Lack of Clarity Over Public Officials’ Pay Raises Sparks Debate Between Legislature and Government House

The V.I. Legislature and Government House are locked in a growing dispute over whether pay raises for public officials, outlined in a recent report, have actually gone into effect as scheduled on Jan. 1.

While a press release from Government House Sunday appeared to confirm the raises were in place, conflicting statements have left the issue unclear, sparking calls for legal clarity. Outgoing Senate President Novelle Francis emphasized Tuesday that the matter is under review by the Legislature’s legal counsel. “We are awaiting further guidance,” Francis said. “Our legal counsel is evaluating the statutes, timelines, and amendments to determine the proper course of action.” Francis explained that implementing such raises would typically involve a supplemental budget being sent down by the executive branch, followed by a legislative hearing to determine whether revenues can support the increases.

Speaking to The Source, Francis also raised concerns about the communication of the report. The Public Officials Compensation Commission (VIPOCC), responsible for evaluating public officials’ salaries, reportedly transmitted the report via email on Aug. 13. Government House has acknowledged receipt of the email, but Francis contends he never received it. “Even if an email was sent, it should have been accompanied by a signed transmittal,” Francis stated, adding that he had also not been contacted by Government House. “Something this significant requires formal and documented communication. You can’t just rely on an email and assume it was received.”