The V.I. Department of Labor on Thursday announced a notable achievement this week: the Virgin Islands Division of Occupational Safety and Health (VIDOSH) has officially been removed from the U.S. Department of Labor’s federal “High-Risk” designation for Fiscal Year 2026.
The announcement, communicated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in Washington, D.C., marks a turning point for the territory’s workforce programs. The change means VIDOL no longer requires advance federal approval for disbursements through the Payment Management System, a shift that is expected to streamline operations and improve delivery of services throughout the Virgin Islands.
Commissioner of Labor Gary Molloy praised the milestone as a transformative victory. “This is a tremendous victory for the Virgin Islands. The removal of VIDOSH from High-Risk status is a testament to the tireless efforts, dedication, and collaboration of our team and partners. It reflects our unwavering commitment to accountability, compliance, and, most importantly, service to the people of the Virgin Islands,” he said.
Molloy credited Director Gregoreese Willocks for her leadership and persistence in driving reforms that led to the outcome. “Her vision, perseverance, and the remarkable work of her entire team were pivotal in turning this aspiration into reality,” Molloy stated.
The High-Risk designation is reserved for programs facing compliance or operational deficiencies. Over recent years, VIDOSH has enacted major reforms, strengthening internal controls, upgrading reporting systems, and modernizing service delivery in order to meet federal standards.
Molloy also extended gratitude to local, regional, and national partners who helped guide the agency through the process. He recognized Commissioner Gary Pan of the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry and Senior Fellow Jay Withrow for providing mentorship and technical support, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and his cabinet for their commitment to accountability and corrective action, and OSHA Region 2 officials Richard Mendelson and Holly Canally, who recommended Virginia as the Virgin Islands’ mentor state and closely monitored VIDOSH’s progress.
“This accomplishment is the product of extraordinary teamwork and collaboration at every level from local leadership to federal oversight,” Molloy concluded. “We are profoundly grateful for the confidence and trust this designation change represents, and we remain committed to ensuring that the Virgin Islands workforce is protected, supported, and empowered.”
Residents seeking more information about VIDOSH and ongoing workplace safety programs can contact the Department of Labor by email at [email protected], by phone at (340) 773-1994 on St. Croix, (340) 776-3700 on St. Thomas, or (340) 693-4367 on St. John, or by visiting vidosh.vidol.gov.
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