ST. THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Members of the Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs, and Consumer Protection, chaired by Senator Avery L. Lewis, convened at the Capitol Building to consider a slate of legislative measures aimed at strengthening regulatory oversight and recognizing outstanding Virgin Islanders. While lawmakers advanced several bills honoring community leaders, they voted to hold Bill No. 36-0052 in committee for additional review. All approved items will be forwarded to the Committee on Rules and Judiciary for further action.

Lawmakers voted to hold in committee Bill No. 36-0052 — An Act amending Title 29, Virgin Islands Code, chapter 9, section 502, regarding advertising devices on private property. The measure was proposed by Senator Carla J. Joseph.

Senator Lewis stated that while the bill has merit, it requires substantial refinement. He highlighted concerns involving the Virgin Islands Department of Public Works (DPW) roadway measurement standards, the provision allowing six-month signage advertising contracts, and potential conflicts with the Virgin Islands Board of Elections, which restricts campaign signage to a 30-day display period.

Attorney J. Russell B. Pate expressed support for the amendment, asserting that removing “private property” from the statute would appropriately limit government authority over signage on privately owned land and help prevent executive overreach into homeowners’ free-speech rights. He added that roadway safety would remain protected through existing government easements, which still allow intervention when signage creates visibility hazards. 

In contrast, Commissioner of Public Works Derek Gabriel noted that removing the permit requirement would weaken safety oversight and hinder the Department’s ability to track, regulate, and enforce signage standards. Current law requires permits for all signs visible from public roadways to ensure proper placement and compliance. Testimony further emphasized that federal regulations, including the Highway Beautification Act, apply to signs on private property near major highways, and insufficient enforcement could jeopardize federal highway funding.

Policymakers voted in the affirmative for the following measures:

• Bill No. 36-0084 — An Act honoring and commending Alva Alphonse “Coach Tumba” Swan for his significant contributions to the sport of basketball in the Virgin Islands by bestowing upon him the Key to the Territory. Proposed by Senator Marvin A. Blyden.
  Bill No. 36-0149 — A Resolution honoring and commending Janeisha John for her outstanding achievements, pioneering spirit, and significant contributions to the fields of entertainment, modeling, and television production, celebrating her role as a cultural ambassador, trailblazer, and inspirational leader of the Virgin Islands. Proposed by Senator Angel L. Bolques, Jr.

The following measure was removed from the agenda:

• Bill No. 36-0009 — A Resolution honoring and commending Mr. Steven van Beverhoudt for his years of dedicated service and numerous contributions to the people of the Virgin Islands. Proposed by Senator Milton E. Potter.

Senators present at today’s committee hearing included Avery L. Lewis, Angel L. Bolques, Jr., Ray Fonseca, Novelle E. Francis Jr., Marvin Blyden, Kurt A. Vialet, Alma Francis-Heyliger, Clifford Joseph, Kenneth L. Gittens, Franklin D. Johnson, Milton E. Potter, and Carla J. Joseph.

The Division of Public Affairs is committed to providing the community with accurate information on legislative proceedings and other events at the Legislature of the Virgin Islands. Visit legvi.org.

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Press Contact: Africah N.T. Harrigan

Email: aharrigan@legvi.org