SAIPAN — The CNMI Legislature has unanimously overridden Governor David M. Apatang’s veto of Senate Bill 24-04, enacting it into law as Public Law 24-29 and advancing a measure that strengthens Chamorro and Carolinian language education in the Commonwealth’s public schools.
The 20th CNMI Youth Congress, which originally championed the legislation, issued a statement Thursday commending the Legislature for the override vote and calling the enactment a milestone for youth civic engagement. It marks the first time in seven years that a measure originating from the Youth Congress has been signed into law.
Public Law 24-29, authored by Senator Manny Gregory T. Castro of Saipan, strengthens curriculum requirements for indigenous language instruction within the Public School System, expands access to language classes and provides for the certification and equitable compensation of Chamorro and Carolinian language educators.
Governor Apatang had vetoed the bill in January, citing conflicts with requirements already specified in Article XV of the CNMI Constitution. The Senate and House of Representatives subsequently overrode the veto with the affirmative two-thirds vote of each chamber required under law.
The legislation traces its roots to Youth Congress Bill 18-02, sponsored by then-Speaker Cielo Long of Tinian Jr.-Sr. High School, and was later reintroduced as Youth Congress Bill 19-01 by Youth Senator Ayden Sean C. Yumul of Grace Christian Academy.
“What began as a proposal rooted in our shared responsibility to preserve and revitalize our indigenous languages has now become law,” Yumul said. “This law ensures that future generations will have the opportunity to learn, appreciate, and carry forward the Chamorro and Carolinian languages. It is a powerful testament that when young people engage in the democratic process, their voices can truly make a difference.”
Yumul also acknowledged Long for laying the groundwork for the legislation.
Youth Congress Speaker Vinnie Juan Q. Sablan said the override reflects a meaningful partnership between young people and elected officials. “This accomplishment reflects a strong partnership between our youth and our elected officials,” Sablan said. “More importantly, it affirms that the voices of young people in the Commonwealth matter.”
