“I am pleased that the proposed Executive Budget for the Government of the Virgin Islands of the United States has been submitted. My colleagues and I are ready to begin the budget process which commences on June 3, 2021, at 9:00 a.m. in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Chambers. After a long, yet successful year of virtual hearings, we are pleased to welcome the Executive Team back into our chambers. Many thanks to our Management Information Systems Team and Public Affairs Team for keeping us afloat over the past year.
“Additionally, I applaud Senate President Frett- Gregory and Executive Director, Kurell Hodge, JD for a safe transition to our new normal.
I commend the Honorable Governor Bryan for an ambitious undertaking in submitting a 2-year budget for fiscal years 2022 and 2023. The outlook appears bright with an increase of more than $100,000,000 compared to the current budget. As departments and agencies diligently work on compiling financial reports in preparation for budget presentations, I implore them to limit their testimonies to pertinent and relevant budgetary information only. There is a high expectation over the course of the engagement process for all departments to justify:
• How funds allocated for fiscal year 21 were spent, to include number of vacant positions filled
• Fiscal year 2022 budget increase or reduction for programs and projected vacancies
• Utilization of Federal Funds, Cares Act, American Rescue Act
“The Committee on Finance is tasked with analyzing the revenue projection and expenditures for the Government of the Virgin Islands. Like prior budget years, it is our expectation to produce a balanced budget at the end of the budget cycle. Please note that while a 2-year budget has been submitted, it requires enabling legislation to change from a 1-year cycle to a 2-years cycle. On behalf of the Committee on Finance, I invite the public to tune-in to all budget hearings. The budget calendar is accessible via www.legvi.org - /committeemeetings/Committe on Finance/Budget Hearings/Fiscal Year 2022 Budget Hearings/CALENDAR/. Hearings are aired on 91.9 FM, Cable channel 26, as well as the WTJX and Virgin Islands Legislature Facebook pages.”