COMMITTEE APPROVE JUDICIAL AND EXECUTIVE NOMINEES, ADVANCE SIX LEGISLATIVE BILLS

ST. THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — The Committee on Rules and Judiciary, chaired by Senator Carla J. Joseph, convened at the Capitol Building to consider gubernatorial nominations and key legislative measures. Lawmakers advanced the nominations of Venetia H. Velazquez to the Superior Court, Melanie L. Turnbull to the Superior Court Family Division, Jennifer M. Matarangas-King as Commissioner of Tourism, and Bernesha B. Liburd to the Cannabis Advisory Board. Separately, senators voted on several measures. All approved items will be forwarded to the Full Body for further consideration.

Senator Carla J. Joseph expressed strong support for the nominees, praising their qualifications, experience, and commitment to public service. She noted that each brings the expertise needed to strengthen the Territory’s courts, advance tourism, and guide responsible cannabis regulation, affirming confidence in their ability to serve with integrity and dedication to the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Under Title 4, §72 and Title 3, §65a(e) of the Virgin Islands Code, the Governor is authorized to appoint judges, commissioners, and members of boards and commissions with the advice and consent of the Legislature. Beginning with the judicial nominees, Magistrate Judge Venetia H. Velazquez highlighted her decades of public service and strong judicial record, noting more than 570 civil orders issued in the past year. Following her testimony, judicial nominee Melanie L. Turnbull emphasized her St. Thomas roots, legal training, and extensive work as a territorial and federal public defender, stressing her readiness to serve families with fairness and compassion.

Turning to the executive branch nomination, Tourism Commissioner nominee Jennifer M. Matarangas-King outlined her first 90 days focused on expanding air and sea access, strengthening industry partnerships, and modernizing departmental operations. Rounding out the slate of nominees, Cannabis Advisory Board nominee Bernesha B. Liburd pointed to her 19 years of economic research experience and underscored the need for data-driven regulation as the Territory prepares for significant economic opportunities under Act 8680.

Separately the senators voted favorably for the following measures: 

• Bill No. 36-0044 – A Resolution honoring and commending seven-year-old twin brothers Kruz and Stefon Wilson for their heroic efforts and courage displayed when saving a drowning man at Magen’s Bay Beach and for their exemplary conduct as young members of the community. Sponsored by: Senators Angel L. Bolques, Jr and Carla J. Joseph
• Bill No. 36-0075 – A Resolution honoring and commending Austin A. Venzen posthumously for his unwavering commitment to music education and the arts, through his work in the classrooms, conducting private music lessons, on the concert stages, and by bringing Virgin Islanders together in choirs, bands, and community events, to foster camaraderie, collaboration, and cultural enrichment. Sponsored by Senators Ray Fonseca and Carla J. Joseph.
• Bill No. 36-0148 – An Act amending Title 3 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 16, section 274 by mandating that the Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission implement an electronic payment system. Sponsored by: Senator Kurt A Vialet.
• Bill No. 36-0086 – An Act amending Title 3 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 25, section 590b, the Caregivers Leave Act. Sponsored by: Senators Novelle E. Francis and Carla J. Joseph.
• Bill No. 36-0196 – An Act appropriating excess debt service reserve funds for certain capital projects in the territory and appropriating $2,000,000 from the St Thomas Capital Improvement fund. Sponsored by: Senators Milton E. Potter, Marvin A. Blyden and Carla J. Joseph by Request of the Governor.
• Bill No. 36-0135 – An Act amending Title 29 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 5, section 294 regarding expedited building permits for developers, as amended. Sponsored by: Senator Kenneth L. Gittens.

Senators present at today’s Committee meeting included Carla J. Joseph, Kenneth L. Gittens, Angel L. Bolques, Jr, Alma Francis Heyliger, Clifford A. Joseph, Sr., Avery L. Lewis.

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Press Contact: Africah N.T. Harrigan

Email: aharrigan@legvi.org