Senate Vice President Kenneth L. Gittens is pleased to announce that legislation establishing a 90-day tax amnesty will take effect beginning later this month.
Act# 9050 institutes a 90-day tax amnesty period during which the Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue will waive all penalties and interest on outstanding gross receipts taxes, and all penalties on outstanding income taxes for all applicable years, provided taxpayers file and pay within the amnesty window. The legislation also authorizes the Lieutenant Governor to waive penalties and interest on delinquent real property taxes if full payment is made during the amnesty period.
Senator Gittens, the bill’s primary sponsor, expressed appreciation to Governor Albert Bryan Jr. for approving the comprehensive Tax Amnesty Program, designed to provide much-needed relief to Virgin Islands residents and businesses struggling under the weight of mounting financial pressures.
“We live in a time of economic strain — where rising inflation, increased customs duties, and higher shipping costs have made everyday living more difficult for Virgin Islanders,” Senator Gittens said. “From the grocery aisle to the shipping dock, our residents and small business owners are doing their best just to keep their heads above water. This bill offers a targeted and timely solution — a fair opportunity for taxpayers to get back on track without the crushing weight of accumulated penalties and interest.”
Senator Gittens emphasized that the tax amnesty measure is not a free pass, but rather a path forward for those who have endured years of hardship caused by global economic challenges, as well as the lingering impacts of Hurricanes Irma and Maria and more recently, Tropical Storm Ernesto.
“This initiative strikes the right balance between compassion and fiscal responsibility,” Senator Gittens continued. “It encourages voluntary compliance, promotes timely resolution of outstanding tax obligations, and helps bring in much-needed revenue for the Government of the Virgin Islands — all while easing the financial burdens on our people.”
The Senate Vice President also extended thanks to his colleagues in the 36th Legislature for their support and collaboration, with special appreciation for the bill’s other sponsors – Senators Novelle E. Francis Jr. and Herbert L. Frederick, as well as Senator Ray Fonseca who co-sponsored the measure.
“Together, we are taking practical, meaningful steps to promote economic recovery and resilience for our community,” Senator Gittens said.
Senator Gittens urged taxpayers to contact the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Office of the Lieutenant Governor for full details and guidance on participating in the amnesty program
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