The legislation was first championed by Congressman Ron de Lugo in the 103rd Congress. The hearing held last week represents the furthest the bill has advanced in its history.
Attorney Ponteen has held many distinguished positions in the Government of the Virgin Islands to include Acting Director of the Bureau of Corrections and Senior Budget Analyst in the Office of Management and Budget.ย
I pray for Godโs guidance and protection as we continue to make history and leave our footprints on the grounds of this great nation which was built by the blood and sweat of our ancestors.
Senator Fonseca joins the wider Virgin Islands community in honoring the life and legacy of Samuel โSamโ Topp and offers prayers of comfort, peace, and strength to his loved ones during this difficult time.
โReliable electricity is not a luxury โ it is an essential service,โ Senator Gittens said. โOur residents should not have to wonder whether they will have power when they return home, whether their food will spoil, or whether critical medications will remain safe. The people of the Virgin Islands have waited long enough for answers, and I will continue to press for the transparency and accountability they deserve.โ
"WAPA cannot keep the lights on," said Sen. Fonseca. "Our residents have suffered enough. This is not just an inconvenience โ this is a crisis that threatens the health, safety, and economic wellbeing of every person in this territory."
โAbove all, she was a devoted mother and grandmother, a faithful friend, and a constant source of kindness to all who had the privilege of knowing her. I extend my heartfelt condolences to her children, grandchildren, and all who loved her. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten."
On Memorial Day, we pause not to celebrate war, but to remember those who never came home. We honor the brave men and women who answered the call to serve and gave their lives in defense of our nation and the ideals we hold dear.
"Pete was a dedicated public servant, a devoted husband and father, and by every account, a man of quiet strength, deep faith, and an open heart. The Virgin Islands is better for his service."
"As Delegate to Congress, I was proud to work alongside him as he demonstrated his intellectual rigor and deep humanity. His passing leaves a void in our public life."
36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands
REVISED SENATE CALENDAR
May 4 โ May 15
WEDNESDAY, MAY 06, 2026
Committee on Education and
Workforce Development
10:00 A.M.
Frits E. Lawaetz Legislative Conference Room
The Committee will consider proposed legislation as well as receive a status update from the University of the Virginย Islands.
BLOCK I
Status update from the University...