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Legal Opinion Forces Delay of USVI’s 25% Tariff Discussion

A high-level meeting between Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and members of the U.S. Virgin Islands Legislature, originally set for February 26, was postponed following a legal opinion clarifying that the local government lacks the authority to impose a proposed 25% tariff on goods imported from the British Virgin Islands.
The meeting was expected to focus on the administration’s controversial tariff proposal, which would directly impact trade between the BVI and USVI. However, an opinion issued Tuesday by Senate legal counsel Sharline Rogers determined that only the U.S. president has the authority to impose tariffs, a power granted by the U.S. Constitution and delegated through the Reciprocal Trade Agreements Act of 1934.
According to a spokesperson from Government House, Governor Bryan is now exploring legal avenues to introduce the tariff while also seeking a collaborative approach to address economic concerns within the charter and yacht industries of both the USVI and BVI. The governor intends to consult with local stakeholders before taking any further action.
Senator Kenneth Gittens, vice president of the Legislature, had requested the legal review to clarify the governor’s authority on the matter. The opinion reinforced that Congress holds the sole power to regulate trade duties and that any attempt by the USVI to unilaterally impose a tariff would be legally invalid.
Richard Motta Jr., Government House communications director, stated that Governor Bryan is aware of these legal constraints but remains committed to pursuing all possible options, including making a formal request to the federal government if necessary. Before doing so, Bryan plans to meet with members of the 36th Legislature and key economic stakeholders.
“The governor is working to bring together all relevant parties to find a fair resolution that benefits the charter and yacht industries in both the USVI and BVI, as well as other economic interests between the two territories,” said Motta.
In addition to the proposed tariff, the Bryan administration has floated the idea of introducing entry and exit fees for non-Virgin Islanders traveling between the two territories. This proposal is also expected to be part of the broader discussions between the USVI and BVI governments.
The legal opinion also highlighted that while the USVI Legislature has the authority to impose customs duties on goods imported for consumption within the territory, any broader tariff measures would require federal approval.
Governor Bryan is expected to hold further discussions with both USVI lawmakers and BVI officials before making any definitive decisions. Senate President Milton Potter noted that Bryan’s recent visit to Washington, D.C., may provide additional avenues to address trade concerns between the two territories.
Despite the legal setback, Bryan’s administration remains focused on engaging with senators and the BVI government to explore mutually beneficial solutions. “As it stands today, the governor’s posture remains unchanged—nothing is off the table,” Motta said. “The first step is to have these conversations, and that remains a priority.”
The postponed meeting between Governor Bryan and the USVI Legislature has yet to be rescheduled.
Source: WTJX Virgin Islands Public Broadcasting System
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Pope Francis Dies at 88: World Mourns Transformative Leader of the Catholic Church

Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church and the first from the Americas, died on Sunday at the age of 88, bringing an end to a historic papacy defined by humility, social advocacy, and efforts to modernise the Church. The Vatican confirmed his death late Sunday evening in a brief statement, noting he passed away peacefully at the Apostolic Palace, surrounded by senior clergy and aides.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis was elected to the papacy in 2013 following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His elevation as the first Jesuit pope and the first from the Global South signalled a shift in the Church’s global focus. His leadership inspired millions, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean, where his messages of compassion, environmental stewardship, and economic justice found deep resonance.
Over his 12-year papacy, Pope Francis worked tirelessly to address some of the most complex issues facing the modern Church—sexual abuse scandals, declining attendance, and widening political divides. He was both praised and criticised for his efforts to reach across ideological lines, calling for greater inclusion within the Church, particularly towards the LGBTQ community, divorced Catholics, and interfaith dialogue.
In the Caribbean, a region with a deep Catholic heritage, Pope Francis was seen as a moral voice and a beacon of reform. His 2015 visit to Cuba helped pave the way for a historic thaw in US–Cuba relations, while his outspoken stance on climate change galvanised support for environmental movements across island nations vulnerable to rising sea levels and intensifying hurricanes.
“Pope Francis was a man of the people. His commitment to the poor, the marginalised, and our common home touched the lives of many here in the Caribbean,” said Bishop Harold Richards of the Antilles Episcopal Conference. “He brought a human face to the Church.”
Though increasingly frail in recent years, Francis continued to carry out his duties with determination. He remained active in Vatican affairs until only weeks before his passing, delivering his final public message on Easter Sunday, in which he called for peace in the Middle East and solidarity with migrants worldwide.
A conclave of cardinals will be convened in the coming weeks to elect a new pope. In the meantime, the College of Cardinals will oversee the governance of the Church.
Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of bold compassion, spiritual leadership, and a vision of a more open, engaged, and globally conscious Catholic Church. Across the Caribbean and the world, churches will toll their bells in mourning—and in gratitude for a life of service.
Funeral services are expected to be held later this week in St Peter’s Basilica. A national day of mourning has been declared in Argentina.
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Leatherback Nesting Season Commences in BVI: Conservationists Seek Community Support

As the leatherback sea turtle nesting season begins across the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are preparing for potential nesting activity. While sightings have been reported in neighboring regions, no nests have been documented in the BVI yet. The Association of Reef Keepers (ARK), a local non-profit dedicated to marine conservation, is urging residents and visitors to report any turtle tracks or nesting activity promptly. Early detection is crucial, especially if nests are located in vulnerable areas where eggs may need to be relocated to ensure their survival.
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Another Section of Threlfalls Collapses, Prompting Safety Concerns

A new section of the Threlfalls road collapsed earlier today, April 18, raising renewed safety concerns among local residents and commuters. While no injuries have been reported, the incident has intensified scrutiny over the ongoing structural stability of the area.
Residents have expressed concern that today’s rainfall may have played a role in triggering the latest collapse.
“We are more worried now as we may soon be unable to traverse this road altogether,” one resident said. “I am worried about accessing my home.”
This is not the first time Threadfall road has been compromised. Another section of the roadway eroded in September 2024 following a period of intense rainfall. The Department of Public Works had subsequently conducted limited repairs, rendering that portion somewhat passable. However, long-standing issues persist.
The road has suffered extensive damage over the years, particularly following the passage of the hurricanes in 2017, which left critical parts of the route severely weakened.
Authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the cause of today’s collapse. In the meantime, JTV is actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
Motorists and pedestrians are strongly advised to exercise caution and avoid the area if possible.
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