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Bill

Bill

36-0102

An act amending title 31 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 23 by re-enacting section 236b requiring the use of construction materials manufactured in the Virgin Islands, to the greatest extent practicable, for locally or federally funded contracts with the Government of the Virgin Islands

2025-2026 Regular Session

Requires Virgin Islands government construction contracts to use locally-manufactured materials when practicable, aiming to boost local industry and jobs through procurement preferences.

Introduced
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · 36-0102

Legislative bill overview

This bill amends Virgin Islands law to require that construction materials manufactured in the Virgin Islands be used "to the greatest extent practicable" in government contracts funded by local or federal sources. The amendment re-enacts Section 236b of Title 31, Chapter 23 of the Virgin Islands Code, establishing or reinforcing a buy-local preference for construction procurement.

Why is this important

Local content requirements can stimulate the Virgin Islands' manufacturing sector, create jobs, and keep procurement dollars circulating within the territory's economy. However, such mandates may increase project costs, limit contractor options, and potentially conflict with federal procurement rules or trade agreements that fund a portion of government construction projects.

Potential points of contention

  • "Greatest extent practicable" ambiguity: The vague standard gives administrators discretion to waive requirements, creating uncertainty about enforcement and making it difficult to predict when exceptions apply
  • Federal funding conflicts: Federal contracts often come with their own procurement rules (Davis-Bacon Act, Buy American provisions) that may supersede or complicate local content mandates
  • Cost implications: Restricting material sourcing to local suppliers could raise construction costs if Virgin Islands manufacturers cannot compete on price or availability, ultimately increasing taxpayer expenses
  • Limited local manufacturing base: The Virgin Islands' small population and manufacturing sector may mean few locally-made materials are available, making the requirement difficult to implement meaningfully

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

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