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Bill

Bill

36-0096

An act amending title 33 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 3, section 57, subsection (b) to increase the passenger manne terminal tax and title 33 Virgin Islands Code, chapter III by adding a section 3100hh to establish the Social Security Disability Insurance Fund

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill increases maritime passenger taxes and establishes disability insurance fund, affecting tourism revenue and social benefits in Virgin Islands.

Introduced
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · 36-0096

Legislative bill overview

Bill 36-0096 proposes two main changes to Virgin Islands tax code: increasing the passenger maritime terminal tax and creating a new Social Security Disability Insurance Fund. The bill amends existing tax provisions while establishing a dedicated funding mechanism for disability insurance programs in the territory.

Why is this important

The passenger maritime terminal tax increase would directly affect cruise ship passengers and tourism-related revenues, potentially influencing Virgin Islands' budget allocation and competitiveness as a cruise destination. The establishment of a dedicated disability insurance fund addresses social safety net provisions for residents with disabilities, a significant population in most jurisdictions.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact on tourism: Higher passenger taxes could deter cruise ship visits or shift traffic to competing Caribbean ports, affecting hospitality jobs and local business revenue
  • Tax burden fairness: The maritime terminal tax may disproportionately affect lower-income travelers and residents who depend on ferry services while wealthy cruise passengers absorb costs differently
  • Fund sustainability and administration: Details about how the disability fund will be financed, managed, and what benefits it provides are unclear from the bill title alone; inadequate funding could create unfulfilled promises

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

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