ST. THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — The Committee on Health, Hospitals, and Human Services, chaired Senator Ray Fonseca convened at the Capitol Building to advance measures recognizing the Social Work Industry, establishing the Virgin Islands Board of Social Work Licensure, and to increase the penalties for sanitation laws. Separately, officials from the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services provided an update on the Head Start Program. All approved items on the agenda will be forwarded to the Committee on Rules and Judiciary for further consideration.

Senator Ray Fonseca highlighted the broader significance of the measures. He indicated that these bills represent more than just legislative updates, they are critical steps toward improving professional accountability, strengthening public health standards, and ensuring that our systems evolve to meet the needs of our community.

Senator Novelle E. Francis, Jr., sponsor of Bill No. 36-0050 and Bill No. 36-0051, emphasized the urgent need to modernize the outdated regulations governing the social work industry in the Territory. He noted that the existing statute, which has remained unchanged since 1983, no longer reflects the current duties, expectations, and professional standards of the field. The proposed legislation seeks to align local statutes with best practices, reinforce professional accountability, and establish a regulatory board to oversee licensure in the Virgin Islands. In support of the legislations, Commissioner Averil George of the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services offered testimony endorsing the measures and presented recommendations to enhance Bill No. 36- 0051. Her suggestions included reordering the levels of licensure, correcting licensure titles, protecting degree titles, and refining technical and linguistic elements of the legislation.

Additionally, lawmakers considered Bill No. 36-0043, sponsored by Senator Angel Bolques, Jr., which seeks to strengthen enforcement of public health regulations by increasing penalties for sanitation violations. The bill addresses a long-outdated fee structure that has remained largely unchanged for more than 75 years, with the current fine schedule dating back to 1949. Specifically, the bill is amended by raising the minimum fine from $30 to $60 and the maximum fine from $50 to $100. According to the bill summary, the measure seeks to reinforce compliance with sanitation laws and promote cleaner, healthier communities throughout the Virgin Islands. Commissioner of Health Justa Encarnacion supported the measure, noting that increased penalties would strengthen enforcement, encourage business compliance, and protect public health. She added that higher sanitation standards help safeguard the tourism economy and reflect the territory’s commitment to rebuilding stronger systems following the 2017 hurricanes.

Ultimately, lawmakers voted in the affirmative for the following measures:

• Bill No. 36-0050- An Act repealing and reenacting with amendments to Title 27 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 20, relating to the regulation of the profession of social work and social workers. Sponsored by Senator Novelle E. Francis, Jr. 
• Bill No. 36-0051- An Act amending Title 27 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 20 by establishing the Virgin Islands Board of Social Work Licensure
• Bill No. 36-0043- An Act amending Title 19 Virgin Islands Code, part VI, chapter 53, subchapter IV, section 1481 by increasing the penalties for violation of sanitation laws

The Virgin Islands Department of Human Services (VIDHS) Commissioner Averil George provided an update on the Head Start Program, which has served local children ages 3 to 5 for over 50 years through comprehensive early childhood education and family support services. The program is funded through competitive federal grants and actively involves parents in its operations. Current enrollment is 631 students, below the federally funded cap of 794, due in part to national trends following the COVID-19 pandemic. Of those enrolled, 67 children have documented special needs, with 41 more awaiting evaluation. Due to under-enrollment, the U.S. Office of Head Start has reduced the territory’s funded enrollment to 637 and decreased annual funding to $8.3 million, a 19.77% cut. VIDHS plans to appeal the decision but noted that the immediate impact is minimal given current vacancies. The department is also preparing a strong application for the next grant cycle in 2026. Despite funding adjustments, infrastructure investments continue with five new centers under construction, and one completed in Cruz Bay, set to open in September. 

Senators in attendance included Ray Fonseca, Jr., Novelle E. Francis, Jr., Kenneth L. Gittens, Alma Francis Heyliger, Angel L. Bolques, Jr., Hubert L. Frederick, Milton E. Potter, Kurt A. Vialet, and Marvin Blyden. 

The Division of Public Affairs remains committed to informing the public on legislative proceedings and health-related developments. For more information, visit legvi.org. 

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press contact: Africah N.T. Harrigan

email: aharrigan@legvi.org