Legislative Declaration

The Legislature hereby declares that substance abuse, specifically the abuse of alcohol and controlled substances, is a major problem in the criminal justice system of the Territory of Guam and in the entire Territory. Substance abuse is a significant factor in the commission of crimes and it is a significant factor in impeding the rehabilitation of persons convicted of crimes which results in an increased rate of recidivism. Therefore, the Legislature hereby resolves to curtail the disastrous effects of substance abuse in the criminal justice system and to improve and standardize substance abuse treatment for offenders at each stage of the criminal justice system and to provide punitive measures for offenders who refuse to cooperate with and respond to substance abuse treatment while such offenders are involved with the criminal justice system.