The Guam Legislature finds that Guam Power Authority (AGPA@) is faced with attempting to recover millions of dollars in lost revenue resulting from unauthorized electrical connections, or Aillegal hook-ups.@ The problem has manifested itself in various forms, perpetrated by not only residential users, but by contractors and businesses as well. Between November 1995 through September 1996, seventy-six (76) meter tampering cases were reported to GPA and sixty-three (63) cases were reported as thefts to the Guam Police Department (AGPD@). In most cases, the individuals involved were not penalized because the thefts are

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classified as misdemeanors. The Guam Legislature also finds that with the increase in delinquent accounts, disconnections follow, which many times lead to an increase in unauthorized electrical connections and inactive accounts. The cycle oftentimes recurs, resulting in wasted GPA manpower and materials that, in turn, will eventually lead to higher costs. The Guam Legislature also realizes that illegally tapping into and tampering with the power system is a safety hazard that endangers lives and property. In anticipation of continued unauthorized use of electricity, the Guam Legislature finds that it is imperative that stringent measures be taken to put an end to such illegal activities. The Guam Legislature further finds that legislation must be enacted that will effectuate the necessary steps in which the millions in lost revenues be properly recovered.

SOURCE: Added as uncodified law by P.L. 24-031:1 (May 16, 1997). Codified to this section by the Compiler.