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Bill

Bill

36-0051

An Act amending title 27 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 20 by establishing the Virgin Islands Board of Social Work Licensure

2025-2026 Regular Session

Establishes Virgin Islands Board of Social Work Licensure to regulate social work practitioners through professional licensing and standards enforcement.

Sent to Lt. Governor
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Bill Summary · 36-0051

Legislative bill overview

Bill 36-0051 establishes the Virgin Islands Board of Social Work Licensure as a regulatory body under title 27, chapter 20 of the Virgin Islands Code. This new board would oversee the licensing, regulation, and professional standards for social workers practicing in the territory.

Why is this important

Creating a dedicated licensing board professionalizes the social work field in the Virgin Islands, ensuring practitioners meet educational and ethical standards while protecting public welfare. This addresses a regulatory gap and aligns Virgin Islands licensing standards with those of other U.S. jurisdictions.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Establishing a new board requires funding for staff, offices, and administrative operations that must come from government or licensing fees
  • Licensing fee burden: Social workers may face new licensing expenses that could increase service costs or create barriers for lower-income practitioners
  • Board composition and authority: Questions about board member appointment procedures, oversight mechanisms, and whether existing social workers will be grandfathered in without new requirements

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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