Sen. Samuel Carrión’s forward-thinking legislation to enhance and modernize the digital services of governmental agencies across the Virgin Islands was approved by senators on Monday, June 24.
The 21st Century Integrated Digital Experience (IDEA) Act marks a significant step towards creating a more efficient, user-friendly and accessible digital experience for all Virgin Islanders.
Bill 35-0236 is designed to streamline government operations, reduce costs and ensure that all government services eventually transition to a paperless system.
Carrión emphasized that the key objectives of the IDEA Act include a comprehensive upgrade of the government’s digital presence and standardization of its websites. Senator Carrión stressed the necessity of investing in the Bureau of Information Technology (BIT) to support this transformation, projecting long-term savings and more efficient, user-friendly government interactions.
“By centralizing efforts currently contracted out by individual agencies, the Act aims to reduce costs and enhance service delivery. Furthermore, the legislation ensures accessibility for all Virgin Islanders, including those with disabilities, by setting high standards for both new and existing websites,” Carrión said. “I knew something needed to change when at one point the government was locked out of its own critical websites by private contractors. We must cultivate and fund local talent to build and maintain our government’s digital infrastructure.”
The bill also establishes a timeline for analyzing and upgrading the territory’s digital infrastructure to maintain uninterrupted and reliable government services.
During the bill’s initial introduction, ViNGN President and CEO Stephan Adams was among those expressing strong support.
“It is intelligent legislation that addresses the modernization of government for the digital age,” he said. CEO Adams highlighted the pandemic as a demonstration of the necessity for digital services and the government’s ability to transition.
Carrión expressed his gratitude to his colleagues and Director Ross for their unwavering support of this crucial measure. “This bill is about making our local government more accessible and responsive to the needs of Virgin Islanders,” Sen. Carrión said.
Editor’s note: Sen Samuel Carrion is a member of the 35th Legislature of the Virgin Islands who represents St. Croix.
