SENATOR ANGEL BOLQUES JR.'s LEGISLATIVE WORK

Key Legislative Accomplishments Include: (See more here: Bill Tracker)

Resolution No. 1904: A Resolution Honoring the Board of Elections, Supervisor of Elections Caroline Fawkes, and the entire Virgin Islands Election System staff past and present for their tireless service and contributions to the Virgin Islands community.

Resolution No. 1909: A Resolution Honoring the St. Croix Majorettes for fifty years of commitment to youth development, community service, and the art of baton twirling.

Resolution No. 1913: A Resolution Commending Miguel Santos, Jr. (DJ Poppy Pops) for his contributions to music and radio broadcasting in the Virgin Islands.

Act No. 8644: Appropriating $570,000 from the St. John Capital Improvement Fund for Road Repairs – This act allocates funding for road repair and maintenance projects on St. John, improving infrastructure and accessibility for residents and visitors. 

Act No. 8649: Appropriating $679,250 from the St. Croix Capital Improvement Fund for Infrastructure Projects – This act directs funding toward essential capital improvements on St. Croix, enhancing transportation, public facilities, and community infrastructure. 

Act No. 8690: Amending title 3 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 26, section 706, relating to retirees reentering government service by means of temporary employment or contractual employment without harming their current retirement status or annuities.

Act No. 8696: An Act Appropriating $250,000 from the St. John Capital Improvement Fund to the Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation to fund the second phase of the Cruz Bay playground through a grant to the Friends of the Virgin Islands National Park.Allocation of $600,000 to Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services (VIFEMS) for the two Type-3 pumper fire trucks for the island of St. John.

Act No. 8735: An Act Amending title 3 of the Virgin Islands Code to clarify the duties and responsibilities of the Executive Director of the Taxicab Commission. This Act outlines specific administrative and operational duties for the Executive Director, enhancing oversight and establishing clear expectations for regulatory compliance, licensing, and service standards across the taxicab industry.

Act No. 8783: An Act Honoring former Senator Almando “Rocky” Liburd for his lifetime of service by renaming the North Shore Road on St. John to "The Almando 'Rocky' Liburd Drive."

Act No. 8798: An Act Enacting the Safe Haven Newborn Protection Act to provide a safe environment for relinquishing newborns. Creating a safe and anonymous process for parents to relinquish newborns without facing legal consequences, provided they comply with very specific conditions. This Act designates certain locations, such as hospitals and emergency service providers, where newborns can be safely relinquished, ensuring that they receive immediate care and protection. The legislation aims to prevent abandonment, promote infant safety, and offer parents a compassionate, responsible option in difficult circumstances with a framework and option to reinstate parenthood if parent meets requirements.

Act No. 8802: An Act that Appropriates $2,500,000 for the purchase of the Department of Labor building in St. Thomas to reduce the Government of the Virgin Islands' (GVI) rental expenses and expand its operational footprint. By transitioning from leased to owned property, this Act aims to decrease ongoing rental costs, allowing GVI to allocate resources more effectively. The acquisition also facilitates the potential for expanded services within the Department of Labor, enhancing the accessibility and quality of government support for the Virgin Islands workforce.

Act No. 8817: An Act that Establishes an educational scholarship program to support Virgin Islands residents pursuing careers in the maritime industry. This Act aims to strengthen the local maritime workforce by providing financial assistance to individuals interested in fields such as navigation, engineering, marine biology, and other essential maritime professions. By investing in workforce development, the program seeks to build local expertise, stimulate economic growth, and create sustainable job opportunities within the Virgin Islands' maritime sector.

Act No. 8841: An Act that Designates an official dish and dessert for the Virgin Islands, honoring and preserving the territory's rich culinary heritage. This Act recognizes the importance of local cuisine as a cultural touchstone, celebrating traditional flavors and cooking methods that reflect the Virgin Islands’ unique history and community. By establishing these official food symbols, the Act promotes cultural pride and provides a new platform to showcase Virgin Islands culinary arts, both locally and internationally.

Act No. 8878: An Act Increasing the Motor Vehicle Rental Surcharge and Funding in the District - This bill increases the surcharge on vehicle rentals, providing additional funds to our treasury for important public projects, programs, and services. This extra revenue will benefit our community by supporting infrastructure and initiatives that improve the daily lives of people in the Virgin Islands.

Act No. 8923: An Act Creating the Child Victims’ and Child Witnesses’ Rights Act - This bill protects our most vulnerable—our children—when they are involved in legal cases as victims or witnesses. By ensuring they have the support and protection they need, we are making our justice system more compassionate and focused on healing, which benefits the entire Virgin Islands community by fostering a safer environment for our youth.

Act No. 8952: An Act Codifying and Establishing School Speed Zones and Enforcement Measures for Pedestrian Safety Near Schools - By establishing school speed zones and enforcement measures, infrastructure, and technology; this bill prioritizes the safety of our children as they travel to and from school. It’s a common-sense measure that helps prevent accidents and ensures that our schools are safer places for students and families across the Virgin Islands.

Act No. 8980: Resolution honors and commends the St. Croix Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for 50 years of dedicated service to the Virgin Islands. Since its founding in 1975, the chapter has contributed over $100,000 in scholarships, supported numerous community organizations, and led impactful initiatives such as the Anti-Gun Violence Initiative, which earned national recognition in 2023. The resolution celebrates the chapter’s commitment to sisterhood, scholarship, and service, marking its 50th anniversary with a commemorative plaque to be presented at an official ceremony.

Act No. 8986: Act amends Title 16 of the Virgin Islands Code, Chapter 2, Section 99, to establish a mandatory minimum bail amount specifically for domestic violence cases. By setting a standardized minimum bail, the Act aims to ensure a consistent and serious approach to handling domestic violence offenses, enhancing protections for victims and reinforcing the legal consequences for offenders. The mandatory minimum bail requirement is intended to serve as a deterrent, prioritizing victim safety and emphasizing the commitment of the Virgin Islands' legal system to address and mitigate domestic violence effectively.

Act No. 9001: This bill amends a 76 year old provision and enhances and modernizes it.  Title 19, Chapter 53 of the Virgin Islands Code to increase penalties for violations of sanitation laws and establish a risk-based enforcement framework. It authorizes the suspension or revocation of health permits for violations, outlines procedures for hearings and appeals, and mandates education for violators. Civil penalties are categorized by risk level, with sliding scale fines for imminent health hazards. The bill also incentivizes compliance through penalty reductions and requires that collected fines be used to support inspection and enforcement services under the Department of Health’s Environmental Health Division.

Act No. 9006: This bill amends Title 1, Chapter 11 of the Virgin Islands Code to establish Virgin Islands Gun Violence Awareness Week. Beginning the Monday before the first Friday in June, the week will align with National Gun Violence Awareness Day and serve as an observance to raise awareness, honor victims and survivors, and promote community efforts to reduce gun violence. The designation aims to support public safety, encourage education and engagement, and address the ongoing impact of firearm-related violence in the Virgin Islands.

Bills currently in the pipeline or being vetted for consideration include:

Bill No. 35-0037: Amending Title 3 Virgin Islands Code to Allow for Insurance Coverage for Auxiliary Police Officers - By providing insurance coverage for auxiliary police officers, this bill supports the men and women who help keep our neighborhoods safe. It ensures they have the protection they deserve, which in turn enhances public safety and shows that we value the contributions of all those who serve our community.

Bill No. 35-0047: Honoring and Commending Linval Joseph for His Achievements in Professional Football and Community Contributions - This bill celebrates Linval Joseph not just for his success in football but also for his commitment to giving back to our community. By recognizing his achievements, we inspire others in the Virgin Islands to pursue excellence and contribute positively to society, particularly in mentoring our youth.

Bill No. 35-0129: Appropriating $350,000 for a Feasibility Study on Reopening Certain Roads on St. John Linking Cruz Bay and Coral Bay - This bill funds a study to explore reopening key roads between Cruz Bay and Coral Bay, which could greatly improve transportation and daily life on St. John. Better connectivity would make it easier for residents to travel, boost local businesses, and enhance the overall quality of life on the island.

Bill No. 35-0132: Appropriating $479,486.35 for Technological Upgrades for the Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission - This appropriation will upgrade the technology at the Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission, leading to more efficient and transparent taxi services. These improvements will benefit both taxi drivers and passengers, making transportation safer and more reliable for everyone in our community.

Bill No. 35-0139: Appropriating Funds to Complete the Virgin Islands Department of Education's Youth Education and Training Initiatives - By funding youth education and training programs, this bill invests in the future of our islands. These programs help equip our young people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed, which benefits the entire territory by building a stronger, more capable workforce.

Bill No. 35-0177: Honoring and Commending Jerome Austin Browne for His Contributions to Baseball and Youth on St. Croix - This bill honors Jerome Austin Browne for his dedication to baseball and youth development on St. Croix. By recognizing his contributions, we highlight the importance of sports in teaching life skills and fostering community spirit, which benefits all of us by building a more engaged and active youth.

Bill No. 35-0181: Requiring the Identification of Cemetery Property on St. John - This bill ensures that cemetery properties on St. John are properly identified and protected. By preserving these sacred sites, we honor our history and cultural heritage, which is important for maintaining the identity and pride of our local communities.

Bill No. 35-0205: an Act that appropriates $900,000 to the Virgin Islands Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation for the development and construction of a state-of-the-art equestrian training facility in Estate Body Slob, St. Croix. This facility aims to enhance the accessibility and growth of equestrian sports in the Virgin Islands by providing a dedicated space for training, education, and community engagement while fostering local talent, support of youth programs, and equestrian events.

Bill No. 35-0188: Appropriating Funds to the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority for Hydrants to Mitigate Fires in Landfills - This bill addresses the need for fire hydrants at landfills, helping to prevent and control fires that could harm our environment and public health. It’s a proactive step to protect our natural resources and ensure a safer, cleaner Virgin Islands for everyone.

Bill No. 35-0306: Resolution Honoring and Commending James Sasso for Distinguished Service in the Mortuary and Funeral Service Industry - By honoring James Sasso for his service in the funeral industry, this bill recognizes the importance of dignity and professionalism in times of grief. His contributions have supported many families in the Virgin Islands during their most difficult times, and this recognition underscores the value of compassionate service in our community.

Bill No. 35-0179: An Act amending title 14 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 61, relating to gambling violations, and title 32 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 13, relating to the Virgin Islands Lottery Commission, to strengthen enforcement tools against illegal gambling and lottery by increasing penalties, updating definitions to include modern gambling activities, authorizing forfeiture of assets, establishing civil fines up to $10,000, and reallocating proceeds to enforcement, the Virgin Islands Lottery Commission, and gambling addiction prevention programs to protect public safety, lawful businesses, and community well-being.

 Bill No. 36-0003: This bill amends Title 19 of the Virgin Islands Code to strengthen regulations for nursing homes and assisted living facilities by establishing required services, financial limitations, visitation rights, and resident protections. It ensures that facilities provide essential healthcare, personal care, and social support while setting financial guidelines to prevent exploitation. The bill also reinforces visitation rights, allowing residents regular access to family and advocates, and expands resident rights to protect their dignity, privacy, and quality of life. Referred to the Committee on Health, Hospitals, and Human Services, this measure aims to enhance the standard of care and accountability in long-term care facilities across the Virgin Islands.

Bill No. 36-0004: This bill amends Title 9, Section 233 of the Virgin Islands Code to increase fines for violations committed by pawnbrokers. By strengthening penalties, the measure aims to enhance compliance, deter unlawful practices, and improve consumer protections within the industry. Referred to the Committee on Homeland Security, Justice, and Public Safety, this legislation seeks to uphold fair business practices and accountability among pawnbrokers operating in the Virgin Islands.

Bill No. 36-0006: This bill appropriates $600,000 to the Department of Agriculture to support farmers producing crops and other food products in the Virgin Islands. The funding aims to strengthen local agriculture, enhance food security, and provide financial assistance to farmers to improve production and sustainability. Referred to the Committee on Budget, Appropriations, and Finance, this measure seeks to invest in the territory’s agricultural sector and reduce reliance on imported food.

Bill No. 36-0007: This resolution honors and commends James Sasso for his distinguished service in the mortuary and funeral service industry. Recognizing his dedication, professionalism, and contributions to the community, this measure acknowledges his impact on the Virgin Islands and the families he has served. Referred to the Committee on Government Operations, Veteran Affairs, and Consumer Protection, this resolution seeks to celebrate Sasso’s commitment to excellence in his field.

Bill No. 36-0039: This bill amends Title 33, Chapter 4 of the Virgin Islands Code to increase the costs associated with bringing containers and flat rack containers into the Virgin Islands. The measure aims to generate additional revenue, support infrastructure and public services, and address the economic impact of imports on the territory. Referred to the Committee on Budget, Appropriations, and Finance, this legislation seeks to adjust import-related fees to align with fiscal needs and sustainability efforts.

Bill No. 36-0110: This bill amends Title 20, Chapter 1 of the Virgin Islands Code to require a permit from the Department of Public Works before any excavation of public roadways. It establishes a fee schedule based on the size and impact of the excavation, and authorizes the Department to collect additional fees for inspections, utility marking, environmental assessments, and road restoration. All fees will support the maintenance and improvement of public roads through the District Public Road Fund. The bill also provides for fines and penalties for violations and directs the Department to establish standards, a permit application process, and enforcement rules.

Bill No. 36-0109: This bill amends Title 33 and Title 20 of the Virgin Islands Code to establish the Inspections and Safety on Public Highways Fund and modernize the territory’s vehicle inspection and registration process. It mandates inspections for specific vehicle categories, including school buses, vehicles for hire, and those newly imported or requiring emissions testing. The bill authorizes certified auto repair shops to conduct inspections and allows for online registration for vehicles not subject to mandatory inspections. It also empowers the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and the Virgin Islands Police Department to enforce compliance, remove unsafe vehicles from roadways, and implement an emissions inspection program. All related revenues will support roadway safety initiatives through the newly created fund.

Bill No. 36-0099: This bill amends Title 34, Chapter 15 of the Virgin Islands Code to expand the Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Prevention Act. It requires the Department of Human Services to develop emergency response protocols and request legal intervention when abuse poses imminent danger to elders or dependent adults. The bill establishes an Elder Anti-Abuse Multi-Disciplinary Team to coordinate interagency efforts, review high-risk cases, and submit annual reports to the Legislature. It also creates an Elder Abuse Registry managed by the Department of Justice to track convicted offenders for employment screening and public safety purposes, with interagency support provided by the Department of Human Services.

Bill No. 36-0151: Amending Title 23 Virgin Islands Code Regarding the Illegal Possession of Machine Guns and Conversion Devices – This bill strengthens public safety by prohibiting the possession, manufacture, sale, or distribution of machine gun conversion devices, including chips, 3D-printed parts, and binary triggers that modify firearms to fire automatically. It establishes penalties  in fines or 10 years imprisonment, along with immediate seizure and forfeiture of illegal devices. Exemptions are provided for law enforcement, active-duty military, and licensed manufacturers acting lawfully. The measure directs the Virgin Islands Police Department to issue regulations for enforcement and takes effect 90 days after enactment

Bill No. 36-0092: Approving a Lease Agreement Between the Government of the Virgin Islands and St. John Taxi Services Corporation – This bill authorizes a 20-year lease for Parcel No. D-2 Estate Cruz Bay Town, Cruz Bay Quarter, St. John, consisting of 2,700 square feet zoned “W-1” (Waterfront Pleasure). The property will be used to operate a taxi stand and related purposes, with an initial annual rent, payable in monthly installments. The lease includes options for two additional five-year renewals, ensuring long-term stability and support for transportation services in Cruz Bay

Bill No. 36-0190: Amending Title 1 Virgin Islands Code to Require Sign Language Interpreters for Government Broadcasts and Official Functions – This bill promotes accessibility and inclusivity by requiring the Government of the Virgin Islands to provide qualified American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters for all visually broadcast meetings and official functions. It mandates that the Office of Management and Budget include annual funding under the Office of the Governor to hire at least one certified interpreter per island district to ensure coverage for televised and live-streamed events. In cases where in-person interpreters are unavailable, certified remote interpreters may be used through split-screen or picture-in-picture display to ensure real-time communication. The Act takes effect one year after enactment, with full funding required in the Fiscal Year 2027 Executive Budget, guaranteeing equal access to government information for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing throughout the Virgin Islands.

Bill No. 36-0191: Honoring Detective Delberth Phipps Jr. by Renaming a Portion of Hospital Gade in His Memory – This bill honors and commends the late Detective Delberth Phipps Jr. for his distinguished service with the Virgin Islands Police Department and his lasting contributions to the Virgin Islands community. Detective Phipps was fatally wounded in the line of duty on July 4, 2023, while responding to an armed suspect, demonstrating extraordinary courage and dedication to public safety. The measure renames the portion of Hospital Gade from its intersection with Veterans Drive at the Alexander Farrelly Criminal Justice Complex to the beginning of Maude Proudfoot Drive as “Delberth Phipps Jr. Street.” It appropriates $5,000 from the General Fund for the Department of Public Works to install commemorative signage, ensuring his bravery, mentorship, and community service are permanently memorialized within the Virgin Islands.

Bill No. 36-0194: Urging Congress and the U.S. Trade Representative to Modernize and Reauthorize the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI) – This resolution calls on the United States Congress and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative to expand and modernize the Caribbean Basin Initiative (CBI) and the Caribbean Basin Trade Partnership Act (CBTPA) to address 21st-century economic priorities. It emphasizes the inclusion of the Virgin Islands as a full stakeholder and partner in trade policy development and program benefits. The measure advocates for updates that reflect modern economic needs such as digital services, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, climate resilience, and small business development. It also urges the promotion of fair labor practices, environmental sustainability, and regional economic stability, ensuring that both U.S. territories and Caribbean nations share in long-term growth and prosperity across the region.

Bill No. 36-0044: Honoring Seven-Year-Old Twin Brothers Kruz and Stefon Wilson for Heroism at Magen’s Bay Beach – This resolution honors and commends twin brothers Kruz and Stefon Wilson, seven-year-old students of Joseph Sibilly Elementary School, for their extraordinary bravery and quick thinking that saved a drowning man at Magen’s Bay Beach on August 11, 2024. Demonstrating remarkable courage, Kruz offered his kayak to the man in distress to keep him afloat, while Stefon coordinated their efforts to bring him safely to shore. Their heroic actions prevented a tragedy and exemplified the highest values of compassion, teamwork, and community spirit. The Legislature recognizes their outstanding character and contribution to the Virgin Islands community by presenting a perma plaque in their honor and sharing this resolution with their school to inspire other young Virgin Islanders.

Bill No. 36-0045: Appropriating Funds for Technological Upgrades to the Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission – This bill appropriates $400,000 from the Tourism Advertising Revolving Fund to the Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission to implement critical technological upgrades that enhance operational efficiency and transparency. The measure authorizes the digitization of all paper records and files and directs collaboration with the Bureau of Information Technology (BIT) to determine the most effective equipment and software solutions for modernization. The appropriation remains available until expended, ensuring the Commission’s transition to a modernized, data-driven system that improves service delivery, record management, and administrative oversight within the Virgin Islands transportation sector.

Bill No. 36-0149: Honoring and Commending Janeisha John for Outstanding Achievements in Entertainment, Modeling, and Cultural Representation – This resolution honors and commends Ms. Janeisha John for her remarkable accomplishments as an entertainer, model, and television producer, and for her enduring role as a cultural ambassador of the Virgin Islands. A St. Croix native and University of the Virgin Islands graduate, Ms. John has earned international acclaim through her work with major media networks such as BET and CBS, appearances in global campaigns for Microsoft, Verizon, and Target, and features in international publications including L’Officiel India and Playboy Denmark. She has represented the Virgin Islands on global stages as Miss USVI America 2007 and Miss USVI Universe 2010, and continues to uplift Virgin Islanders through her visibility, creativity, and advocacy. The resolution further encourages the Department of Tourism and the Virgin Islands Cultural Heritage Institute to collaborate with Ms. John in initiatives promoting Virgin Islands talent and culture abroad, recognizing her as a trailblazer, entrepreneur, and inspirational leader whose achievements reflect the spirit and excellence of the Virgin Islands.

Bill No. 36-0137: Amending Title 33 to Impose a 5% Tax on Payments to Non-Resident Artists for Performances and Entertainment Services – This bill amends Title 33, Chapter 3, Section 47 of the Virgin Islands Code to require any non-resident artist or entertainer, not already subject to the gross receipts tax under 33 V.I.C. § 43, who receives payment for a performance or entertainment service within the Virgin Islands, to pay a five percent tax on the amount received. The measure ensures that non-resident performers contributing to the local entertainment industry are taxed equitably in line with existing revenue obligations applied to resident businesses. This legislation promotes fairness, enhances compliance, and generates additional revenue for the Government of the Virgin Islands. The Act takes effect 90 days after enactment.