St. Thomas, USVI (United States Virgin Islands) – Today Senate President Donna A. Frett-Gregory along with
Senator Alma Francis Heyliger met with Congressman Rodney Davis, Ranking Member, Committee on House
Administration at the Capitol Building in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. The Committee on House Administration
is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the House and federal elections. Ranking Member Davis
is currently serving his fourth term in Congress representing the 13th District of Illinois.
It is always important as legislators that we connect with elected leaders on the national level to garner support of
our territory’s needs. “It was a pleasure meeting with Ranking Member Davis and engaging in robust discussion
surrounding election reform,” stated Senate President Frett-Gregory. Also discussed during the meeting was the
coronavirus and its impact on the territory, and the federal stimulus bills enacted by Congress.
Senator Francis Heyliger shared several pieces of proposed legislation on election reform to include expanded early
voting, no excuse absentee voting, and election records laws which is intended to make elections more transparent
to the electorate. “Giving our residents greater access to the polls and providing greater transparency in the election
process is of paramount importance,” stated Senator Francis Heyliger.
Ranking Member Davis also discussed legislation he sponsored and is included in the CARES Act passed in 2020,
the Employer Participation in Repayment Act. Under the act, employers can make tax-free student loan payments
on behalf of their employees, up to $5,250 per year.
President Frett-Gregory and Senator Francis Heyliger are urging local business owners, economic development
beneficiaries, and corporations within the territory to take advantage of this valuable program. Not only does this
program benefit employees by assisting with their long-term student loan debt, but it also provides tax incentives
to the participating businesses.
This is a perfect opportunity for businesses in the territory to support their employees. “Both Senator Francis
Heyliger and I recognize the Employer Participation in Repayment Act is an incentive for businesses in the territory
to attract and retain talent. Businesses are strongly encouraged to consider incorporating this program in their
business model,” concluded Frett-Gregory. This opportunity sunsets in 2025.
To learn more about the program visit irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p15b.pdf (Pages 10-11)