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V.I. Taxi Association, Inc. Telephone 340-774-4550 Fax: 340-774-0553 P.O. Box 1377 - St. Thomas - U.S. Virgin Islands 00804 taxis@earthlink.net www. vitaxiassociation.com October 31, 2025 The Honorable Senator Novelle E. Francis, Jr. Chairman of the Committee on Budget, Appropriations and Finance St. Thomas, Earl B. Ottley Legislative Hall Re: BILL NO.36-0045: An Act appropriating the sum of $400,000 from the Tourism Advertising Revolving Fund to the Virgin Island Taxicab Commission for the implementation of technological upgrades. Good day, Honorable Senators, members of the Legislature, and distinguished guests. My name is Lawrence Ramdhansingh, and I serve as President of VI Taxi Association, Inc. I appreciate the opportunity to offer testimony in strong support of the proposed act appropriating funds to the Virgin Island Taxicab Commission for the purpose of implementing much-needed technological upgrades within the commission. The Virgin Island Taxicab Commission plays an - essential role in regulating and maintaining standards for one of the most visible and important sectors of our economy — transportation. Every day, our taxi drivers are among the first to greet arriving visitors and the last to wish them farewell. The quality, safety, and efficiency of our transportation services have a direct impact on the overall visitor experience and, by extension, the strength of our tourism industry. However, the commission currently operates with limited technological resources. Many of its system for licensing, permitting, compliance monitoring, V.I. Taxi Association, Inc. Telephone 340-774-4550 Fax: 340-774-0553 P.O. Box 1377 - St. Thomas - U.S. Virgin Islands 00804 taxis@earthlink. net www. vitaxiassociation.com and recordkeeping are outdated or manual. These Challenges slow down services, create inefficiencies, and limit the ability to properly track and manage data essential to operations. In today’s digital age, technology is no longer optional - it is necessary for transparency, accountability, and efficiency. The proposed funding will allow the Commission to implement key improvements, including: e Digital licensing and registration systems to streamline processing and reduce administrative delays. e Electronic payment and fare tracking system to improve convenience and accountability. e GPS- based vehicle monitoring and dispatch system to enhance safety, reliability, and operational data. e Online communication platforms for easier access to forms, updates, and driver support services. These upgrades will benefit not only the Commission but also every licensed taxi operator and, most importantly, the traveling public. They will help ensure that our transportation industry keeps pace with modern expectations and the competitive demands of global tourism. V.f. Taxi Association, Inc. Telepnone 348-772-8550 Fax: 340-774-0553 #.0, Bax 2377 - St. Thomas - U.S. Virgin islands 00802 laxis@earthiink, net www. vitaxiassociation.com I respectfully urge this Honorable Legislature to epprove this appropriation from the Tourism Revolving Fund. The benefits will extend far beyond the Taxicab Commission — they will enhance the image of the Virgin Island as a modern, efficient, and visitor — friendly destination. Thank you for your time, consideration, and continued support of our transportation industry. Respectfully Submi ted, LA Rayclhargole Lawrence Ramdharrsingh President,VI Taxi Association, Inc. St. Thomas 9