Committee of the Whole

THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE – RECONVENED

The Committee of the Whole will continue to receive testimony on the economic pressures impacting the cost of living in the U.S. Virgin Islands 

Part 3:                    HIGH FUEL PRICES

• Breakdown of gas pricing (Wholesale vs Retail)
• Impact of global market trends on local gas prices
• Role of transportation and freight costs on price inflation
• Government oversight and regulation of gas pricing
• Potential for renewable energy and alternative fuel solutions

 Invited Testifiers:
Kyle Fleming, Director, VI Energy Office
Lawrence Ramdhansingh, President, VI Taxi Association
Kerry Harrigan, Manager, Best Taxi
Allison Petrus, Owner, Petrus Gas
Honorable H. Nathalie Hodge, Commissioner, VI Department of Licensing & Consumer Affairs
Wayne Biggs, Chief Executive Officer, VI Economic Development Authority

Part 4:                    SALES TAX vs GROSS RECEIPT TAXES

• Comparative Analysis of sales tax and gross receipt taxes
• Economic Impact on businesses and consumers
• Revenue implications for the government
• Insights from academic and economic experts
• Recommendations for tax reform or adjustments

Invited Testifiers:
Dr. Mark Wenner, Economist
Joel Lee, Director, VI Bureau of Internal Revenue
Julio Rhymer, Director, Office of Management and Budget
Honorable Kevin McCurdy, Commissioner, VI Department of Finance