US VIRGIN ISLANDS, St Thomas – In response to rising inflation impacting family finances across the territory, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. is urging the U.S. Virgin Islands Legislature to consider legislation to increase the minimum wage. Currently set at $10.50 per hour, the Governor asserts that a raise is critical to better reflect the escalating cost of living in the Virgin Islands.
“Our residents are facing difficulties in managing daily expenses,” stated Governor Bryan. “They put in hard work for their families yet find themselves struggling to make ends meet. At $10.50 an hour, many are unable to keep up. In these tough economic times, it is essential that we adjust the minimum wage to be fair and sustainable.”
The Governor’s proposal for a wage increase aligns with ongoing inflation affecting essential goods, such as food and housing. During interviews discussing the financial challenges faced by residents, Governor Bryan outlined steps his administration is taking to ease these pressures.
“Increasing the minimum wage is not merely a matter of adjusting paychecks,” Governor Bryan underscored. “It embodies dignity, fairness, and the chance for our citizens to thrive rather than just survive. It is crucial that anyone working full-time in the Virgin Islands does not experience poverty.”
Alongside advocating for wage increases, Governor Bryan emphasized his administration’s concerted efforts to reduce economic burdens on residents. Notably, millions have been allocated to the Virgin Islands Water & Power Authority (WAPA) to stabilize energy costs at 43 cents per kilowatt hour. This, combined with $100 million from the American Rescue Plan Act for energy subsidies, has resulted in approximately $2,000 savings for households with active WAPA service.
The Bryan-Roach administration is also focused on fostering long-term stability for Virgin Islands families through various initiatives. These include free Pre-K through 12 education, tuition-free higher education at the University of the Virgin Islands, and access to free technical training—programs aimed at equipping residents for success in an evolving job market.
Furthermore, affordable homeownership is a key priority for the Governor’s administration. Through the VI Slice Moderate-Income Homeownership Program, eligible families can receive grants of up to $200,000 for their first home, part of a broader initiative to facilitate generational wealth and future prosperity.
Governor Bryan’s administration is also dedicated to addressing historical financial obligations despite limited resources. He noted, “We have worked tirelessly to restore $41 million to government employees who faced pay cuts, alongside returning over $348 million in income tax refunds and more than $43 million in retroactive wages owed since 1990. These actions provide significant relief to our residents.”
With inflation on the rise, Governor Bryan stresses that action is imperative. He is advocating for the legislature to swiftly increase the minimum wage to mirror the true cost of living, ensuring economic stability for residents.
“Every day that passes, more families are challenged to meet their needs,” Governor Bryan remarked. “Our leaders must take action to provide every Virgin Islander with the opportunity to improve their future.”
Remaining committed to collaborating with the legislature, Governor Bryan affirmed, “Together, we can enact this much-needed change. It’s essential to give our people the fair opportunities they deserve.”
