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UNITED STEELWO RKERS / j District 9 UNITY AND STRENGTH FOR WORKERS Daniel Flippo District Director May 28, 2025 Mark Cochran Assistant to the Director The Honorable Avery L. Lewis Wesley Thompson 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands Sub-District Director 3022 Estate Golden Rock Christiansted, VI 00820 Dear Senator Lewis, I am writing to acknowledge the receipt of your email and letter dated May 23, 2025, in which you invited me to provide testimony regarding the Act amending Title 3 of the Virgin Islands Code, Chapter 25, Subchapter V, Section 555b. This Act seeks to increase the minimum annual salary for full-time employees of the Government of the Virgin Islands, its semi-autonomous agencies, and independent instrumentalities from $27,040 to $32,000, as proposed by Senator Kurt A. Vialet. Regrettably, I am currently on vacation off the island and will be unable to attend the hearing. Nevertheless, I wish to express my unequivocal support for this proposed amendment. Increasing the minimum annual salary for government employees to $32,000 represents a necessary and just adjustment that accounts for the rising cost of living while acknowledging the essential roles that these individuals fulfill within our communities. Government employees constitute the backbone of our public sector, providing critical services that directly influence the lives of every citizen. From educators and healthcare professionals to law enforcement personnel and social service providers, these committed individuals frequently perform their responsibilities under challenging circumstances and are deserving of equitable compensation for their contributions. The existing minimum salary of $27,040 fails to provide adequate financial security for those who dedicate their careers to public service. As inflation continues to rise and living costs escalate, many government employees encounter difficulties in meeting their basic financial obligations, let alone planning for their futures or maintaining a reasonable standard of living. The proposed increase to $32,000 would mitigate some of this financial strain and convey a powerful message that we value and respect the efforts of our public servants. Moreover, this salary adjustment would assist in attracting and retaining skilled individuals within the government workforce, thereby ensuring that a highly qualified and motivated team is available to serve the public effectively. By offering a more competitive salary, we can reduce turnover rates, alleviate recruitment challenges, and enhance the overall quality of public services. United Steel, Paper and Forestry, Rubber, Manufacturing, Energy, Allied Industrial and Service Workers International Union P.O. Box 5972 Sunny Isle, Christiansted, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands 00823-5972 * 340-778-5634 * 340-778-5642 * www.usw.org Letter to Senator Avery L. Lewis Amendment to title 3 VI code, Chapter 25, Subchapter V section 55b May 28, 2025 This amendment signifies a step toward fairness and recognition for the dedicated men and women who serve our communities with unwavering commitment. I urge all stakeholders to consider the long-term advantages of this adjustment, not only for the welfare of government employees but also for the sustained prosperity and effectiveness of our public institutions. I appreciate your kind invitation once again, and I anticipate favorable outcomes from this initiative. tneerely, Wr S Gerard “Jerry’Vackson taff Representative GLJ/md C: Daniel Flippo Wesley Thompson