https://www.facebook.com/JICNMI/ The CNMI JIC also encourages residents to download HSEM's readyCNMI App available for FREE in the Apple iStoreor Google PlayStore to receive the latest weather updates and notifications. For more information or media inquiries, contact Nadine Deleon Guerrero, HSEM External Affairs Officer at ncdlg@cnmihsem.gov.mp. -# # #-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/fema-cnmi-recovery-update-1192018,FEMA CNMI Recovery Update 11/9/2018,2018-11-09,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"FEMA CNMI Recovery Update 11/9/2018 Nov 9, 2018 FEMA CNMI Recovery Update CNMI, FEMA and Other Federal Agencies are working on these top priorities: Ensure safety of first responders and survivors. Sustain life by ensuring food, water, medical, and critical supplies are available in sufficient quantity Restore necessary utilities. Conduct Temporary Emergency Tent and Roofing Installation Support (TETRIS) The shelter population continues to decrease.684 survivors are in shelters in Saipan, and there are no persons remaining in the Tinian shelter. The Tinian shelter is closed as of 09-November (ChST). Voluntary agencies: In addition to meals being provided by Red Cross, MyPros, and Salvation Army, Samaritan's Purse is on Saipan, distributing plastic sheeting. Health & Medical: Dandan clinic opened yesterday A Federal contract to transport concrete poles via barge has been issued. Saipan Airport: Navigational aids are being installed in the mobile air traffic control center; more parts are en route.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/guam-continues-support-recovery-efforts-cnmi,Guam Continues Supporting Recovery Efforts in CNMI; Donation Drive Extended,2018-11-09,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"For Immediate Release Guam Supports Recovery Efforts in CNMI Donation Drive Extended to November 21, 2018 Recovery efforts continue in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) after Super Typhoon Yutu left behind its destruction two weeks ago. The government of Guam continues to work with federal and military partners, as well as with local agencies to assist Saipan and Tinian with their recovery efforts. CNMI Donation Drive Ongoing The whole community is encouraged to donate to those in need in the CNMI. In-kind donations for Saipan and Tinian are accepted at the Guam Homeland Security/Office of Civil Defense facility in Agana Heights. The donation drive has been extended until November 21, 2018 The hours of operation are: Monday Friday: 8 a.m. 6 p.m. Saturdays: 9 a.m. 3 p.m. Sundays and Holidays: CLOSED The following items are being accepted at this time: Canned Goods Rice Flashlights and Lanterns Batteries Tarp Duct Tape Hygiene products Clothing Bedding The whole community - individuals, families, government agencies, and other groups and organizations are encouraged to provide their donations before or by November 21, 2018. Guam Support Continues Airport The Guam International Airport Authority (GIAA) sent two airfield electricians since November 1, 2018 to assist in the recovery of field and terminal electrical systems at the Saipan International Airport. The Saipan International Airport is open for incoming military aircrafts, humanitarian aid, returning residents and outgoing flights. They GIAA electricians will also travel to Tinian to assess and assist with repair of Tinian International Airport's electrical systems. Power The Guam Power Authority (GPA) currently has 33 personnel in CNMI working with the Commonwealth Utilities Corporation (CUC) on power restoration. GPA's personnel include: engineers, electricians, equipment operators, safety officers and many others. DPW The Guam Department of Public Works (DPW) is sending 2 engineers to Saipan this weekend to assess the damages to traffic signals across the island. 4 additional DPW personnel are on standby to perform repairs on the traffic signals once assessments are done. Guam National Guard In late October, approximately 130 Guam Guardsmen with the Army Guard's 1224th Engineer Support Company were sent to Saipan to assist with recovery efforts to include support of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and FEMA as the lead federal agency in support of debris clearing missions in CNMI. The National Guard also sent heavy equipment and assets including: 18 vehicles, including high-mobility excavators, 10-ton dump- trucks, and light-medium practical vehicles. Accompanying the equipment were 22 heavy equipment operators to provide the capability to move and clean large amounts of debris more efficiently. For more information, contact GHS/OCD Public Information Officer Jenna G. Blas at (671) 489-2540 or via email at jenna.g.blas@ghs.guam.gov. -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/pss-child-nutrition-program-meal-distribution-open-all-children,PSS: Child Nutrition Program Meal Distribution Open to All Children,2018-11-09,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"The CNMI Public School System Child Nutrition Program Meal Distribution is OPEN to ALL CHILDREN!I (For 18 years of age and younger) ONE MEAL PER CHILD. WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. Meal Distribution will continue until public schools resume. WHEN: Beginning November 14, 2018 (Monday to Friday's only/ Meals will not be served over the Weekends or on November 22 & 23, 2018.) TIME: 11:00 am to 12:00 noon SPECIAL CONDITIONS: One meal will be given to each child Child must take/pick-up their meal A parent cannot claim a meal for their child or children however parents are encourage to accompany their child for safety For Saipan & Tinian only WHERE: Distribution Sites are as follows: William S. Reyes Elementary School Dandan Middle School Oleai Elementary School Garapan Elementary School Francisco M. Sablan Middle School San Vicente Elementary School Saipan Southern High School Chacha Ocean View Middle School Tinian Elementary School *All meals served follow USDA Summer Food Service Program Guidelines. This Institution is an Equal Opportunity Provider. (see attached flyer - for more information contact our Child Nutrition Program at (670) 664-3901/02/04.) #marianasstrong",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/temporary-emergency-tent-and-roofing-installation-support-tetris-program,Temporary Emergency Tent and Roofing Installation Support (TETRIS) program,2018-11-09,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Temporary Emergency Tent and Roofing Installation Support (TETRIS) program Nov 9, 2018 NOVEMBER 7, 2018 FEMA DR-4404 Webpage: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4404 Temporary Emergency Tent and Roofing Installation Support (TETRIS) program Typhoon Yutu damaged many homes in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and the storm resulted in a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration on October 26, 2018. To assist storm-impacted residents returning to or remaining in their homes while permanent repairs are completed, the Commonwealth and FEMA have implemented a Temporary Emergency Tent and Roofing Installation Support (TETRIS) program. CNMI has been conducting assessments and tent installations throughout Saipan. This program is an expansion of the CNMI Tenting Program to include Saipan and Tinian with greater outreach and the inclusion of potential roofing repair. The TETRIS program will use technical specialists, FEMA funding, and manpower from our state and military partners. All four branches of our military family are represented. FEMA and the Commonwealth will reimburse our military for their expenses. Here are some important facts about the emergency temporary roofing program: The roofing program will be available to damaged homes identified during recent and ongoing damage assessments. Single-family homes, duplexes, and townhomes may be eligible for the roofing component of the program. Apartment complexes and businesses will not be eligible for this program. Buildings must be structurally sound so approved emergency work can be made safely and will provide suitable shelter. Questions pertaining to this mission can be directed to CNMI and FEMA specialists who will be available to answer questions and help program participants. Their contact information will be provided to program participants via a flyer and/or business card. Our state and military partners are providing the labor to install the roofing and some of the tent installations as local contractors and volunteers are in short supply on the islands. All impacted CNMI residents may be eligible for these programs regardless of citizenship. For questions related to this program: Saipan residents may call (670) 323-0029 Tinian resident may call (670) 433-1803",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/disaster-legal-services-available,Disaster Legal Services available,2018-11-08,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Disaster Legal Services available Nov 8, 2018 Disaster Legal Services have been activated by FEMA via the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division. Any person affected by Super Typhoon Yutu who does not have the means to hire an attorney may be eligible to receive free legal assistance.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/emergency-prescription-assistance-program-activated,Emergency Prescription Assistance Program activated,2018-11-08,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Uninsured citizens of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), a U.S. territory, are eligible for no-cost replacements of critical medications lost or damaged by Super Typhoon Yutu. This relief comes from the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP), managed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' (HHS) Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR). We are committed to doing everything we can to protect Americans from the potential health impacts of disasters, and Emergency Prescription Assistance Program is one part of that effort, said HHS Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, Robert Kadlec, M.D. EPAP provides vital assistance to people without insurance who rely upon certain prescription medicines and equipment to protect their health after disasters. I encourage citizens in Northern Mariana Islands who qualify for this assistance to take advantage of it. More than 72,000 pharmacies participate nationwide. All of the pharmacies in the CNMI are open and the following pharmacies in Saipan participate in the Emergency Prescription Assistance Program: - Brabu Pharmacy, 101 Akari Road - PHI Pharmacy, 1 Navy Hill Road - PHI I, Joeten Dandan Center Click here to view the entire press release.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/fema-disaster-recovery-centers-open,FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers open,2018-11-08,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers open Nov 8, 2018 For face-to-face assistance with your FEMA or SBA applications, visit your closest DRC, one on Tinian, Saipan and Rota.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/kilili-scott-agree-fix-wagner-peyser,"Kilili, Scott agree to fix Wagner-Peyser",2018-11-08,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"For Immediate Distribution Kilili, Scott agree to fix Wagner-Peyser NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS Now that Democrats will control the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan is confident that the Marianas will be included in the Wagner-Peyser jobs grant. Kilili and the incoming Chairman of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, Rep. Robert Scott (D-Virginia), agreed in an exchange of letters in October to make this fix part of their agenda for the 116th Congress. Republicans blocked the inclusion of the Marianas in Wagner-Peyser in 2014, when the law was last reauthorized, Congressman Sablan said. Now that Democrats will control the agenda, the Marianas will be included. I have the Chairman's agreement. The Wagner-Peyser program is part of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and WIOA is up for reauthorization in 2019. Please know that you have my commitment to work with you to make the Marianas an eligible entity for Wagner-Peyser Act assistance when Congress takes up the reauthorization of WIOA, Mr. Scott wrote to Congressman Sablan on October 22. Scott also pledged to explore other opportunities to increase and strengthen the U.S. workforce in the Marianas. I look forward to working with you on this issue and to build on the many education and labor issues that we have worked on over the last ten years. As a ten-year veteran, Congressman Sablan is in line to be a chairman in the Education Committee and could very well have direct control of WIOA legislation himself. The annual Wagner-Peyser grant, estimated at about $300,000, would provide skill assessment, career guidance, referrals to training for job seekers. Employers would benefit from services matching job requirements to job seeker experience and skills. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/kilili-congratulates-michael-san-nicolas-new-democratic-guam-delegate,"Kilili congratulates Michael San Nicolas, new Democratic Guam Delegate",2018-11-07,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Kilili congratulates Michael San Nicolas, new Democratic Guam Delegate Nov 6, 2018 Kilili congratulates Michael San Nicolas, new Democratic Guam Delegate NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan has congratulated Guam's newly elected Delegate to the U.S. Congress, Democrat Michael San Nicolas. San Nicolas won election with 56 percent of the vote. With the U.S. House of Representatives looking to have a Democratic majority, Guam voters made a smart decision to send a Democrat to be their voice in Congress, Congressman Sablan said. I look forward to working closely with Michael San Nicolas on regional issues, if the voters of the Northern Marianas elect to return me to Congress as their representative. With a total of ten years' experience, Congressman Sablan will be the senior member of the caucus representing U.S. insular areas in the 116th Congress. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/kilili-democratic-majority-house-gives-marianas-more-clout,Kilili: Democratic majority in House gives Marianas more clout,2018-11-07,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Kilili: Democratic majority in House gives Marianas more clout NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan welcomed election results from the rest of the United States today, giving the Democratic party the majority of seats in the U.S. House of Representatives. Kilili is a senior member of the Democratic Caucus, eligible to be a chairman in the House Committee on Education and the Workforce or in the House Natural Resources Committee, which has jurisdiction over all insular affairs. We have been able to accomplish a lot even with a Republican majority over the last eight years, Sablan said, the CW bill, extra food stamp funding, the increased annual Title I money for schools, return of our submerged lands, and 24-hour water for Saipan. But when Democrats had the majority in my first two years in Congress we got $109 million for Medicaid and lowered the local match requirement. We increased Pell grants and made more students eligible. The Marianas became eligible for a state-share of domestic violence grant money. The troop store expansion began. And we got over $1 million in earmarks for NMTI, the Garapan Public Market, and Refaluwasch and Chamorro language programs. Those were good years for the Marianas, the Congressman said. And I am looking forward to good years ahead with the Democrats back in the majority in the House and a chairmanship for the Marianas. Congressman Sablan congratulated all the new Democrats who won seats that had been held by Republicans and made the new majority possible. I also congratulate my friend Ben Ray Lujan of New Mexico, the Chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. Ben Ray was responsible for fund-raising and recruiting candidates nationwide for this election. Democrats success today is in large measure the result of his work. Now, I look forward to returning to Congress for two more years to work for the people of the Mariana Islands. Congressman Sablan has already made public his Agenda 116 for the next Congress, including: Medicaid state-like treatment for the Marianas already included in the Democrats Health Equity and Accountability Act with 71 cosponsors. Federal tuition assistance for Marianas college students in mainland universities already included in the Aim Higher Act with 68 sponsors. More funding for the Marianas E-NAP food stamp program already introduced in the Northern Mariana Islands Enhanced Nutrition Assistance Act. The Northern Mariana Islands Workforce Stabilization Act providing status for long-term investors and workers, as agreed by CNMI 902 negotiators, with 36 cosponsors. In addition, Congressman Sablan has already received assurances from Democratic leaders that his requests for supplemental disaster assistance for the Marianas to recover from Super Typhoon Yutu will be part of the appropriations package being put together for Hurricanes Florence and Michael. Yutu disaster assistance will be my first order of business when I am back at work in Congress on November 14, Kilili said. This is our chance to rebuild stronger than ever. I intend to make the most of all I have learned in ten years in Congress to get the Marianas the help we need. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/kilili-va-will-prioritize-vets-benefit-appeals,Kilili: VA will prioritize vets benefit appeals,2018-11-07,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Kilili: VA will prioritize vets benefit appeals NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan said the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has decided to give priority to benefits appeals claims for veterans impacted by Super Typhoon Yutu. Any Marianas veteran with an appeal currently pending before the Board of Veterans' Appeals will have their appeal automatically advanced on the Board's docket, Congressman Sablan said. Veterans or other persons making an appeal do not need to take any action to get this priority treatment; and it will be in effect until at least May 1, 2019. In addition to Super Typhoon Yutu survivors,the VA is also giving priority to survivors ofhurricanes Florence and Michael in Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia found to be disaster areas by FEMA. VA Secretary Robert Wilkie said, Just as it did with hurricanes Florence and Michael, VA'sBoard of Veterans' Appeals is prioritizing the benefits appeals claims process [for Super Typhoon Yutu] because it is the right thing to do. Making sure the Marianas gets the same level of federal response as given to states impacted by hurricanes Florence and Michael is a priority for Congressman Sablan. The mission of VA's Board of Veterans' Appeals is to conduct hearings and decide disability benefits appeals for Veterans in a timely manner. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/kilili-marianas-needs-expedited-h-visas-construction-workers,Kilili: Marianas needs expedited H visas for construction workers,2018-11-06,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan wants the U.S. Departments of Homeland Security and Labor to expedite H visa applications for construction workers in light of Super Typhoon Yutu. We do not want a lack of construction workers to slow down our recovery efforts, Sablan said. And expediting H visa applications, as I am requesting, in no way lessens our commitment to give preferential employment to U.S. workers. The Marianas has access to an unlimited number of foreign workers, entering with H visas, because of Sablan's Northern Mariana Islands U.S. Workforce Act. President Trump signed Public Law 115-218 on July 24. It exempts the Marianas from the national cap on H visas through 2029. One particular type of H visa, H-2B, can be used to hire temporary workers. Companies that employ construction workers cannot use H-2B visas under ordinary circumstances, Sablan said. But, when there is a special, short-term demand, as is the case now after this natural disaster, then the H-2B visa should apply. I have also asked Secretary Nielsen to confirm that reading of the law for us, he added. Construction companies could then apply for visas with confidence. Although, of course, every application is judged on its own merits. A construction company applying for an H-2B visa under this peakload need category would need to show that it regularly employs permanent workers in the Marianas and needs to temporarily supplement its permanent staff due to short-term demand. The company must also agree that the H-2B additions will not become part of the employer's regular workforce. H-2B visas are renewable for up to three years, Sablan said. I know there is a lot of work to do after Yutu. I know people are still making repairs from Typhoon Soudelor three years ago, but three years is a significant amount of time. And, if a new H-2B visa worker needs to be brought in even after three years, that may be possible. The Marianas also has access to foreign labor through the Commonwealth Only Temporary Worker program. CW permits, however, may not be used for new construction workers. The last thing we would want is for hundreds or thousands of new construction workers to scoop up CW permits and make life difficult for our local businesses, Sablan said. We have seen that happen once before and it was a disaster. Congressman Sablan made his request for expedited treatment in a letter to Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen and Labor Secretary Alexander Acosta. Acosta's Labor Department is responsible for issuing temporary labor certifications, the first step in the H-2B visa application process. Certifications are issued when there are not enough U.S. workers who are able, willing, qualified, and available to do the temporary work. Congressman Sablan also used the opportunity to thank Nielsen and Acosta for the aid their departments are providing right now to the Marianas. FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the Coast Guard are both part of Homeland Security. FEMA reports it has 294 people currently in the Marianas and 1,207 support personnel. The Labor Department has sent an Occupational and Health Safety officer here and granted dislocated worker funds to pay to employ workers who lost their jobs because of the typhoon. Labor is also assisting the Commonwealth establish Disaster Unemployment Assistance to help individuals impacted by Typhoon Mangkhut. FEMA initially denied unemployment assistance after Typhoon Soudelor, but intervention by Congressman Sablan prompted reconsideration; and the program was put into effect in 2015 based on Hawai'i unemployment law. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/cnmi-department-finance-reminds-businesses-issue-receipts-every-transaction,CNMI Department of Finance reminds businesses to issue receipts for every transaction,2018-11-05,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 5, 2018 The Department of Finance and the Division of Revenue and Taxation (DOF-DRT) advise all businesses to ensure an accurate record of sales through the issuance of receipts or proof of purchases that include, but are not limited to, electronic or manual receipts during this restoration period. Secretary of Finance Larrisa Larson stated that while commercial sales continue throughout the Commonwealth and utilities are restored overtime, affected business are still required to issue manual sales receipts for all business transactions. Since the establishment of Public Law 18-35, which provided revisions to the Sales Receipt Act, purposely failing to produce business record of transactions and failure to comply is punishable by fines ranging from $350 to $1500 dependent on subsequent offenses. Dishonest business operators cause a significant loss of revenue to the CNMI and more than three violations will trigger an automatic revocation of business licenses. With the CNMI in recovery status, we still want to ensure that our community is safeguarded from unethical business practices and that Commonwealth revenue is protected moving forward. We ask the public to contact our office for any questions or concerns regarding this advisory or for more information on related matters, Larson said. For more information, log on to www.cnmidof.net or call 664-1100. # # #",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/cnmi-gov-torres-clarifies-election-day-holiday,CNMI Gov Torres clarifies Election Day Holiday,2018-11-05,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"CNMI Gov Torres clarifies Election Day Holiday Nov 5, 2018 MEMORANDUM DATE: November 5, 2018 FROM: Governor TO: All Department and Activity Heads SUBJECT: Election Day Holiday Pursuant to Executive Order 2018-19, I postponed the general election to November 13, 2018 with early voting to commence on November 6. 2018. To avoid any misunderstanding, this memorandum is issuedto make clear that all employees are to report for work on November 6, 2018 to work their scheduled hours. Pursuant to 1 CMC 6508. the day the general election is now to be held. November 13, 2018, is a legal holiday. Accordingly, all non-essential government workers are granted holiday leave on that date. Sincerely, /s/ RALPH DLG. TORRES",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/cnmi-public-school-system-recovery-updates,CNMI Public School System Recovery Updates,2018-11-05,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE PSS Recovery Updates School Opening The Public School System (PSS) continues its collaboration with the Army Corps of Engineers, the Office of the Governor, Homeland Security, FEMA, and the American Red Cross. With the damage assessment completed, the focus shifts to restoring power and water to schools, cleaning campuses, fixing repairable classrooms, and identifying temporary facilities to ensure that all schools are operational as soon as possible for the students. PSS maintains a conditional opening target for all Saipan and Tinian schools within seven weeks. As soon as a school is deemed safe and operational, classes will resume. The school year will be adjusted accordingly for each school based on the school resumption date. Some schools will implement a double session schedule with four hours of instructional time allotted for each morning and afternoon session. Furthermore, some schools may need to relocate or share campuses. Temporary structures will be added to some school sites to accommodate the student population. Sufficient transportation resources are readily available to support these conditions. The public will be immediately notified of details as plans are solidified. Public Schools in Rota currently continue normal operations. Withdrawals For parents or guardians of minors or students over the age of 18 wishing to withdraw from PSS, please visit the Office of the Commissioner of Education, located on Capitol Hill, Building Number 1211, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, beginning on Tuesday, November 6, 2018. Withdrawals will be processed through this central location until further notice. See the map below for directions. Transfers and New Enrollment PSS is not entertaining transfer requests or permitting new enrollments until all schools within the district have resumed. Distance Education All branches of Distance Education are temporarily suspended. This impacts students currently enrolled in the Student eLearning Gateway as well as staff completing coursework through the Professional eLearning Portal. Information regarding the resumption of online coursework for students and personnel will be announced when plans are solidified. Shelters Shelter residents continue to receive non-potable water that is delivered on a regular basis through the Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services. Shelter residents are provided with meals three times daily by the American Red Cross. Drinking water is also made available daily. PSS has coordinated activities for the children living in the shelters, offering morning and afternoon opportunities. Provisions for Shelter Residents are jointly coordinated through collaboration with the Emergency Operation Center. In coordination with partners, long-term shelters have been identified. Three PSS campuses are identified are as follows: Kagman Elementary, Tanapag Middle School, and Gregorio T. Camacho Elementary School. The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will publish more information regarding the transitional plan for the long-term shelters. PSS Staff 190-day certified employees are not to report to work until further notice. All non-certified staff have begun reporting to work. In collaboration with FEMA, PSS is coordinating assessment of its personnel needs. More information will be broadcasted internally. PSS Hours Until further notice, Central Office hours are from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. Additional Information For information, please visit the Office of the Commissioner of Education, located on Capitol Hill, Building Number 1211 or call 664-3845 or email info@cnmipss.org. You can also visit the CNMI PSS facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/cnmipss/. Public Advisory The public is advised not to visit school campuses on Saipan and Tinian for safety reasons as continuing assessments, cleaning, and repairs are underway",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/government-offices-saipan-resume-normal-hours-tuesday-november-6,"Government Offices in Saipan resume normal hours Tuesday, November 6.",2018-11-05,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"MEMORANDUM DATE: November 5, 2018 FROM: Governor TO: All Department and Activity Heads and Employees SUBJECT: Government Office Hours on Saipan, Tinian and Rota until further notice SAIPAN: All government offices on Saipan will resume regular operational hours starting on November 6, 2018 from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Government personnel not engaged in first responder activities or emergency relief and recovery efforts are directed to report for work at their normally scheduled times. TINIAN: As of November 6, 2018, operating hours of government offices will be set at the discretion of the Mayor of Tinian and Aguiguan. ROTA: Resumed normal working hours on October 31, 2018. All non-critical personnel, who cannot make it to work must notify their immediate supervisor and apply for personal leave. Sincerely, /s/ RALPH DLG. TORRES",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/govguam-offices-guam-homeland-security-and-civil-defense-continuing-donations,GovGuam Offices of Guam Homeland Security and Civil Defense continuing donations management for Super Typhoon Yutu,2018-11-05,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"For Immediate Release November 5, 2018 GovGuam Donation Drive for CNMI Ongoing The Offices of Guam Homeland Security and Civil Defense (GHS/OCD), on behalf of the Government of Guam (GovGuam), continue donations management to support those in the CNMI affected by Super Typhoon Yutu. In-kind donations are accepted at the GHS/OCD facility in Agana Heights until November 10, 2018. The hours of operation are: Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturdays: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sundays and Holidays: CLOSED As part of the relief effort, GHS/OCD, working with partner agencies, will be outsourcing for containers to be shipped and are available to assist in transporting goods to Saipan and Tinian as needed. The following items are being accepted at this time: Canned Goods Rice Flashlights and Lanterns Batteries Tarp Duct Tape *Please note bottled water is not being accepted at GHS/OCD at this time. *Monetary donations are not being accepted at GHS/OCD at this time. For those wanting to make monetary donations, the following locations are accepting: Guam Department of Education Coin Drive monetary donations can be made at GDOE school offices Agat Mayor's Office is hosting a separate money drive for Tinian All Bank of Guam branches are accepting cash or check contributions Ayuda Foundation with BankPacific are collecting monetary donations Prutehi Litekyan and Hya Foundation are accepting monetary donations online at bit.ly/YutuRelief, under the memo ""typhoon relief efforts"" Items that are not in boxes are acceptable and will be boxed and consolidated at the GHS/OCD facility. Requested items may change throughout the donation period based on the requests and needs of the people in the CNMI. Stay up to date with the latest information regarding the donation drive at: GovGuam Agencies Government of Guam agencies are requested to consolidate all donated items within their respective agencies and deliver them in bulk to GHS/OCD. All Guam Fire Department stations are also collecting donations to be delivered in bulk to GHS/OCD. GovGuam agencies are requested to deliver throughout the week and not wait until the last day so the donations management team can prepare and palletize accordingly. Other Groups/Organizations GHS/OCD is able to assist other groups such as faith-based organizations, non-profit organizations, or any others that are facilitating donation drives by receiving their donations in bulk at GHS/OCD to be shipped to CNMI. Families or Individuals GHS/OCD is open to the public. Any family or individuals that wants to donate the appropriate items are asked to drop them to the GHS/OCD facility during the hours of operation provided. For more information regarding accepted items or hours of operation, contact the GHS/OCD 24/7 watch desk at (671) 475-9600. For media inquiries, contact GHS/OCD Public Information Officer Jenna G. Blas at (671) 489-2540 or via email at jenna.g.blas@ghs.guam.gov. -###-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/kilili-asks-governor-cooperate-typhoon-appropriation-requests,Kilili asks Governor to cooperate on typhoon appropriation requests,2018-11-05,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan has asked Governor Ralph Torres to cooperate with him putting together a joint request for special disaster assistance from the U.S. Congress. The Appropriations Committee is most responsive when requests for assistance are the product of cooperation and agreement between the office of the Governor and the congressional delegation, Sablan told the Governor on Sunday. Because Congress will immediately reconvene next week, I will be returning then to make sure the Marianas obtains the funding assistance we need for our recovery. Being able to say that I speak in agreement with the Governor will make that effort much more likely to succeed. Congressman Sablan said that congressional appropriators are already working on funding for disaster relief in the wake of hurricanes Florence and Michael, which struck the eastern U.S. a few weeks ago, and Super Typhoon Yutu. I have already spoken to appropriators about the possible need to provide supplemental Medicaid funding to the Marianas under terms similar to those that were extended to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands during their recovery from hurricanes last year. I have also communicated to the committees responsible for food assistance, Kilili reported to the Governor. The Commonwealth has not yet announced that disaster food assistance will be available for Tinian and Saipan, as it was after Typhoon Soudelor and as it is now for Rota after Typhoon Mangkhut. I understand, however, that you are in the process of preparing to provide such aid to the families ordinarily eligible, as well as to those whose incomes have been temporarily interrupted and whose household food supplies were lost in Yutu. FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, has authority to provide help to individuals and households after a natural disaster. The Agency also assists state and territorial governments rebuild water and power systems and other public infrastructure. After Typhoon Soudelor FEMA gave out $37 million for individual assistance and $39 million for infrastructure. Another $10 million has gone for hazard mitigation grants to harden the Commonwealth's water and power systems to withstand typhoons. The Commonwealth was already facing the end of the Medicaid funding I got for us in the Affordable Care Act, said Kilili, and the extra food stamp money I put into the Agricultural Act of 2014 was supposed to be dedicated to making more families eligible. Yutu recovery will drain those available funds and we need to replace the money. FEMA's Disaster Recovery Fund cannot do that. Congressman Sablan asked the Governor to work with him to assess what assistance is needed for the Marianas, above and beyond what can be provided through the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Disaster Relief Fund, and to estimate what the costs of such additional assistance may be. Among the programs that may need special Yutu-related funds are Project SERV grants. The School Emergency Response to Violence program was recommended to Sablan by U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos in their phone call last Wednesday. The Education Department administers Project SERV grants. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/cuc-saipan-water-tank-service-areas-energized-water-distribution-system-anticipated,"CUC: Saipan Water Tank Service Areas - Energized Water Distribution System - Anticipated Schedule as of November 4, 2018",2018-11-04,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Office 2411 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-2646, Toll Free: 1-877-446-3465 Fax: (202) 226-4249 Hours: M-F 9AM-6PM EST",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/cuc-status-update-4,"Commonwealth Utilities Corporations (CUC) Power, Water and Wastewater Status Update #4",2018-11-04,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"The latest information from CUC: CUC SAIPAN As of this update, 913 poles are down and damaged, with 510 damaged transformers. CUC has been offered assistance by Kosrae, Pohnpei and Chuuk utilities and is coordinating additional linemen assistance. CUC is also in coordination with Palau for additional assistance. Additional crew from Rota and Guam Power Authority are currently on Saipan assisting with restoration. WATER UPDATES: TANK SERVICE AREAS ARE OPERATING IN A LIMITED CAPACITY BASED ON TANK LEVELS, WITH DAMAGED TANK LEVEL GAUGES, PIPE DAMAGE BEING ASSESSED. PUERTO RICO TANK: CUC has been releasing water to lower base, Puerto Rico to southern Garapan on Kopa Di Oru Street near Kristo Rai. (All determined based on tank levels) CALHOUN: Water is online in all of China Town areas, Isla Drive between Gurupu Drive to Puerto Rico Drive and Chalan Galaide, water service was shut off in Matsue Street due to leak and pending repair. RAPAGAO: Water wells SQ4, 148, 149 on island power. SQ 150 on FEMA generator. Wells supply water to Puerto Rico Tank. Pending repairs to weather head. AGAG: FEMA generator continues to feed Agag Tank from waterline distribution on Papago Drive, customers in As Teo should be receiving water based on tank levels. CAPITOL HILL: Water filling station has reopened, tank levels slowly increasing. Power Division fixing power poles toward Capitol Hill area. AS MATUIS: Upper As Matuis receiving water, CUC preparing to serve water As Matuis homestead, San Roque and Tanapag areas all based on tank levels. GUALO RAI: FEMA generator installed, water testing ongoing, water leaks to be repaired. ISLEY: Water released to customers in Chalan Kanoa to Susupe. Koblerville homestead and Afetnas received water based on tank levels. Water remains offline now for Koblerville village San Antonio, Chalan Piao, and As Gonno. DANDAN: FEMA generator continues to feed Dan Dan tank and water hours determined based on tank levels. KAGMAN: Kagman 3 received water yesterday including the KCC shelter. Engineers still testing K1, K2, and K4 areas for leaks. PAPAGO: Major leak reported, engineers working to repair. SAN VICENTE: Water released from San Vicente area to Dan Dan Road up to Dan Dan bakery based on tank levels. AS TERLAJE: Water anticipated to be released tomorrow. Water hours to be determined based on tank levels. KANNAT TABLA: Water anticipated to be released tomorrow. Chlorination ongoing. Engineering and Operations still assessing. GUALO RAI: Chlorination and Bacteria results pending. Engineering and Operations still assessing. WHILE EMERGENCY GENERATORS ARE HOOKED UP AND POWER IS RESTORED AND CREWS PERFORM REPAIRS, ONLY (5) OUT OF (6) WATER FILLING STATIONS ARE AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. THE REMAINING (5) WATER FILLING STATIONS WILL INCREASE VOLUME FOR THE PUBLIC TO 100 GALLONS. Navy Hill Water Station, located on Isla Drive near the baseball field from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Kagman Water Station, located on the road across Kagman Market from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Koblerville Water Station, located on Tinaktak Drive between Han Nam Market and Tottotville from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Kannat Tabla Water Station, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Capital Hill Water Station, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. As Matuis, CLOSED DUE TO LOW WATER LEVELS Water is non-potable and should only be used for cleaning and bathing. All water must be treated with bleach before use with 16 drops or 1/8th teaspoon for every gallon of water. Donni Springs has unlimited untreated water and was activated as an emergency government fill station. DFEMS assisted by transporting water to Power Plant I and to the CUC Operations Command Center. POWER TRANSMISSION & DISTRIBUTION: OUT OF 9 FEEDERS ON SAIPAN, FEEDER 1, FEEDER 4, AND FEEDER 7 ARE PARTIALLY ONLINE. FEEDER 1: Primary lines were energized since October 28, 2018 bringing the hospital and adjoining laterals online. On October 29, 2018, the area of Anak's, upper and lower Navy Hill and lower MIHA were online, with the exception of some laterals because of downed poles. One October 30, 2018, Paganville, Sugar King Estates, Bank of Saipan to China Town (primary lines only), and JG Sablan Ice and Water Company. On November 1, 2018 laterals of the museum north to Bank of Saipan, west of Bank of Guam to Garapan Elem. School east to 99 cents store. On November 2, additional laterals of Navy and laterals behind 99 cents stores and November 3, partial lower base, Sadog Tasi Treatment Plant, Puerto Rico, across Garapan Central Park and remaining areas need installation of power poles. FEEDER 2: On November 1 to November 3, downed power poles and fallen transformers have been removed and cleared from Micro Beach Garapan to Atkins Kroll. Assessment of downed transformers from CUC Oleai to Micro Beach, Garapan Central Park to Payless Shoe Source completed. FEEDER 3: On November 1, electrical systems of certain water wells in Gualo Rai have been repaired and are ready for generator installations and connections. FEEDER 4: 5 power poles going up Capitol Hill, with certain areas from Lower Base to Capitol Hill intersection before post office online. FEEDER 7: From Sadog Tasi, Puerto Rico, and Marpi online. Certain laterals of NMTI, transit bus station, Tanapag Mobil and across Camacho compound, Tanapag school, the Water Company, San Roque Fire Station, San Roque Church, and certain As Matuis laterals. KIYA 1: From November 1 to November 3, CUC installed a total of 29 wooden power poles from Chalan Kiya substation going up As Terlaje. CUC installed 16 power poles on Airport Road and continues erecting poles throughout, including 36 more poles to Isley Field. KIYA 2: From November 1 to November 3, four water wells are ready but crew continues to clear downed power poles and lines in Dan Dan and Obyan areas. KIYA 3: Downed power poles and fallen transformers have been removed and cleared from Payless to J's and collection of damaged transformers and removal of hardware and conductors from UCON to Sugar King has been completed. KIYA 4: Cleared and removed down power pole and hardware at Mt. Carmel Cathedral and Ada Gym area. Ongoing clearing of downed power poles, transformers, and conductors from Susupe area to Chalan Kanoa Texas Road. CUC's OPERATIONS COMMAND CENTER continues work from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. deploying line crew and engineers throughout the island. CALL CENTER OPERATIONS continue to receive trouble calls and is currently operating from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Customers can call 664-4282 to report emergencies or utility damages. CUC TINIAN CUC OPERATIONS COMMAND CENTER continues to operate from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. POWER GENERATION: All feeders remain offline but station power is on at the CUC Tinian Power Plant from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. WATER: Island-wide water services remain offline. Marpo Valley Water Station remains open for the public to get water from 1:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Maui II Pump Station remains operation and water is partially online in San Jose Village & partial areas in Marpo Valley, Carolina Heights, and partial areas in Marpo Heights 1 and 2. A total of 16 water line damage repaired 4 main lines and 12 service laterals. Distribution assessments and repairs are ongoing. CUC ROTA All systems are back to normal as of the evening of 10/27/18. CUC CONTACT INFO: CUC Call Center: (670) 664-4282 CUC Outage Hotline: (670) 236-4333 CUC Rota: (670) 532-9411/9413 CUC Tinian: (670) 433-9261/9264/9265",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/honolulu-va-regional-office-expedite-claims-veterans-affected-super-typhoon-yutu,Honolulu VA Regional Office to expedite claims of veterans affected by Super Typhoon Yutu,2018-11-04,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Honolulu VA Regional Office (VARO) informed me that pending claims filed by veterans in the Northern Marianas affected by Typhoon Yutu will receive expedited processing and that Appeals actions with the Honolulu VARO are being prioritized. Additionally, the office has requested the Pension Maintenance Center which has jurisdiction for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) claims to expedite pending pension cases. A VA Benefits Counselor will be at the Saipan VA Clinic located at MH-II Bldg, Suite 206, Marina Heights Business Park in Garapan beginning Monday, November 5, to Thursday, November 8, to answer benefits questions veterans and assist with the claims process. My sincerest thanks and appreciation to Honolulu VARO Director Gooden and her staff for their efforts to help our veterans through this difficult time.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/saipan-registration-intake-center-opens,Saipan Registration Intake Center opens,2018-11-03,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Saipan survivors may now register for disaster assistance face-to-face with FEMA representatives at a Registration Intake Center at the following times & locations: Sunday 11/04 Multipurpose Center, Susupe 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday Friday Joeten-Kiyu Library, Susupe 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. The Registration Intake Center is not a full-scale Disaster Recovery Center. It is not for survivors to obtain information on their application status, but for initial registration only.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/sba-announces-opening-sba-business-recovery-center-saipan,SBA announces opening of SBA Business Recovery Center in Saipan,2018-11-03,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"NEWS RELEASE Disaster Field Operations Center West Release Date: Nov. 3, 2018 Release Number: MP 15782-02 Contact: Richard A. Jenkins, (916) 735-1500, Richard.Jenkins@sba.gov Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Blogs & Instagram SBA to Open Business Recovery Center in Saipan toHelpBusinesses Impacted by Super Typhoon Yutu SACRAMENTO, Calif. The U.S Small Business Administration today announced the opening of an SBABusiness Recovery Center in Saipan to provide a wide range of services to businesses impacted by Super Typhoon Yutu that occurred Oct. 2426, 2018. The center will open as indicated below. Due to the severe property damage and economic losses Super Typhoon Yutu inflicted on Saipan businesses, we want to provide every available service to help get them back on their feet, said SBA's Director Tanya N. Garfield of the U.S. Small Business Administration's Disaster Field Operations Center-West. The center will provide a one-stop location for businesses to access a variety of specialized help. SBA customer service representatives will be available to meet individually with each business owner, she added. Noappointment is necessary. All services are provided free of charge. SAIPAN Business Recovery Center Saipan Chamber of Commerce Marianas Business Plaza Nauru Loop Susupe, Saipan 96950 Opens 8 a.m. Monday, Nov. 5 Mondays - Saturdays, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. SBA customer service representatives will meet with each business owner to explain how an SBA disaster loan can help finance their recovery. They will answer questions about SBA's disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each business owner complete their electronic loan application, Garfield said. According to Garfield, businesses of any size and private, nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets. These loans cover losses that are not fully covered by insurance or other recoveries. For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loanassistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage. For business owners who are unable to visit the business recovery center, they may apply online using SBA's secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. SBA representatives also continue to meet with business owners and residents at disaster recovery centers located throughout the impacted area. For a list of locations, or to receive additional disaster assistance information, visit SBA's website at www.sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA's Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information. Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing may call (800) 877-8339. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX76155. The deadline to apply for property damage is Dec. 26, 2018. The deadline to apply for economic injury is July 26, 2019. ### About the U.S. Small Business Administration The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/temporary-emergency-tent-roofing-installation-available-regardless-citizenship,Temporary Emergency Tent & Roofing Installation available - regardless of citizenship,2018-11-03,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"To help storm-impacted residents return to or remain in their homes while permanent repairs are completed, the Commonwealth and FEMA have announced a Temporary Emergency Tent and Roofing Installation Support (TETRIS) program. Some tents have already been installed by the Commonwealth government. The roofing component of the program will begin as soon as equipment and supplies arrive. The roofing program will be available to damaged homes identified during the recent and ongoing damage assessment by the Commonwealth. No additional application is required. But, to ensure a survivor's property has been considered, FEMA advises contacting the CNMI Homeland Security and Emergency Management office at (670)237-8000. Single-family homes, duplexes, and townhomes may be eligible for the roofing component of the program. Apartment complexes and businesses will not be eligible. Buildings must be structurally sound, so approved emergency work can be made safely and will provide suitable shelter. CNMI and Military partners are providing the labor to install the emergency, temporary roofing and some of the tent installations. Because TETRIS is a short-term, non-cash, in-kind emergency disaster relief program, citizenship or qualified alien requirements do not apply. All impacted residents may be eligible for these programs, regardless of citizenship.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/va-benefits-counselor-saipan-next-week,VA Benefits Counselor on Saipan November 5-8,2018-11-03,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"VA Benefits Counselor on Saipan Next Week Nov 2, 2018 Veterans Benefit Administration staff will be in the Northern Marianas next week to provide information & help with VA disaster assistance services.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/247-crisis-counseling-available-yutu-survivors,24/7 crisis counseling available to Yutu survivors,2018-11-01,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"The Disaster Distress Helpline 1-800-985-5990 provides immediate crisis counseling to people affected by Typhoon Yutu in Guam, Rota, Tinian, and Saipan. A disaster or tragedy is unexpected and often brings out strong emotions. The Disaster Distress Helpline 1-800-985-5990 can provide immediate counseling to anyone who is seeking help in coping with the mental or emotional effects caused by Typhoon Yutu. The Helpline is a 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week resource that responds to people who need crisis counseling after experiencing a natural or human-caused disaster or tragedy. Sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Helpline immediately connects callers to trained and caring professionals from the closest crisis counseling center in the nationwide network of centers. The Helpline staff will provide confidential counseling, referrals and other needed support services. When disaster strikes, people react with increased anxiety, worry and anger. With community and family support, most of us bounce back. Some may need extra assistance to cope with unfolding events and uncertainties, said Dr. Elinore McCance-Katz, Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use. People seeking emotional help in the aftermath of a disaster can now call 1-800-985-5990 and begin the process of recovery. The Disaster Distress Helpline is a national hotline dedicated to providing disaster crisis counseling. The toll-free Helpline is confidential and multilingual and available for those who are experiencing psychological distress as a result of natural or man-made disasters, incidents of mass violence or any other tragedy affecting America's communities. The Helpline complements the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and other disaster response capacities, and is available immediately anywhere within the United States. The helpline can also be accessed at http://disasterdistress.samhsa.gov/. ### The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation. SAMHSA's mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America's communities.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/kilili-over-3000-households-applied-help,"Kilili: Over 3,000 households applied for help",2018-11-01,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS Over 3,000 households have already applied for assistance with Super Typhoon Yutu recovery, Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan reported today. Registration is the first step in obtaining money from the Federal Emergency Management Agencyand other federal and non-profit sourcesfor help rebuilding homes and businesses and replacing clothing, appliances, and automobiles lost in the storm. People understand the importance of getting registered, Congressman Sablan said. They have been very resourceful. Even people I talk to in the shelters, who have lost everything, have found a way to register for help. To register call 1-800-621-3362 or log on to www.disasterassistance.gov. Sablan is also helping people to register at the congressional office in Susupe. We know that many people do not have phone service or access to the internet and need a place to go. The FEMA congressional liaison, also let me know that FEMA has opened an office at the Department of Commerce on Tinian today, where people can come to register, Kilili reported. And that is very good news. Once registered, storm survivors will be contacted by an inspector from FEMA, who will look at their property and make a first-hand assessment of damage. The actual decision on how much assistance individuals will receive then comes by mail. The important first step is to get registered. Whether you think you qualify or not, get your name into the system, said Kilili. Applicants will be asked for a lot number or other physical description of where they live. A bank account number and routing number, which can be found on a check or bank statement, is also useful to have. The head of the household must provide their full name, social security number, and date of birth; but this information is not required for other family members. We have been asked if renters can qualify; and the answer is yes, Congressman Sablan said. We have been asked about families that have some U.S. citizens in the household. And, yes, they, too, can qualify. There are lots of special situations. The important thing is to start the registration process. That is the best way to get your questions answered. The congressional office in the Joeten shopping center in Susupe is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. On Saturday the office is open from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Call 670.332.2647 for more information about registration. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/low-interest-sba-loans-available-marianas-private-nonprofits,Low-interest SBA loans available to Marianas private nonprofits,2018-11-01,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"SACRAMENTO, Calif. Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to certain private nonprofit organizations in the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands following President Trump's federal disaster declaration for Public Assistance as a result of Super Typhoon Yutu that occurred Oct. 24-26, 2018, announced Administrator Linda McMahon of the U.S. Small Business Administration. Private nonprofits that provide essential services of a governmental nature are eligible for assistance. These low-interest federal disaster loans are available in Saipan and Tinian. Private nonprofit organizations should contact Public Information Officer Nadine Deleon Guerrero of the CNMI Homeland Security and Emergency Management Office by calling (670) 237-8000 to obtain information about applicant briefings, said Director Tanya N. Garfield of SBA's Disaster Field Operations Center-West. At the briefings, private nonprofit representatives will need to provide information about their organization, continued Garfield. The Federal Emergency Management Agency will use that information to determine if the private nonprofit provides an essential governmental service and is a critical facility as defined by law. If so, FEMA may provide the private nonprofit with a Public Assistance grant for their eligible costs. If not, FEMA may refer the private nonprofit to SBA for disaster loan assistance. SBA may lend private nonprofits up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets. SBA can also lend additional funds to help with the cost of improvements to protect, prevent or minimize the same type of disaster damage from occurring in the future. For certain private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help with meeting working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic Injury Disaster Loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that cannot be paid because of the disaster's impact. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the nonprofit suffered any property damage. The interest rate is 2.5 percent with terms up to 30 years. The deadline to apply for property damage is Dec. 31, 2018. The deadline to apply for economic injury is July 31, 2019. Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Applicants may also call SBA's Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hardofhearing may call (800) 877-8339. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155. ### About the U.S. Small Business Administration The U.S. Small Business Administration makes the American dream of business ownership a reality. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/preventing-post-typhoon-molding,Preventing Post-Typhoon Molding,2018-11-01,2018,2018-11,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Office 2411 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-2646, Toll Free: 1-877-446-3465 Fax: (202) 226-4249 Hours: M-F 9AM-6PM EST",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/irs-victims-super-typhoon-yutu-northern-marianas-may-qualify-tax-relief,IRS: Victims of Super Typhoon Yutu in the Northern Marianas may qualify for Tax Relief,2018-10-31,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"NMI-2018-02, Oct. 30, 2018 NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS Victims of Super Typhoon Yutu that took place beginning on Oct. 24, 2018 in the Northern Mariana Islands may qualify for tax relief from the Internal Revenue Service. The President has declared that a major disaster exists in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Following the recent disaster declaration for individual assistance issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the IRS announced today that affected taxpayers on certain islands will receive tax relief. Individuals who reside or have a business in the Municipalities of Rota, Saipan, Tinian and the Northern Islands may qualify for U.S. tax relief. Taxpayers concerned about how Super Typhoon Yutu may impact tax filing and payment obligations to the Northern Mariana Islands government should contact the CNMI Division of Revenue and Taxation at (670) 664-1000 or a local office on Saipan, Tinian, or Rota. The declaration permits the IRS to postpone certain U.S. deadlines for taxpayers who reside or have a business in the disaster area. For instance, certain U.S. deadlines falling on or after Oct. 24, 2018 and before Feb. 28, 2019, are granted additional time to file through Feb. 28, 2019. This includes the quarterly U.S. estimated income tax payments due on Jan. 15, 2019, and the quarterly payroll and excise tax returns normally due on Oct. 31, 2018 and Jan. 31, 2019. It also includes U.S. tax-exempt organizations that operate on a calendar-year basis and had an automatic U.S. extension due to run out on Nov. 15, 2018. In addition, U.S. penalties on payroll and excise tax deposits due on or after Oct. 24, 2018, and before Nov. 8, 2018, will be abated as long as the deposits are made by Nov. 8, 2018. If an affected taxpayer receives a late filing or late payment penalty notice from the IRS that has an original or extended filing, payment or deposit due date that falls within the postponement period, the taxpayer should call the telephone number on the notice to have the IRS abate the penalty. The IRS automatically identifies taxpayers located in the covered disaster area and applies automatic filing and payment relief. But affected taxpayers who reside or have a business located outside the covered disaster area must call the IRS disaster hotline at866-562-5227to request this tax relief. Covered Disaster Area The counties listed above constitute a covered disaster area for purposes of Treas. Reg. 301.7508A-1(d)(2) and are entitled to the relief detailed below. Affected Taxpayers Taxpayers considered to be affected taxpayers eligible for the postponement of time to file returns, pay taxes and perform other time-sensitive acts are those taxpayers listed in Treas. Reg. 301.7508A-1(d)(1), and include individuals who live, and businesses (including tax-exempt organizations) whose principal place of business is located, in the covered disaster area. Taxpayers not in the covered disaster area, but whose records necessary to meet a deadline listed in Treas. Reg. 301.7508A-1(c) are in the covered disaster area, are also entitled to relief. In addition, all relief workers affiliated with a recognized government or philanthropic organization assisting in the relief activities in the covered disaster area and any individual visiting the covered disaster area who was killed or injured as a result of the disaster are entitled to relief. Grant of Relief Under section 7508A, the IRS gives affected taxpayers until Feb. 28, 2019, to file most tax returns (including individual, corporate, and estate and trust income tax returns; partnership returns, S corporation returns, and trust returns; estate, gift, and generation-skipping transfer tax returns; and employment and certain excise tax returns annual information returns of tax-exempt organizations; and employment and certain excise tax returns), that have either an original or extended due date occurring on or after Oct. 24, 2018 and before Feb. 28, 2019. Affected taxpayers that have an estimated income tax payment originally due on or after Oct. 24, 2018 and before Feb. 28, 2019, will not be subject to penalties for failure to pay estimated tax installments as long as such payments are paid on or before Feb 28, 2019. The IRS also gives affected taxpayers until Feb 28, 2019 to perform other time-sensitive actions described in Treas. Reg. 301.7508A-1(c)(1) and Rev. Proc. 2007-56, 2007-34 I.R.B. 388 (Aug. 20, 2007), that are due to the IRS to be performed on or after Oct. 24, 2018 and before Feb. 28, 2019. This relief also includes the filing of Form 5500 series returns, (that were required to be filed with the IRS on or after Oct. 24, 2018 and before Feb. 28, 2019, in the manner described in section 8 of Rev. Proc. 2007-56. The relief described in section 17 of Rev. Proc. 2007-56, pertaining to like-kind exchanges of property, also applies to certain taxpayers who are not otherwise affected taxpayers and may include acts required to be performed before or after the period above. Unless an act is specifically listed in Rev. Proc. 2007-56, the postponement of time to file and paydoes not applyto information returns in the W-2, 1094, 1095, 1097, 1098, or 1099 series; to Forms 1042-S, 3921, 3922 or 8027; or to employment and excise tax deposits. However, penalties on deposits due to the IRS on or after Oct. 24, 2018 and before Nov. 8, 2018, will be abated as long as the tax deposits are made by Nov. 8, 2018. Casualty Losses Affected taxpayers in a federally declared disaster area have the option of claiming disaster-related casualty losses on their U.S. income tax return for either the year in which the event occurred, or the prior year. See Publication 547 for details. Individuals may deduct personal property losses that are not covered by insurance or other reimbursements. For details, seeForm 4684, Casualties and Theftsand itsInstructions. Affected taxpayers claiming the disaster loss on a 2017 return should put the Disaster Designation, Northern Mariana Islands, Super Typhoon Yutu at the top of the form so that the IRS can expedite the processing of the refund. Other Relief The IRS will waive the usual fees and expedite requests for copies of previously filed tax returns for affected taxpayers. Taxpayers should put the assigned Disaster Designation Northern Mariana Islands, Super Typhoon Yutu in red ink at the top ofForm 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return, orForm 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return, as appropriate, and submit it to the IRS. Affected taxpayers who are contacted by the IRS on a collection or examination matter should explain how the disaster impacts them so that the IRS can provide appropriate consideration to their case. Taxpayers may download forms and publications from the official IRS website, irs.gov, or order them by calling800-829-3676. The IRS toll-free number for general tax questions is800-829-1040. Source:https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-for-victims-of-super-typhoon-yutu",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/kilili-devos-pledges-support-marianas-schools,Kilili: DeVos pledges support for Marianas schools,2018-10-31,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos called Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan today with a pledge of support for Marianas schools, teachers, and students in the wake of Super Typhoon Yutu. It was most thoughtful of Secretary DeVos to give me a call, Congressman Sablan said. So many schools suffered damage it will not be easy to get students back to a regular schedule soon. Knowing that Secretary DeVos is aware of our situation and wants to help is a reason to feel hopeful. Kilili gave DeVos an overview of the destruction and he encouraged her to contact Public School System Interim Commissioner Glenn Muna. DeVos said she and her staff would keep in close touch with PSS over the coming weeks of recovery and rebuilding. It will be up to PSS to decide which school facilities to repair or rebuild, said the Congressman. Where Congress comes in is to make sure there is funding available, because it is not likely the Commonwealth can pay for everything that needs to be done. I expect, when Congress returns to work, we will be acting quickly on a supplemental appropriations bill to help the American communities impacted by Hurricanes Florence and Michael and by Super Typhoon Yutu. Assistance for schools that need repair or rebuilding will be at the top of my list. Programs such as Medicaid and the food stamp program that are not covered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Disaster Relief Fund will also need additional funding, Sablan said. And the DRF itself may need additional money. According to FEMA, as of October 26, its Disaster Relief Fund had $29.43 billion available for Florence, Michael, and Yutu. Hurricane Florence swept across North and South Carolina in September. Hurricane Michael came ashore on the Florida panhandle and drove into Georgia in October. Sablan said Washington congressional office staff are already putting together his appropriation requests. I will be there myself immediately after the election for the critical member-to-member conversations to lock in funding, said Kilili. Yesterday, Sablan received a message of assurance from Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi that no matter whether they live in the territories or the mainland Americans can expect their government will do everything it can to save lives and make them whole. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/public-school-initial-assessments,Public School Initial Assessments,2018-10-31,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Office 2411 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-2646, Toll Free: 1-877-446-3465 Fax: (202) 226-4249 Hours: M-F 9AM-6PM EST",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/chcc-round-three-medical-outreach,CHCC: Round Three of Medical Outreach,2018-10-30,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Office 2411 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-2646, Toll Free: 1-877-446-3465 Fax: (202) 226-4249 Hours: M-F 9AM-6PM EST",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/kilili-thanks-leader-pelosi-typhoon-recovery-support,Kilili thanks Leader Pelosi for typhoon recovery support,2018-10-30,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi has committed her support to bringing the full resources of the United States to help the Marianas in the recovery effort following Super Typhoon Yutu, Congressman Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan said today. Yutu ravaged the islands on October 24 -25, killing at least one, injuring over 130, and causing massive destruction to homes, businesses, public facilities, and infrastructure on Saipan and Tinian. I am already working with Leader Pelosi and the Appropriations Committee to put together a package of assistance, Congressman Sablan reports. I am very grateful for her assurance of help from Congress and the American people. Leader Pelosi issued the following statement today: Our fellow Americans in the Mariana Islands have endured a storm of staggering force and destructiveness. We are praying for the families and communities who were hit, and for the brave first responders who have rushed to help. We are grateful for the tireless leadership of Congressman Sablan, who immediately began working to ensure the federal government keeps its moral obligation to our fellow Americans in the aftermath of this disaster. The powerful and respected voice he brings to Washington, on both sides of the aisle, will be invaluable in ensuring the Mariana Islands receive the help they need to rebuild strong as ever. Every American is owed this solemn promise, whether they live in the territories or the mainland: that in the critical months of recovery to come, their government will do everything it can save lives and make them whole. Congressman Sablan is scheduled to return to Washington immediately after the election, so that he can meet face-to-face with Pelosi and leaders on both sides of the aisle to ensure that Marianas food aid, Medicaid, and other federal programs not covered by Federal Emergency Management Agency funding are fully funded. -30-",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/va-benefits-vets-post-yutu,VA benefits for Marianas vets post-Yutu,2018-10-30,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"VA benefits for Marianas vets post-Yutu Oct 29, 2018 The VA has informed your congressional office of the services available to Marianas veterans affected by SuperTyphoon Yutu: VA Saipan clinic is open. Veterans with scheduled appointments will be seen. Walk-ins are accepted. The Veterans who were cancelled earlier this week will be rescheduled according to their health care needs. Veterans with VA Home Loans: If you have a VA Native American Direct Home Loan, please contact VA Benefits representative Susan Kanehailua at (808) 433-0486. If you have any additional questions, contact Heather Sborz, Assistant Loan Production Officer at heather.sborz@va.gov.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/saipan-rota-post-offices-reopen-business,"Saipan, Rota post offices reopen for business",2018-10-29,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Saipan, Rota post offices reopen for business Oct 28, 2018 HONOLULU -- The U.S. Postal Service announced the following changes to postal operations on Saipan and Rota for Monday, Oct. 29: The Saipan Post Office has reopened; mail is being delivered to PO Boxes and the retail and parcel pickup windows have resumed operation; Saipan customers are encouraged to visit the post office regularly to check for incoming mail and packages. The Rota Post Office has also reopened for business as usual.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/typhoon-yutu-recovery-cnmi-gas-station-update,Typhoon Yutu Recovery: CNMI Gas Station Update,2018-10-29,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Office 2411 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-2646, Toll Free: 1-877-446-3465 Fax: (202) 226-4249 Hours: M-F 9AM-6PM EST",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/what-expect-after-you-apply-fema,What to expect after you apply with FEMA,2018-10-29,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"What to expect after you apply with FEMA Oct 29, 2018 FEMA -- Once homeowners register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, a FEMA housing inspector will call to schedule an inspection. Here's what survivors need to know about the inspection process: Everyone should know: The FEMA inspector will show a photo ID badge. If you are not shown photo identification, then do not allow the inspection. If you suspect someone is posing as a FEMA inspector, call your local law enforcement agency. You may receive visits from more than one inspector. Other inspectors may represent federal, state, parish and local government agencies, the U.S. Small Business Administration, the National Flood Insurance Program and/or insurance companies. Representatives of volunteer agencies may contact you to offer their services. Before the FEMA inspection, it's important that you know an adult 18 or older who lived in the residence before the disaster must be present for the inspection.That person must have the following documents: Photo identification; Proof of ownership and occupancy of the damaged residence such as: property tax bill; mortgage payment bill or receipt, or utility service bill; Homeowner and vehicle insurance documents; List of persons living in residence at time of disaster that you compiled; and List of disaster damage to the home and its contents that you compiled.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/cuc-opening-water-filling-stations-monday-1029,"CUC opening water filling stations on Monday, 10/29",2018-10-28,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Washington, DC Office 2411 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-2646, Toll Free: 1-877-446-3465 Fax: (202) 226-4249 Hours: M-F 9AM-6PM EST",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z https://sablan.house.gov/press-release/medical-teams-visit-mhs-koblerville-shelters,"Medical teams to visit MHS, Koblerville shelters",2018-10-28,2018,2018-10,Democrat,House,MP,Gregorio Sablan,S001177,sablan.house.gov,,,legacy,"Medical teams to visit MHS, Koblerville shelters Oct 28, 2018 Two teams from the Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation will visit Marianas High School and Koblerville Elementary School on the morning of Monday, October 29 to assess the medical needs in those shelters, CHCC announced. MHS and Koblerville Elementary have the most residents at this time. The medical teams will be on site from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Their goals are: To triage the medical needs of the shelterees Refillchronic medications, prioritizing refills for diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disease Offer flu shot, Tdap, and pneumovax vaccinations Provide crisis counseling Each medical team will include a medical doctor/medical epidemiologist, a nurse, a staff for immunization, a clerk, a pharmacy technician, and a crisi counselor.",1,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z,2026-03-30T12:14:52Z