Calls for Responsible, Collaborative Action on Behalf of Virgin Islanders
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has signed into law a series of measures passed during the 36th Legislature’s June 4, 2025 session, advancing critical priorities in public safety, health transparency, veteran support, fiscal accountability, and responsible economic development.
“These new laws represent meaningful progress for the people of the Virgin Islands,” Governor Bryan said. “From protecting survivors of domestic violence to supporting our veterans and improving public safety, these actions move us forward as a stronger, safer, and more accountable community.”
Bills Signed Into Law:
• Public Safety & Justice Reform:
• Bill No. 36-0005: Establishes conditions for bail in domestic violence cases. The Governor expressed support for the bill’s intent while encouraging a review of one provision that could raise constitutional concerns.
• Health Transparency:
• Bill No. 36-0021: Requires healthcare providers to disclose the risks associated with opioid use, helping patients make informed decisions.
• Traffic Safety & Law Enforcement:
• Bill No. 36-0036: Increases penalties for traffic violations and authorizes a dedicated impound lot for the Virgin Islands Police Department.
• Fiscal Accountability & Veteran Support:
• Bill No. 36-0063: Ensures that contractors doing business in the Virgin Islands pay gross receipts taxes, regardless of physical location. The bill also amends prior appropriations to fund the Veterans Emergency and Mainland Transportation Account and supports the 50th Anniversary of the Virgin Islands National Guard.
• Zoning & Development:
• Bills Nos. 36-0033, 36-0034, 36-0094, 36-0095, and 36-0082: Approve rezonings and easements in Smith Bay, Bakkero, Rosendahl, and Estate LaGrange to facilitate responsible land use and development.
• Confirmed Appointments:
• Jessica Gallivan – Judge, Superior Court of the Virgin Islands
• Carolyn P. Hermon-Percell, Esq. – Trustee, University of the Virgin Islands
• Winston M.A. Williams – Member, Board of Contractors, Trades and Crafts
• Kirk Callwood Sr. – Trustee, Banking Board
Governor Vetoes Unfunded Minimum Salary Bill
Governor Bryan vetoed Bill No. 36-0053, which would have raised the minimum salary for full-time government employees from $27,040 to $35,000 annually. While reaffirming his long-standing support for increasing public sector wages, the Governor cited the findings of an initial fiscal impact analysiscommissioned from his financial and personnel team—including the Department of Personnel, Office of Management and Budget, Department of Finance, and Bureau of Economic Research.
“We agree that workers in the Virgin Islands should be paid more,” Governor Bryan said. “And just last year, I expressed my support for raising the minimum wage. But a nearly $40 million increase in annual payroll expenses—without a plan to pay for it—is not something we can responsibly implement.”
The analysis projects that the measure would increase the government’s operating costs significantly, with no designated funding source and a projected increase of up to $200 million in territorial debt over the next five years. The Governor also cautioned that the bill could contribute to inflation and weaken the purchasing power of the very wage increase it proposes.
Moreover, recent disruptions within the Virgin Islands Police Department in the St. Thomas–St. John district highlight the potential for labor unrest and operational strain when such sweeping changes are made without clear financial planning.
“This is already impacting morale, recruitment, and delivery of services in real time,” Bryan said. “We need to protect both our workers and the people who rely on them.”
Veto of Retroactive Salary Reversal
The Governor also vetoed Bill No. 36-0085, which sought to rescind previously approved salary adjustments for public officials. Citing legal concerns related to employment law and the separation of powers, Governor Bryan said the bill sets a troubling precedent.
“We cannot govern retroactively,” he said. “Once salaries are lawfully awarded and disbursed, attempting to claw them back is not just unfair—it’s unlawful.”
Governor Bryan expressed his continued commitment to working in good faith with the 36th Legislature on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands.
“I look forward to collaborating with the Legislature on meaningful legislation that addresses the real needs of our people and strengthens our territory for generations to come,” he said.
The Bryan-Roach Administration remains committed to progress rooted in transparency, fiscal responsibility, and partnership with the people and institutions of the Virgin Islands.
###