Senate President Milton E. Potter today reaffirmed that the Legislature of the Virgin Islands stands ready to exercise its constitutional and fiduciary responsibility to ensure that Virgin Islanders do not suffer as a result of the ongoing federal government shutdown.
Upon learning from the Department of Human Services that funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) were in jeopardy, President Potter immediately directed legislative counsel to draft emergency measures to safeguard food assistance for residents. The proposed legislation, Amendment No. 36-593 and Bill Draft Request No. 25-0884 authorizes the use of the Rainy Day Fund to temporarily cover November SNAP benefits and other critical social services impacted by the federal impasse.
“The announcement from DHS demanded swift action,” President Potter stated. “As soon as it became clear that Virgin Islanders’ access to essential benefits could be interrupted, I took steps to ensure continuity of support. The people of this territory deserve proactive leadership.
President Potter has also adjusted the agenda for the Committee of the Whole on October 29th to include testimony from the government’s financial team regarding the full fiscal impact of the shutdown. Based on those findings, the Legislature is prepared to take immediate legislative action during session on October 30th to provide the necessary appropriations.
“The branch of government responsible for appropriations rests with the Legislature,” Potter emphasized. “On session day, my colleagues and I will fully exercise our responsibility to safeguard the welfare of Virgin Islanders.”
President Potter also expressed his readiness to work collaboratively with the Executive Branch and all relevant agencies.
“The Senate looks forward to working alongside Governor Bryan, the Department of Human Services, and our financial team to ensure that no family is left without support during this difficult time,” he said. “We share one goal, to protect our people. In moments like these, leadership requires cooperation, not competition.”
President Potter commended the commitment of public servants across agencies who continue to work under challenging circumstances and reiterated that the Legislature will remain proactive, deliberate, and solution driven in its approach to crisis management.
“This is about ensuring stability for our people,” he concluded. “The Senate will continue to lead responsibly and respond swiftly because the needs of Virgin Islanders cannot wait.”
