Senate Vice President Kenneth L. Gittens expressed support for the long-awaited return of horse racing to St. Croix while emphasizing that the Legislature has a constitutional responsibility to thoroughly review the Governor’s proposed agreement before committing the Territory to a long-term contractual obligation.
Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has called the 36th Legislature into Special Session on Tuesday, July 21, to consider a revised Horse Racing Agreement. While Senator Gittens welcomes efforts to revive the horse racing industry, he voiced concern regarding the manner in which the Special Session was announced.
Senator Gittens noted that the proposed agreement extends well beyond the revival of horse racing. According to the legislation submitted by the Governor, the agreement also includes provisions authorizing the introduction and operation of Video Lottery Terminals on St. Croix, creating significant public policy, regulatory, and financial considerations that warrant careful examination.
“While I remain supportive of bringing horse racing back to St. Croix, I am not prepared to approve an agreement that could obligate the Virgin Islands for many years without ensuring that the appropriate regulatory structure is first in place,” Senator Gittens said. “The introduction of VLT gaming is a major policy decision that deserves deliberate review and should be accompanied by comprehensive oversight and accountability. This will have a significant impact on the people and economy of St. Croix, particularly our existing casinos.”
Senator Gittens pointed to his proposed amendment, Bill Request No. 25-0253, which would restructure the existing Casino Control Commission into the Virgin Islands Gaming Control Commission. The legislation is intended to modernize gaming regulation by consolidating oversight of all legalized gaming activities under a single independent regulatory authority.
“The Office of Senate Majority Leader Kurt Vialet, Senator Novelle E. Francis Jr., Senator Clifford A. Joseph, and my office have devoted considerable time and effort to developing comprehensive gaming legislation that reflects best practices in regulation and accountability,” Senator Gittens stated. “Our proposal would create a Virgin Islands Gaming Control Commission responsible for regulating all games of chance, including casino gaming, horse race wagering, and the Virgin Islands Lottery. Establishing one regulatory body will promote consistency, strengthen oversight, improve transparency, reduce costs, and better protect the interests of the people of the Virgin Islands.”
Senator Gittens stressed that he will approach the Governor’s proposal with an open mind but will not sacrifice due diligence simply to expedite its approval.
“The Legislature’s responsibility extends beyond approving agreements, and therefore, we must ensure that any action we take serves the long-term interests of our residents,” Senator Gittens concluded. “I look forward to reviewing the Governor’s proposal, asking the necessary questions, and ensuring that any agreement approved by the Legislature is supported by a strong, modern regulatory structure that protects the integrity of gaming in the Virgin Islands.”
