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Bill

36-0134

An act repealing and reenacting title 18 Virgin Islands Code, chapter 1, section 2 relating to government employees’ eligibility for elected offices, to allow government employees to run for political office while actively employed, unless specifically prohibited by federal or other laws

2025-2026 Regular Session

Bill Summary: 36-0134 - Government Employees' Eligibility for Elected Office OverviewThis bill seeks to repeal and reenact section 2 of chapter 1, title 18 of the Virgin Islands Co

Introduced
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Bill Summary · 36-0134

Bill Summary: 36-0134 - Government Employees' Eligibility for Elected Office

Overview

This bill seeks to repeal and reenact section 2 of chapter 1, title 18 of the Virgin Islands Code. The intent is to allow government employees in the Virgin Islands to run for and hold elected political offices while actively employed, unless prohibited by federal or other applicable laws.

Key Provisions

  • Repeal of Existing Prohibition: The bill would remove the current restriction that prohibits government employees from running for elected offices.
  • Eligibility for Political Office: Government employees would be permitted to campaign for and serve in elected positions, with the exception of any roles expressly forbidden by federal or other relevant laws.
  • Applicability: This change would apply to all government employees in the Virgin Islands, including those working at the territorial, local, or municipal levels.

Potential Impact

  • Expanded Political Participation: The bill would open up more opportunities for government workers to engage in the political process and seek elected offices.
  • Potential Conflicts of Interest: Critics may argue that allowing government employees to hold elected offices could create conflicts of interest or compromise the independence of the civil service.
  • Alignment with Federal Laws: The summary notes that the new eligibility rules would be subject to any prohibitions or restrictions under federal law, which may limit the bill's scope in certain cases.

Timeline and Next Steps

  • The bill was introduced in the Virgin Islands legislature on January 22, 2025.
  • It is currently in the introduced status and has not yet progressed through the full legislative process.
  • If passed, the changes would take effect upon enactment and would apply to future elections for government employees.

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

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