Author: Jonelle Jackson

ST. CROIX– The Committee on Culture, Historic Preservation, and Aging, chaired by Sen. Myron Jackson, held a public hearing on Monday in Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room to receive updates on Public Cemeteries, Libraries, Museums and Archives; and on several resolutions.

In his testimony, Shelton Shulterbrandt, DBE Program Director at the Virgin Islands Department of Public Works (DPW), said the DPW supervises, manages, and maintains all cemeteries in the Virgin Islands. The department also communicates with local funeral homes to schedule burials, consistent with the law.

On St. Croix, there are three public cemeteries. Fees collected for burial plot permits and tomb construction vary from $250.00 on a weekday and $500.00 on the weekend. The costs were raised from $16-$32 on September 1, 2020, territory-wide to allow the DPW to improve the cemeteries’ maintenance.

According to Shulterbrandt, the Frederiksted and Christiansted Cemeteries have their challenges as they are officially closed due to lack of space. Currently, only burials for citizens with previously purchased plots in those cemeteries or individuals who wish to be buried above their previously interred loved ones are allowed.

Keith Richards. Assistant Commissioner, Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR), said the Division of Libraries, Archives, and Museums provides library and information services by developing and preserving its historical and archival collections.

According to Richards, the department is working towards the process of re-opening the Florence William Library. They procure quotes to clean and sanitize the building, and a contractor selected to overhaul and install a new air condition unit. The Athalie McFarlane Petersen Library in Frederiksted requires renovation and technological upgrades to provide a safer, secured, and comfortable location for residences and visitors to use this public library for life-long learning and discovery.

Richards told the Committee the Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped is based in a rental office space at Vitraco Park on St. Croix. The office space accommodates the Virgin Islands Talking Books Library services to the entire territory. Hence its usefulness is a vital necessity of our community. He also said, for improvement, one step is to house the Regional Library on the first floor of the Athalie McFarlane Petersen Public Library. For the relocation to be possible, added Richards, several improvements are necessary.

Regarding Fort Frederik, Richards said that the facility would go through complete renovation and repairs such as all outer walls, wrought iron fencing, courtyard, repair, and cannon cartridges repair. He pointed out that overland flooding and massive wave action caused by Hurricane Maria resulted in severe erosion of the area along the La Grange Gut. According to Richards, there are three general areas of deterioration: the gut, the northwest corner, and the southwest corner.

He added that the estimated cost of the proposed mitigation is $599,778, and FEMA is funding the project. The Project Worksheet fixed price of $6.2 million was approved, he concluded.

Senator Stedmann Hodge Jr. sponsored Bill No.33-0312, a Resolution honoring and commending Janet Valencia Prince-Soto for her contributions to the St. Croix community through her years of educating and mentoring others in the field of cosmetology and her entrepreneurship.

Testifying in support of the resolution were Nathalie Hodge, Assistant Commissioner of DLCA, and Olympia Mitchell, a St. Croix resident. Both said Mrs. Prince-Soto left an indelible footprint that positively impacted the Virgin Islands as a whole. She added that the beneficiaries of her tutelage continue to be contributing members of the community as business owners, practitioners in the field of cosmetology, and private industry.

Senator Dwayne DeGraff sponsored Bill No.33-0345, an Act honoring and commending Judy M. Gomez for her contributions to the Virgin Islands community, especially the Virgin Islands’ children.

Testifying on the resolution was Dr. Tai Hunte-Caesar, who said Gomez had held many transformative positions. In these professional roles, she impacted, influenced, and empowered community members in so many ways. Dr. Hunte-Caesar added that Gomez had been an inspiration and an incredible mentor to her. She was confident that her career achievements as an Infectious Disease Physician in the public and private sectors would not have been possible without the influence of role models such as her.

Other testifiers on behalf of Gomez were Dilsa Capdeville, Shereese Jurgen, and Khadija Blyden. They all echoed Gomez’s sentiment on being of service and contributing to the community’s betterment and the children of the Virgin Islands.

Senator Oakland Benta sponsored Bill No. 33-0352, a Resolution honoring and commending Charles Lambert Alvarez Christian for his dedication and accomplishment in the field of martial arts and the Virgin Islands community.

Testifiers on behalf of Christian were Mrs.  Liston Lewis, Dr. Kisha Christian, James Hinds, and Apostle Elenor Estrada, who all spoke of his dedication, commitment, discipline, loyalty, and understanding the plights of others.

Bills 33-0312, 33-0345, and 33-0352 were voted out of the Committee with favorable recommendations and sent to the Committee on Rules and Judiciary for further consideration.

Bill No. 33-0427 honors the late Mrs. Dorothy Lochart Elskoe for her vast contributions to preserving the Virgin Islands’ arts and culture by renaming Raphune Hill the “Dorothy “Dotsy” Lockhart Elskoe Drive. Senator Myron Jackson sponsored it.

In her testimony, Lori Elskoe-Rawlins, the honoree’s youngest daughter, said her mother was our Cultural Queen. The preservation of Virgin Islands culture was of great moment to this native virgin islander. According to her, she ensured that family members lived and respected the Virgin Islands’ culture.

According to Elskoe-Rawlins, her mother was sometimes a passenger on this meandering road of life but was always as equally focused as the drive. She added that in her mother’s pursuit to continue along the path of cultural authenticity and community awareness, they gained an educator, public servant, activist, culture-bearer, mother, and friend.

Other testifiers were Alrid D. Lockhart, Sr., President of Elskoe & Associates, Inc., also known as Elskoe & Associate Carnival Floupe, and Glenn Kwabena Davis, a St. Thomas Cultural Icon, educator, Calypsonian, and activists.

Bill No. 33-0426, A measure commemorating and recognizing the creation of the Senepol Cattle on St. Croix by Bromley Nelthropp; and recognizing the contributions to the development of the species by George Elliott, Bromley Nelthropp, Frits Lawaetz, Hans Lawaetz, Issac Gateward James, Oscar Henry, Olivia Hines Henry, and the University of the Virgin Islands.

Bill No. 33-0430, sponsored by Sen. Kurt Vialet, posthumously honored the late Reverend Vincent Hoover Adams Gordon. Sr., D.D. for his outstanding contributions to the Virgin Islands community. Pastor Gordon was a Minister of the Gospel for 51-years and, a teacher of English, and eventually an Assistant Principal of St. Croix Central High School.

In her testimony, Anna Marie Gordon said Rev. Vincent Hoover Adams, Sr. D.D. was a Minister of the Gospel, a Pastor of a congregation, a teacher, an assistant principal, a community activist, a cultural bearer, a musician and musical director, a mentor, a scout leader, counselor, but the most significant roles that he played were that of husband and father.

Bills 33-0427, 33-0426, and 33-0430 were voted out of the Committee with favorable recommendations and sent to the Committee on Rules and Judiciary for further consideration.

Senators present at Monday’s hearing were Chairman Myron Jackson, Senators Stedmann Hodge, Jr., Dwayne DeGraff, Oakland Benta, Kurt Vialet, Javan James, Sr., Steven Payne, Athneil “Bobby” Thomas, and Novelle Francis, Jr.

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St. Croix—The Committee on Government Operations, Consumer Affairs, Energy, Environmental and Planning, Chaired by Senator Alicia Barnes met Friday, October 16, 2020 in the Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Chamber.
After a brief reorganization of the agenda, the Committee then considered Bill No. 33-0340 – An Act amending Title 29 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 10, subchapter I, section 543 to require the Virgin Islands Port Authority to provide limited free parking at the Enighed Pond parking lot on the island of St. John. Sponsored by Senators Steven D. Payne, Sr., and Oakland Benta.
Virgin Islands Port Authority’s Executive Director, Carlton Dowe in a prepared statement indicated that the Authority strongly opposes the proposed Bill as it will negatively impact essential marine revenue and it will be detrimental to the Authority’s ability to meet its financial obligations. Dowe further informed the committee that by law, “we are required to charge user fees to fund our port operations, maintain our facilities and to expand and modernize the territory’s travel infrastructure. Apart from federal grants received primarily for the aviation division, VIPA’s main source of revenue is the fees we charge the users of our facilities.”
Jenifer O’Neal, Director of the Office of Management and Budget shared similar comments by indicating, “As a semi-autonomous agency, the Authority does not receive any funds from the central government to support their operations and must utilize the revenues generated from parking lots and other projects to fulfill their payroll and vendor obligations.”
After much discussion, committee members moved to hold the Bill in committee for further consideration.

The second item on the agenda was Bill No. 33-0250, which is an Act seeking to amend title 3, chapter 9, section 134a, subsection (b) of the Virgin Islands Code, relating to the duties of the Department of Public Works, Division of Capital Improvement in administering and coordinating capital improvement projects, to require that a Front-End Engineering and Design is completed for each capital improvement project of the various departments and agencies of the Government of the Virgin Islands before the procurement of construction services. A motion was made to have the Bill remove from the day’s agenda and the item was approved to be removed.

Bill No. 33-0108 – An Act amending title 12, chapter 10, section 402 of the Virgin Islands Code by requiring owners of shoreline property to provide the public with suitable access to the shorelines, imposing fines for failure to comply with this requirement, and granting the Department of Planning and Natural Resources enforcement and investigative authority regarding shoreline access. (Proposed by Senators Janelle K. Sarauw, Myron D. Jackson, and Kurt A. Vialet; Co-sponsored by: Alicia V. Barnes, Marvin A. Blyden and Allison DeGazon)

Jean-Pierre L. Oriol, Commissioner for the Department of Planning and Natural Resources said in his opening statement, “Although the Bill provides for the creation of easements when new developments are made in the coastal areas, it does not state that the owners will be compensated for dedicating the property for those easements. The failure to compensate may be considered a “Taking.” Oriol elaborated further by indicating, “If the main purpose is to provide access to the beaches, then maybe the Bill should be amended to include a definition of a beach, and the Bill should specifically apply to shoreline areas where there are “beaches”. The legislation as-is applies broadly to all shorelines, which covers a broader land area as defined in 12 VIC § 402(b).”

After deliberation on the Bill, an amendment was offered by Senator Myron Jackson and the measure voted on favorably and sent on the Committee on Rules and Judiciary for further consideration.
The last item on the agenda was an update from representatives of the Executive Branch on the development of a Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan for the United States Virgin Islands.
Keith Richards, Assistant Commissioner for the Department of Planning and Natural Resources told committee members that the department is currently engaged in multiple efforts that has resulted in proposed legislation, programs and initiatives that will provide guidance to the development, use and effective stewardship of our land and water resources of the territory.

Adrienne L. Williams-Octalien, Director of the Virgin Islands Office of Disaster Recovery (ODR), which is a component of the Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority (PFA) said the Office of Disaster Recovery is in support of the effort to develop a comprehensive land and water use plan for the US. Virgin Islands. ODR has met with the Department of Planning & Natural Resources to provide guidance on available funding to further the initiative. “Funds are available in the planning section of the Community Development Block Grant Mitigation funds that can support this endeavor, said Williams-Octalien, of ODR.
Committee members present for Friday’s meeting were: Alicia V. Barnes, Myron D. Jackson, Marvin A. Blyden, Allison L. DeGazon, Kenneth L. Gittens, Javan E. James, Sr., Athneil “Bobby” Thomas, and non-committee members: Steven D. Payne, Sr., Stedmann Hodge, Jr., Janelle K. Sarauw.

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ST. CROIX– The Committee on Youth, Sports, Parks, and Recreation, led by Senator Javan E. James Sr., met on Tuesday in the Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Chambers, where testimony was received on Bill No. 33-0220. Sponsored by Senators Steven Payne and Oakland Benta, the Act provides for the construction of ramps or walkways for at least two beaches in each island district that would allow persons with disabilities to gain access to the beaches.

Leon Hunt, Chairman of the Virgin Islands Sports Commission (VISC), Multi-Sports, Private Sector, gave an update regarding the Handbook and Policy Manual of the Commission. The Handbook contains official information concerning sports officers and administration, organization, rules and regulations, and activities programs.

According to Hunt, the Officers and Administration of the VISC include Hugo Hodge, Jr., Vice-Chairman, Territorial Chair, Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission; Lucille Hobson, General Secretary, President-Virgin Islands Volleyball Federation; Calvert White, Treasurer, Commissioner, Sports, Parks, and Recreation (Ex-officio); Angel “Chico” Morales, President, Virgin Islands Olympic Committee; Kennard Callendar, VIDE designee (Director, Division of Sports & amp; Athletics); Joseph Boschulte, Commissioner of Tourism; Wayne Biggs, Jr., CEO, Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority; Nels Hawkinson, Executive Director, Basketball Travelers, Private Sector; Hillaren Frederick, Virgin Islands Soccer Association; Dennis Brow, President, Virgin Islands Baseball Federation; Tony Rosario, Territorial Chair, Virgin Islands Boxing and Wrestling Commission; and Arthur Hector, Sr., Territorial Chair, Virgin Islands Automobile Racing Commission.

In his testimony on Bill No.33-0220 Commissioner Calvert White, Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation (DSPR) noted that the Department was in the process of acquiring equipment to make our beaches accessible for our disabled visitors. During their research, White learned that the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) had a $50,000 grant that could be used to install buoys at beaches in the territory. He added that they identified five beaches in the territory as potential sites to install the Access Mats—portable and removable roll-out access routes used in a multitude of applications for individuals with disabilities.

The potential five beach sites for the AccessMats include Coki Point, Lindbergh Bay, Magens Bay, Cramers Park, and Fort Frederick Beach. DSPR applied for and received the DPNR grant and conducted the procurement process to secure the equipment.

Comm. White called on the Committee to amend the Bill to allow the funds to be used to enhance beaches in any way that will assist in ensuring that they are ADA compliant; including a transfer platform for visitors who use wheelchairs to transfer into the beach buggy wheelchairs, additional beach buggy wheelchairs, upgrades to bathrooms, sheds, signage and other forms of media to alert the public of the changes.

Kimberly Causey-Gomez, Commissioner, VI Department of Human Services, said the Bill would undoubtedly improve the value of life for persons with disabilities and our senior citizens with mobility challenges and families who have small children in strollers. She indicated that several beaches on St. John provided accessible paths, parking, restrooms, and changing stations. The Virgin Islands National Park and the Office of the ADA Coordinator collaboratively can provide guidance and make recommendations about the dimensions, location, and overall construction of the ramps.

Jenifer O’Neal, Director, Office of Management and Budget, said the form of the proposed Bill mentions the Caribbean Basin Initiative Fund but does not request a direct appropriation from that fund. Instead, it asks that money be appropriated from the General Fund based on appropriation transfer to the General Fund from the Caribbean Basin Initiative Fund.

According to O’Neal, the fiscal impact of Bills proposed is of utmost importance to her, buts she also considers the value of the goals identified. She added that although she agrees that everyone should experience our beautiful beaches, she is unsure as to the practicality of this endeavor, and since she is aware of at least one ramp at a beach that while it does provide access from the road to the beach, it does not provide a path for any disabled individual to access the water. Additionally, it is also unclear how just four ramps can cost $1 million.

O’Neal said she could not support this funding request from the General Fund, especially when the new fiscal year’s budget was just approved, and revenues for the Fiscal Year 2021 are unknown at best.

Senator Payne, Sr., the Bill sponsor, clarified the intent to OMB Director by introducing an amendment to the Bill by striking all language in the subsection of the Bill that reads: “There is appropriated in the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2020, and ending September 30, 2021, the sum of $125,000 from the St. John Capital Improvement Fund; the sum of $125,000 from the St. Thomas Capital Improvement Fund; and the sum of $125,000 from the St. Croix Improvement Fund to provide access to public beach waters for persons with disabilities.

Troy de Chabert Schuster, AARP State Director for the Virgin Islands, said they support Bill No. 33-0222 because having access to community spaces is essential. The Bill, he pointed out, allows people to have a sense of community while promoting social belonging as they age. It supports the creation of mixed-use and livable communities.

The Bill was amended and voted out of the Committee with a favorable recommendation to the Rules and Judiciary Committee for further consideration.

At Tuesday’s meeting were: Chairman Javan James, Sr., Vice-Chair Steven Payne, Sr., Senators Oakland Benta, Sr., Kurt Vialet, Stedmann Hodge, Jr., Dwayne DeGraff, Athneil “Bobby” Thomas, Marvin Blyden, and Kenneth Gittens.

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ST. CROIX— The Committee on Economic Development, Regulations, and Agriculture, chaired by Senator Allison L. DeGazon, held a public meeting on Monday in the Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Chambers to receive testimony on several proposed bills.

Bill No. 33-0349, proposed by Sen. Stedmann Hodge Jr., establishes the Tourism Enhancement Revolving Fund (TERF) to enhance the Virgin Islands tourism product and sustainable tourism development. The Bill calls explicitly for the Commissioner of Tourism to establish an Excursion Grant Program for eligible applicants in amounts ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, to support existing excursions and establish new excursion services.

Grant recipients utilize those funds to repair and modernize excursion vessels, terminals, related facilities, and equipment, including the purchase, replacement, or rehabilitation of ferries and terminal-related infrastructure or equipment. Commissioner Calvert White of the Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation (DSPR) noted the Bill specifically supports pre-existing and new excursions, which do not fall under the scope of the department’s responsibilities. According to Comm. White, his department does not have the resources to execute this mandate if passed. He noted that a grant program of this nature should be undertaken by an authority skilled and knowledgeable in the Territory’s economic development.

Clarina Modeste-Elliott, Exec. Assistant Commissioner of the Department of Finance (DOF) said the department requires further clarification, collaboration, and guidance from agencies directly impacted by the proposed legislation. She added that to avoid confusion with their existing “Tourism Revolving Fund,” revising the Fund’s original name to “Tourism Enhancement and Excursions Fund” is strongly suggested.

Anthony Thomas, Commissioner of the Department of Property and Procurement (DOP), said they could not fully consider the legislation without the Department of Tourism’s (DOT) presence. He added that DOT would bear primary responsibility for the programs under this proposed measure. The Bill was held in Committee for further consideration and additional amendments.

Bill No. 33-0376, sponsored by Sen. Donna Frett-Gregory, an Act requiring the Department of Agriculture (DOA) to develop a Territorial Agricultural Plan with an appropriation of $180,000 from the General Fund to assist with developing the project. The Bill was co-sponsored by Senators DeGazon, Kurt Vialet, Marvin Blyden, Athneil “Bobby” Thomas, and Janelle Sarauw.

According to Sen. Frett-Gregory, the Territorial Plan, known as the “Agriculture Plan,” must contain policy and funding recommendations to support and expand the local food system; to increase locally grown food production, and provide food security for the Territory. The plan must also include short-term and long-term goals, including proposals for legislative enactment.

In his testimony, Commissioner Positive T.A. Nelson, Department of Agriculture (DOA), agreed with the proposed concept and stated two plans; however, they have not been enacted. He added that the proposed project should determine the need for personnel, supplemental organizations, and funding. He further pledged to make the best use of the $180,000 to assist with developing the initiative.

Dr. David Hall, President of the University of the Virgin Islands, said, “The Bill and its underlying initiative are long overdue. The development and enhancement of agriculture, the expansion of local food systems, the increase of locally grown food production, and the obtainment of the compelling goal of food security are vital to the future of the Virgin Islands, and the University stands ready to assist in the attainment of these laudable goals.” He pointed out that the plan must be comprehensive and a mixture of both new and old ideas and programs that will ensure sustained local food production, distribution, and significantly reduce food importation into the Territory.

Dr. Hall concluded that his only concern with the measure lies within the 180-day deadline. “Six months might seem like a long time, but if the goal is to develop a plan that can have the type of impact you desire, it may take longer.” The Bill was favorably approved and sent to the Committee on Rules and Judiciary for further consideration.

Bill No. 33-0350, an Act proposed by Sen. DeGazon, will amend the VI Code, relating to real estate brokers and salespersons to update real estate broker and sales associates’ licensure requirements. The Bill was a collaborative effort between my office and stakeholders present. “My Office brought together the regulators and the regulated to have a balanced approach that improves real estate business practices, gives consumers greater clarity and protection, and allows the Real Estate Commission and DLCA to regulate the laws effectively.”

In his testimony, Richard Evangelista, Commissioner of the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs (DLCA), said the proposed changes seek to modernize the existing law to serve the Virgin Islands community better. The current legislation was approved on May 4, 1967. With several minor changes passed on October 14, 1986, the Virgin Islands’ real estate laws have gone relatively unchanged. Evangelista indicated that many of the changes seek to strike a harmonious balance between creating opportunities for real estate and property management professionals while ensuring that the consumers’ interests are front and center of the legislation.

Ava Gail Bourdon, a resident of St. Croix since 1972 and a real estate practitioner for 15 years, said the proposed updates to this Bill would bring this statute into the 21^st Century. She added that the framework of Bill No.33-0350 sets a solid base for generations to come.

The Bill was held in Committee for further consideration, according to Senator DeGazon, due to its far-reaching measures. She will ensure the changes reflect positive economic growth for the people of the Virgin Islands. The Committee also tabled a status update from the VI Economic Development Authority (VIEDA) on its operations.

Committee members present during the meeting were: Chairwoman Allison DeGazon, Senators Athneil “Bobby” Thomas, Alicia Barnes, Oakland Benta, Marvin Blyden, Myron Jackson, Kurt Vialet, Dwayne DeGraff, and Donna Frett-Gregory.

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ST. THOMAS–Novelle E. Francis, Jr., President of the 33^rd Legislature, conducted Regular Session on Friday at the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall to consider nominees to Boards and Commissions; rezoning requests, and various proposed legislation.

NOMINEES APPROVED:

• Lionel S. Jacobs, VI Port Authority Governing Board- District of St. Croix
• Reginald O. Vigilant, University of the VI Board of Trustees- District of St. Croix
• Ian Tomlinson, University of the VI Research Park and Technology Board of Directors
• Jeffery G. Webster, University of the VI Research Park and Technology Board of Directors
• Denise T. Jeremiah, VI Board of Public Accountancy- District of St. Thomas
• Yolander Samuel-Deterville, VI Board of Public Accountancy- District of St. Croix
• William J. Tobias, VI Commission on Aquaculture and Mariculture Marine Biologist Representative
• Alvin D. Burke, Jr., VI Public Broadcasting System Board of Directors- District of St. Croix

The nominations were approved by the Body and sent to the Governor for further consideration and his signature.

ZONING BILLS APPROVED:

Bill No. 33-0322 – An Act conditionally rezoning Plot No. 102 and Plot No. 103 Estate Peter’s Rest, Christiansted, St. Croix from R-2 (Residential-Low Density-One and Two Family) to B-3 (Business Scattered).

Bill No. 33-0334 – An Act approving a Planned Area Development for 4,172 acres on Lovango Cay (eastern portion), No. 21 Cruz Bay Quarter, St. John, VI and amending Official Zoning Map OIIZ-1 to allow for a Planned Area Development in the R-1 (Low Density) Zoning District.

BR20-1181-A request for Parcel No. 2 (Consolidated) Estate Coakley Bay, East End Quarter “B,” St. Croix be rezoned from R-2 (Residential-Low Density-One and Two Family) to R-3 (Residential-Medium Density).

The zoning legislations were given a favorable recommendation and sent to the Governor for his consideration and signature.

BILLS OVERRIDDEN BY THE LEGISLATURE:

Bill No. 33-0217-An Act authorizing the Department of Property and Procurement in conjunction with other agencies to refurbish the building located at No. 1 Norre Gade on the island of St. Thomas and convert it into public restrooms to be used by the public, including tourists.

Bill No.33-0102-An Act amending the VI Code relating to the valedictorian and salutatorian awards by including graduates of the Adult Education Center among those eligible to receive scholarships as valedictorian and salutatorian; and a section pertaining to scholarship grants to increase the scholarship’s maximum amounts for undergraduate and graduate scholarships; and amending Act No. 8245 relating to appropriations for the valedictorian and the salutatorian awards to consolidate them into one line item in the annual budget and a combined appropriation.

Bill No. 33-0035-An Act amending the VI Code authorizing the Government of the VI, its departments, bureaus, agencies, and instrumentalities to implement flextime or staggered time.

Bill No. 33-0054-An Act amending the VI Code pertaining to Small Business Development. The Legislature recognizes the need to remove barriers to minority and women-owned business enterprises’ participation in Government contracting.

BILLS CONSIDERED AND APPROVED:

Bill No. 33-0103-An Act amending the VI Code by adding sections and providing for learning evaluation of children, postpartum care, and minimum standards of health care for incarcerated women and men by establishing a new procedure for obtaining an initial birth certificate;  by prohibiting the use of corporal punishment;  providing for paid time off from work so that parents may visit their children’s schools; and providing that individual health care facilities hire discharge planners not later than January 2020.

Bill No. 33-0111-An Act amending the VI Code, to define waste tire and to the functions of Waste Management Authority to authorize it to assess penalties relating to the disposal of waste tires to require the Waste Management Authority to designate waste tire disposal sites throughout the Territory, to establish a tire disposal fee, to require a permit for retailers to collect, store and dispose of waste tires, to assess penalties, and to create the Waste Tire Management and Disposal Fund. Amending a section of the Code relating to the denial, suspension, and revocation of business licenses to direct the Commissioner of Licensing and Consumer Affairs to refuse to renew a license for failure to pay outstanding penalties assessed by the Waste Management Authority for waste tire violation; to require excise taxes on pneumatic tires, inner tubes and solid tires for motor vehicles, and to require Vehicle Tire taxes to be deposited into the Waste Tire Management and Disposal Fund.

Bill No. 33-0115-An Act amending the VI Code by inserting a section relating to the transfer of the VI Labor-Management Committee as a division within the Public Employees’ Relations Board.

Bill No. 33-0198-An Act amending the VI Code relating to the importation of snakes, to increase the penalty for the illegal importation of snakes and imposing penalties for the importation of animals or species not indigenous to the VI which may pose a threat to the ecosystem of the VI or the people of the VI; and amending a section relating to prohibition on importing of animals to prevent the disease from requiring animals entering the Territory to have a valid certificate of veterinary inspection, and to subject any animal entering the Territory without a certificate of inspection to quarantine.

Bill No. 33-0210–An Act amending sections of the VI Code by establishing minimum criteria for the VI Water and Power Authority Governing Board and changing the number of its members.

Bill No. 33-0211-An Act amending the VI Code by establishing minimum criteria for Public Services Commission members and changing the number of its members.

Bill No. 33-0223-An Act amending the VI Code by requiring that the Commissioner of the VI Department of Labor approve any proposed Youth Transitional Employment Program within three (3) months after receipt of the application; authorizing the Commissioner of the Department of Labor to use funding from the Youth Transitional Employment Program to hire a fulltime coordinator for the Program, and providing for other related purposes.

Bill No. 33-0246-An Act amending the VI Code relating to maternal mental health.

Bill No. 33-0254-An Act authorizing the VI Water and Power Authority to use the unexpended balance from the $1,200,000 appropriated for the Estate Bovoni Waterline Expansion Project.

Bill No. 33-0358-An Act authorizing the transfer of Government-owned real property located at #51 Hannah’s Rest, Frederiksted, St. Croix owned by the VI Water and Power Authority to the VI Police Department for the construction of a police station in Frederiksted, St. Croix, and for other related purposes.

Bill No. 33-0267– An Act to amend  the VI Code relating to the powers of the VI Board for Career and Technical Education to strengthen and expand the pathways to career readiness currently available for students in the public high schools of the VI and to build on the career and technical (vocational) education program that allows high school students to gain exposure in their desired vocational career field, obtain national qualifications, and incentivize qualified local businesses territory-wide to participate; and to give the Board for Career and Technical Education and the Department of Education until the following school year to develop and implement the Program

Bill No. 33-0269-An Act amending the VI Code related to the Department of Property and Procurement.

Bill No. 33-0272-An Act amending the VI Code relating to public utilities adding sections to enact the VI Ratepayers’ Bill of Rights; relating to powers of the Public Services Commission; to authorize the Public Services Commission to resolve ratepayers’ complaints; and relating to powers of the VI Water and Power Authority to require the Authority to comply with the VI Ratepayers’ Bill of Rights

Bill No. 33-0299 – An Act amending the VI Code relating to powers of the Enterprise Zone Commission to expand its Authority;  to designate the South Shore of St. Croix as an Enterprise Zone; adding subchapter IIIA to govern the VI South Shore Trade Zone.

Bill No. 33-0300-An Act amending the VI Code to establish a numerical limitation on the licenses issued for gasoline stations to take effect in five years and impose a five-year, Territory-wide moratorium on the issuance of business licenses for gasoline stations. The Bill was removed from the agenda for further amendments.

Bill No. 33-0325-An Act amending the VI Code to emergencies and major disasters to prohibit unconscionable pricing of goods and services during a declaration of a state of emergency.

Bill No. 33-0342 – An Act to amend the VI Code relating to new definitions that govern the chapter pertaining to the duties of the members of the V.I. Government Hospitals Corporation and for other related purposes accordingly.

BILLS TO BE CONSIDERED AND APPROVED ON TUESDAY:

Bill No. 33-0343 – An Act to amend the VI Code establishing minimum criteria for members of the VI Government and Health Facilities Corporation Board, decreasing the number of its members, and increasing the stipend of its board members.

Bill No. 33-0346-An Act establishing a Management and Oversight Review Committee for the VI Water and Power Authority.

Bill No. 33-0347-An Act amending the VI Code to provide scholarship benefits for persons receiving home instruction, to provide for a two-year licensure period; to repeal provisions that have become obsolete; allow physician assistants to prescribe, dispense, and administer narcotic drugs and non-narcotic drugs to the extent delegated by a physician.

The rest of the session was suspended upon the Majority Leader’s call, Sen. Mavin Blyden, and placed on the next open schedule.

Senators at Friday’s Legislative Session were President Novelle Francis Jr., Donna Frett-Gregory, Kenneth Gittens, Allison DeGazon, Janelle Sarauw, Marvin Blyden, Dwayne DeGraff, Stedmann Hodge, Steven Payne, Sr., Oakland Benta, Kurt Vialet. Maron Jackson, Alicia Barnes, Athneil “Bobby” Thomas, and Javan James, Sr.

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ST. THOMAS—Thursday evening, the Committee on Finance continued consideration of the day’s agenda. The Committee voted favorable for the Fiscal Year 2021 Budget Enabling Legislation for the Government of the Virgin Islands and sent the item on to the Committee on Rules and Judiciary for further consideration; however, with the exception of one item being held in committee for further consideration.

Bill No. 33-0377, an Act providing an appropriation from the General Fund of the Government of the Virgin Islands for the operation of the Government of the Virgin Islands during the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, through September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0378, an Act providing an appropriation from the Anti-litter and Beautification Fund to the Waste Management Authority and the Dept. of Public Works for operating expenses during the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0379, an Act providing an appropriation for the operating expenses of the Virgin Islands Board of Education from the General Fund during the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0380, an Act providing an appropriation for the operating expenses of the Bureau of Motor Vehicles of the Government of the Virgin Islands during the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0381, an Act providing an appropriation from the business and commercial properties revolving Fund of the Government of the Virgin Islands to the Dept. of Property and Procurement for operating expenses during the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0382, an Act providing an appropriation for the operating expenses of the Virgin Islands Career and Technical Education Board from the General Fund of the Government of the Virgin Islands during the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0383, an Act providing an appropriation from the Caribbean Basin Initiative Fund for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, through September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0384, an Act providing an appropriation for the operation of the Judicial Branch of the Government of the Virgin Islands during the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020 to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0385, an Act providing an appropriation for salaries and expenses of the Board of Elections and the Office of the Supervisor for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020 to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0386 an Act providing a lump sum appropriation from the Health Revolving Fund for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, through September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0387, an Act providing an appropriation for the operating expenses of the Virgin Islands hospital and health facilities corporation from the General Fund of the Government of the Virgin Islands during the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0388, an Act providing a lump sum appropriation from the indirect cost Fund for salaries, operating expenses and for other purposes of the Office of Management and Budget, the Division of Personnel, the Dept. of Property and Procurement, and the Dept. of Finance for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0389, an Act providing an appropriation for the operating expenses of the Virgin Islands Office of the Inspector General from the General Fund of the Government of the Virgin Islands during the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0390, an Act providing an appropriation for the sum of $14,500,000 from the Virgin Islands insurance guaranty Fund as a contribution to the General Fund for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0391, an Act amending Virgin Islands Code, relating to the balance in the Insurance Guaranty Fund to amend the currently required $20,000,000 amount which is set to increase to $50,000,000 on September 30, 2020, to $30,000,000.

Bill No. 33-0392, an Act providing an appropriation for the sum of $1,100,000 from the interest earned on debt services reserves as a contribution to the General Fund for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, through September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0393, an Act providing an appropriation from the Internal Revenue Matching Fund for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, through September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0394, an Act providing an appropriation for the operation of the Legislature of the Virgin Islands during the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0395, an Act providing an appropriation for $78,960 from the VI Lottery as a contribution to the General Fund for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0396, an Act providing an appropriation for the operating expenses of the Public Employees’ Relations Board and the Labor Management Committee for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0397, an Act providing an appropriation to the Public Services Commission for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, through September 30, 2021, for operating expenses.

Bill No. 33-0398, an Act providing an appropriation for operating expenses of the Waste Management Authority from the sewer system Fund of the Government of the Virgin Islands for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, through September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0399, an Act providing an appropriation for operating expenses of the Dept. of Public Works and the Waste Management Authority from the St. John Capital Improvement Fund of the Government of the Virgin Islands for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, through September 30, 2021. This bill was held in the Committee of Finance.

Bill No. 33-0400, an Act providing an appropriation for the sum of $2,000,000 from the Internal Revenue Matching Fund as a contribution to the St. Croix Capital Improvement Fund for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, through September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0401, an Act providing an appropriation to the Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0402, an Act providing an appropriation from the Tourism Advertising Revolving Fund to the Office of Management and Budget, Virgin Islands Police Dept., the Dept. of Public Works, the Virgin Islands Waste Management Agency, and the Dept. of Tourism during the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, through September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0403, an Act providing an appropriation from the Tourism Advertising Revolving Fund to the Dept. of Education, Dept. of Agriculture, and Dept. of Sports, Parks, and Recreation during the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, through September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0404, an Act providing an appropriation for the sum of $10,000,000 from the Transportation Trust Fund as a contribution to the General Fund for the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0405, an Act providing an appropriation for the salaries and expenses of the University of the Virgin Islands during the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0406, an Act providing an appropriation for the operating expenses of the Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority from the General Fund of the Government of the Virgin Islands during the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0407, An Act to make FY 2020 Funds available until expended by amending Act No. 8219, thereby providing funds for the renovation of the Board of Education’s Guirty House and Act No. 8245 thereby providing Funds for DPNR’s office relocation; DOE’s VI history books, Legislative Civic Education initiative, stem summer project, Claude O. Markoe steelpan trolley, LEGVI’s gasoline excise tax consultant/lobbyist; and DSPR Funds for the sports commission and track and field federation equipment.

Bill No. 33-0408, an Act providing an appropriation from the Government Insurance Fund of the Government of the Virgin Islands to the Dept. of labor and the Dept. of Finance for operating expenses during the Fiscal Year October 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021.

Bill No. 33-0409 an Act amending Act No. 8171, section 1(b) by changing GERS direct contribution to outstanding employer contributions only.

Bill No. 33-0412 an Act making an appropriation of $30,000 to the University of the Virgin Islands as a grant to the league of women voters to conduct an educational campaign on the referendum to be held at the November 2020 general election.

Bill No. 33-0413 an Act making an appropriation of $250,000 from the General Fund to the Dept. of licensing and consumer affairs for acquiring cannabis-related software.

Finance committee members who voted on Thursday evening enabling legislation were Chairman Kurt Vialet, Senators Marvin Blyden, Donna Frett-Gregory, Allison DeGazon, Janelle Sarauw, and Oakland Benta.

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ST. THOMAS–The Committee on Finance, chaired by Senator Kurt A. Vialet, met Thursday morning in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall, St. Thomas. The Committee heard testimony on Bill No.33-0375-An Act appropriating $15 million from the General Fund to the Waste Management Authority (WMA)) to pay outstanding debts to the waste haulers. The Bill is proposed by Senators Vialet and Donna Frett-Gregory.

The proposed legislation stipulates that $15 million will be appropriated from the General Fund to the WMA for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2020, and for outstanding vendor payments to waste haulers. No later than ten days after the enactment of this Act, the WMA shall submit a list of all waste haulers owed outstanding vendor payments along with the debt amount for each hauler to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

It further stated that no later than 30 days after the funds appropriated have been allotted; the WMA shall provide a report to the Legislature documenting the payments to the waste haulers.

Jenifer O’Neal, Director of OMB, said it is known that the WMA has struggled for years to be solvent and to make payments to its contractors on a timely basis. This has led to strikes and other forms of expression of dissatisfaction from the haulers, which has negatively impacted the general public overall through the non-collection of trash at numerous bin sites.

According to O’Neal, the Government’s revenue collections are currently outpacing expenditures. However, she continues to reiterate that the appearance of a surplus must be viewed cautiously as year-end spending and other obligations that have not yet been posted in the Government’s accounting system. Considering the undeniable need to address this ongoing matter of outstanding payments to the Authority’s vendors, Director O’Neal was prepared to support an appropriation of $10M because she could not ascertain the exact amount owed to the haulers at this time.

After much consultation and with the understanding that invoices will have to be presented to OMB for approval before payment authorization, she is now prepared to support the Bill in principle and an appropriation “up to” $15M, with the funding authorization remaining available until expended.

Roger E. Merritt, Jr., Executive Director of the WMA, said he recommends passage of the Bill so the WMA can pay the Solid Waste Service Providers who provide invaluable, essential services to the Territory.

The Committee voted in favor of the Bill and sent it to the Committee on Rules and Judiciary for further consideration. However, the committee continues to meet this hour considering the remaining of the day’s agenda.

Senators at Thursday’s morning hearing were Chairman Kurt A. Vialet, Donna Frett-Gregory, Allison DeGazon, Janelle Sarauw, Novelle Francis, Jr., Oakland Benta, Myron Jackson, Alicia Barnes, and Athneil “Bobby” Thomas.

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ST. THOMAS—During the afternoon portion of Thursday’s Finance meeting, the Committee took testimony on Bill No. 33-0410 an Act providing for the disbursement of monies to the Virgin Islands Economic Development Agency (EDA) to establish the Small Business Relief Grant Program and the COVID-19 Disaster Loan Program. The proposal is sponsored by Senators: Donna M. Frett-Gregory, Kurt Vialet, and Janelle Sarauw.

In his testimony, Wayne Biggs, Jr., Chief Executive Officer of the Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority (“USVIEDA”), said The USVIEDA is in full support of the Bill. He pointed out that many businesses in the Territory were able to benefit from the federal assistance administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) through its Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL).

He informed the Committee that many small mom and pop businesses could not access these programs for various reasons and remain in need of financial assistance to remain viable. Economic Development Bank of the U.S. Virgin Islands (EDB) added Biggs, participated in the PPP, and issued 69 PPP loans throughout the Territory valued at $545,810 to qualified small businesses. A breakdown of loans made by the EDB by island and total value are as follows: St. Croix: 30 loans – $251,846; St. John: 8 loans – $51,240; St. Thomas: 31 loans – $242,724.

According to Biggs, the proposed legislation is timely, and that the grant and low-interest loan programs created by the proposed Bill will have a positive effect on the small business community and the economy of the Virgin Islands as a whole. He recommended several technical amendments that several senators agreed were necessary.

According to the Bill sponsors, Senators Vialet, Frett-Gregory, and Sarauw, the Bill specifically provides for the disbursement of monies to EDA to fund programs to establish the Small Business Relief Grant Program; authorizing the EDA giving grants not to exceed $10,000 to a small business that has been negatively impacted as a result of the shutdown imposed because of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Covid-19 Disaster Loan Program, and authorizing the EDA to give loans not to exceed $50,000 to businesses negatively impacted by the shutdown because of Covid-19.

The Bill also authorizes EDA to promulgate rules and regulations to administer the programs, and most importantly, report to the Legislature on the status of the programs not later than November 15, 2020, with a final report, due no later than 60 days after the December 31, 2020 deadline. COVID-19 CARES ACT funded this program.

Senators at Thursday’s Finance meeting were: Chairman Kurt Vialet, Donna Frett-Gregory, Allison DeGazon, Janelle Sarauw, Marvin Blyden Dwayne DeGraff, Novelle Francis Oakland Benta, Myron Jackson, Alicia Barnes, and Athneil “Bobby” Thomas.

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ST. THOMAS—The Committee on Education and Workforce Development, chaired by Senator Donna Frett-Gregory, held a committee meeting on Wednesday in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall.

The Committee took testimony and voted on two proposed measures:
Bill No. 33-0344, proposed by Senator Dwayne M. DeGraff, sought to amend the Virgin Islands Code to allow the Department of Education to hire, on a contractual basis, licensed electricians, plumbers, mechanics, masons, cosmetologists, carpenters, drafters, and any other licensed professionals considered necessary to teach career and technical education courses to supplement the Career and Technical Education Center’s programs.
Bill No. 33-0360, proposed by Sen. Donna Frett-Gregory, sought to amend the Virgin Islands Code by adding a section implementing and outlining the requirements for online learning.

In support of his proposed legislation, Sen. DeGraff said that Career and Technical Education (CTE) is his passion. He added that the idea to get professionals to teach vocational and industrial trade had been a daunting task. He pointed out that one can learn a business to support themselves and families in the future.
Arah Lockhart, Chairperson, VI Board of Education, said in regards to Bill No. 33-0344, the Board recognizes, appreciates, and supports the intent of Senator DeGraff’s efforts. She added that they would like to clarify their objection to any contract being offered when a qualified teacher on the island is available to provide instruction. Furthermore, they hope that this legislation will be applied territory-wide to Career and Technical Education programs in both districts.

Rosa Soto-Thomas, Chairperson, President VI Board for Career and Technical Education St. Croix Federation of Teachers, stated in her testimony that they understand the impetus for Bill No. 33-0344 to address the shortages of CTE teachers, especially in the Building Trade. She said this is the wrong way to go about solving the problem.
According to Soto, Virgin Islands teachers with 0-8 years of experience is $44,000 and topping off with 30-years of experience is $62,000. She wanted to know in this aspect, what salary will be offered to private CTE Teachers? Furthermore, will these individuals be ready to write lesson plans and be prepared to handle the rigorous evaluations as other CTE teachers.

Carol Callwood, President, St. Thomas/St. John Federation of Teachers stated, “As the union responsible for collective bargaining for educational personnel of the Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE), we are responsible not only to fight for safe and sanitary working conditions but also to provide fair and adequate compensation work that they do.
She added that one of the issues in hiring qualified teachers to fill the CTE programs and the regular education vacancies is the low salary offered by VIDE. She encouraged raising the wages to eliminate the challenge in hiring teachers in any field of study.

Racquel Berry-Benjamin, Commissioner, VIDE said the proposed legislation if approved, does not extend the Department any new authority, as the Department presently has the power to contract for professional services as those presented in Bill No. 33-0344. She added that the proposed legislation does not outline how this new section will comport with the powers of the CTE Board.

The Committee also took testimony on Bill No. 33-0360, an Act amending the Virgin Islands Code by adding a section implementing and setting the requirements for distance/online learning proposed by Senator Frett-Gregory.
According to the sponsor, Senator Frett-Gregory, the discussion around this piece of legislation ensures that 9-12 grade students are afforded the opportunity in the areas that they would not ordinary received due to a teacher shortage. She added that through long-distance learning, these students would have the ability to receive credit.
Commissioner Berry-Benjamin said Bill No. 33-0360 is timely as distance learning has become necessary in the technological world in which we live. It is considered essential for success in today’s modern way of living, working, and learning.

She pointed out that the VIDE should have modernized its operations to include distance learning some years ago; however, from the viewpoint of “nothing happens before its time,” the time has come to transform. The COVID-19 pandemic has provided the needed financial resources and shift in the Virgin Islands Community’s thinking, which is necessary to build and implement distance learning.

Christine Fox, Interim Executive Director of Florida State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA), said she supported the proposed legislation. According to her, SETDA has provided authoritative reports used by national and state organizations to support broadband access both on and off-campus. She added that a robust infrastructure enables schools to expand learning options, empowers students to create content, participate in virtual courses that may not be otherwise available on their campuses, and collaborate with experts or other students remotely.
The Bill was amended and favorably approved by the Committee and sent to the Rules and Judiciary for further consideration.

The Committee received updates from the DOE about the transitional process status from classroom/in-person distance learning; the new pre-K classrooms for the school year 2020-2021 in the St. Thomas/St. John District; federal funds expiring on September 30th, 2020; and other matters that have impacted the Department’s operation due to COVID-19.
According to Commissioner Berry-Benjamin, the most significant obstacle impacting the Department’s operations, as it relates to starting the school year, was the unavailability of funds in March to purchase laptops for all public school students when schools first closed due to COVID-19. The Department was required to wait until July 25th to access CARES Act Funding to purchase the necessary technology for students.

Senators at Wednesday’s hearing were Chairperson, Senator Donna Frett-Gregory, Kurt Vialet, Kenneth Gittens, Allison DeGazon, Janelle Sarauw, Dwayne DeGraff, Novelle Francis, J., Oakland Benta, Steven Payne, Sr., and Marvin Blyden.

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ST. THOMAS–The Committee on Rules and Judiciary, chaired by Senator Janelle K. Sarauw met on Tuesday in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall St. Thomas.
Bill No. 33-0358 An Act authorizing the transfer of Government-owned real property located at #51 Hannah’s Rest, Frederiksted, St. Croix.

The property which is owned by the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority and is to be transferred to the Virgin Islands Police Department for the construction of a police station in Frederiksted, St. Croix. The Bill was sponsored by Senator Kenneth L. Gittens
According to Senator Gittens, it’s a general consciousness that this legislation is necessary to create a police command center in Frederiksted. He pointed out that the Chairman of the Water and Power Authority (WAPA) Board asked that the Bill be amended to reflect languages stipulating that WAPA is the entity transferring the land and that if the facility was not built within five (5) years then said land should return to WAPA.
He added that the project will move quickly at no cost to the government due to the fact the pertinent federal monies have been secured.
The Bill was voted out of the committee with a favorable recommendation and forwarded to Full Body for further consideration.

The second item on the agenda was Bill No. 33-0347, An Act amending the Virgin Islands Code to provide scholarship benefits for persons receiving home instruction. The proposal was sponsored by Senator Donna Frett-Gregory.
Senator Frett-Gregory said it was important to codify the language of the legislation to avoid any contradictions about individuals studying through homeschooling. She added that these individuals should be entitled to receive free scholarships once they graduate from any high school in the Virgin Islands.
The Bill was voted out of the committee with a favorable recommendation and forwarded to the Full Body for further consideration.
Bill No. 33-0300 An Act amending the Virgin Islands Code and seeks to establish a numerical limitation on the licenses issued for gasoline stations within the Districts of Christiansted and Frederiksted and St. Thomas/St. John. The measure is sponsored by Senators Janelle K. Sarauw and Kenneth L. Gittens.

Senator Gittens said we need a city plan in place to eliminate how many of these gas stations could be built in the territory. He added some of the gas stations can be hazardous and
dangerous to our citizens. He noted the number of the gas stations that are built on a one-mile strip, particularly on an island that is only 84 square miles.
Senator Myron Jackson said gas stations in our territory are out of control. He added that we are destroying our cultural landscape.
Chairwoman, Senator Sarauw asked the question as to what kind of landscape are we creating for our future generation by building so many gas stations. She pointed out the number of gas stations that have already been built in St. Croix (28) St. Thomas (32) and St. John (3).

According to the Senator, a moratorium is not unconstitutional. She added that we cannot continue to “spot zone.”
The Bill was amended by Senator Sarauw regarding the date when the Bill would be effective, and by the reference of the districts of Frederiksted and Christiansted and the name St. Thomas/St. John and instead insert the term, “The Virgin Islands.”
The Bill as amended was voted out of the committee and forwarded to the Full Body for further consideration.
Senators at Tuesday’s hearing were Chairwoman Senator Janelle Sarauw, Kenneth Gittens, Myron Jackson, Novelle Francis, Jr., Javan James, Sr., Donna Frett-Gregory, and Steven Payne.

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