Reelected Aquino eyes business reforms, tax overhaul to revive CNMI economy

Reviving the CNMI's struggling economy by easing business regulations and attracting new investments will be among the priorities of reelected Precinct 2 Rep. Danny Aquino when the next Legislature convenes in January.

The independent lawmaker, who won another two-year term in the Nov. 3 general elections, also wants to replace the Commonwealth's business gross revenue tax system with a value-added tax or goods and services tax, which he believes would be less burdensome on struggling businesses.

On the infrastructure front, Aquino said he and fellow Precinct 2 Rep. John Paul Sablan are working to secure funding for the long-delayed rehabilitation of Texas Road in Chalan Kanoa, a perennial flooding problem that has affected motorists, residents, and businesses.

In an interview with Marianas Press last Nov. 10, Aquino said economic recovery should be a priority for the incoming Legislature.

"I think the biggest challenge right now for us is the economy," he said.

Aquino said lawmakers must pursue legislation that would make it easier for existing businesses to operate while encouraging new investments.

He cited House Bill 24-93, which he said recently cleared the House Commerce Committee. The measure would allow businesses to apply for two-year business licenses instead of renewing them annually.

"I'm hoping, I'm trying to encourage also the House members and the Senate that we need to work together to have a comprehensive plan to try to reshape our regulatory process to make it less stringent for businesses and entice new businesses to come into the CNMI," he said.

Aquino also wants to revisit the business gross revenue tax system, arguing that businesses must pay the tax even when operating at a loss.

He said a value-added tax or goods and services tax could improve compliance while easing the burden on small businesses.

The former CNMI Museum director said his proposed tax reforms could also provide a dedicated funding source for the museum, which has long struggled with inadequate resources.

Aquino also expressed concern over rising utility costs and said he wants to explore legislation that would cap the Commonwealth Utilities Corp.'s fuel adjustment charge.

On Texas Road, Aquino said the rehabilitation project is estimated to cost at least $1.1 million, with approximately $700,000 already identified.

"We're in discussions, and we already managed to secure maybe $700,000, and we're looking at other means to ask the Department of Public Works to redirect some of their road projects to address that major obstacle in Texas Road," he said.

The project would likely involve two phases, beginning with drainage improvements to address recurring flooding, followed by resurfacing.

Aquino said businesses along the road have complained about losing customers because of its deteriorating condition.

He and Sablan are also pursuing improvements to the Vicente "Pacho" Masga Sablan Susupe Beach Park, potentially including miniature golf and other recreational amenities.

On public safety, Aquino said he hopes the Senate will reconsider his proposed three-strikes legislation targeting repeat offenders, which he believes would help strengthen the CNMI's image as a family-friendly tourism destination.

With several veteran lawmakers leaving the House and new representatives coming in, Aquino said cooperation across party lines would be essential.

"I'm willing to extend an olive branch to all, to all members, regardless of their party affiliation," he said.

Aquino expressed interest in serving on the Judiciary and Governmental Operations Committee and possibly Ways and Means, although he has not decided whether to pursue a committee chairmanship.

He also defended his decision to remain politically independent despite previously running as a Republican.

"For me, being an independent, you're just totally isolated from the pressures of the party," he said.

Aquino thanked his wife, Joanne, family, friends, and supporters for another opportunity to serve Precinct 2.

He also pledged to continue village beautification and school cleanup activities, including outside his precinct, saying the safety of children remains a priority.