Governor Bryan Signs 27 Bills, Vetoes Two, Including $20 Million Sea View Renovation Bill

The governor vetoed Bill No. 35-0108, advocating funds be redirected to replace the Eldra Schulterbrandt Long Term Care Facility and the Queen Louise Home for the Aged instead of renovating Sea View, while approving 27 other measures

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has completed his review of 29 bills passed by the 35th Legislature during its December 18 session, signing 27 into law while vetoing two. In a letter to Senate President Novelle E. Francis Jr., Governor Bryan outlined the rationale for his decisions, stressing fiscal responsibility and strategic priorities for the territory. Among the legislation approved by Governor Bryan is Bill No. 35-0431, which adopts the 2024 Comprehensive Land and Water Use Plan submitted by the Department of Planning and Natural Resources.

Other significant measures include:

Bill No. 35-0179: Strengthens enforcement tools against illegal gambling and violations of the Virgin Islands Lottery.
Bill No. 35-0224: Expands access to behavioral health services, including mobile crisis intervention and the 9-8-8 telecommunication system.
Bill No. 35-0254: Establishes the Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology Interstate Compact.
Bill No. 35-0295: Creates the Virgin Islands Prescription Drug Monitoring Program.
Bill No. 35-0336: Establishes the Office of Conflict Counsel to provide legal representation for indigent defendants, granting personal immunity to counsel and appropriating funds for its creation.