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Bill

Bill

36-0072

An Act appropriating $405,000 from the General Fund of the Treasury of the Virgin Islands to the Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services for the purchase of three ambulances

2025-2026 Regular Session

Virgin Islands allocates $405,000 to purchase three ambulances for fire and emergency medical services to improve emergency response capacity.

Introduced
0
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Bill Summary · 36-0072

Legislative bill overview

Bill 36-0072 appropriates $405,000 from the Virgin Islands General Fund to purchase three ambulances for the Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services. This is a direct capital expenditure to replace or expand the territory's emergency medical response fleet.

Why is this important

Emergency medical services depend on reliable ambulance equipment for rapid response and patient transport. New ambulances directly affect response times, treatment capabilities, and ultimately public health outcomes in a Caribbean territory where emergency infrastructure is critical.

Potential points of contention

  • Budget priority debate: Whether $405,000 from the General Fund is justified during any competing fiscal pressures or budget constraints the territory may face
  • Cost and specifications: Questions about unit costs (~$135,000 per ambulance), whether this represents competitive procurement, and if vehicles meet current equipment/technology standards
  • Maintenance and sustainability: Lack of apparent provision for ongoing operating costs, maintenance, staffing, or fuel associated with three additional ambulances
  • Fleet assessment: Whether a needs assessment was conducted demonstrating that exactly three ambulances are necessary versus other EMS infrastructure priorities

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

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