Day: July 11, 2024

St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands– Senator Samuel Carrión today issued a statement in response to  Governor Albert Bryan Jr.’s veto of Bill No. 35-0236, the “21st Century Integrated Digital  Experience Act.” 

“We are deeply disappointed by Governor Bryan’s decision to veto Bill 35-0236, the ‘21st Century  Integrated Digital Experience Act,’ which aimed to bring our governmental agency digital services  into the 21st century. This bill represented a crucial step towards streamlining government  operations, reducing costs, and ensuring that all government services eventually transition to a  paperless system. 

It is regrettable that the Governor has characterized this important measure as ‘expensive and  cumbersome’, although it was vetted and approved by Rupert Ross, the Director of the Bureau of  Information Technology, Julien E. Henley Sr., Territorial ADA Coordinator and Stephan Adams,  President, and CEO of Virgin Islands Next Generation Network 

While we acknowledge the challenges associated with funding and implementing such an initiative, it is precisely this reason the original bill was amended to include the Broadband Quality Access and Development (BEAD) grant as the main funding source within an appropriate timeline.  

It’s this kind of forward-thinking legislation that will ultimately save resources, enhance service  delivery and continue to grow our economy. The cost of inaction is far greater, leaving our digital infrastructure outdated and exposed. 

Senator Carrión stated, “I remain committed to modernizing our government’s digital services and  will continue to work diligently to update our systems to ensure they are user-friendly and  accessible to all, including those in our community with disabilities.” 

I will be seeking the support of my colleagues to override the Governor’s veto at the next  Legislative Session, and I am resolute in my dedication to improving the lives of all Virgin  Islanders through innovative and practical solutions, Senator Carrión concluded.”

Senator Samuel Carrión regrettably is unable to support the $200,000 allocation request made by  Governor Albert Bryan; as the General Fund has severely exceeded its capacity. This asks,  although well intended, is impractical and fiscally irresponsible, as it would further stretch the  finances of the local government. 

“I genuinely sympathize with the urgent need for support and solidarity in the face of the  widespread destruction impacting our neighboring Caribbean brothers and sisters. However, I also  understand, all too well, the frustration and hardship of residents of the Virgin Islands and our  Government’s own significant financial shortcomings.” Carrión Said. 

As a local Government, Senator Samuel Carrión firmly believes that our people are our first priority. Financially, this includes but is not limited to; ensuring we are able to meet the bi-weekly  payroll for all GVI employees, stay current with our obligations to pay GVI operational utilities,  continue to make vendor payments for various mission critical services and many other  obligations. It’s been almost seven years since Hurricanes Irma and Maria and we still have  displaced families, blue roofs over homes and an overall infrastructure in need of repairs. The  relief aide allocation request unfortunately does not align with the current dire needs of the GVI  as well as the GVI fiscal capacity. 

“I wholeheartedly encourage and support any community-based recovery efforts that can be  coordinated between the private sector, private citizens, community organizations and non-profits  that have the interest and financial flexibility to provide humanitarian aide to those affected by the  hurricane that are in need, but as a government we just can’t, due to our budget deficit and  outstanding obligations, Senator Carrión concluded.”