U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. announced his approval of several significant bills passed by the 35th Legislature during its recent session on October 16, 2024.
These actions underscore the Governor’s dedication to addressing a range of issues affecting the Virgin Islands, from strengthening the rights of vulnerable populations to bolstering public safety, health, and economic growth.
Governor Bryan’s legislative decisions reflect his commitment to empowering Virgin Islanders, fostering community development, and enhancing the Territory’s resilience.
Governor Bryan stated, “The measures approved will have a lasting impact on our community, expanding protections for our children, enhancing public health initiatives, supporting economic innovation, and modernizing critical infrastructure. These actions are a testament to our continued progress as a Territory and our commitment to securing a brighter, more sustainable future for all Virgin Islanders.”
Key Approvals and Legislative Highlights
Protecting Children’s Rights and Expanding Public Safety Measures
- Bill No. 35-0031 – Governor Bryan approved the Child Victims’ and Child Witnesses’ Rights Act, which establishes critical protections for children involved in the legal system. This Act marks a significant step forward in ensuring justice for the youngest members of our community.
- Bill No. 35-0289 – In line with national public health recommendations, this Act raises the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products to 21. This measure is aimed at reducing youth smoking rates and protecting the health of our young residents.
Investing in Culture, Education, and Public Safety Initiatives
- Bill No. 35-0257 – This Act initiates an annual U.S. Virgin Islands Beer, Wine, and Spirits Festival, an exciting opportunity to celebrate local artisans and boost tourism. Additionally, the bill allocates essential funding for restoring electrical services in underserved areas of St. Croix, trains Emergency Medical Services (EMS) instructors, and expands educational support for students and families.
- Bill No. 35-0283 – By amending the Virgin Islands Cannabis Use Act, this bill creates new pathways for local business and regulatory innovation in the cannabis industry, fostering economic growth while ensuring public safety.
Honoring Local Achievements and Community Contributions
- Bill No. 35-0285 – Governor Bryan approved this Act to honor musician and producer Bryan “Benny-Demus” Boulai with The Official Key to the Virgin Islands, recognizing his outstanding contributions to music and the Virgin Islands community.
- Bill No. 35-0286 – The Judge Verne A. Hodge Superior Courthouse in St. Thomas/St. John is named in honor of Verne Antonio Hodge, a dedicated public servant, for his exceptional contributions to the Virgin Islands’ legal system.
Infrastructure Improvements and Economic Development
- Bill Nos. 35-0300 and 35-0320 – These Acts approve vital lease agreements with Advance Power, LLC, for the development of microgrid infrastructure with wind turbines on St. Thomas and St. Croix. These initiatives align with the Governor’s commitment to renewable energy solutions, fostering resilience and energy independence.
- Bill No. 35-0340 – Extending the state of emergency in response to the power crisis ensures that the government can continue prioritizing resources and measures to stabilize energy supply across the Territory through December 20, 2024.
Strengthening Financial and Real Estate Regulations
- Bill No. 35-0390 – This Act establishes the Money Transmission Revolving Fund to streamline oversight of money transmission services. Governor Bryan has advised the Legislature to make specific amendments, including assigning collection responsibilities to the Office of the Lieutenant Governor and removing the income tax credit to ensure proper management of fees.
Enhancing Opportunities through Strategic Land Use
Governor Bryan also approved a series of strategic land leases and conveyances, including:
- Bill No. 35-0374 – The conveyance of Parcel No. 201 Submarine Base to the Virgin Islands Public Broadcasting System, reinforcing public media’s role in the Territory.
- Bill No. 35-0383 – A lease agreement supporting the St. Croix Science Teachers’ Association on St. Croix, facilitating education and community development efforts.
A Careful and Thoughtful Veto
Governor Bryan has exercised a veto on Bill No. 35-0388, which proposed amendments to felony prosecution procedures. The bill’s current provisions would place an undue strain on the Territory’s judicial and prosecutorial systems, requiring additional time to implement. The Governor emphasizes the need for a coordinated timeline with prosecutorial offices to ensure a smooth transition without overburdening the courts or risking the swift administration of justice.
Acknowledging Legislative Overrides
Additionally, Governor Bryan respects the Legislature’s recent overrides of several acts, including Act Nos. 8919, 8920, 8921, and 8922, reflecting a productive collaboration that ensures critical initiatives continue moving forward.
With this decisive action, Governor Bryan reaffirms his dedication to fostering a safe, prosperous, and dynamic Virgin Islands. The Governor will continue working alongside the Legislature to implement these measures and ensure the Territory’s sustained growth and success.
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