 By Pacific Island Times News Staff
Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero welcomed the Trump administration's recall of a memo imposing a freeze on federal grants and loans.
"This decision provides much-needed clarity and stability for Guam and other U.S. territories that rely on federal funding for critical programs and services," the governor's office said.
Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, announced the memo's recall following the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia's stay order on the funding freeze until Feb. 3.
On Guam, the governor's office noted that federal grants and loans are vital in supporting Guam’s infrastructure, healthcare, education, and other essential programs.
"Ensuring access to these resources is key to strengthening the island’s economy, enhancing public services, and improving the quality of life for the community," the governor's office said.
"The administration will continue to work closely with federal partners to monitor any potential developments and advocate for the funding Guam deserves. Further updates will be provided as necessary" the governor's office said,
The memo's recall suspended speculation and government anxiety created by the Office of Budget Management's earlier announcement of a funding freeze on all federal loans and programs.
The governor's office, however, said while the situation remains fluid and subject to change, additional information released by the White House and the OMB clarifies that the freeze is limited to programs, projects, and activities implicated by executive orders issued by President Donald Trump in the last week, and will not include programs that provide direct benefits to Americans, such as Medicaid, SNAP, childcare assistance and WIC.Â