U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has officially called the 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands into Special Session for Thursday, July 31. The session will consider three critical legislative proposals aimed at restoring fiscal discipline, promoting fairness, and strengthening public confidence in government.
Governor Bryan first announced his intent to convene a Special Session during his June 30 press briefing. Since then, Government House has received a significant number of messages from residents across the territory voicing strong support for the proposed reforms and calling for immediate action.
“This is not a symbolic gesture. It is a serious call to action,” Governor Bryan said during his July 7 press briefing. “The people of the Virgin Islands expect leadership rooted in fairness, responsibility, and a commitment to sound policy. These proposals reflect that standard.”
Governor Bryan has submitted three legislative proposals for consideration during the Special Session:
1. Request for Proposals for a Self-Funded Health and Dental Insurance Plan
Notwithstanding any other law, this measure directs the Government Employees Service Commission to issue a request for proposals to explore a self-funded health and dental insurance model for government employees and retirees. The current fully funded plan has become financially unsustainable, with rising premiums placing an increasing burden on workers and retirees.
“If we continue on the current path, we will see higher premiums, greater out-of-pocket costs, and possibly a reduction in benefits,” Governor Bryan said. “Taking this step allows us to evaluate a model that could reduce costs, improve transparency, and direct savings back into the healthcare system. We must act now to protect the financial well-being of our workforce and the long-term stability of our healthcare institutions.”
2. The Double Dipping Repeal Act of 2025
This bill eliminates the ability of incumbent legislators to receive both a government pension and a legislative salary at the same time. The Governor said this practice is fiscally irresponsible and undermines public trust in elected officials.
“There is one Government of the Virgin Islands. The position of senator is not difficult to fill,” Bryan said. “This is about restoring parity and ensuring that those who serve do so under the same standards we expect of every other public servant. It is time to put an end to this.”
3. Repeal of the Leave of Absence Requirement for Government Employees Seeking Office
The final proposal repeals the requirement that government employees take a leave of absence simply for declaring their candidacy for public office. Governor Bryan described the law as a barrier to public participation and outdated in both purpose and practice.
“As a lifelong Democrat, I believe in access and participation,” he said. “This law discourages qualified people from entering public service. I want to thank Senator Marise James for introducing this measure in the past. Since raising this issue publicly, we have heard from many Virgin Islanders who agree that it is time to change the law. There is no reason to keep this on the books.”
Governor Bryan said these reforms reflect his administration’s broader commitment to fiscal responsibility and public accountability. He emphasized that each proposal addresses longstanding issues that require thoughtful and decisive action.
“These are not political proposals. They are practical steps that reflect the values of fairness, transparency, and responsibility,” Bryan said. “The people of this territory want leadership that puts good governance ahead of politics. That is what this Special Session is about.”
The Governor has directed members of his administration to be available to provide testimony and answer questions on July 31. He encouraged members of the Legislature to approach the session with urgency and focus.
“We owe it to the people we serve to lead with courage, with clarity, and with discipline,” Bryan said. “This is our opportunity to move the Virgin Islands forward. I stand ready to work with the Legislature to make that happen.”
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