USVI Public Records

(a) In the interest of the welfare of the Virgin Islands and for the purpose of improving the health and living standards of its people, the Commissioner of Sports, Parks and Recreation shall plan and execute a continuing constructive program in the field of community recreation. Such program shall be designed to encourage widespread interest and active participation of the population in recreational and athletic activities. (b) Under such program, the Commissioner of Sports, Parks and Recreation shall- (1) institute programs of recreational and athletic activities; (2) coordinate activities in the public schools with programs in public playgrounds and recreational centers; and (3) set standards for recreational and athletic groups. History: Added March 21, 1972, No. 3190, Sess. L. 1972, p. 43; amended June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(d), Sess. L. 1987, p. 61; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340.

The Commissioner of Sports, Parks and Recreation shall make arrangements for an annual athletic meet between the high schools of St. Thomas and the high schools of St. Croix. History: Added Mar. 21, 1972, No. 3190, Sess. L. 1972, p. 43; amended June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(d), Sess. L. 1987, p. 61; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340.

Funds to meet the expenses of the contest provided for in section 2 of this chapter shall be appropriated annually in the budget for the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation. The meets shall be held alternately in St. Thomas and St. Croix in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated by the Commissioner of Sports, Parks and Recreation. History: Added March 21, 1972, No. 3190, Sess. L. 1972, p. 43; amended June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(d), Sess. L. 1987, p. 61; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340.

(a) The last Saturday in February of every year shall be designated as Sports Award Night. The Commissioner of Sports, Parks and Recreation shall make arrangements for an annual Virgin Islands Sports Awards Night to provide recognition for those athletes who have excelled in their chosen sport and to select a male and female athlete of the year. (b) Funds to meet the expenses of the Sports Awards Night shall be appropriated annually in the budget for the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation. The Sports Awards Night shall be held alternately in St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated by the Commissioner of Sports, Parks and Recreation. History: Added Jan. 29, 1982, No. 4671, Sess. L. 1982, p. 11; amended June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(d), Sess. L. 1987, p. 61; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340.

(a) As used in this section "Commissioner" means Commissioner of Sports, Parks and Recreation. (b) The Commissioner is authorized and directed to establish a Water Sports Training Program to include instruction in boating, swimming, diving and sailing. The Program shall operate annually during July and August commencing with the year 1988. Persons who successfully complete the program shall be issued certificates of performance. The Commissioner is hereby authorized to contract out part or all of this program if in his judgment this will produce a feasible program of equal or higher standards. (c) The Commissioner may accept, for the benefit of the Water Sports Education and Training Program, any gifts, devises by bequest or contributions. (d) The Commissioner may promulgate rules necessary to carry out the purposes of this section. History: Added July 30, 1987, No. 5269, § 1, Sess. L. 1987, p. 109; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340.

It is the purpose of this chapter to begin to bring the Virgin Islands into line with other jurisdictions which assist youngsters in developing their tennis abilities and to encourage increased youth participation in the field of tennis. History: Added July 11, 1983, No. 4848, § 1, Sess. L. 1983, p. 118.

The Commissioner of Sports, Parks and Recreation is authorized and directed to establish and carry out a tennis instruction program within the Virgin Islands for school age youngsters under 18. History: Added July 11, 1983, No. 4848, § 1, Sess. L. 1983, p. 118; amended June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(d), Sess. L. 1987, p. 61; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340.

The Commissioner shall utilize, to the maximum extent practicable, public tennis courts within the Virgin Islands and shall seek and obtain the cooperation of owners of private tennis courts within the Virgin Islands in carrying out this program. History: Added July 11, 1983, No. 4848, § 1, Sess. L. 1983, p. 118.

The Commissioner is further authorized and directed to appoint, and prescribe the duties of, a Program Director for the tennis instruction program and such other employees as he deems reasonably necessary for carrying out the provisions of this chapter. The Program Director may be compensated on a contractual basis from year to year to the extent of appropriations made available for such purpose and shall be a graduate of a university which has a tennis program or otherwise qualified by experience. History: Added July 11, 1983, No. 4848, § 1, Sess. L. 1983, p. 118.

With the consent of the Commissioner of Education, the Commissioner is authorized to provide for the monthly instruction of physical education teachers of the public schools of the Virgin Islands to better acquaint them with teaching the sport of tennis. History: Added July 11, 1983, No. 4848, § 1, Sess. L. 1983, p. 119.

From time to time the Commissioner, upon recommendation of the Program Director, may award scholarships to tennis players, 18 years of age and under, who distinguish themselves in regional and national tournaments, to permit them to attend tennis camps during the summer months. History: Added July 11, 1983, No. 4848, § 1, Sess. L. 1983, p. 119.

(a) The Commissioner is authorized to accept bequests, devises, gifts and contributions of any nature, except monies, to carry out the provisions of this chapter and to hold title to same in trust for the Government of the Virgin Islands. (b) The Commissioner is hereby authorized to expend funds available in the Virgin Islands Tennis Program Revolving Trust Fund established pursuant to the provisions of section 3056 of chapter 111, Title 33, Virgin Islands Code, to carry out the provisions of this chapter. History: Added July 11, 1983, No. 4848, § 1, Sess. L. 1983, p. 119.

(a) The Government of the Virgin Islands declares its intent to ensure that the unique habitats and ecosystems and cultural and historical resources including, underwater archeological resources of the Virgin Islands are not entirely destroyed by development pressures and are preserved, protected, maintained and used for the long-term benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations. To fulfill this mandate, the Department of Planning and Natural Resources in conjunction with the Board of Trustees shall formulate and execute a long-range, comprehensive conservation plan and program to acquire, maintain, preserve and protect, where appropriate, privately and publicly-owned properties that are suitable for development as parks or protected areas; and by operating a territory-wide system of terrestrial and marine parks and recreation programs for the cultural, educational, recreational, environmental, and economic benefit of the people of the Virgin Islands known as "The Territorial Parks System". The park areas developed in furtherance of these activities must be marketed and be suitable for such outdoor leisure activities as camping, picnicking, hiking, biking, environmental education, sightseeing, boating, fishing, swimming, or other similar outdoor recreational activities for both residents of the Territory and visitors alike. (b) There is created within the Department of Planning and Natural Resources a Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas. The Commissioner of Planning and Natural Resources shall employ a Director of such Division who shall be designated Director of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas, and shall employ such other persons as may be necessary to efficiently administer the provisions of this chapter. The compensation of the Director and other employees of the Division shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of chapter 25 of Title 3 of this Code. The Director of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas shall perform such duties as may be assigned him by the Commissioner of Planning and Natural Resources. (c) It shall be the duty of the Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas to supervise, administer, manage, regulate and control the use and operation of all public parks, lands for public recreation, marine parks, and such others as may be designated by regulations by the Commissioner, including but not limited to beaches within the coastal zone as defined in Title 12, chapter 21 of this Code, that either are owned by or which may be acquired by the Government of the Virgin Islands, or to the operation, development, preservation or maintenance of which the Government may have made or may make contribution or appropriation of public funds, with the exception of those lands managed by another entity, authority, foundation, organization, or government instrumentally under applicable law and the neighborhood parks or recreation areas that are primarily designed to provide facilities for team, recreational or individual sports which are managed by the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation. (d) The Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas shall identify, supervise, administer, manage, regulate and control the use and operation of all public campgrounds, natural areas, scenic waysides, historic sites, recreational trails, monuments, marine parks, and such other sites classified as "Protected Areas" that constitute the Territorial Parks System, as may be designated as such through regulations promulgated by the Commissioner. (e) The Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas shall work in partnership and collaboration with community-based organizations, private philanthropic organizations, and other organizations, entities and individuals to invest in, maintain, preserve and protect areas identified as constituting the Territorial Parks System and to develop the long-range comprehensive conservation plan and program under subsection (a) of this section. (f) The Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas shall work in cooperation and collaboration with the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation and the Department of Tourism to market, promote, maintain, preserve, and protect the Territorial Parks System. (g) The comprehensive plan must be adopted within 180 days following the first meeting of a fully constituted board. The plan must be made available to the public for 30 days for review and comment before it is adopted. History: Added Mar. 21, 1972, No. 3190, Sess. L. 1972, p. 43; amended Jan. 31, 1973, No. 3361, Sess. L. 1973, p. 3; Oct. 31, 1978, No. 4248, § 17, Sess. L. 1978, p. 315; June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(d), (e)(1), (2), Sess. L. 1987, p. 61, 62; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340; amended July 20, 2022, No. 8609, § 3(a), (b)(1)-(3), Sess. L. 2022, p. 206, 207; amended Jan. 19, 2023, No. 8690, § 24(1)-(3), Sess. L. 2022, p. 453.

(a) The Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas shall have power to acquire, in the name of the Government of the Virgin Islands, any property, real or personal, by purchase, grant, devise, donation, or otherwise, which in its judgment may be necessary or proper toward the administration of the purposes of this chapter, provided, however, that no property of any nature may be acquired by purchase, lease, grant, donation, devise, or otherwise under conditions which shall pledge the credit of, or obligate in any manner whatsoever the Government of the Virgin Islands to pay any sum of money. (b) The Division shall make and publish such rules and regulations as it may deem necessary or proper for the management and use of the parks, monuments and memorials under its jurisdiction, and the violation of any of the rules and regulations authorized by this section shall be a misdemeanor and punishable accordingly. (c) The Division may grant privileges, leases, concessions and permits for the use of land for the accommodation of visitors in the various parks, monuments and memorials, provided no natural curiosities or objects of interest shall be granted, leased or rented on such terms as shall deny or interfere with free access to them by the public; and provided further that no such grant, lease or permit shall be assigned or transferred by any grantee without consent of the Division. (d) The Division is authorized to grant easements for rights-of-way over, across and upon lands of the Government of the Virgin Islands for the maintenance of poles and lines for the transmission and distribution of electrical power and for telephone and telegraphic purposes, under such conditions and with such limitations as the Division may impose. (e) [Repealed.] (f) [Repealed.] (g) The Division is authorized to receive gifts and donations from any source to carry out the purpose of this section. (h) [Repealed.] History: Added Mar. 21, 1972, No. 3190, Sess. L. 1972, p. 44; amended Jan. 31, 1973, No. 3361, Sess. L. 1973, p. 3; Oct. 31, 1978, No. 4248, § 18, Sess. L. 1978, p. 316; June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(e)(1), (3), Sess. L. 1987, p. 62; amended Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 3(a), Sess. L. 2022, p. 206.

The Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas may in the manner provided by law, adopt and enforce such rules and regulations as may be necessary for the protection, management, utilization, development, occupancy and use of all lands and waters within its jurisdiction, consistent with existing laws and with the purpose or purposes for which said lands and waters were acquired, designated or dedicated, and when such rules and regulations shall have been adopted they shall have the force and effect of law. History: Added Mar. 21, 1972, No. 3190, Sess. L. 1972, p. 45; amended Jan. 31, 1973, No. 3361, Sess. L. 1973, p. 3; Oct. 31, 1978, No. 4248, § 19, Sess. L. 1978, p. 316; June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(e)(1), Sess. L. 1987, p. 62; amended Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 3(a), Sess. L. 2022, p. 206.

(a) The Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas shall have the power to charge reasonable fees, rentals or charges for the use or operation of facilities and concessions in areas, parks and beaches under its jurisdiction, and all such fees, rentals and charges so collected shall be deposited in the Treasury to the credit of the Territorial Parks System Revolving Fund created under 33 V.I.C. § 3100e e, the continuing balance of which Fund is specifically designated to be expended by said Division for the administration, improvement and maintenance of parks, beaches and areas under the jurisdiction of the Division, and for the acquisition and development of lands hereafter acquired for park and recreational purposes. The said Fund, and the fund created pursuant to section 31 of this chapter, shall be continuing, and shall not revert to the General Fund at the end of any fiscal year or at any other time but shall, until expended, be continually available to said Division for the uses and purposes set forth. (b) Any moneys received in trust by the Division by gift, devise, appropriation or otherwise shall, subject to the terms of such trust, be deposited with the Department of Finance in the "Territorial Park Trust Fund" established in section 31 of this chapter. History: Added Mar. 21, 1972, No. 3190, Sess. L. 1972, p. 45; amended Jan. 31, 1973, No. 3361, Sess. L. 1973, p. 3; June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(e)(1), Sess. L. 1987, p. 62; amended Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 3(a); 4(1)(A)-(C), (2), Sess. L. 2022, p. 206-208.

The Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas is authorized and empowered, from time to time, by Resolution, to dedicate and reserve for the use of the public all or any part of the lands acquired by the said Division for park purposes; provided, however, that said dedication and reservation shall be subject to such rules and regulations, as to reasonable use by the public, as may be adopted by the Division. History: Added Mar. 21, 1972, No. 3190, Sess. L. 1972, p. 46; amended Jan. 31, 1973, No. 3361, Sess. L. 1973, p. 3; June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(e)(1), Sess. L. 1987, p. 62; amended Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 3(a), Sess. L. 2022, p. 206.

Property (a) As used in this section, (1) "Charge" means an admission fee for permission to go upon or use the land, but does not include: (A) Any contribution in kind, services or cash contributed by a person, legal entity, nonprofit organization, or governmental entity other than the owner, whether or not sanctioned or solicited by the owner, the purpose of which is to (i) remedy damage to land caused by educational or recreational use; or (ii) provide warning of hazards on, or remove hazards from, real property used for educational or recreational purposes; or (B) Unless otherwise agreed in writing or otherwise provided by the Territorial or federal tax codes, any federal tax codest, contribution of any kind to reduce or offset costs and eliminate losses from recreational use of real property or relief received by the owner from the Government in exchange for the owner's agreement to open the real property for educational or recreational purposes. (2) "Real property" means real estate, land, roads, water, watercourses, private ways and buildings, structures, and machinery or equipment when attached to the realty. (3) "Real property owner" means the possessor of a fee interest or, a tenant, lessee, occupant, or person in control of the premises who has authority to participate in the program established under subsection (b). (4) "Recreational purpose" includes, fishing, swimming, boating, camping, picnicking, nature study, sports, water sports, jogging, walking, hiking, biking, horseback riding, viewing or enjoying historical, archeological, scenic, or scientific sites; and any other activity undertaken for exercise, education, relaxation, or pleasure on land owned by another. (b) Limitation on liability. An owner of real property may be entitled to a limitation on liability for making real property available as provided in paragraphs (1) through (3). A real property owner who without charge provides the public with a park area or other real property for recreational or educational purposes (1) owes no duty of care to keep that park area or real property safe for entry or use by others, or to give warning to persons entering or going on that park area or real property of any hazardous conditions, structures, or activities thereon; (2) is not subject to liability for injury to persons going on the real property solely because the real property owner provides the park or real property for recreation; (3) is not presumed to extend any assurance that such park area or real property is safe for any purpose; (4) does not incur any duty of care toward a person who goes on that park area or real property, and (5) is not liable or responsible for any injury to persons or property caused by the act or omission of a person who goes on that park area or real property. (c) To qualify for the protections under this section, the real property owner shall register the real property used or intended to be used for the purpose of this section with the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. The Lieutenant Governor may promulgate rules and regulations not inconsistent with this section to carry out its purpose. (d) Application. This section applies whether the person going into the park or on the real property is an invitee, licensee, trespasser, or otherwise. (e) This section does not relieve any person of liability for acts or omissions that amount to gross negligence, or from liability that would otherwise exist for deliberate, willful or malicious injury to persons or property. This subsection may not be construed to create or increase the liability of any person. History: Added June 24, 2009, No. 7067, § 1, Sess. L. 2009, pp. 38-40.

(a) For purposes of this section, "recreational areas" means areas, under section 21(b) of this title, that are supervised, administered, managed, regulated and controlled by the Division of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas. (b) A person who causes a horse or a motor vehicle to go into any highly used beach or recreational area not designated for parking or driving purposes shall be fined not more than two hundred fifty dollars ($250) and/or imprisoned for not more than one hundred eighty (180) days. History: Added Feb. 11, 1986, No. 5140, § 1, Sess. L. 1986, p. 16; amended June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(e)(1), Sess. L. 1987, p. 62; amended Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 3(a), Sess. L. 2022, p. 206.

As used in this chapter, unless the context requires otherwise: (a) Deleted. (b) "Fund" means the Territorial Park Trust Fund created under this chapter. (c) "Land" means real property, including easements, restricts, and any interest thereon. (d) "Board" means the Board of Trustees responsible for the Territorial Park Trust Fund. (e) "Value" means the most probable price expressed in terms of money that a property would bring if exposed for sale in the open market in an arm's-length transaction between a willing seller and a willing buyer, both of whom are knowledgeable concerning all the uses to which the property is adapted and for which it is capable of being used. History: Added Dec. 23, 2003, No. 6634, § 30, Sess. L. 2003, p. 138; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340; amended Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 5(a), Sess. L. 2022, p. 208.

(a) There is established in the Treasury of the Virgin Islands a fund to be known as the Territorial Park Trust Fund. The Commissioner of Finance shall provide for the administration of the Fund as a separate and distinct fund in the Treasury, and shall hold the Fund separate and apart from all other moneys, funds and accounts. Investment earnings credited to the assets of the Fund shall become part of the Fund. No amounts in the Fund shall be available for expenditure or disbursement, except as provided in this chapter. All monies shall remain in the Fund until expended. Money shall be disbursed from the Fund by the Commissioner of Finance, upon the authorization of the Board. (b) As the Government acquires land pursuant to this chapter, the Chairperson of the Board shall direct the Commissioner of Finance to set aside an amount from the Fund not to exceed twenty percent of the value of the land acquired, or the land affected, if less than a fee interest was acquired, to be placed in a special stewardship account in the Fund. The special stewardship account shall be a non-lapsing account, and income derived from investment of the account shall be credited to the account. The special stewardship account shall be used solely for the management of land acquired under this chapter, as directed by the Board. (c) The Commissioner of Finance and the Board shall maintain a detailed accounting record of all monies deposited into and disbursed from the Territorial Park Trust Fund. (d) The Fund shall consist of all sums appropriated thereto from time to time by the Legislature, gifts, donations, and investment earnings, as provided in subsection (a). History: Added Dec. 23, 2003, No. 6634, § 30, Sess. L. 2003, p. 138; amended Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 5(b), Sess. L. 2022, p. 208.

Expenditures from the Fund shall be authorized by a seven-member Board constituted as follows: (1) The Commissioner of Planning and Natural Resources and the Commissioner of Sports Parks and Recreation, or persons acting in the official capacity of such officers, shall be members ex officio. (2) The Governor shall appoint five additional members to the Board; three with the advice and consent of the Legislature. One shall be a resident of St. Thomas, one shall be a resident of St. John and one shall be a resident of St. Croix, and the other two members shall be selected according to the Governor's discretion, with one being from the St. Thomas/St. John district and the other being from the St. Croix district. (3) Persons appointed shall be knowledgeable in the acquisition and management of natural areas, and shall not be salaried officials or employees of the Government of the Virgin Islands or the Government of the United States; except, that persons drawing retirement pay or pensions may not be considered to be salaried officials or employees. (4) The Governor shall designate one of his initial appointees to serve a five-year term, another to serve a four-year term, and the other three to serve a six-year term. Thereafter, all appointments shall be for six years, subject to reappointment. However, no appointee shall serve more than two consecutive terms after reappointment. (5) The Commissioner of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources shall act as a temporary Chairperson for organizational purposes. At the first meeting, provided that quorum is established, the Board shall nominate and elect a chairperson of the Board. A quorum is established when a majority of the Board is present. (6) The Board shall have a minimum of three meetings per year. The Chairperson may convene the Board for special meetings at the Chairperson's discretion and upon recommendation of any member of the Board. (7) The Board shall serve without compensation, but shall receive such reasonable compensation as may be incurred in the exercise of their duties. (8) No member of the Board, while acting within scope of the member's authority, shall be personally subject to any civil liability resulting from the performance of the duties and responsibilities specified in this chapter, unless such action was not performed in good faith. History: Added Dec. 23, 2003, No. 6634, § 30, Sess. L. 2003, p. 139; amended May 20, 2004, No. 6673, § 3, Sess. L. 2004, p. 36; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340; amended Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8610, § 1(a)-(c), Sess. L. 2022, p. 210.

(a) From time to time, but at least once each year, the Director of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas, the Commissioner of Sports, Parks and Recreation, and the Commissioner of Planning and Natural Resources shall recommend certain lands to be acquired by the Fund. The Director of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas, the Commissioner of Sports, Parks and Recreation, and the Commissioner of Planning and Natural Resources shall provide the Board with the following information included in the recommendation: (1) the value of the land for recreation, forestry, fish, wildlife, habitat and wilderness purposes, and its consistency with the plan developed pursuant to the Territorial Park System and the Territory's comprehensive plan for outdoor recreation, parks, natural areas development, and wildlife management goals and objectives; (2) any endangered species on or near the land; (3) the nature of the land, including whether the land is developed or undisturbed; (4) whether any rivers, tributaries, watersheds, wetlands, significant littoral, estuarine, or aquatic sites, or other important geologic features are in the land; (5) whether the land represents a specific type of landscape, natural feature, or natural area that is not currently in the State's inventory of parks and natural areas; (6) other sources of funds that may be available to assist in the land acquisition; (7) the proposed managing body for the land and the proposed use of the land; and (8) the historical significance of the structure or land. (b) The Board may authorize expenditures from the Fund for the following purposes: (1) to acquire lands that represent the ecological diversity of the Virgin Islands, including natural features such as rivers, coastal, and geologic systems and other natural areas; (2) to provide for the preservation and conservation of land for recreational, scientific, educational, cultural, and aesthetic purposes; and (3) to acquire additional lands for parks, trails, aesthetic forests, fish and wildlife management areas, scenic rivers, and natural areas for the use and enjoyment of the public. (c) The Board may designate managers or managing agencies of the lands acquired pursuant to this chapter to receive grants from the Fund's stewardship account. In authorizing expenditures from the Fund to acquire land pursuant to this chapter, the first priority shall be the protection of land identified by the Virgin Islands Historic Preservation Commission or the Department of Planning and Natural Resources as having natural or cultural heritage values. The Board may designate priorities for expenditure based upon the recommendations from the Director of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas, the Commissioner of Sports Parks and Recreation, and the Commissioner of Planning and Natural Resources made pursuant to subsection (a). (d) The Board may authorize expenditure of up to twenty-five percent of the Fund during the preceding fiscal year to acquire land under subsection (b), paragraph (3); however, no additional expenditures may be authorized for such acquisition. (e) The Board may authorize expenditures from the Fund to pay for the inventory of natural areas by the Department of Planning and Natural Resources. (f) The Department of Property and Procurement may acquire by gift, purchase or devise all lands selected by the Board for acquisition pursuant to chapter 2A § 33(b). Title to any land acquired under this chapter shall be vested in the Territory. (g) The Director of Territorial Parks and Protected Areas shall maintain and annually revise a list of acquisitions made under this chapter. The list shall include the acreage of each tract, the district in which the tract is located, the amount paid from the Fund for the land acquisition, and the division responsible for managing the tract. The Director shall furnish a copy of the list to each Board member, the Governor and the Legislature after each revision. History: Added Dec. 23, 2003, No. 6634, § 30, Sess. L. 2003, p. 140; amended May 20, 2004, No. 6673, § 4, Sess. L. 2004, p. 37; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340; amended Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 5(c), Sess. L. 2022, p. 208.

No provision of this chapter may be construed in a manner as to prohibit hunting and fishing upon properties purchased pursuant to this chapter, as such are governed in accordance to the applicable sections of the Virgin Islands Code. History: Added Dec. 23, 2003, No. 6634, § 30, Sess. L. 2003, p. 142.

(a) The Government of the Virgin Islands hereby declares that the welfare of the Virgin Islands and the improvement of the health and living standards of its people require that public use and development of park and beach areas be facilitated by the establishment of a public agency to plan and execute a continuing constructive program in this field of community recreation. (b) For the purpose of acquiring, improving and operating parks and beaches, the Magens Bay Authority which is established by section 295 of Title 3 is hereby declared to constitute a corporate instrumentality of the Government of the United States Virgin Islands. History: Amended Dec. 17, 1958, No. 358, §§ 1, 3, Sess. L. 1958, p. 160; Dec. 20, 1967, No. 2085, § 2, Sess. L. 1967, p. 537.

The Authority- (1) may purchase, lease, receive as a gift, and hold such real and personal property as it deems necessary in carrying out its functions under this chapter; (2) may adopt, amend and repeal bylaws; (3) may sue and be sued in its Authority name; (4) may hire and discharge employees as necessary to carry out its activities; (5) may make contracts as herein authorized; (6) may construct, maintain and operate bath houses and cabanas, piers, bridges, pumping stations, and such other structures and improvements as it may deem necessary; (7) shall make available to the public its bathing houses, beaches and other facilities and may charge such fees and rentals for the use of same, in proportion to their type and character as it may consider requisite; and (8) shall at all times in planning and landscaping its properties act with a view to preserving and enhancing their natural beauty.

The powers of the Authority shall be exercised by a Board of seven directors. The Board shall be composed of the Governor with power to vote by proxy, and six other members, who shall be residents of Saint Thomas. The initial appointment of members under the Ordinance of the Municipal Council of St. Thomas and St. John, approved August 22, 1946 (Bill No. 282), was for two, four, and six years, respectively. Thereafter, the term of each member of the Board was six years; and the term of each member shall continue to be six years. After the initial appointments, members appointed to the Board to fill vacancies resulting from death, resignation, or the expiration of terms of members who were appointed by the Board; and such appointments shall continue to be made by the Board, except that the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Legislature, may, by appointment, fill any vacancy on the Board remaining unfilled for sixty days or longer. Members shall be eligible for reappointment. They may be removed by the Governor for neglect of duty or malfeasance in office. Three members of the Board shall at all times constitute a quorum.

The Board of Directors shall serve without compensation but shall receive a $75 per day per-diem allowance for each day or a part thereof spent in the exercise of their duties.

The Board of Directors may employ a Manager to conduct the affairs of the Authority, supervise the construction of all buildings and operation of parks, beaches and structures and generally transact its business subject to the direction of the Board and responsible to it. The financial affairs of the Authority shall be conducted by its Treasurer duly appointed in accordance with the bylaws of the Authority; said Treasurer shall be bonded in an amount determined by the Board.

The Authority shall not be required to pay any taxes or assessments on any property acquired by it for its purposes or on any income derived from any of its authorized activities. The Authority shall retain title to all real property within the park areas, except property owned by the Federal or Territorial Governments.

The Authority may set up and operate such activities within park areas as it deems desirable in the public interest, or if a majority of the members of the Board so vote, it may lease to private individuals concessions within the area in conformity with rules and regulations prescribed by the Board. All leases granted within the park areas shall contain a cancellation clause in favor of the Authority, whereby the term may be cancelled, in the public interest, upon the violation of any rule or regulation by the lessee. This rule shall apply also to all persons making temporary use of any of the facilities who, in case of improper conduct, may be ejected from the premises.

The Authority is authorized to make rules and regulations and to adopt procedure, not in conflict with this chapter, for the operation, maintenance and construction of public facilities on the park areas, and for the conduct of visitors, patrons and the general public.

Whoever willfully violates Park Authority Rule after they shall have been posted by the Authority shall be fined not more than $25.

(a) Nothing contained in this chapter shall authorize the Authority to obligate the Government of the Virgin Islands for any expenses incurred over and beyond any moneys actually appropriated by the Government of the Virgin Islands, nor shall the Authority mortgage or similarly encumber any of its real property. (b) Nothing in this chapter shall be interpreted to mean that the full and proper use of any part of any beach by the public may be prohibited or restricted. The rights of all fishermen using any beach coming under the authority of the Magens Bay Authority herein provided for shall continue inviolate. History: Amended Dec. 20, 1967, No. 2085, § 2, Sess. L. 1967, p. 537.

All funds acquired by the Authority from leases and other sources and all gifts and other monies acquired by the Authority shall constitute a fund for the purposes of this chapter and for no other purpose.

Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter to the contrary, the jurisdiction of the Authority shall be limited to Lindqvist Beach, Smith Bay, St. Thomas and to the properties deeded to the former St. Thomas Park Authority by Deed of Conveyance dated December 27, 1946 from Arthur S. Fairchild and other properties as provided by law. History: Added Dec. 20, 1967, No. 2085, § 3, Sess. L. 1967, p. 537; amended May 10, 2002, No. 6505, § 7, Sess. L. 2002, p. 285; Dec. 22, 2007, No. 6977, § 9, Sess. L. 2007, p. 207.

Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as exempting the Virgin Islands Magens Bay Authority from any law made specifically applicable thereto or generally applicable to independent instrumentalities of the Government of the Virgin Islands, whether such law was enacted before, on, or after February 14, 1980. History: Added Feb. 14, 1980, No. 4407, § 2(f), Sess. L. 1980, p. 13.

(a) No judgment shall be rendered against the Magens Bay Authority in excess of $25,000 in any suit or action against the Authority with respect to any injury or loss of property or personal injury or death which: (1) may be caused by the negligent or wrongful act or omission of an employee of the Magens Bay Authority while acting within the scope of his employment under circumstances where the Magens Bay Authority, if a private person, would be liable to the claimant in accordance with the law of the place where the act or omission occurred; or (2) may occur in connection with the use of Magens Bay Beach or its facilities. (b) The provisions of subsection (a) of this section shall not apply if the injury, loss of property or death is caused by the gross negligence of an employee of the Magens Bay Authority while acting within the scope of his employment. (c) The Authority consents to have the liability determined in accordance with the same rule of law as is applied to actions in the courts of the Virgin Islands against individuals or corporations. (d) Members of the Magens Bay Authority, while acting within the scope of their duties as members of the Authority, shall not be subject to any personal or civil liability resulting from the exercise of any of the Authority's purposes, duties or responsibilities, unless the conduct of the member is determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to constitute willful wrongdoing or gross negligence. (e) All property including funds of the authority shall be exempt from attachment, levy and sale by virtue of an execution, and no execution or other judicial process shall issue against such property, nor shall any judgment against the Authority be a charge or lien upon its property. History: Added Jan. 29, 1990, No. 5503, § 1, Sess. L. 1990, p. 13; amended May 19, 2000, No. 6351, § 1, Sess. L. 2000, p. 66.

History: Repealed. Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 8, Sess. L. 2022, p. 209

History: Repealed. Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 8, Sess. L. 2022, p. 209

History: Repealed. Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 8, Sess. L. 2022, p. 209

History: Repealed. Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 8, Sess. L. 2022, p. 209

History: Repealed. Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 8, Sess. L. 2022, p. 209

History: Repealed. Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 8, Sess. L. 2022, p. 209

History: Repealed. Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 8, Sess. L. 2022, p. 209

History: Repealed. Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 8, Sess. L. 2022, p. 209

History: Repealed. Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 8, Sess. L. 2022, p. 209

History: Repealed. Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 8, Sess. L. 2022, p. 209

History: Repealed. Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 8, Sess. L. 2022, p. 209

History: Repealed. Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 8, Sess. L. 2022, p. 209

History: Repealed. Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 8, Sess. L. 2022, p. 209

History: Repealed. Aug. 8, 2022, No. 8609, § 8, Sess. L. 2022, p. 209

(a) There is hereby created in the town of Christiansted in the island of St. Croix a historic district including the Virgin Islands National Historic Site and areas adjacent thereto, which is bounded as follows: Beginning at the northwestern corner of Strand Lane and the shoreline, thence south to the intersection of Strand Street, thence in a westerly direction along the southern boundary of Strand Street to the intersection of King Cross Street, thence south along the eastern boundary of King Cross Street to the intersection of Queen Street, thence east along the northern boundary of Queen Street to the intersection of Queen Cross Street, thence south along the eastern boundary of Queen Cross Street, to the intersection of Hill Street, thence east along the northern boundary of Hill Street to the intersection of Church Street, thence south along the eastern boundary of Church Street to the intersection of East Street, thence east along the northern boundary of East Street to its eastern termination, continuing through the Public Works yard to the water's edge, thence along the shoreline to the point of beginning. (b) There is hereby created in the town of Frederiksted on the island of St. Croix, a Historic District which is bounded as follows: Beginning at the southwest corner of Frederiksted where Fisher Street adjoins the sea, the line runs approximately east and within 100 feet of the south side of Fisher Street to the southwest corner of Plot No. 40E of La Grange where New Street intersects Fisher Street; thence within 100 feet of the east side of New Street to the intersection of Queen Cross Street; thence east within 100 feet of both sides of the La Grange Road to the intersection of East Street; thence north along the rear lot lines of the properties on East Street to the rear lot line of the cemetery; thence northwest to the intersection of New Street and Custom House Street; thence west along the rear lot lines of Custom House Street to the intersection of Prince Street; thence north along the rear lot lines of Prince Street to the boundary of the park; thence west along the park boundary to the intersection of King Street; thence west to the sea; thence south along the shore to the beginning. (c) The Historic District of Frederiksted includes any land that may be created by new growth, accretion or landfill caused by nature or man, if such new land or landfill is contiguous to any existing land within the boundaries of the Frederiksted Historic District. History: Amended May 22, 1990, No. 5554, §§ 1, 2, Sess. L. 1990, pp. 179, 180.

In order to promote the general welfare and to preserve and protect the places and areas of historic interest, exterior architectural features and examples of the type of architecture used in St. Croix in its initial years, the Commissioner of Public Works, before issuing any permit for the construction, alteration, reconstruction, or razing of any building within the district described in section 91 of this title shall refer the plans to the Virgin Islands Historic Preservation Commission, for a report as to the exterior architectural features, height and appearance of exterior construction which is subject to public view from a public highway. The Commission shall report promptly to the Commissioner of Public Works, its recommendations, including such changes, if any, as in the judgment of the Commission are necessary and desirable to preserve the historic value of the district. The Commissioner of Public Works shall take such action as in his judgment is right and proper in the circumstances. If the Commission fails to submit a report on such plans within forty-five days, its approval thereof shall be assumed and a permit may be issued. History: Amended June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 303(o), Sess. L. 1987, p. 44.

Nothing in this chapter shall be construed as superseding or affecting in any manner any other provision of law relating to the alteration, repair, or demolition of insanitary or unsafe dwellings or other structures.

Whoever violates any provision of this chapter shall be fined not more than $100 or imprisoned not more than 90 days, or both. All such violations, in addition to the penalty herein set forth, may be enjoined in the district court. In such cases, injunction proceedings shall be filed by the United States attorney, upon the recommendation of the Commissioner of Public Works.

(a) There is established a nonprofit corporation to be known as the Virgin Islands Military Museum and Veterans Memorial Foundation (hereinafter the "Foundation"). (b) The general operation of the Foundation shall be vested in a nine-member Board of Directors (hereinafter the "Board"), five of whom shall be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Legislature. Three of the five appointed members shall be Virgin Islands Military Veterans of the United States Armed Services. (c) Members of the Board shall serve four-year terms. (d) The following people shall be ex-officio members of the Board of Directors: (1) The chairperson of the Legislative Committee on Labor and Veterans Affairs. (2) The Commander of the Virgin Islands National Guard. (3) The Director of the Virgin Islands Veterans Affairs Office. (4) The Director of the Virgin Islands Bureau of Libraries and Archives. History: Added May 2, 2001, No. 6393, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 3.

(a) The Board shall oversee the design, construction and management of the Virgin Islands Military Museum and Veterans Memorial Complex (hereinafter the "Complex"). History: Added May 2, 2001, No. 6393, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 3.

(a) The Complex shall be used for, but not limited to: (1) Exhibiting and preserving the exploits, achievements and heroism of Virgin Islanders who served in the Armed Forces. (2) Keeping a permanent registry of the names of the patriotic Virgin Islanders. (b) The complex shall consist of, but not be limited to: (1) A Military Museum and Veterans Memorial consisting of a wall honoring Virgin Islands soldiers. (2) A Veterans medical clinic, veterans administration officers, a theater, cafeteria and classrooms. (c) Revenues collected from admission to the museum shall go toward: (1) Operating and maintaining the complex; (2) Promoting the complex nationally and in the territory; (3) Defraying the administrative cost of the Virgin Islands Office of Veterans Affairs; and (4) Other benefits to Virgin Islands Veterans. History: Added May 2, 2001, No. 6393, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 3.

(a) Members of the Board of Directors first appointed under this chapter, shall: (1) adopt a constitution and bylaws for the Foundation; (2) serve as incorporators of the Foundation; and (3) take whatever other action the Board deems appropriate in order to establish the Foundation as a nonprofit corporation. History: Added May 2, 2001, No. 6393, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 3.

(a) The Foundation shall have an executive and assistant executive director who shall be appointed by the Board. The Board shall appoint other officers, as it deems necessary. The executive director and other officers shall be compensated at a rate fixed by the Board. They shall serve at the pleasure of the Board. (b) Eligibility for membership in the Foundation and the rights and privileges of the members shall be as provided in the bylaws of the Foundation. (c) Subject to the approval of the Board of Directors, the Foundation may employ such individuals at such rates of compensation, as the executive director determines appropriate. (d) The Board shall utilize the services of private and public consultants to render professional and technical assistance and advice in carrying out the purposes of this chapter. History: Added May 2, 2001, No. 6393, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 3.

(a) The members of the Board shall be responsible for securing funding for the Complex. Funding sources may include, but not be limited to: (1) corporate donations; (2) private and personal donations; (3) federal grants; (4) federal turnkey programs; and (5) appropriations by the Legislature. (b) (1) Pursuant to subsection (b)(1) of section 1 of this Act, the Governor shall identify and set aside a parcel of land, on the island of St. Croix, to be used from the following government-owned properties: (A) Estate Old Bethlehem Works; (B) Estate Negro Bay; (C) Estate Downings; (D) Estate Body Slob; (E) Estate Barren Spot; (F) Estate Concordia; and (G) Estate Diamond. (2) Selected sites must be on main arteries, between Frederiksted (shipping and airport area) and Christiansted (shops and hotels) to ensure a high volume of visitors to the Complex. History: Added May 2, 2001, No. 6393, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 3.

History: Repealed. June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 303(j), Sess. L. 1987, p. 42.

(a) There is hereby established within the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation the Boxing Commission (hereinafter referred to as the Commission). Such Commission shall be composed of seven (7) members, one of whom shall be the Commissioner of Sports, Parks and Recreation or his designated representative, who shall act as secretary thereof, three of whom shall be residents of the District of St. Croix and three of whom shall be residents of the District of St. Thomas-St. John. With the exception of the secretary, members shall be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Legislature. The terms of appointed members of the Commission shall be three years, except that any person appointed to fill a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of the term to which his predecessor was appointed shall be appointed for the remainder of such term only. Each member shall serve until the appointment and qualification of his successor. Any member may be removed by the Governor for cause. (b) Members of the Commission who are also government employees shall receive no additional compensation by reason of their commission membership. However, such members shall receive travel and other necessary expenses incurred in attending Commission meetings. Commission members who are not government employees shall receive $50.00 for each day or part thereof expended in performing the work of the Commission and, in addition, shall receive travel and other necessary expenses incurred thereby. (c) The Commission shall meet at the call of the chairman or pursuant to rules and regulations which may be promulgated by the Commission pursuant to law. (d) The Commission shall have under its jurisdiction and is hereby empowered to establish, organize, direct, supervise, regulate, and control all professional boxing and wrestling in the Territory of the Virgin Islands. Professional boxing and wrestling shall be considered to be all boxing and wrestling in which the participants, or any of them, are to receive pay or compensation for their services, as may be determined pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Commission. Every stadium, club, ball park, court, or other structure for the holding of professional boxing or wrestling competitions, shall be provided with a license in accordance with the provisions of this Code. The Commission shall not have any jurisdiction over amateur boxing or wrestling activities or participants, and all such amateur boxing and wrestling activities and participants shall be exempt from the provisions of this chapter. (e) The Commission shall have the following functions, powers and duties: (1) To prepare comprehensive boxing and wrestling, judo, karate and other martial arts programs; (2) To grant, suspend or revoke licenses, franchises and permits; (3) To promulgate such rules and regulations as may be necessary to the proper performance of its other functions, powers and duties; (4) To investigate, on its own motion or as a result of complaints filed with it, possible or alleged violations of the law or rules and regulations pertaining to matters under its jurisdiction, and impose such sanctions as are authorized by rule or regulation; (5) To periodically prepare boxing and wrestling calendars for distribution to the public, setting forth all announced boxing and wrestling contests in the Virgin Islands; (6) To be responsible for the expenditure of funds entrusted to it pursuant to legislative appropriation; (7) To arrange for and apply for membership or affiliation with the World Boxing Council to the extent made possible by appropriations therefor; (8) To investigate the record of each fighter or wrestler prior to approving the boxing match or exhibition; (9) To require that the type of equipment used in the respective boxing or wrestling sports meets minimum standards; (10) To require that every participant in a boxing or wrestling match be covered by life insurance; and (11) To perform such other functions as may be required by law. History: Amended Mar. 4, 1966, No. 1598, § 4, Sess. L. 1966, p. 71; Mar. 3, 1967, No. 1862, § 1, Sess. L. 1967, p. 30; June 4, 1968, No. 2238, § 9(3), Sess. L. 1968, Pt. II, p. 41; Jan. 29, 1982, No. 4668, § 1, Sess. L. 1982, p. 3; Sept. 10, 1986, No. 5195, § 1, Sess. L. 1986, p. 210; June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(d), Sess. L. 1987, p. 61; Sept. 28, 1990, No. 5636, § 1(o), Sess. L. 1990, p. 347; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340.

(a) The Commission shall promulgate all such rules and regulations as may be pertinent for the proper direction, administration, supervision and control of all boxing and wrestling activities. Such regulations shall govern, without limitation, the contracting for boxers and wrestlers in any boxing or wrestling activity, and no contract shall be effective without the approval of the Commission; the issuance of licenses and permits; the fixing of bonds and other guarantees, including bonds for the operation of any stadium, court, ball park, or any other place of a similar nature, devoted to boxing or wrestling purposes in the amount and in the form that the Commission may prescribe to answer for the payment of any tax levied on such stadium, court, ball park, or similar places, as well as for any claim for damages arising through the operation of such stadium, court, ball park, or other structure devoted to boxing or wrestling; the provisional suspension, cancellation, or revocation of licenses and permits; the duties, attributes and obligations of the personnel of the Commission, and of any other personnel employed in the operation and maintenance of public boxing or wrestling parks and places, and any other boxing or wrestling activities. The Commission shall have power to summon and examine witnesses and compel their appearance, and it may punish for contempt by a maximum fine of fifty (50) dollars for any unjustified disobedience to its orders, including any summons to appear before it. The Commission may administer oaths in the matters and investigations before it; it may also direct the examination of the books, records, and documents of any natural or artificial person who promotes boxing or wrestling activities for the purpose of any investigation or proceedings pending before it; and it may enter any directives or special orders that may be necessary. (b) Any violations of the rules and regulations of the Commission shall be considered a misdemeanor, and shall be punished by a fine of not more than five hundred (500) dollars, or by imprisonment in jail for not more than three (3) months, or by both. (c) All admission tickets to any boxing or wrestling activities shall be duly countermarked or countersigned by the Commission in order that the latter may have the effective power to prevent said tickets from being sold at an excessive price, or from being issued in excess of the capacity of the building, park, or place in which the respective boxing or wrestling event is to be held. Any person who permits, or helps to sell or purchase, or who sells or purchases for resale, admission tickets to boxing or wrestling events without the same being properly countermarked or countersigned by the Commission or who sells or helps to sell, or consents to the sale of, admission tickets to any boxing or wrestling event at a price higher than that printed on said admission ticket, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and shall, upon conviction, be punished by a maximum fine of five hundred (500) dollars, or by imprisonment in jail for a term of three (3) months, or by both. History: Amended Mar. 4, 1966, No. 1598, § 4, Sess. L. 1966, p. 71; March 3, 1967, No. 1862, § 1, Sess. L. 1967, p. 30; June 4, 1968, No. 2238, § 9(3), Sess. L. 1968, Pt. II, p. 41; Jan. 29, 1982, No. 4668, § 1, Sess. L. 1982, p. 5.

The Commission shall issue licenses upon the payment of a fee. Such fees shall be set by the Commission with the advice and consent of the Legislature. Licenses shall be required for boxing and wrestling clubs, promoters, professionals' agents, referees, judges, timekeepers, seconds, managers, professional boxers, trainers, box office men, doormen, and such other positions as the Commission deems advisable. All licenses shall expire December 31 of each year, and unless renewed on or before such date, they shall be considered cancelled; Provided, however, That the license fees to be paid in connection with any boxing or wrestling event for which a license fee has been levied by specific law, shall be collected and paid at the rates fixed in such a specific law; And provided further, That amateur boxing and wrestling are hereby expressly exempted from the provisions of this section. History: Amended Mar. 4, 1966, No. 1598, § 4, Sess. L. 1966, p. 71; Mar. 3, 1967, No. 1862, § 1, Sess. L. 1967, p. 30; June 4, 1968, No. 2238, § 9(3), Sess. L. 1968, Pt. II, p. 41; Jan. 29, 1982, No. 4668, § 1, Sess. L. 1982, p. 6.

The Commission is hereby authorized to execute and sign, in the name of the Commission and in representation of the Territory of the Virgin Islands, all agreements, deeds, contracts, licenses, and other documents necessary for the operation of this Commission. The Commission is further authorized to enter into agreements with federal or local government agencies, to carry out works or activities in conjunction and cooperation with such entities. History: Amended Mar. 4, 1966, No. 1598, § 4, Sess. L. 1966, p. 71; Mar. 3, 1967, No. 1862, § 1, Sess. L. 1967, p. 30; June 4, 1968, No. 2238, § 9(3), Sess. L. 1968, Pt. II, p. 41; Jan. 29, 1982, No. 4668, § 1, Sess. L. 1982, p. 7.

In order to enforce the ends and purposes of this chapter, the Commission is hereby empowered to take steps to obtain from any other agency or instrumentality of the Government of the Virgin Islands, the transfer of any property or rights therein which the Commission may deem necessary, even though such property may have been devoted to public purposes. History: Amended Mar. 4, 1966, No. 1598, § 4, Sess. L. 1966, p. 71; Mar. 3, 1967, No. 1862, § 1, Sess. L. 1967, p. 30; June 4, 1968, No. 2238, § 9(3), Sess. L. 1968, Pt. II, p. 41; Jan. 29, 1982, No. 4668, § 1, Sess. L. 1982, p. 7.

All receipts of the Virgin Islands Boxing and Wrestling Commission from any source shall be covered into the Boxing and Wrestling Revolving Fund of the treasury. History: Amended Mar. 4, 1966, No. 1598, § 4, Sess. L. 1966, p. 71; Mar. 3, 1967, No. 1862, § 1, Sess. L. 1967, p. 30; June 4, 1968, No. 2238, § 9(3), Sess. L. 1968, Pt. II, p. 41; Jan. 29, 1982, No. 4668, § 1, Sess. L. 1982, p. 7.

There is hereby prohibited the sale of tickets in excess of the maximum capacity as fixed by the Commission in consultation with the Police Commissioner for each of the types of structures where a boxing or wrestling event is to be held. History: Amended Jan. 29, 1982, No. 4668, § 1, Sess. L. 1982, p. 7; June 15, 1984, No. 4964, § 1(b), Sess. L. 1984, p. 177.

Any impresario of a boxing or wrestling event or any employee thereof who refuses or in any way fails to comply with the provision of this chapter or of the rules and regulations prescribed by the Commission for implementing same, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction be punished by a fine of not less than two hundred (200) dollars nor more than five hundred (500) dollars, or by imprisonment in jail for a term of not less than thirty (30) days nor more than six (6) months. For the purposes of this chapter, the word "impresario" includes, but without any limitation whatsoever, the owner, co-owner, manager, assistant manager, administrator, assistant administrator, or person in charge of the management of any boxing or wrestling team or aggregation; any natural or artificial person who directly or indirectly takes part in the promotion or running of any boxing or wrestling event or show; or any natural or artificial person who in any other capacity takes part, directly or indirectly, in any aspect of a boxing or wrestling event or show. History: Amended Jan. 29, 1982, No. 4668, § 1, Sess. L. 1982, p. 7.

The Commissioner of Sports, Parks and Recreation shall furnish such administrative assistance to the Commission as may reasonably be necessary including but not limited to office space, secretarial help, assistance in housekeeping duties, preparation and printing of programs and such other services as will enable the Commission to operate smoothly and fulfill its statutory missions. History: Amended Jan. 29, 1982, No. 4668, § 1, Sess. L. 1982, p. 8; June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(d), Sess. L. 1987, p. 61; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340.

Any aggrieved party to any proceeding before the Commission may have the decision or determination reviewed pursuant to the provisions of chapter 97 of Title 5 of the Virgin Islands Code. History: Amended Jan. 29, 1982, No. 4668, § 1, Sess. L. 1982, p. 8.

History: Repealed. Jan. 29, 1982, No. 4668, § 1, Sess. L. 1982, p. 3.

For the purposes of this chapter and unless the context requires a different meaning: (a) "Engage in an equine activity" means riding, training, driving, breeding, being a passenger upon, or providing or assisting in veterinary treatment of an equine, whether mounted or unmounted. "Engage in an equine activity" includes conducting or engaging in live horse racing and the handling and stabling of race horses visiting, touring, or utilizing an equine facility as part of an organized event or activity including the breeding of equines, or assisting a participant or show management. (b) "Equine" means a horse, pony, mule, donkey, or hinny. (c) "Equine activity" means any of the following: (1) An equine show, fair, competition, race performance, or parade, including a hunter and jumper horse shows grand prix jumping, a 3-day event combined training, a rodeo, riding, driving, pulling, cutting, polo, steeple chasing, English and western performance riding, endurance trail riding, gymkhana games, and hunting; (2) Equine training or teaching activities; (3) Boarding equines, including their normal daily care; (4) Breeding equines, including the normal daily care and activities associated with breeding equines; (5) Riding, inspecting, or evaluating an equine belonging to another, whether or not the owner receives monetary consideration or another thing of value for the use of the equine, or permitting a prospective purchaser of the equine or an agent to ride, inspect, or evaluate the equine; (6) A ride, trip, hunt, or other activity, however informal or impromptu, that is sponsored by an equine activity sponsor; or (7) Placing or replacing a horseshoe on or hoof trimming of an equine. (d) "Equine activity sponsor" means an individual, group, club, partnership, or corporation, whether or not operating for profit, that sponsors, organizes, or provides the facilities for an equine activity, including, a pony club, 4-H club, hunt club, riding club, school or college-sponsored class, program, or activity, therapeutic riding program, stable or farm owner, and operator, instructor, or promoter of an equine facility, including, a stable, clubhouse, pony ride string, fair, or arena at which the equine activity held. (e) "Equine professional" means a person engaged in any of the following: (1) Instructing a participant in an equine activity; (2) Renting an equine, equipment, or tack to a participant; (3) Providing daily care of horses boarded at an equine facility; (4) Training an equine; (5) Breeding of equines for resale or stock replenishment; (6) Examining or administering medical treatment to an equine as a veterinarian; (7) Regulating, overseeing, or conducting an equine activity; and (8) Transporting equines. (f) "Inherent risk of an equine activity" means a danger or condition that is an integral part of an equine activity, including, any of the following: (1) An equine's propensity to behave in ways that may result in injury, harm, or death to a person on or around it; (2) The unpredictability of an equine's reaction to things such as sounds, sudden movement, and people, other animals, or unfamiliar objects; (3) A hazard such as a surface or subsurface condition; (4) Colliding with another equine or object; (5) Injury to a person, property, or equine as a result of the actions of an equine; or (6) Injury to an equine, including sickness relating to transmission of disease arising from proximity to other equines. (g) "Other person" means any employee or agent of an equine activity sponsor or equine professional or any person other than an equine activity sponsor or an equine professional, who assists with providing an equine activity. (h) "Participant" means an individual, whether amateur or professional, engaged in an equine activity, whether or not a fee is paid to participate. History: Added Jan. 9, 2009, No. 7056, § 2, Sess. L. 2008, pp. 439-441.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in section 185, an equine activity sponsor, an equine professional, or other person is not liable for an injury to or the death of a participant or property damage resulting from an inherent risk of an equine activity. Except as otherwise provided in section 185, a participant or participant's representative may not make a claim for, or recover, civil damages from an equine activity sponsor, an equine professional, or other person for injury to or the death of the participant or equine or property damage resulting from an inherent risk of an equine activity. (b) In any civil action for injury, loss, damage, or death of a participant or equine, there is a presumption that the injury, loss, damage, or death was not caused by the negligence of an equine activity sponsor, equine professional, or the employees or agents of the equine activity sponsor or equine professional, if the injury, loss, damage, or death was caused in whole or in part by the inherent risk and unpredictable nature of the equine. An injured person or the injured person's legal representative may rebut the presumption of no negligence by a preponderance of the evidence. History: Added Jan. 9, 2009, No. 7056, § 2, Sess. L. 2008, pp. 441, 442.

(a) This chapter does not apply to spectating at an equine activity, unless the spectator places himself in an unauthorized area and in immediate proximity to the equine activity. (b) Two persons may agree in writing to a waiver of liability beyond the provisions of this chapter. A waiver under this subsection is valid and binding by its terms. (c) (1) A participant, or parent or guardian of a minor participant, may execute a release assuming responsibility for the risks of engaging in equine activities. The release must give notice to the participant, or parent or guardian, of the risks of engaging in equine activities, including: (A) the propensity of an equine to behave in dangerous ways that may result in injury to the participant, (B) the inability to predict an equine's reaction to sound, movements, objects, persons, or animals, and (C) the hazards of surface or subsurface conditions. (2) A release remains valid until revoked in writing by the participant or, if a minor, by the parent or guardian. History: Added Jan. 9, 2009, No. 7056, § 2, Sess. L. 2008, p. 442.

(a) Each participant who engages in an equine activity expressly assumes the risk of and legal responsibility for injury, loss, or damage to the participant or the participant's property that results from participating in an equine activity, except in specific situations as set forth in section 185, when the equine activity sponsor or, equine professional may be held responsible. (b) Each participant has sole individual responsibility for knowing the range of the participant's own ability to manage, care for, and control a particular horse or perform a particular equine activity, and it is the duty of each participant to act within the limits of the participant's own ability, to maintain reasonable control of the particular horse or horses at all times while participating in an equine activity, to heed all posted warnings, to perform equine activities only in an area or in facilities designated for equine activities, and to refrain from acting in a manner that may cause or contribute to the injury of anyone. History: Added Jan. 9, 2009, No. 7056, § 2, Sess. L. 2008, p. 443.

(a) Section 182 does not prevent or limit the liability of an equine activity sponsor, equine professional, or other person if the equine activity sponsor, equine professional or other person does any of the following: (1) Provides equipment or tack and knows or should know that the equipment or tack is faulty, and the equipment or tack is faulty to the extent that it is a proximate cause of the injury, death, or damage; (2) Provides an equine and fails to make reasonable and prudent efforts to determine the ability of the participant to engage safely in the equine activity and to determine the ability of the participant to safely manage the particular equine. A person may not rely upon a participant's representations of his ability unless these representations are supported by reasonably sufficient detail; (3) Owns, leases, rents, has authorized use of, or otherwise is in lawful possession and control of land or facilities on which the participant sustained injury because of a dangerous latent condition of the land or facilities that is known to the equine activity sponsor, equine professional, or other person and for which warning signs are not conspicuously posted; (4) Commits a negligent act or omission that constitutes a proximate cause of the injury, death, or damage; or (5) Injures a participant intentionally. (b) (1) In a personal injury action against an equine activity sponsor, equine professional or other person, a defense or immunity described in section 182 may be asserted only if the person injured in the course of an equine activity: (A) had actual knowledge of the inherent risks of equine activities; (B) had professed to have sufficient knowledge or experience to be on notice of the inherent risks; or (C) had been notified of the inherent risks and the limitations of liability. (2) For the purposes of this subsection, notice of the inherent risks of equine activity may be satisfied either by a statement signed by the person injured or by a sign prominently displayed at the place where the equine activity was initiated. The statement or sign must contain at least the information prescribed in section 186(c). (c) Nothing in section 182 prevents or limits the liability of an equine activity sponsor, an equine professional or any other person, if that equine activity: (1) causes injury or death to a person who is not a participant and who is in a place where a reasonable person would not expect an equine activity to occur; or (2) causes injury or death to a spectator and that spectator was in a place designated or intended by an activity sponsor as a place for spectators except in the case where the spectator approached an equine or positioned himself in an area in which equines were excepted to be located, then the spectator's actions may be considered in determining the liability of an activity sponsor to the extent provided by law. History: Added Jan. 9, 2009, No. 7056, § 2, Sess. L. 2008, pp. 443, 444.

Notice (a) An equine activity sponsor shall post and maintain signs that contain the warning notice set forth in subsection (c). The sign must be placed in a clearly visible location on or near stables, corrals or arenas or other places where equine activities are conducted. The warning notice must appear on the sign in conspicuous letters no less than one inch in height. (b) A written contract entered into by an equine professional for providing professional services, instruction, or rental of equipment, tack, or an equine to a participant, whether or not the contract involves an equine activity on or off the location or site of the equine professional's business, must contain in clearly readable print the warning notice set forth in subsection (c). (c) A sign or contract described in this section must contain substantially the following warning notice: WARNING Under the Virgin Islands Equine Activity Limitation on Liability Act of 2008, an equine activity sponsor or equine professional is not liable for an injury to or the death of a participant in an equine activity resulting from an inherent risk of the equine activity. Equines and equine activities are dangerous and being in the vicinity of an equine or an equine activity may expose you to danger and injury. (d) Noncompliance with the requirements concerning warning signs and notices provided in this section prevents an equine-activity sponsor or equine professional from invoking the privileges of immunity provided by section 182. History: Added Jan. 9, 2009, No. 7056, § 2, Sess. L. 2008, pp. 444, 445.

This chapter applies only to a cause of action filed on or after the effective date of this chapter. History: Added Jan. 9, 2009, No. 7056, § 2, Sess. L. 2008, p. 445.

(a) There is established within the Virgin Islands Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation, two separate commissions for the regulation of horse racing, one for the island of St. Croix, designated the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission, and one for the islands of St. Thomas and St. John designated the St. Thomas- St. John Horse Racing Commission. Each commission is composed of six members, one being the Commissioner of the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation, who shall serve as an ex officio member and the remaining five members shall be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Legislature of the Virgin Islands. A quorum of each commission consists of a majority of members. (1) The St. Croix Horse Racing Commission is composed of five residents of the island of St. Croix, residing on St. Croix and the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission is composed of four residents from St. Thomas, and one resident from St. John. (2) The term of each appointed member is three years; but in the initial appointments, two members of each Commission must be appointed for one year, two members for two years, and one member for three years; Thereafter, all appointments are for three years; but any person appointed to fill a vacancy occurring before the expiration of the predecessor's term shall serve for the remainder of such term. Each member shall serve until the appointment and qualification of the member's successor. (3) The members of each Commission shall annually elect one of their members to serve as chairperson of the respective Commission, but the Commissioner of the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation shall call the initial meeting for the purpose of organizing the respective Commission. (4) Any member may be removed by the Governor of the Virgin Islands for cause. The Governor shall name a successor within 120 days of the removal. (5) Members of each Commission shall receive $150 for each day or part thereof spent in the work of the Commission. (6) Each Commission has the powers, duties, and authority as are prescribed by law. No member of a Commission who has any pecuniary interest, direct or indirect, in any horse registered for participation in horse races in the Virgin Islands may participate in any meeting, hearing, decision, or determination in relation to: (A) the order of finish of any race; (B) the disqualification of any horse participating in a race; (C) the granting, denial, suspension, or revocation of any license; or (D) the imposition of any administrative penalties or sanctions. (b) The St. Croix Racing Commission and the St. Thomas-St. John Racing Commission shall meet jointly on a quarterly basis as the Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission and may meet by electronic means. The chairperson of the St. Croix Racing Commission shall serve as chairperson of the Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission during even numbered years, and the chairperson of the St. Thomas-St. John Racing Commission shall serve as chairperson of the Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission during odd- numbered years. A quorum of the Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission consists of a majority of members, but at least three members from each district must be included in the quorum. The Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission, a quorum being present, may regulate all matters relating to horse racing. History: Added Oct. 4, 2023, No. 8773, § 1, Sess. L. 2023, p. 141-143.

(a) The Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission, after due notice and public hearings, shall adopt, amend, and repeal regulations for horse racing. The adopted regulations as well as the anti-doping policy established by the Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission apply to both St. Croix and the St. Thomas-St. John districts. The Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission shall: (1) prescribe the regulations and conditions by which the holding of horse races are governed; (2) prescribe the qualifications of persons who engage in any horse racing activity; (3) provide for the classification and registration of racehorses in the Virgin Islands as a condition precedent to eligibility for participation in horse races; (4) authorize and regulate the use of mechanical and photographic devices for the purpose, among others, of determining the development and order of finish of races; (5) provide for the licensing of trainers, jockeys, grooms and other persons directly involved in the conditioning, handling, care or riding of horses in horse races; but the joint Commissions may not license any person who has been convicted of violation of any laws relating to traffic in, possession of, or use of narcotic drugs, or of any felony involving moral turpitude; (6) prescribe and provide for the imposition of administrative fines and penalties, including suspensions and the revocation of licenses for violations of this subchapter or of any regulations promulgated under this subchapter, but the fines may not exceed $500 and such suspensions may not exceed six months, and no fine, suspension, or revocation may be imposed except after due notice and hearing, including representation by counsel, afforded the accused. Any penalty that involves a fine may be enforced in any court of the Virgin Islands. No fine may be imposed under this section for any act or omission that is a criminal offense under any other provision of this Code; (7) hold hearings in any matter concerning racing, to issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses, to administer oaths and affirmations, and to examine witnesses in all matters pertaining to this subchapter; and (8) delegate to the St. Croix Racing Commission and to the St. Thomas-St. John Racing Commission the exercise or implementation of any of the foregoing powers with respect to any matters that affect horse racing only on the particular island involved and which delegation is not otherwise inconsistent with the public interest in the uniform administration and enforcement of this subchapter. (9) prepare quarterly and annual profit and loss statements on horse races under this chapter. The quarterly and annual statements must include a profit and loss statement for each horse race held in the district of St. Croix and each horse race held in the district of St. Thomas-St. John under the Commission's authority and must be made available to the appropriate Committee of jurisdiction within the Legislature of the Virgin Islands and to the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation. (b) Horse racing in the islands of St. Croix and St. Thomas and St. John is conducted under the supervision of the St. Croix Racing Commission and the St. Thomas-St. John Racing Commission, as appropriate. (c) The St. Croix Racing Commission and the St. Thomas-St. John Racing Commission shall each appoint three stewards, two judges. One judge and two stewards appointed by each Commission shall serve for two years and the other judge and other steward shall serve for one year. Thereafter appointments are for two years, but any person appointed to fill a vacancy occurring before the expiration of a term shall serve only for the remainder of the term. The promoter shall appoint the racing secretary, the assistant racing secretary, gate handlers crew, and starters, who must be licensed by the respective commissions. An appointee may be removed by the pertinent Commission for cause. The racing secretary shall perform the necessary administrative functions and the judges and stewards shall officiate at horse races. In addition to other penalties provided for under this chapter, the judges, and stewards, by a majority vote, may suspend the license of any person for the violation of any provision of this chapter or of any regulations promulgated hereunder, for not more than three racing days but not to exceed sixty days. The officials may also institute proceedings before the pertinent Commission for the imposition of fines or for the revocation or suspension of licenses in excess of three racing days based upon charges of violations of this chapter or any pertinent rule or regulation. (d) Each Commission shall ensure that horses participating in horse races in their respective district are examined by a licensed veterinarian before and immediately after the race or races in which they participate. A horse to which drugs have been administered or to which an electric battery or any similar device had been applied may not participate in any race during the program. The order of finish of a race may not be determined until after the post-race examination for electric batteries or any similar device. If the administration of a drug or application of an electric battery or any similar device to a horse is discovered after a race and before the order of finish is determined, the horse must be disqualified. If a drug test returns with a positive result, the prize in cash or otherwise must be returned. If the prize is not returned, the owner and trainer of the horse must be disqualified from participating in any other races until the prize is returned. (e) No person may be designated, appointed, or employed as a judge, steward, or in any capacity having to do with the enforcement or administration of this subchapter who has any pecuniary interest, direct. or indirect, in any horses registered for participation in horse races in the Virgin Islands. History: Added Oct. 4, 2023, No. 8772, § 1(a), Sess. L. 2023, p. 136-139.

For the purposes of this chapter, and unless the context requires a different meaning: (1) "added money" means the various fees paid by owners of horses nominated to, entered in and/or starting a race; (2) "purse race" means a race in which the owners of competing horses do not contribute to the prize money; (3) "stake race" means a race that is closed to nominees more than 72 hours before it is to be run with prize money which includes all stakes in addition to the money added by a horse racing association; (4) "simulcast" means the simultaneous audio-visual transmission of a horse race or set of horse races from the race track where the event occurs to another location; (5) "parimutuel take" means that amount, including breaks, to be retained by the parimutuel operator after payment to the holders of winning tickets; (6) "sending jurisdiction" means that state, commonwealth, or territory in which the racing facilities are located and which hosts the race being transmitted. (7) "Outs" means winning or refundable tickets or the prize money for winning or refundable tickets which remain unclaimed or uncashed by a purchaser six (6) months after purchase. (8) "Host track fees" means those fees paid by the simulcaster or simulcast operator to the race track or its agent(s) for the race which is transmitted. History: Added Sept. 3, 1993, No. 5887, § 3, Sess. L. 1993, p. 208; amended Apr. 9, 2001, No. 6391, § 3(e), Sess. L. 2001, p. 558; May 2, 2001, No. 6395, § 3, Sess. L. 2001, p. 9.

Betting (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, parimutuel betting may be conducted at any horse racing meet, subject to the control and supervision of the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas- St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, and in accordance with such rules and regulations as may be promulgated in the public interest. However parimutuel betting including bets on any simulcast is hereby authorized and allowed to continue during the interim period necessary for promulgation of any rules and regulations by the commission, provided that the respective Commission explicitly sanctions the conduct of each meet or race program wherein parimutuel betting is conducted. Any person, corporation or association, licensed to or awarded a lease franchise or concession agreement to conduct horse races by the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, shall conduct parimutuel betting at horse racing meets in a manner consistent with the provisions contained in this section. (b) A person, corporation, or association licensed to or awarded a lease franchise or concession agreement to conduct horse races shall provide a place or places within the race meeting grounds or enclosure at which such licensee shall conduct the parimutuel system of betting by its patrons on the results of the horse races at such meeting. Such place or places shall be provided with the necessary equipment for issuing or vending parimutuel tickets, adding machine equipment, and a device capable of accurate and speedy determination of the amount of money in each pool and on each horse and the amount of award or dividend to winning patrons, while displaying the same to the patrons. Such place must also be equipped with automatic or hand-operated machinery for displaying on a mutuel indicator, in plain view of the public, the total amount of sales separately for win and place on every race and on each horse in such race. The machine or mutuel indicator shall also display the approximate straight odds on each horse in any race; the elapsed time of the race; and any other information that may be necessary for the guidance of the general public that the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, may require. All such machines and equipment must be approved by the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, before being used, but the respective Commission shall not require the installation of any particular make of mechanical or electrical equipment. This subsection shall become effective on April 29, 1995. (c) Man to man betting on horse races at which parimutuel betting is conducted shall be an offense punishable by a fine not to exceed $500.00 for the first conviction and a fine not to exceed $2,000.00 and a jail term of three (3) months for any subsequent convictions therefor. History: Added Sept. 3, 1993, No. 5887, § 3, Sess. L. 1993, p. 208; amended Oct. 13, 1993, No. 5897, § 13, Sess. L. 1993, p. 254; May 2, 1994, No. 5969, § 4(a), (b), (d), Sess. L. 1994, p. 44; Feb. 21, 1996, No. 6092, § 19(1), Sess. L. 1996, p. 8; amended Dec. 14, 2017, No. 8010, § 1(c), Sess. L. 2017, p. 79; amended Oct. 4, 2023, No. 8772, § 1(b), Sess. L. 2023, p. 139.

(a) A person, corporation, or association authorized under this chapter to conduct parimutuel betting at a horse race meeting on races run, shall distribute all sums deposited in any parimutuel pool to the holders of winning tickets, less a maximum of twenty-five percent of the total deposits from regular on track bets plus breaks, and a maximum of thirty percent of the total deposits from multiple bets or exotic bets plus breaks. For the purposes of this chapter, an exotic bet or wager is a single bet or wager on three or more horses evidenced by a single ticket representing an interest in a single betting pool. "Breaks" are defined as the odd cents over any multiple of fifty calculated on the basis of one dollar, otherwise payable to a patron. Breaks and outs shall be retained by the parimutuel operator as part of the parimutuel take. (b) Notwithstanding the provisions of Title 33, section 43, Virgin Islands Code, or any other law, four percent (4%) of the parimutuel take shall be paid by the parimutuel operator to the Government of the Virgin Islands in lieu of gross receipts taxes. History: Added Sept. 3, 1993, No. 5887, § 3, Sess. L. 1993, p. 208; amended Feb. 21, 1996, No. 6092, § 19(2), Sess. L. 1996, p. 8; Dec. 29, 1997, No. 6188, § 3, Sess. L. 1997, p. 106; Apr. 9, 2001, No. 6391, § 3(e), Sess. L. 2001, p. 558; amended Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 1(a), Sess. L. 2017, p. 96.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, may authorize any corporation or association licensed to or awarded a lease franchise or concession agreement to conduct horse racing and authorized to conduct parimutuel betting, to conduct off-track betting on its horse race meetings held within the Virgin Islands, subject to any rules and regulations established by the respective Commission in the best interest of the public; provided, that the "parimutuel take" shall not be greater than seven percent more than that of the on-track parimutuel take and that two percent of the said amount shall be added to the four percent of the parimutuel take which shall be paid to the Government of the Virgin Islands in lieu of the gross receipts tax for the privilege of conducting such betting. History: Added Sept. 3, 1993, No. 5887, § 3, Sess. L. 1993, p. 208; amended Feb. 21, 1996, No. 6092, § 19(1), Sess. L. 1996, p. 8; amended Oct. 4, 2023, No. 8772, § 1(c), Sess. L. 2023, p. 139.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, rules or regulations, no horse owner shall be compelled to pay an entrance fee in order to enter a horse in any purse race authorized by the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate or any race promoted by an organization licensed by or awarded a lease franchise or concession agreement by the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, unless said race is a stake race wherein the entrance fees shall be added to an advertised purse for the said race, to be disbursed pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission. History: Added Sept. 3, 1993, No. 5887, § 3, Sess. L. 1993, p. 208; amended Feb. 21, 1996, No. 6092, § 19(4), Sess. L. 1996, p. 8; amended Oct. 4, 2023, No. 8772, § 1(d), Sess. L. 2023, p. 139.

(a) Notwithstanding any other provisions of law, the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas- St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, may permit a person, corporation, or association that is licensed to or awarded a lease franchise or concession agreement to conduct horse racing to display the simulcast of horse races or any other pari-mutuel event from any racetrack within or outside the Virgin Islands and conduct parimutuel betting including telephonic account betting thereon subject to any rules and regulations and conditions established by the respective Commission not inconsistent with section 204(a) of this chapter upon which a service charge of not more than one-half percent of the bet may be assessed for telephonic betting; provided that the parimutuel take of the simulcast operator shall be the same as that of the sending jurisdiction and the portion thereof paid to the Government of the Virgin Islands in lieu of gross receipt taxes shall be four percent (4%) of that take minus host track fees. The provisions of this section shall be retroactive to January 2, 2000. (b) "Breaks" shall be retained by the simulcaster or simulcast operator as part of its parimutuel take or income. History: Added Sept. 3, 1993, No. 5887, § 3, Sess. L. 1993, p. 208; amended May 2, 1994, No. 5969, § 4(c), Sess. L. 1994, p. 44; Feb. 21, 1996, No. 6092, § 19(1), Sess. L. 1996, p. 8; Dec. 29, 1997, No. 6188, §§ 2, 4, Sess. L. 1997, p. 106; Aug. 17, 1999, No. 6287, § 32, Sess. L. 1999, p. 65; Apr. 9, 2001, No. 6391, § 3(e), Sess. L. 2001, p. 558; amended Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 1(b)(1), (2), Sess. L. 2017, p. 96; amended Oct. 4, 2023, No. 8772, § 1(e), Sess. L. 2023, p. 139.

(a) Notwithstanding any other provisions of law to the contrary, the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, may award lease-franchises or concession agreement for a term of up to twenty years to any individual, partnership, organization, association, corporation, or entity, which applies to the Commission to promote and conduct horse racing and related activities in the Virgin Islands. Any lease-franchises or concession agreement awarded shall be for the daily occupancy, operation and use of all of the facilities and equipment located at Clinton Phipps Park on St. Thomas and the Doctor Randall Nicholas "Doc" James Racetrack on St. Croix and shall be subject to approval by the Governor and the Legislature. (b) If the franchisee does not fulfill its annual financial obligation to the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, pursuant to its franchise agreement, such failure may be considered a default of the franchise agreement. The annual franchise fee will be due and payable on December 31st of each calendar year. History: Added Sept. 3, 1993, No. 5887, § 3, Sess. L. 1993, p. 208; amended Feb. 21, 1996, No. 6092, § 19(3), Sess. L. 1996, p. 8; amended Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 1(c)(1)-(3), Sess. L. 2017, p. 96; amended Jan. 18, 2020, No. 8256, § 1(b), Sess. L. 2019, p. 157; amended Oct. 4, 2023, No. 8772, § 1(f), Sess. L. 2023, p. 139.

A racetrack operator who has a valid Franchise Agreement shall: (1) enforce applicable statutory requirements, including but not limited to this chapter and any regulations promulgated by the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, pursuant to its authority under this chapter; and (2)in addition to other conditions contained in a franchise agreement, or prescribed by law or required by the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, develop a plan to include the hosting of at least one non-thoroughbred race per race day. History: Added Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 4, Sess. L. 2016, p. 230; amended Oct. 4, 2023, No. 8772, § 1(g), Sess. L. 2023, p. 139.

Unless the holder of a franchise agreement is the holder of a casino license, the holder must comply with the following disclosures and notices: (a) All individuals, entities, associations, partnerships, and corporations who own five percent or more of the equity of the racetrack operator applicant shall disclose such ownership interest in writing to the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate. (b) The racetrack operator shall identify all persons, entities, financial institutions, real estate investment trusts, corporations or partnerships extending credit to the racetrack operator in excess of $10,000 for less than one year, but more than 30 days; but a horseman to whom money is owed as reflected in accounts maintained by the horsemen's bookkeeper is not considered a creditor. (c) The St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate must be notified of the identity of each new officer, director, substantial owner, or creditor of a racetrack operator. Each new officer, director, substantial owner, or creditor shall make a written disclosure to the respective Commission on forms prescribed by the respective Commission for approval of such person's participation in racing in the Virgin Islands. History: Added Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 4, Sess. L. 2016, p. 231; amended Oct. 4, 2023, No. 8772, § 1(h), Sess. L. 2023, p. 139.

The license to conduct a horse race meeting is personal and non-transferable, and terminates upon a substantial change of ownership of the racetrack operator, unless provided otherwise in an approved franchise agreement, or the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate has granted prior approval. The sale of transfer of 25 percent or more of the equity of a racetrack operator constitutes a substantial change of ownership. History: Added Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 4, Sess. L. 2016, p. 231; amended Oct. 4, 2023, No. 8772, § 1(i), Sess. L. 2023, p. 139.

The holder of a franchise agreement to operate a racetrack or any temporary permittee, operator or promoter of live horse races at the St. Thomas racetrack shall comply with the following requirements: (a) A horse transporter and a winch must be provided at all racetracks for the safe and expedient removal of crippled or dead animals from the track, as well as a screen for use when an animal must be destroyed in view of the general public. (b) An emergency medical services plan must be provided to the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, at least 10 days before the start of each race. The plan must include all information relative to emergency medical services to be provided to racing participants and patrons. (c) An office for use by the members of the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, must be provided on race days suitable for use by such persons in the performance of their duties. (d) Each racetrack must include a judge's stand or remote controlled video cameras so located and constructed as to give the officials an unobstructed view of the entire track. No obstruction is permitted upon or near the track or the centerfield which obscures the officials' vision of any portion of the track during the race. (e) A covered bench, located conveniently to the gate gap through which horses enter the track at the beginning of a race must be provided at each racetrack for jockeys who are not competing in a particular race and who are wearing colors. (f) Stables must be provided for horses participating in racing on the race day within the confines of the racetrack. All horses must be stabled in individual, numbered box stalls with appropriate feeding and watering facilities. Stalls must be provided for horses trained off track and participating in racing on race day. Stables and immediate surrounding areas must be kept in a sanitary condition at all times. Satisfactory drainage must be provided, and manure and other refuse must be promptly and properly removed. (g) Each race must have an outrider on duty and suitably mounted each day during racing hours. The outrider must display excellent riding ability. The duties of the outrider include, but are not limited to: (1) leading tough horses; (2) holding a horse during an equipment change before a race; (3) controlling the horses until they reach the gate; (4) catching the horses if they stray at the gate or after an accident; (5) detouring other horses away from an accident; (6) leading a post parade; and (7) being a stopper at a distance behind the starting gate after a warm-up of horses. (h) Each track must have wash rooms throughout its grounds, stable area, and buildings for the use of the public, including the facilities for persons with disabilities, in an adequate number to be determined by the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate. (i) Sanitary conditions must be maintained at all times on each track, including the implementation of effective controls against birds, rats, flies, mosquitoes, and other insects. (j) Alcoholic beverages may not be sold on the backstretch or in any other area used for stabling of horses. (k) Adequate provisions must be made for fire prevention and fire suppression. (l) All tracks must have in place a suitable backstretch paging system. History: Added Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 4, Sess. L. 2016, p. 231-233; amended Apr. 22, 2022, No. 8577, § 2(a), Sess. L. 2022, p. 151; amended Oct. 4, 2023, No. 8772, § 1(j), Sess. L. 2023, p. 140.

(a) A jockey shall annually file a current physical examination report with the Commission. (b) After any serious fall or injury, a jockey shall present to the Commission a release from a treating physician before the Commission permits the jockey to return to riding at the track. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 2, Sess. L. 2017, p. 96.

(a) Whoever having a horse entered in a horse race or having in his custody or control such a horse permits the administration of any drug, or the application of an electric battery or similar device to such horse, for the purpose of weakening or stimulating the animal, or administers or causes to be administered any drug, or applies or causes to be applied an electric battery or similar device to a horse entered in a race for the purpose of weakening or stimulating the ability of the animal shall be fined not more than $1,000 or imprisoned not more than two years, or both. (b) In addition to the penalties provided for in subsection (a), the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, may revoke any license granted under this section to any person violating the subsection (a) after due notice and hearing as provided in subsection (a) (6) of section 202 and prohibit the person from entering or attempting to enter any racetrack, or facilities thereof, including stables, stalls, or stands. Any person who enters any such prohibited area in violation of any order of the respective Commission is guilty of a misdemeanor. (c) Any person affected by the orders, decisions, license suspensions, or fines imposed by the Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission or the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as the case may be, may appeal to the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands, but an appeal may not stay the effects of the orders, decisions, suspensions, and fines while the court passes upon the appeal, except by specific order of the court. In cases of fines, the person fined may neither register nor enter a horse in a race unless the person deposits with the Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission the amount of the fine, which must be reimbursed if the determination of the Court is favorable to the person fined. All appeals must be filed with the court no later than 10 days days after notice of the Commission's decision has been served on the aggrieved person. (d) The members of the Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission or the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, while acting within the scope of their duties as members of such Commission, are not subject to any civil liability as a result of any of the Commissions' actions taken pursuant to its duties and responsibilities, unless the conduct of the member or members is determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to constitute willful wrongdoing or gross negligence. History: Added Oct. 4, 2023, No. 8772, § 1(k), Sess. L. 2023, p. 140.

(a) As used in this subchapter: (1) "Administer" means to cause the introduction of a substance into the body of a horse. (2) "Commission" means the Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission. (3) "Drug" means any substance or metabolite of such substance that does not exist naturally in the untreated horse and that can have a pharmacological effect on the horse. (4) "Equine Drug Testing Program" or "EDTP" means the drug testing protocols adopted by the Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission. (5) "Laboratory" means the official racing chemical detection laboratory designated by the Commission. (6) "Practicing veterinarian" means a veterinarian who treats any race horse. (7) "Prohibited Drug" means drugs covered under section 219. (8) "Sample" means a bodily substance, including blood and urine, taken from a horse at the direction of the Commission or the Commission's officials. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 3, Sess. L. 2017, p. 96, 97.

(a) All horses participating in horse races must be examined before the race or races in which they participate. (b) All horses that place or receive a prize must be tested immediately after the race in which they place or receive a prize. (c) Judges and stewards may select any horses at random for testing on the basis of the horse's racing performance. (d) A horse to which prohibited drugs have been administered or to which an electric battery or any similar device had been applied may not participate in any race during the program. (e) The order of finish of a race may not be determined until after the post-race examination for the application of electric batteries or any similar device. If the administration of a prohibited drug or application of an electric battery or any similar device to a horse is discovered after a race and before the order of finish is determined, the horse must be disqualified. (f) No prize, in cash or otherwise, may be awarded until after the necessary tests and analyses for prohibited drugs have been completed. If after any such test, the administration of a prohibited drug to a horse is discovered, the horse may not receive any prizes. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 3, Sess. L. 2017, p. 97.

(a) Trainers are responsible for the condition all horses trained by them. (b) No trainer may start or permit a horse under the trainer's custody, care or control to start or to be started, if the trainer knows or has cause to believe that the horse has be administered a prohibited drug or other restricted substance that could in a positive test. (c) The trainer must be held responsible for a positive test, unless the trainer can show by substantial evidence that neither the trainer, an employer, nor an agent was responsible for administering the drug or other restricted substance. (d) Trainers shall guard each horse trained by them in such a manner and for such period before racing the horse to prevent any person, whether the person is connected with or employed by the owner or trainer, from administering a prohibited drug or other restricted substance to the horse. (e) Trainers shall maintain accurate records of all corticosteroid joint injections to horses trained by them. The record of every corticosteroid injection must be submitted within 48 hours of the injection to the Commission in a form and manner approved by the Commission. A trainer may delegate the responsibility for reporting to the attending veterinarian. The report must be accessible to the examining veterinarian to assist with pre-race veterinarian examinations. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 3, Sess. L. 2017, p. 97, 98.

For Administration and Prescription of Drugs; Responsibilities For Use and Disposal of Hypodermic Syringes and Needles (a) All licensed veterinarians shall keep a written record of their practice concerning horses participating at pari-mutuel thoroughbred race meets in the Virgin Islands, whether performed at a licensed or franchised track or elsewhere. (b) The records required in subsection (a) must disclose: (1) the name of the horse treated; (2) the names of the owner and the trainer of the horse treated; (3) the nature of the horse's ailment; (4) the type of treatment prescribed and performed for the horse; and (5) the date, time, and place of the treatment. (c) Every such veterinarian shall produce the written records when requested by an official of the Commission. (d) Before a licensed veterinarian administers or prescribes any drug or restricted substance for a horse, the veterinarian must ascertain by reasonable inquiry whether the horse has been entered to race at any track, and if the horse has been entered, the veterinarian must not administer or prescribe any prohibited drug or restricted substance within the time or manner restricted by rules promulgated under this subchapter. If the horse has not been entered to race, but the administration is of a drug that is not permitted to be administered within 72 hours before a racing program or longer, the veterinarian shall notify the trainer of that fact and of the time applicable. If, however, an emergency exists involving the life or health of the horse, the veterinarian may proceed to treat or prescribe for the horse, but must report the matter as promptly as practicable to the Territorial veterinarian or stewards at the pertinent track. (e) The attending veterinarian shall complete, sign and submit at a location designated by the Commission a daily form prescribed by the Commission. The form must contain: (1) the name of each horse entered to race on that day and treated by the attending veterinarian with furosemide; (2) the name of the trainer; (3) a description of the horse; (4) the tattoo number; and (5) the dose, route and time of administration. (f) The practicing veterinarian is responsible for the collection, security and disposal of the used syringes and needles. To ensure drug testing accuracy, the practicing veterinarian shall use hypodermic syringes and needles only once. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 3, Sess. L. 2017, p. 98, 99.

(a) Samples must be collected from racehorses to test for the presence of prohibited substances. (b) Either the owner, trainer, or a representative of the owner or the trainer must be present during the collection of the horse's blood and urine samples. The Commission shall maintain documents and records of the chain of custody of the blood and urine samples from the time they are collected, during their transportation, testing, and return to the Commission. (c) All sample containers must be identified and sealed against tampering upon collection. All samples must be identified with unique sample identifying numbers. When the identity of the horse is required, the steward or the presiding judge shall match the sample identifying number to the previously locked documentation of collected samples. (d) When testing detects and confirms the presence of a prohibited drug or other substance, the laboratory shall immediately inform the Commission's director of horse racing and its counsel. Immediately thereafter, the director of horse racing shall inform the steward or presiding judge at the racetrack where the horse's sample originated, along with the other appropriate Commission personnel. (e) The Commission shall conduct an investigation into the matter after the horse and its trainer are identified by the steward or presiding judge. (f) After identification, investigation into the circumstances, including interviews with all involved parties begins, the trainer must be given the option of having a split sample of the original tested at an approved laboratory of the trainer's choice at the trainer's expense. After the investigation is completed and all other information is gathered and studied, and after notice of opportunity for an adjudicatory hearing under section 225, if the findings of the investigation warrants, the Commission shall take appropriate action against the trainer under section 224. (g) If the trainer does not agree with the penalty given, the trainer may appeal the penalty pursuant to regulations establishing an appeals process under section 226. Upon receipt of the hearing officer's completed report, the Commission shall issue a decision. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 3, Sess. L. 2017, p. 99, 100.

(a) A list of prohibited drugs and substances and methods must be developed by the Commission after consultation with the Department of Agriculture. (b) The list must at a minimum include any substance or method that is included on either- (1) Class 1, 2, 3 and 4 drugs, medications and substances in the Uniform Classification Guidelines for Foreign Substances of the Association of Racing Commissioners International (ARCI), as amended from time to time, published at ARCI's website, or. (2) The Prohibited List, International Standard, or the World Anti-Doping Code. (c) Except to the extent that such a substance or method described in subsection (a) is contained on the list of permitted substances and methods identified on the Association of Racing Commissioners International Therapeutic Medication Schedule for Horses, the substance is prohibited. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 3, Sess. L. 2017, p. 100.

The Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission shall select the laboratory to be used in testing samples taken within its jurisdiction, but the laboratory selected must be accredited by, and comply with the testing protocols and standards established by the Commission and any all federal laws. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 3, Sess. L. 2017, p. 100.

Practices At the Racetrack (a) It is unlawful for any person to, attempt to, or cause, solicit, request, or conspire with another or others to: (1) import into the Virgin Islands for participation in live racing any horse that has been banned from other jurisdictions for physical, medical, or doping issues; (2) subject to subsection (b), use or possess any electrical device, "joint," "battery," electric prod, or any other electrical equipment or any mechanical or other appliance not generally accepted as regular racing equipment that can be used to stimulate, depress, goad, spur, retard or condition a horse during a race or during training; (3) freeze or ice or apply medicated packs to a horse's leg within the paddock area; (4) after a race, administer any substance except water to a horse designated for testing, before the horse has been released by the examining veterinarian. (b) The use of ultrasonic, diathermy or other electro/medical equipment is permissible until 24 hours before the start of a racing program. The whirlpool may be used until race time. However, the stewards may bar the possession or use of any specific equipment. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 3, Sess. L. 2017, p. 100, 101.

The Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission, after notice to and with appropriate opportunity for comment from industry representatives and the public, shall establish a list of anti-doping rule violations including, but not limited to: (1) strict liability for the presence of a prohibited substance or method in a horse's sample or the use of a prohibited substance or method; (2) attempted use of a prohibited substance or method; (3) possession of any prohibited substance or method; (4) attempted possession of any prohibited substances or method; (5) administration or attempted administration of any prohibited substance or method; (6) refusing or failing without compelling justification to submit a horse for sample collection; (7) tampering or attempted tampering with any part of doping control; (8) trafficking or attempted trafficking in any prohibited substances or method; and (9) complicity in any anti-doping rule violation. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 3, Sess. L. 2017, p. 101.

(a) The Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission shall enforce this subchapter. The Commission may request the Commissioner of Police and the Commissioner of Police may order law enforcement officers to aid the Commission in preventing horse racing at any track within the respective districts for which a license has been refused, suspended or revoked by the Commission. The Police Commissioner may similarly assign officers to aid the Commission when, by the Commissioner's determination, additional forces are needed to preserve the health, welfare or safety of any person or animal within the grounds of any race track in the Territory. (b) The Attorney General pursuant to 3 V.I.C. § 114 shall furnish legal advice to the Commission and shall represent the Commission in any proceeding to which the Commission is a party. (c) The Attorney General may file an action in the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands to enforce any penalty assessment or order of the Commission. (d) The Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission, Division of Enforcement may audit and investigate service providers, totalizator companies, site operators, or organizations applying to conduct or conducting pari-mutuel wagering. The Casino Control Commission, Division of Gaming Enforcement may: (1) inspect all sites in which pari-mutuel wagering is conducted; (2) inspect all pari-mutuel wagering equipment and supplies; (3) seize, remove, or impound and pari-mutuel equipment, supplies or books and records for examination and inspection; and (4) inspect, examine, photocopy, and audit all books and records. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 3, Sess. L. 2017, p. 101, 102.

(a) The Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission, after notice to and with appropriate opportunity for comment from thoroughbred industry representatives and the public, shall establish uniform regulations imposing sanctions against covered persons or covered horses for anti-doping rule violations. The sanctioning regulations must consider the unique aspects of thoroughbred horseracing, and must be designed to ensure fair and transparent thoroughbred horse races and deter the commission of anti-doping rule violations. The regulations that govern treatment of Thoroughbreds must apply to the treatment of non-Thoroughbreds that are a part of the race card. The regulations must impose sanctions up to and including a lifetime ban from horseracing and must include opportunities for anti-doping rule violators to reduce the otherwise applicable sanctions generally comparable to those opportunities afforded by the United States Anti-Doping Agency's Protocol for Olympic Movement Testing. (b) In addition to other sanctions established by the Commission, any person who violates any provision of this subchapter or any rule or regulation promulgated under this subchapter is subject to: (1) (A) disqualification of the horse from the race and from any share of the purse in the race, and such share must be redistributed among the remaining horses in the race entitled to the share. (B) Nothing contained in this paragraph may in any way affect the pari-mutuel distribution, which must be deemed final and upon the declaring of the race "official" by the judges at the conclusion of the race. (2) for the first violation, a fine not less than $300 nor more than $600 and suspension of license up to fifteen days; (3) for the second violation, a fine of not less than $600 nor more than $1500 and suspension of license up to 60 days; and (4) for the third violation, a fine of not less than $1500 nor more than $5000 and suspension of license up to 180 days or revocation of license. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 3, Sess. L. 2017, p. 102, 103.

(a) A person issued a notice of anti-doping violation, may file a written application for an adjudicatory hearing before the Commission not later than 10 days after service of the notice of violation. A request that is not filed within 10 days is void, and the person is deemed to have waived any right to an adjudicatory hearing. (b) If a violator requests an adjudicatory hearing for a suspension imposed pursuant to this subchapter, the Commission shall issue an administrative stay of the violator's suspension. The stay must be for 45 days from the date of service of the notice of the suspension. The violator may file a written request, on motion with reasonable notice to the secretary of the Commission, for an extension of the stay for good cause shown that the violator will not been able to participate in an evidentiary the adjudicatory hearing within the 45-day period. The Chief Steward shall decide such motion on behalf of the Commission, and the decision of the Chief Steward is final. If the Chief Steward decides to allow the adjudicatory hearing, upon the completion of the adjudicatory hearing, another administrative stay of the suspension must be issued until the Commissioners have taken final action. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 3, Sess. L. 2017, p. 103.

(a) Not later than 120 days after the effective date of this section, the Commission, after notice to and with appropriate opportunity for comment from thoroughbred industry representatives and the public, shall promulgate regulations not inconsistent with this subchapter carry out the purposes of this subchapter, including provisions for: (1) anti-doping results management; (2) enforcement and adjudication procedures for anti-doping rule violation provisions, including for notification of anti-doping rule violations, hearing procedures, burden of proof, presumptions, evidentiary rules, appeals, and guidelines for confidentially and public reporting of decisions. (b) The regulations must provide for adequate due process procedures, including impartial hearing officers or tribunals commensurate with the seriousness of the alleged anti-doping rule violation and the possible sanctions for the violation. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 3, Sess. L. 2017, p. 103, 104.

If any of sections 215 - 226 is inconsistent with federal anti-doping laws, the federal laws govern. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 3, Sess. L. 2017, p. 104.

(a) There is hereby established within the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation, two separate commissions for the regulation of automobile racing, one for the Island of St. Croix, to be designated the "St. Croix Automobile Racing Commission" and one for the Islands of St. Thomas and St. John, to be designated the "St. Thomas-St. John Automobile Racing Commission." Each Commission shall be composed of five members: The St. Croix Automobile Racing Commission shall be composed of four residents of the Island of St. Croix and the St. Thomas-St. John Automobile Racing Commission shall be composed of three residents from St. Thomas and one resident from St. John. All members shall be appointed by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Legislature. The Commissioner of Sports, Parks and Recreation shall serve as the fifth member, ex officio, of each Commission and shall vote only in the event of a tie. (b) The term of each appointed member shall be three years; provided, that in the initial appointments hereunder, one member of each Commission shall be appointed for one year, two members for two years, and one member for three years, thereafter all appointments shall be for three years; except that any person appointed to fill a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of the term for which his predecessor was appointed shall be appointed for the remainder of such term. Each member shall serve until the qualification and appointment of his successor. (c) The members of each Commission shall annually elect one of their membership to serve as Chairman thereof; provided, that the initial meeting of each Commission shall be called by the Commissioner of Sports, Parks and Recreation for the purpose of organizing the Commission. (d) Any member may be removed by the Governor for cause. (e) In addition to actual traveling expenses, each appointed member of each Commission shall receive fifty dollars ($50) for each day or part thereof spent in the work of the Commission. (f) Each Commission shall have the powers, duties and authority as are prescribed by law. No member of a Commission who has any pecuniary interest, direct or indirect, in any automobile registered for participation in automobile races in the Virgin Islands, may participate in any meeting, hearing, decision, or determination in relation to- (1) the order of finish of any race; (2) the disqualification of any automobile participating in a race; (3) the granting, denial, suspension, or revocation of any license; or (4) the imposition of any administrative penalties or sanctions. History: Added Sept. 28, 1990, No. 5625, § 1, Sess. L. 1990, p. 335; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340; amended Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 3, Sess. L. 2016, p. 230.

(a) Automobile racing on the Islands of St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John shall be supervised by the St. Croix Automobile Racing Commission and the St. Thomas-St. John Automobile Racing Commission, as appropriate, as established within the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation pursuant to the provisions of section 231 of this chapter and subject to the general direction and control of the Governor of the Virgin Islands. (b) The St. Croix Automobile Racing Commission and the St. Thomas-St. John Automobile Racing Commission shall meet jointly from time to time as the "Virgin Islands Automobile Racing Commission" (hereinafter referred to as the "Virgin Islands Commission"). The Chairman of the St. Croix Automobile Racing Commission shall serve as Chairman of the Virgin Islands Commission during even-numbered years and the Chairman of the St. Thomas-St. John Automobile Racing Commission shall serve as Chairman of the Virgin Islands Commission during odd-numbered years. The Virgin Islands Commission is hereby authorized, subject to the general direction and control of the Governor, to regulate all matters relating to automobile racing. The Virgin Islands Commission shall, after due notice and public hearings, adopt and amend rules and regulations for automobile racing, which rules and regulations, after approval by the Governor and filing in accordance with the provisions of section 933, Title 3 of the Virgin Islands Code, shall have the force and effect of law. The Commissioner of the Virgin Islands Commission shall have the following powers: (1) To prescribe the rules and conditions by which the holding of automobile races shall be governed, and to fix the dates and places for the holding of such races; (2) To prescribe the qualifications of persons who engage in any automobile racing activities; (3) To provide for the classification and registration of automobiles for racing in the Virgin Islands as a condition precedent to eligibility for participation in automobile racing; (4) To authorize and regulate the use of mechanical and photographic devices for the purpose of, among others, determining the development and order of finish of races; (5) To provide for the licensing of automobile mechanics and other persons directly involved in the care and maintenance of automobiles used in automobile races; (6) To prescribe and provide for the imposition of administrative fines and penalties, including suspensions and the revocation of licenses, for violations of this section or of any rules and regulations promulgated hereunder; provided that such fines may not exceed $200 and such suspensions may not exceed six months; and provided further, that no fine, suspension, or revocation may be imposed except after due notice and hearing, including representation by counsel afforded to the accused person. Any penalty which involves a fine may be enforced in any court of the Virgin Islands; provided, that no fine may be imposed under this section for any act or omission which is a criminal offense under any other provision of this code; (7) To hold hearings on any matter concerning automobile racing, to issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses, to administer oaths and affirmations, and to examine witnesses in all matters pertaining to this chapter; (8) To delegate to the St. Croix Automobile Racing Commission and to the St. Thomas-St. John Automobile Racing Commission, the authority to exercise or implement any of the foregoing powers; provided, that the exercise or implementation of such powers shall apply only in the island involved, and provided further, that the delegation of power is not otherwise inconsistent with the public interest in the uniform administration and enforcement of this chapter. (c) The St. Croix Automobile Racing Commission and the St. Thomas-St. John Automobile Racing Commission shall each appoint three Stewards, two Judges, and one Racing Secretary. One Judge, two Stewards and the Racing Secretary appointed by each Commission shall serve for two years, and the other Judge and Steward shall serve for one year; thereafter appointments shall be for two years, except that any person appointed to fill a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of a term shall serve only for the remainder of the term. An appointee may be removed by the pertinent Commission for cause. The Racing Secretary shall perform the necessary administrative functions and the Judges and Stewards shall officiate at automobile races. In addition to other penalties provided for under this chapter, the Judges and Stewards, by three affirmative votes, may, without hearing, suspend the license of any person for the violation of any provision of this section or of any rules and regulations promulgated hereunder, for not more than three racing days. The officials may also institute proceedings before the pertinent Commission for the imposition of fines, or for the revocation or suspension of licenses in excess of three racing days based upon charges of violation of this section or any pertinent rule or regulation. (d) No person may be designated, appointed, or employed as a Judge, Steward, or in any capacity having to do with the enforcement or administration of this chapter, who has any pecuniary interest, direct or indirect, in any automobile registered for participation in automobile races in the Virgin Islands. (e) Any person affected by the orders, decisions, suspensions, or fines imposed by the Virgin Islands Commission, the St. Croix Automobile Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Automobile Racing Commission, may appeal to the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands; provided, that the appeals may not stay the effect of the orders, decisions, suspensions, and fines pending the final decision of the Court, except by specific order of the Court. In cases of fines, the person fined may neither register nor enter an automobile in a race unless he deposits with the Virgin Islands Commission the amount of the fine, which shall be reimbursed to him if the determination of the Court is favorable to him. All appeals shall be filed with the Court within ten (10) days after notice has been served on the aggrieved person. (f) The St. Croix Automobile Racing Commission and the St. Thomas-St. John Automobile Racing Commission shall prepare quarterly and annual Profit & Loss Statements on automobile races pursuant to this chapter. The quarterly and annual statements must include a profit and loss statement for each automobile race held in the district of St. Croix and each automobile race held in the district of St. Thomas- St. John under the Commissions' authority and must be made available to the appropriate Committee of jurisdiction within the Legislature of the Virgin Islands and to the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation. History: Added Sept. 28, 1990, No. 5625, § 1, Sess. L. 1990, p. 336; amended Dec. 22, 2007, No. 6981, § 1, Sess. L. 2007, p. 222; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340; amended Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 3, Sess. L. 2016, p. 230.

Not less than fifteen days prior to the holding of any automobile race at a designated public race course designed for that purpose, the sponsor of the race shall apply in writing to the Chief of Police of the territorial district wherein he proposes to hold such race for a permit to hold the race, stating therein the time when and the place where such race is to occur. The Chief of Police shall determine the number of police officers necessary to be assigned to duty at the race for the safeguarding of the public. Nothing in this section shall be construed to preclude the sponsor from employing private security services to supplement the number of police officers assigned to duty. History: Added Sept. 28, 1990, No. 5625, § 1, Sess. L. 1990, p. 336; amended Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 3, Sess. L. 2016, p. 230.

Department; Penalty Any person participating in any automobile race meet in any of the designated public places within the Territory, when the notice required to be given to the Chief of Police of the Territorial District wherein it is proposed to hold such race meet as required by this chapter has not been given, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. History: Added Sept. 28, 1990, No. 5625, § 1, Sess. L. 1990, p. 336; amended Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 3, Sess. L. 2016, p. 230.

This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the "Virgin Islands Lottery Law". History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971 p. 191.

For the purposes of this chapter: (1) "Commission" shall mean the Virgin Islands Lottery Commission established by this chapter. (2) "Lottery" or "Virgin Islands Lottery" shall mean the lottery established and operated pursuant to this chapter. (3) "Director" shall mean the Director of the Virgin Islands Lottery. (4) "Video Lottery Terminal (VLT)" means a machine or device that, at a minimum, will utilize randomness in determination or prizes, contain some form of activation to initiate the selection process, make use of a methodology for delivery of the determined outcome and is connected to a centralized computer system that allows the Virgin Islands Lottery to monitor game play and perform control functions. Video lottery terminals rely on the requirement that the terminal be connected to a central monitoring system and adhere to specific terminal enable and disable procedures that are not applicable to other similar machines. Video lottery terminals are distinguished from "slot machines" as defined in 32 Virgin Islands Code, section 402(68). History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 192; amended Apr. 27, 1973, No. 3420, § 1, Sess. L. 1973, p. 47; amended Apr. 22, 2022, No. 8577, § 6, Sess. L. 2022, p. 154.

There is hereby established as an instrumentality of the Government of the Virgin Islands, the Virgin Islands Lottery, which shall be the official lottery of the Virgin Islands and shall be managed by a Director, subject to the supervision of the Virgin Islands Lottery Commission. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 192; amended Apr. 27, 1973, No. 3420, § 3, Sess. L. 1973, p. 48; April 24, 1985, No. 5049, § 2(a), Sess. L. 1985, p. 7.

(a) The Virgin Islands Lottery Commission shall be composed of the Commissioner of Finance, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget or his designee, and five additional members appointed by the Governor, subject to confirmation by the Legislature, for a term of four years. The majority of the members shall elect a chairperson from among the members of the Commission, who shall serve for a period of four years. Of the five members appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Legislature, two members shall be licensed lottery sales agents, one from the District of St. Thomas-St. John and one from the District of St. Croix; of the remaining three members, one each shall be a resident of St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John, respectively. (b) Any member of the Commission whose term has expired may continue to serve until a qualified successor has been appointed and confirmed by the Legislature. Any vacancy in the Commission occurring for any reason other than the expiration of term, shall be filled for the unexpired term in the same manner as the original appointment. (c) Any member of the Commission may be removed from office by the Governor, for cause, upon notice and opportunity to be heard at a public hearing. (d) Each member of the Commission shall receive $50 for each day or part thereof spent in the performance of his official Commission duties, plus reasonable expenses including travel, incurred thereby, provided, that Commission members who are Government employees shall receive per diem and travel expenses as provided by law. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 192; amended Apr. 27, 1973, No. 3420, § 3, Sess. L. 1973, p. 48; Nov. 5, 1985, No. 5108, § 1, Sess. L. 1985, p. 156; Sept. 28, 1990, No. 5636, § 1(q), Sess. L. 1990, p. 347; Dec. 9, 1991, No. 5764, § 1, Sess. L. 1991, p. 272; June 12, 1992, No. 5796, § 6, Sess. L. 1992, p. 92; Dec. 21, 2001, No. 6483, § 5, Sess. L. 2001, p. 357; July 14, 2003, No. 6583, § 4, Sess. L. 2003, p. 24; Dec. 2, 2005, No. 6800, § 21(a), (b), Sess. L. 2005, p. 454; Nov. 25, 2009, No. 7134, § 1, Sess. L. 2009, p. 265.

(a) The Lottery shall be under the immediate supervision and direction of a Director, who shall be a person qualified by training and experience to direct the work of such Lottery. The Director shall be appointed by the Governor, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislature and shall serve at the pleasure of the Governor. (b) Any vacancy occurring in the office of the Director shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment. (c) The Director of said lottery shall devote his entire time and attention to the duties of his office and shall not be engaged in any other profession or occupation. He shall receive such salary as shall be provided by law. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 192; amended Apr. 27, 1973, No. 3420, § 2, Sess. L. 1973, p. 47.

The Commission shall have the power, and it shall be its duty: (a) To promulgate such rules and regulations governing the establishment and operation of the lottery as it deems necessary and desirable. Such rules and regulations may include, but shall not be limited to, the following: (1) The types of lottery to be conducted may be classified as video lottery gaming machines or devices, or any similar type of gaming machine or device, provided that video lottery gaming machines or devices may only be operated in the St. Thomas/St. John district of the Virgin Islands, and the other types of lottery conducted shall include: (i) the official lottery in effect on January 1, 1985; (ii) instant lottery, which shall be a manual scratch-off type lottery; and (iii) such additional lotteries as approved pursuant to section 246a of this chapter. (2) The price, or prices, of tickets or shares in the lottery. (3) The numbers and sizes of the prizes on the winning tickets or shares. (4) The manner of selecting the winning tickets or shares, provided, however that the manner of selection shall ensure that a ticket which has been sold shall be selected as a winning ticket for each and every major prize at each and every ordinary drawing, intermediate drawing, extra-ordinary drawing, or special drawing. (5) The manner of payment of prizes to the holders of winning tickets or shares. (6) The frequency of the drawings or selections of winning tickets or shares, without limitation. (7) Without limit as to number, the type or types of locations at which tickets or shares may be sold. (8) The method to be used in selling tickets or shares. (9) The licensing of agents to sell tickets or shares, including the setting of the fee for the license, provided that no person under the age of 21 shall be licensed as an agent. (10) The manner and amount of compensation, if any, to be paid licensed sales agents necessary to provide for the adequate availability of tickets or shares to prospective buyers and for the convenience of the public. (11) The apportionment of the total revenues accruing to the Lottery, which shall, in any event, be as follows: (i) Transfer of not less than twenty percent (20%) of the net income of the lottery from all games authorized by this chapter to the General Fund of the Treasury of the Virgin Islands; provided that fifty percent (50%) of the portion allocated to the General Fund shall be utilized by the Department of Education, twenty-five percent (25%) shall be utilized by the Office of Veterans Affairs and the remaining twenty-five percent (25%) shall be distributed evenly among the Disabled Persons Special Fund established pursuant to the provisions of Title 34, section 14b, Virgin Islands Code; the Small Business Development and Loan Fund established pursuant to Title 33, Section 3031, VVirgin Islands Code the Textbook Reimbursement Revolving Fund established pursuant to Title 17, section 42, VVirgin Islands Code and the summer employment of youth program. (ii) Payment of prizes to holders of winning tickets or shares; (iii) Payment of all costs incurred in the operation and administration of the Lottery except that not more than 75% of the revenues derived from the games under contracts between the Virgin Islands Lottery and private contractors of lottery games, including the revenues derived under contracts with contractors of video lottery games authorized under title 32 V.I.C. § 246(a)(1), may be used to pay delinquent, prior obligations; (iv) Transfer of 15% of the proceeds derived from the games under each contract between the Virgin Islands Lottery and a private contractor of lottery games, including the proceeds under a contract with a contractor of video lottery games, authorized under title 32 V.I.C. § 246(a)(1), into the Virgin Islands Educational Initiative Fund established in 33 V.I.C. § 3093, 10% to the Government Employees' Retirement System to fund annuitants' annual cost of living bonuses and 15% in the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged Program, established under title 34, sections 40 - 49, of this Code; transfer three percent (3.0%) of the proceeds derived by the Virgin Islands Lottery from video lottery on St. Thomas and St. John as follows: (i) .75% to the Horse Racing Improvement Fund as established in title 33 V.I.C. § 3044 for use as authorized therein by the St. Thomas-St. John Commission of the Virgin Islands Horse Racing Commission; (ii) 1.25% to the Lease Franchisee holder or any temporary permittee, operator or promoter of live horse races at Clinton Phipps Park to supplement purses for live races at Clinton Phipps Park; (iii) .50% to the Department of Agriculture to be used for the stray animal operations and recovery; (iv) .50% to be administered by the Department of Agriculture to Golden Age Ranch for the protection and the care of retired and injured horses. The Department of Agriculture in conjunction with the Virgin Islands Lottery may award these funds to Golden Age Ranch and any other organization whose function is for the protection and care of retired and injured horses. Before awarding funds, the Department of Agriculture shall verify that the organizations that are granted the award are in good standing with the Government of the Virgin Islands and are in compliance with any rules set by the Department in order to receive the funds. The Department of Agriculture shall cease funding any organization that is no longer in operation and may cease or suspend funding to any organization that is in violation of any rules set by the Department of Agriculture for the granting of the award. (v) Six percent (6%) of the revenues derived from video lottery terminals located at the Clinton Phipps Racetrack in St. Thomas-St. John district shall be divided between the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation for development of youth sports in St. Thomas and St. John and the Virgin Islands Olympic Committee equally. (vi) Transfer, not less than four times each year in accordance with accepted accounting procedures which shall be adopted by the Lottery, of all proceeds remaining after compliance with subparagraphs (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) hereof to the General Fund of the Treasury of the Virgin Islands; provided, however, that the Lottery shall maintain a reserve fund in such amount as may be approved annually pursuant to the provisions of section 260 of this chapter. (12) Such other matters necessary or desirable for the efficient and economical operation and administration of the lottery and for the convenience of the purchasers of tickets or shares and the holders of winning tickets or shares. (b) To amend, repeal, or supplement any such rules and regulations from time to time as it deems necessary or desirable. (c) To advise and make recommendations to the Director regarding the operation and administration of the lottery. (d) To report monthly to the Governor and the Legislature the total lottery revenues, prize disbursements and other expenses for the preceding month, and to make an annual report, which shall include a full and complete statement of lottery revenues, prize disbursements and other expenses, to the Governor and the Legislature, and including such recommendations for changes in this chapter as it deems necessary or desirable. (e) To report immediately to the Governor and the Legislature any matters which shall require immediate changes in the laws of the Virgin Islands in order to prevent abuses and evasions of this chapter or rules and regulations promulgated thereunder or to rectify undesirable conditions in connection with the administration or operation of the lottery. (f) To carry on a continuous study and investigation of the lottery throughout the Virgin Islands: (1) for the purpose of ascertaining any defects in this chapter or in the rules and regulations issued thereunder by reason whereof any abuses in the administration and operation of the lottery or any evasion of this chapter or the rules and regulations may arise or be practiced; (2) for the purpose of formulating recommendations for changes in this chapter and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder to prevent such abuses and evasions; (3) to guard against the use of this chapter and the rules and regulations issued thereunder as a cloak for the carrying on of organized gambling and crime, and (4) to insure that said law and rules and regulations shall be in such form and be so administered as to serve the true purposes of this chapter. (g) To make a continuous study and investigation of: (1) the operation and the administration of similar laws which may be in effect in other jurisdictions; (2) any literature on the subject which from time to time may be published or available; (3) any Federal laws which may affect the operation of the lottery, and (4) the reaction of the Virgin Islands citizens to existing and potential features of the lottery with a view to recommending or effecting changes that will tend to serve the purposes of this chapter. (h) To review and make recommendations thereon to the Governor not later than the 1st day of April of each year of an annual plan of operations and a statement of projected revenues and expenditures submitted to it by the Director. (i) To establish a division with the responsibility, authority and powers to enforce the provisions of Title 14, Sections 1221, 1222, 1223, 1224, 1225, 1226, 1227, and 1228 Virgin Islands Code. Any person employed under this authority shall have the same powers and authorization as that of a peace officer as defined in Title 5, Section 3561, Virgin Islands Code. (j) Within 180 days of the enactment of this act, the Virgin Islands Lottery shall update and promulgate the new rules and regulations for the operation of video lottery terminals in the St. Thomas/St. John district. (k) To transfer not less than $2,270,000 from the net income of the lottery from all games authorized by this section to the Government Employees' Retirement System before July 15 each year to be used exclusively as an annual bonus payment for annuitants and pensioners pursuant to title 3, chapter 27, section 729b of this code. The sum may be paid in quarterly installments to the retirement System so long as the total amount is received before July 15. (l) The proceeds from all real and personal property forfeited under 14 V.I.C. § 1227 and all fines imposed under this chapter and 14 V.I.C. § 1228 shall be apportioned as follows: 40 percent to the Virgin Islands Department of Justice for the enforcement of this chapter, and 45 percent to the Virgin Islands Lottery Commission, with fifteen percent to be used exclusively for programs to treat and prevent gambling addiction. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 193; amended Apr. 27, 1973, No. 3420, §§ 3, 4, Sess. L. 1973, pp. 48, 50; Oct. 26, 1982, No. 4755, § 16(b), Sess. L. 1982, p. 175; Apr. 24, 1985, No. 5049, § 2(b), Sess. L. 1985, p. 7; Nov. 5, 1985, No. 5108, § 6, Sess. L. 1985, p. 157; May 14, 1986, No. 5159, § 2, Sess. L. 1986, p. 51; May 14, 1986, No. 5160, § 1, Sess. L. 1986, p. 51; June 20, 1986, No. 5178, § 2, Sess. L. 1986, p. 189; May 22, 1990, No. 5558, §§ 3, 4, Sess. L. 1990, p. 191; Sept. 5, 1990, No. 5596, § 1, Sess. L. 1990, p. 273; Dec. 9, 1991, No. 5764, § 4, Sess. L. 1991, p. 273; Dec. 13, 1993, No. 5917, § 1, Sess. L. 1993, p. 277; Sept. 9, 1996, No. 6117, §§ 14(b), 14(a), 15, Sess. L. 1996, p. 91; Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 3, Sess. L. 2001, p. 100; Feb. 21, 2002, No. 6503, § 38(a), Sess. L. 2002, p. 277; Dec. 23, 2002, No. 6503, § 2(a), Sess. L. 2002, p. 268; Aug. 1, 2003, No. 6590, § 1, Sess. L. 2003, p. 49; Apr. 7, 2004, No. 6645, § 7, Sess. L. 2004, p. 5; June 24, 2009, No. 7070, § 2, Sess. L. 2009, p. 47; Nov. 25, 2009, No. 7131, § 4, Sess. L. 2009, p. 243; Oct. 27, 2011, No. 7318, § 3(1.)(a), (b), Sess. L. 2011, p. 263; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340; amended Jan. 31, 2014, No. 7580, § 4, Sess. L. 2014, p. 4; amended Jan. 20, 2017, No. 7972, § 26, Sess. L. 2016, p. 403; amended Apr. 22, 2022, No. 8577, § 5, Sess. L. 2022, p. 154; amended Dec. 31, 2024, No. 8956, § 3, Sess. L. 2024, p. -.

In addition to the lottery game in effect as of January 1, 1985 in the Virgin Islands, the Commission shall have the power to establish and operate any other lottery game; provided, however that before any lottery game is established and operated by the Commission, it shall conduct not less than three (3) public hearings within the Virgin Islands, to introduce and present the said game or games to the sales agents and the general public. Of the three (3) public hearings to be conducted by the Lottery Commission before any new lottery game is commenced, one each shall be held on the island of St. John, St. Croix and St. Thomas. History: Added Apr. 24, 1985, No. 5049, § 2(c), Sess. L. 1985, p. 7; amended Dec. 9, 1991, No. 5764, § 2, Sess. L. 1991, p. 272.

The Director shall have the power, and it shall be his duty to: (a) Supervise and administer the operation of the lottery in accordance with the provisions of this chapter and with the rules and regulations of the Commission. (b) Subject to the approval of the Commission, appoint such deputy directors as may be required to carry out the functions and duties of the Lottery, which deputy directors shall be in the unclassified service of the Personnel Merit System Law. (c) Subject to the approval of the Commission and in accordance with chapter 25 of Title 3 of this code, employ such professional, technical and clerical assistants and employees as may be necessary to perform the duties imposed upon the Lottery by this chapter. (d) Act as secretary and executive officer of the Commission. (e) In accordance with the provisions of this chapter and the rules and regulations of the Commission, to license as agents to sell lottery tickets such persons as in his opinion will best serve the public convenience and promote the sale of tickets or shares. The Director may require a bond from every licensed agent, in such amount as provided in the rules and regulations of the Commission. Every licensed agent shall prominently display his license, or a copy thereof, as provided in the rules and regulations of the Commission. (f) Shall confer regularly as necessary or desirable and not less than once every month with the Commission on the operation and administration of the lottery; shall make available for inspection by the Commission, upon request, all books, records, files, and other information and documents of the Lottery; shall advise the Commission and recommend such matters as he deems necessary and advisable to improve the operation and administration of the lottery. (g) Suspend or revoke any license issued pursuant to this chapter or the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. (h) Subject to the approval of the Commission and the applicable laws relating to public contracts, to enter into contracts for the operation of the lottery, or any part thereof, and into contracts for the promotion of the lottery. No contract awarded or entered into by the Director may be assigned by the holder thereof except by specific approval of the Commission. (i) To certify monthly to the Commissioner of Finance and the Commission a full and complete statement of lottery revenues, prize disbursements and other expenses for the preceding month. (j) To prepare and submit to the Commission not later than March 1st of each year a proposed annual plan of operations and statement of projected revenues and expenditures for the next succeeding fiscal year. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 195; amended Apr. 27, 1973, No. 3420, §§ 2, 5, Sess. L. 1973, pp. 47, 50.

No action of the Commission shall be binding unless taken at a meeting at which at least four members are present and shall vote in favor thereof. The minutes of every meeting of the Commission, including any rules and regulations promulgated by the Commission or any amendments, revisions, supplements or repeals thereof, shall be forthwith transmitted by and under the certification of the secretary thereof, to the Governor and the Legislature. The Governor shall, within 10 working days after said minutes shall have been so delivered, cause the same to be returned to the Commission either with or without his veto on any action therein recited as having been taken by the Commission. If the Governor shall not return the minutes within said 10 working days, any action recited therein shall have force and effect according to the wording thereof. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 196; amended Apr. 26, 1973, No. 3420, § 3, Sess. L. 1973, p. 49.

(a) The Commission shall have the power to issue subpoenas to compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of documents, papers, books, records and other evidence before it in any matter over which it has jurisdiction, control or supervision. The Commission shall have the power to administer oaths and affirmations to persons whose testimony is required. If a person subpoenaed to attend in any such proceeding or hearing fails to obey the command of the subpoena without reasonable cause, of if a person in attendance in any such proceeding or hearing refuses, without lawful cause, to be examined or to answer a legal or pertinent question or to exhibit any book, account, record or other document when ordered so to do by the Commission, the Commission may apply to any judge of the District Court, upon proof by affidavit of the facts, for an order returnable in not less than 2 nor more than 10 days, or as the court shall prescribe, directing such person to show cause before the court why he should not comply with such subpoena or such order. (b) Upon return of the order, the court before whom the matter shall come on for hearing shall examine such person under oath, and if the court shall determine, after giving such person an opportunity to be heard, that he refused without legal excuse to comply with such subpoena or such order of the director, the court may order such person to comply therewith forthwith and any failure to obey the order of the court may be punished as a contempt of the District Court. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 196.

(a) Before issuing a lottery sales agent's license the director shall consider such factors as (1) the financial responsibility and security of the person and his business or activity, (2) the accessibility of his place of business or activity to the public, (3) the sufficiency of existing licenses to serve the public convenience, and (4) the volume of expected sales. For the purposes of this section, the term "person" shall be construed to mean and include an individual, association, corporation, club, trust, estate, society, company, joint stock company, receiver, trustee, assignee, referee, or any other person acting in fiduciary or representative capacity, whether appointed by a court or otherwise, and any combination of individuals. "Person" shall also be construed to mean and include all departments, commissions, agencies and instrumentalities of the Government of the Virgin Islands. (b) The director shall not issue or renew a lottery sales agent's license to any person who fails to present at the time of application for said license or renewal an affidavit signed by an authorized officer of the Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue affirming that said applicant has filed and paid all taxes, penalties and interest applicable to said sales agent, or has satisfactorily made agreement to pay the same. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 197; amended Nov. 7, 1983, No. 4877, § 310(j), Sess. L. 1983, p. 242; May 14, 1986, No. 5159, § 1, Sess. L. 1986, p. 51.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any person licensed as provided in this chapter is hereby authorized and empowered to act as a lottery sales agent. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 197.

No right of any person to a prize drawn shall be assignable, except that payment of any prize drawn may be paid to the estate of a deceased prize winner, and except that any person pursuant to an appropriate judicial order may be paid the prize to which the winner is entitled. The Director shall be discharged of all further liability upon payment of a prize pursuant to this section. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 198.

(a) No person shall sell a ticket or share at a price greater than that fixed by rule or regulation of the Commission. No person other than a licensed lottery sales agent shall sell lottery tickets or shares, except that nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent any person from giving lottery tickets or shares to another as a gift. (b) Except as provided in section 250(b) of this chapter, no person shall be denied the right to participate fully in the Virgin Islands Lottery by reason of his race, sex, religion, or national origin. (c) Any person convicted of violating this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 198; amended Apr. 27, 1973, No. 3420, § 3, Sess. L. 1973, p. 49.

No ticket or share shall be sold to any person under the age of 18, but this shall not be deemed to prohibit the purchase of a ticket or share for the purpose of making a gift by a person 18 years of age or older to a person less than that age. Any licensee who knowingly sells or offers to sell a lottery ticket or share to any person under the age of 18 is guilty of a misdemeanor. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 198.

No ticket or share shall be purchased by, and no prize shall be paid to any of the following persons: any officer or employee of the Lottery. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 198; amended Apr. 27, 1973, No. 3420, § 2, Sess. L. 1973, p. 47; Dec. 9, 1991, No. 5764, § 3, Sess. L. 1991, p. 273.

History: Repealed. July 31, 2004, No. 6677, § 10, Sess. L. 2004, p. 64.

(a) Unclaimed prize money for the prize on a winning ticket or share shall be retained by the Director for the person entitled thereto for six months after the drawing in which the prize was won. If no claim is made for said money within six months, the prize money shall be retained by the Virgin Islands Lottery, apportioned as accrued revenue and shall be used for payment of future prizes. (b) Prizes for winning tickets alleged to be lost or stolen may be redeemed by the lawful owner if such owner submits a claim therefor within six (6) months of the drawing in which the prizes were won. The claimant shall file an affidavit with the Director alleging the number(s) of the ticket(s) and the quantity of the ticket(s) lost or stolen, the name of the dealer from whom purchased and all other relevant factors as the Director may by regulation prescribe. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 198; amended Apr. 27, 1973, No. 3420, § 3, Sess. L. 1973, p. 49; Oct. 1, 1987, No. 5282, § 3, Sess. L. 1987, p. 135; Nov. 4, 1987, No. 5287, § 2, Sess. Law, 1987, p. 145; Aug. 2, 1988, No. 5356, § 4, Sess. L. 1988, p. 202.

The Director may, in his discretion, require any or all lottery sales agents to deposit to the credit of the Virgin Islands Lottery Fund in banks, designated by the Commissioner of Finance all moneys received by such agents from the sale of lottery tickets or shares, less the amount if any, retained as compensation for the sale of the tickets or shares, and to file with the Director or his designated agents reports of their receipts and transactions in the sale of lottery tickets in such form and containing such information as he may require. The Director may make such arrangements for any person, including a bank, to perform such functions, activities or services in connection with the operation of the lottery as he may deem advisable pursuant to this chapter and the rules and regulations of the Commission, and such functions, activities or services shall constitute lawful functions, activities and services of such person. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess L. 1971, p. 199.

No other law providing any penalty or disability for the sale of lottery tickets or any acts done in connection with the lottery shall apply to the sale of tickets or shares performed pursuant to this chapter, provided, that this provision shall be prohibit the application of criminal laws intended for general application to unlawful acts performed in connection with this chapter. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 199; amended Apr. 27, 1973, No. 3420, § 3, Sess. L. 1973, p. 50.

If the person entitled to a prize or any winning ticket is under the age of 18 years, and such prize is less than $5,000, the Director may direct payment of the prize by delivery to an adult member of the minor's family or a guardian of the minor of a check or draft payable to the order of such minor. If the person entitled to a prize or any winning ticket is under the age of 18 years, and such prize is $5,000 or more, the Director may direct payment of such minor by depositing the amount of the prize in any bank to the credit of an adult member of the minor's family or a guardian of the minor as custodian for such minor. The person so named as custodian shall have the same duties and powers as a person designated as a custodian in a manner prescribed by the "Virgin Islands Uniform Gifts to Minors Act", and for the purposes of this section the terms "adult member of a minor's family", "guardian of a minor" and "bank" shall have the same meaning as in said Act. The Director shall be discharged of all further liability upon payment of a prize to a minor pursuant to this section. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 199.

Not later than May 1st of each year, the Governor shall file with the Legislature a plan of operation and statement of projected revenues and expenditures of the Virgin Islands Lottery for the next succeeding fiscal year. Upon review of this plan, the Legislature shall determine such amounts as may be retained in the reserve fund required by section 246(a)(11)(iv) of this chapter. History: Added May 28, 1971, No. 3055, Sess. L. 1971, p. 200; amended Apr. 27, 1973, No. 3420, § 3, Sess. L. 1973, p. 50.

The financial records of the Commission, as they pertain to Lottery revenues, shall be subjected to an annual independent audit by a certified public accountant or firm of certified public accountants to be designated by the President of the Legislature. History: Added Apr. 27, 1973, No. 3420, § 8, Sess. L. 1973, p. 51.

(a) The owner or owners of the winning numbers in each drawing of the Virgin Islands Lottery shall be entitled to a reduction of their income tax liability, for that year, equivalent to 100 percent of the income taxes incurred to the Virgin Islands by said owner or owners, attributable to such winnings being included in the gross income of such winners for income tax purposes; provided, however, that the grant of the reduction in income tax liability resulting from winning Virgin Islands Lottery prizes shall be made only to those winners who comply with the provisions of Section 934 of the 1954 Internal Revenue Code, as amended, and who furnish all of the information required thereunder. (b) The reduction of income taxes payable because of the inclusion of the winnings of Virgin Islands Lottery prizes in the gross income of the winners shall be applicable with respect to the computations, assessment and collection of such taxes, as provided in the 1954 Internal Revenue Code, as amended, and with respect to the payment of estimated income taxes, as provided by Sections 6015, 6153, 6154, and 6201 of the 1954 Internal Revenue Code, as amended. History: Added June 29, 1981, No. 4604, § 1, Sess. L. 1981, p. 99.

As used in this chapter, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise: "Amusement attraction" means any building or structure around, over or through which persons may move or walk, without the aid of any moving device integral to the building or structure, that provides amusement, pleasure, thrills or excitement. The term does not include any enterprise principally devoted to exhibition of agriculture, arts, cultural heritage, education, industry, religion, or science. "Amusement ride" means any mechanical device which carries or conveys passengers along, around or over a fixed or restricted route or course within a defined area, for the purpose of giving it passengers amusement, pleasure, thrills, or excitement, including those amusement rides operating at an amusement attraction. "Commissioner" means the Commissioner of Licensing and Consumer Affairs. "Lessee" means any person who leases an amusement ride or attraction. "Operator" means any person actually engaged in or directly controlling the operation of an amusement ride or attraction. "Owner" means any person who owns an amusement ride or attraction. The term does not include the Government of the Virgin Islands or its political subdivisions. "Qualified inspector" means any inspector from a department or agency of the government designated by the Commissioner. History: Added May 12, 1986, No. 5155, § 1, Sess. L. 1986, p. 40.

No amusement ride or attraction shall be operated unless the owner or lessee has filed with the Commissioner an affidavit that the ride or attraction has been inspected by a qualified inspector and that the owner or lessee has a current insurance policy in force in an amount of not less than $50,000 per occurrence or an aggregate of not less than $250,000, insuring the owner or lessee against liability for injury to persons arising out of the use of the amusement ride or attraction. An inspection shall be made and an affidavit accompanied by an inspection form approved by the Commissioner shall be filed prior to the amusement ride or attraction's operation. History: Added May 12, 1986, No. 5155, § 1, Sess. L. 1986, p. 41.

Whenever an owner or lessee submits an accident report to his insurance company, a copy of those reports which involve physical injury to an individual as a result of the operation of an amusement ride or the use of an amusement attraction shall be filed within 10 days with the Commissioner by the owner or lessee. The notice shall indicate the type of amusement ride or attraction by which the injury occurred and the nature of the injury. History: Added May 12, 1986, No. 5155, § 1, Sess. L. 1986, p. 41.

The owner, lessee, or operator of any amusement ride or attraction may deny entry to any person if, in his opinion, the entry may jeopardize the safety of the person desiring entry or the safety of other patrons of the amusement ride or attraction. No intoxicated person shall be admitted to any amusement ride or attraction. History: Added May 12, 1986, No. 5155, § 1, Sess. L. 1986, p. 41.

Non-mechanized playground equipment, including but not limited to swings, seesaws, stationary spring- mounted animal features, rider-propelled merry-go-rounds, climbers, slides, trampolines, swinging gates and physical fitness devices, except where an admission fee is charged to areas where such equipment is located, are exempt from the provisions of this chapter. History: Added May 12, 1986, No. 5155, § 1, Sess. L. 1986, p. 42.

The Commissioner may order, in writing, a temporary cessation of operation of an amusement ride or attraction if it has been determined after inspection to be hazardous or unsafe. Operation shall not resume until such conditions are corrected to the satisfaction of the Commissioner. History: Added May 12, 1986, No. 5155, § 1, Sess. L. 1986, p. 42.

The Commissioner and the Attorney General shall have the authority to bring injunctive proceedings in any court of competent jurisdiction to compel compliance with any lawful order made by the Commissioner under this chapter. History: Added May 12, 1986, No. 5155, § 1, Sess. L. 1986, p. 42.

Any person who operates an amusement ride or attraction in violation of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to a fine of not less than $500 or imprisonment for not less than 30 days, or both. Each day the violation exists shall constitute a separate and distinct offense. History: Added May 12, 1986, No. 5155, § 1, Sess. L. 1986, p. 42.

Neither the territory nor any political subdivision, directly or indirectly, is the guarantor of the safety of any amusement ride or attraction and shall not be liable with regard to its inspection of amusement rides or attractions as provided by this chapter. History: Added May 12, 1986, No. 5155, § 1, Sess. L. 1986, p. 42.

(a) There is levied and assessed in the Virgin Islands the annual license fee specified in section 303 of Title 27 on each nickelodeon and pinball machine, payable in advance on January 15 of each calendar year. (b) Licenses under this section shall be issued by the Lieutenant Governor under recommendation of the Police Commissioner upon payment of the license fee. The license shall be affixed to the machine in a permanent manner and in a conspicuous place. (c) Whoever violates this section shall be punished as provided in section 306 of Title 27. History: Amended Apr. 22, 1960, No. 538, Sess. L. 1960, p. 42; June 15, 1984, No. 4964, § 1(b), Sess. L. 1984, p. 177.

(a) It shall be unlawful to maintain a pool or billiard table in any place open to the public without a license therefor. (b) The annual license fee for each public billiard or pool table shall be as specified in section 303 of Title 27. (c) All applications for licenses shall be made in writing to the Police Commissioner, who, upon proper investigation of the premises whereupon the said tables are to be used, may recommend to the Lieutenant Governor that a license be issued for a term of one year, unless sooner suspended or revoked. History: Amended June 15, 1984, No. 4964, § 1(b), Sess. L. 1984, p. 177.

Every person to whom a license has been issued pursuant to this chapter shall exhibit such license upon the demand of any person.

The Lieutenant Governor may issue licenses, hear and determine complaints against licensees and suspend or revoke any license or permit issued by him. Such licenses in his discretion may contain provisions and conditions, which in his judgment may be essential for the welfare and benefit of the people in the community, including provisions respecting the hours of opening and closing thereof.

Every keeper of a public place where there are pool or billiard tables shall maintain good order and allow no person under 14 years of age to play therein.

Whoever violates any provision of this chapter shall be punished as provided in section 306 of Title 27.

The Legislature finds and declares it to be desirable that the people of the Virgin Islands of present and future generations be assured adequate outdoor recreation resources, and that it is desirable for all levels of government and private interests to take prompt and coordinated action to the extent practicable without diminishing or affecting their respective powers and functions to conserve, develop and utilize such resources for the benefit and enjoyment of the people of the Virgin Islands. History: Added Aug. 30, 1965, No. 1509, Sess. L. 1965, Pt. I, p. 463.

The Government of the Virgin Islands, through the Department of Planning and Natural Resources which is hereby designated as the state agency for such purpose, is authorized to participate in the programs authorized by the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 1965 (P.L. 88-578, 78 Stat. 897), to cause to be prepared such comprehensive state plan as may be required thereunder, to receive and expend federal funds, and to comply with all other federal requirements for participation in such programs. History: Added Aug. 30, 1965, No. 1509, Sess. L. 1965, Pt. I, p. 463; amended Mar. 3, 1967, No. 1862, § 1, Sess. L. 1967, p. 30; June 4, 1968, No. 2238, § 14, Sess. L. 1968, p. 41; June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(f), Sess. L. 1987, p. 62; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340; amended Jan. 19, 2023, No. 8690, § 22, Sess. L. 2022, p. 452.

Before becoming effective a comprehensive state plan as referred to in section 362 of this title or any amendment or modification thereof shall be approved by the Legislature or if the Legislature is not in session by the Committee on Conservation, Recreation and Cultural Affairs of the Legislature. History: Added Aug. 30, 1965, No. 1509, Sess. L. 1965, Pt. I, p. 463; amended June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(f), Sess. L. 1987, p. 62.

History: Repealed. June 24, 1987, No. 5265, § 502(i), Sess. L. 1987, p. 62. Cite as: 32 V.I.C. § 371, 372 32 V.I.C. ch. 21, art. XIII [Redesignated] Cite as: 32 V.I.C. ch. 21, art. XIII

(a) This chapter shall be known as the "Virgin Islands Casino and Resort Control Act of 1995." (b) The Legislature finds that: (1) The Virgin Islands population as of the 1990 census was 101,809: 50,139 persons on St. Croix 48,166 persons on St. Thomas; and 3,504 persons on St. John. (2) On September 17 and 18, 1989, Hurricane Hugo struck the Virgin Islands and caused severe, extensive and widespread damage to the Virgin Islands, particularly on the island of St. Croix, and inflicted severe damage and losses on many residents and businesses on the island. Prior to Hurricane Hugo, St. Croix had 26 hotels and 1,074 hotel rooms, while St. Thomas/St. John had 31 hotels and 2,914 hotel rooms. As of 1993, St. Thomas/St. John has increased its capacity to 39 hotels and 3,354 hotel rooms, whereas St. Croix has 21 hotels, and 895 hotel rooms. St. Croix has yet to recoup its hotel room capacity to pre-Hugo levels. Lack of hotel rooms has directly impacted promotion of St. Croix as a tourism destination and resulted in reduced air flights into the island and increasingly depressed economic conditions. (3) Visitor arrivals on St. Thomas far surpass St. Croix arrivals, demonstrating a growing tourism disparity between the islands: ST. THOMAS/ST. JOHN ST. CROIX 1991 1994 1991 1994 Air Visitors 505.7 540.7 117.2 142.3 Cruise Pass.* 1,214.98 1,226.0 28.9 31.8 *Numbers are in thousands (4) The economic disparity is further evidenced by the differing unemployment rate: unemployment on St. Croix for 1994 was 8.2%, whereas unemployment on St. Thomas for the same period was 3.1%. (5) Moreover, in 1994, banks and financial institutions in the Virgin Islands which engaged in commercial and residential lending throughout the Virgin Islands loaned fifteen (15) times as much in total dollars on St. Thomas as they loaned on St. Croix. (6) Compounding the depressed economic state on St. Croix, in Mar. 1995, the island's second largest industry and employer, Virgin Islands Alumina Corporation (VIALCO), ceased operation resulting in the layoff of 475 employees. Additionally, in Mar. 1995, the island's largest industrial employer, Hess Oil Virgin Islands Corporation (HOVIC) discharged 175 long-time employees and the possibility of more cuts in the work force exists, further intensifying the unemployment crisis on St. Croix. (7) Over the past year, one hundred and six (106) businesses on the island of St. Croix have closed their doors and ceased operation. The failures are directly attributable to the extremely depressed economy on that island. (8) Declaring St. Croix to be the casino zone within the territory in which a limited amount of casino operator licenses in approved areas would be granted, will stimulate economic development on that island. Limiting the number of licenses awarded would attract quality, reputable, established casino operators and ensure that only operators meeting the highest standards of experience and financial integrity will be licensed to operate on the island of St. Croix. (9) While casino gaming holds promise as a source of economic development and tax revenue, it is not to be viewed as a panacea for the economic depression on St. Croix, but is more appropriately seen by this body as a cornerstone in the St. Croix tourism/entertainment market, as a new and additional revenue source to help expand the number of hotel rooms available on the island, and as a stimulus for local business enterprise development and growth on St. Croix. (c) The Legislature hereby finds and declares to be the public policy of this Territory the following: (1) The tourist, resort and convention industry of the Virgin Islands constitutes a critical component of its economic structure and, if properly developed, controlled and fostered, is capable of providing a substantial contribution to the general welfare, health and prosperity of the Virgin Islands and its inhabitants. (2) The rehabilitation and development of existing tourist and convention facilities on St. Croix, and the fostering and encouragement of new construction and the replacement of lost convention, tourist, entertainment and cultural centers on St. Croix will offer a unique opportunity for the inhabitants of the entire Territory to make maximum use of natural resources available in the Virgin Islands for the expansion and encouragement of the Virgin Islands hospitality industry, and to that end, the development of tourism on St. Croix which will facilitate the restoration of the Virgin Islands as the Playground of the World and the major hospitality center of the Eastern United States is found to be a program of critical concern and importance to the inhabitants of the Territory of the Virgin Islands. (3) Legalized casino gaming has been approved as a unique tool of development for St. Croix. In this regard, the introduction of a new zoning designation to accommodate gaming which will allow a limited number of casino rooms in major hotel convention complexes, permitted as an additional element in the hospitality industry of the Virgin Islands, will facilitate the redevelopment of existing blighted areas and the refurbishing and expansion of existing hotel, convention, tourist, and entertainment facilities; encourage the replacement of lost hospitality-oriented facilities; provide for judicious use of open space for leisure time and recreational activities; and attract new investment capital to the Virgin Islands in general, and to the island of St. Croix, in particular. (4) Restricting the issuance of casino licenses to major hotel and convention facilities is designed to assure that the existing nature and tone of the hospitality industry in the Virgin Islands is preserved, and that the casino rooms licensed pursuant to the provisions of this chapter are always offered and maintained as an integral element of such hospitality facilities, rather than as the industry unto themselves that they have become in other jurisdictions. (5) An integral and essential element of the regulations and control of such casino facilities by the Virgin Islands rests in the public confidence and trust in the credibility and integrity of the regulatory process and casino operations. To further such public confidence and trust, the regulatory provisions of this chapter are designed to extend strict regulation to all persons, locations, practices and associations related to the operation of licensed casino enterprises and all related service industries as herein provided. In addition, licensure of a limited number of casino establishments for St. Croix, with the comprehensive law enforcement supervision attendant thereto, is further designed to contribute to the public confidence and trust in the efficacy and integrity of the regulatory process. (6) Legalized casino gaming on St. Croix can attain, maintain and retain integrity, public confidence and trust, and remain compatible with the general public interest only under a system of control and regulation as insurers, so far as practicable, the exclusion from participation therein of persons with known criminal records, habits or associations, and the exclusion or removal from any positions of authority or responsibility within casino gaming operations and establishments of any persons known to be so deficient in business probity, ability or experience, either generally or with specific reference to gaming, as to create or enhance the dangers of unsound, unfair or illegal practices, methods and activities in the conduct of gaming or the carrying on of the business and financial arrangements incident thereto. (7) Since the public has a vital interest in casino operations on St. Croix and has established an exception to the general policy of the Territory concerning gaming for private gain, participation in casino operations as a licensee or registrant under this chapter shall be deemed a revocable privilege conditioned upon the proper and continued qualification of the individual licensee or registrant and upon the discharge of the affirmative responsibility of each such licensee or registrant to provide to the regulatory and investigatory authorities established by this chapter any assistance and information necessary to assure that the policies declared by this chapter are achieved. Consistent with this policy, it is the intent of this chapter to preclude the creation of any property right in any license, registration, certificate or reservation permitted by this chapter, the accrual of any value to the privilege of participation in gaming operations, or the transfer to any license, registration, certificate, or reservation, and to require that participation in gaming be solely conditioned upon the individual qualifications of the person seeking such privilege. (8) Since casino operations are especially sensitive and in need of public control and supervision, and since it is vital to the interests of the Territory to prevent entry, directly or indirectly, into such operations or the ancillary industries regulated by this chapter of persons who have pursued economic gains in an occupational manner or context which are in violation of the criminal or civil public policies of this Territory, the regulatory and investigatory powers and duties shall be exercised to the fullest extent consistent with law to avoid entry of such persons into the casino operations or the ancillary industries regulated by this chapter. (9) Since the development of casino gaming operations on St. Croix will substantially alter the environment of Virgin Islands coastal areas, and since it is necessary to insure that this substantial alteration be beneficial to the overall ecology of the coastal areas, the regulatory and investigatory powers and duties conferred by this chapter shall include, in cooperation with other public agencies, the power and duty to monitor and regulate casinos and the growth of casino operations to respond to the needs of the coastal areas. (10) The facilities in which licensed casinos are to be located are of vital law enforcement interest to the Territory, and it is in the public interest that the regulatory and investigatory powers and duties conferred by this chapter include the power and duty to review architectural and site plans to assure that the proposal is suitable by law enforcement standards. (11) Since the economic stability of casino operations is in the public interest, the regulatory and investigatory powers and duties conferred by this chapter shall include the power and duty to regulate, control and prevent economic concentration in the casino operations and the ancillary industries regulated by this chapter. (12) It is in the public interest that the institution of licensed casino establishments in the Virgin Islands be strictly regulated and controlled pursuant to the above findings and pursuant to the provision of this chapter, which provisions are designed to engender and maintain public confidence and trust in the regulation of the licensed enterprises, to provide an effective method of rebuilding and redeveloping existing facilities and of encouraging new capital investment in the Virgin Islands, and to provide a meaningful and permanent contribution to the economic viability of the resort, convention, and tourist industry of the Virgin Islands. (13) Confidence in casino gaming operations is eroded to the extent the Virgin Islands does not provide a regulatory framework for casino gaming that permits and promotes stability and continuity in casino gaming operations. (14) Continuity and stability in casino gaming operations cannot be achieved at the risk of permitting persons with unacceptable backgrounds and records of behavior to control casino gaming operations contrary to the vital law enforcement interest of the Territory. (15) The aims of continuity and stability and of law enforcement will best be served by a system in which continuous casino operation can be assured under certain circumstances wherein there has been a transfer of property or another interest relating to an operation casino and the transferee has not been fully licensed or qualified, as long as control of the operation under such circumstances may be placed in the possession of a person or persons in whom the public may feel a confidence and a trust. (16) A system whereby the suspension or revocation of casino operations under certain appropriate circumstances causes the imposition of a conservatorship upon the suspended or revoked casino operation serves both the economic and law enforcement interests involved in casino gaming operations. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

As used in this chapter, the words and terms have the meanings ascribed unless a different meaning clearly appears in the context. (1) "Affiliate" - A person that directly or indirectly, through one or more intermediaries, controls or is controlled by, or is under common control with, the affiliated person. (2) "Applicant" - Any person who on his own behalf or on behalf of another has applied for permission to engage in any act or activity which is regulated under the provisions of this chapter. (3) "Application" - A written request for permission to engage in any act or activity which is regulated under the provisions of this chapter. (4) "Authorized game" or "authorized gambling game" - Roulette, baccarat, blackjack, craps, big six wheel, slot machines, minibaccarat, poker, keno, Caribbean stud poker, pai gow, pai gow poker and sic bo and any variations or composites of such games, provided that such variations or composites are found by the Commission suitable for casino use after an appropriate and any other game which is determined by the Commission to be compatible with the public interest and to be suitable for casino use after appropriate test or experimental period as the Commission may deem appropriate under such terms and conditions as the Commission may deem appropriate. Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter, Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs) are authorized at the St. Thomas racetrack, subject to the authority and approval of the Virgin Island Lottery Commission under 32 V.I.C., chapter 13. "Authorized game" or "authorized gambling game" includes gaming tournaments in which players compete against one another in one or more games authorized herein or by the Commission or in approved variations or composites thereof if the tournaments are authorized by the Commission. (5) "Bona fide resident" - Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, "bona fide resident" shall be defined as a "Native Virgin Islander" or a person who is domiciled in the Virgin Islands continuously for at least five (5) years. (6) "Casino" or "casino room" or "licensed casino" - One or more locations or rooms in which casino gaming including associated amenities, such as food and beverage and ATMs is conducted in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. "Casino" or "casino room" or "licensed casino" shall not include any casino simulcasting facility authorized pursuant to this chapter. (7) "Casino employee" - Any natural person employed in the operation of a licensed casino, including without limitation, boxmen; dealers or croupiers; floormen; machine mechanics; casino security employees; count room personnel; cage personnel; slot machine and slot booth personnel; collection personnel; casino surveillance personnel; and data processing personnel; or any other natural person whose employment duties require or authorize access to restricted casino areas, including, without limitation, appropriate maintenance personnel; waiters and waitresses; and secretaries. (8) "Casino hotel employee" - Any natural person employed to perform services or duties in the conduct of the business of an approved hotel but who is not included within the definition of casino employee or casino key employee as stated in this chapter. (9) "Casino hotel security employee" - Any natural person employed to provide physical security in the conduct of the business of an approved hotel but who is not included within the definition of "casino security employee" as stated herein. (10) "Casino key employee" - Any natural person employed in the operation of a licensed casino in a supervisory capacity or empowered to make discretionary decisions which regulate casino operation, including without limitation, pit bosses; shift bosses; credit executives; casino cashier supervisors; casino managers and assistant managers; and managers or supervisors of casino security employees; or any other natural person empowered to make discretionary decisions which regulate the management of an approved hotel, including, without limitation, hotel managers; entertainment directors; and food and beverage directors; or any other employee so designated by the Casino Control Commission for reasons consistent with the policies of this chapter. (11) "Casino license" - Any license issued pursuant to this chapter which authorizes holder thereof to own or operate a casino. (12) "Casino security employee" - Any natural person employed by a casino licensee or its agent to provide physical security in a casino, simulcasting facility or restricted casino area. "Casino security employee" shall not include any person who provides physical security solely in any part of the casino hotel. (13) "Casino service employee" - Any natural person employed to perform services or duties in a casino, casino simulcasting facility, or restricted casino area but who is not included within the definition of casino employee, casino key employee, or casino security employee as stated in this section. (14) "Casino service industry" - Any form of enterprise which provides casino applicants or licensees with goods or services regarding the realty, construction, maintenance, or business of a proposed or existing casino hotel or related facility on a regular or continuous basis, including, without limitation, security businesses, gaming schools, manufacturers, distributors and servicers of gaming and casino simulcasting devices or equipment, garbage haulers, maintenance companies, food purveyors, and construction companies. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any form of enterprise engaged in the manufacture, sale distribution or repair of slot machines within the Virgin Islands, other than antique slot machines, shall be considered a casino service industry for the purposes of this chapter regardless of the nature of its business relationship, if any, were licensed casinos in this Territory. (15) For the purposes of this section, "casino applicant" includes any person required to hold a casino license pursuant to section 434 of this title who has applied to the Commission for a casino license or any approval required under this chapter. (16) "Casino simulcasting" - The simultaneous transmission by picture of horse races conducted at race tracks to casinos, and parimutuel wagering at those gambling establishments on the results of those races. (17) "Chairman" and "commissioner" or "member" - The chairman and any member of the Casino Control Commission, respectively. (18) "Commission" - The Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission. (19) "Complimentary service or item" - A service or item provided at no cost or at a reduced price. The furnishings of a complimentary service or item by a casino licensee shall be deemed to constitute the indirect payment for the service or item by the casino licensee, and shall be valued in an amount based upon the retail price normally charged by the casino licensee for the service of item. The value or a complimentary service or item not normally offered for sale by a casino licensee or provided by a third party on behalf of a casino licensee shall be the cost to the casino licensee of providing service or item, as determined in accordance with the rules of the Commission. (20) "Conservator" - A fiduciary appointed pursuant to the Article concerning Casino License Conservatorship in the Casino Control Act. (21) "Conservatorship action" - An action brought pursuant to the Article concerning Casino License Conservatorship in the Casino Control Act for the appointment of a conservator. (22) "Contract" - Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the term "contract" shall hereafter be defined as a negotiated agreement between employee(s) and a legal representative or collective bargaining unit, whenever used in reference to labor, employment, procurement of services and related matters. (23) "Creditor" - The holder of any claim, of whatever character, against a person, whether secured or unsecured, matured or unmatured, liquidated or unliquidated, absolute, fixed or contingent. (24) "Debt" - Any legal liability, whether matured or unmatured, liquidated or unliquidated, absolute, fixed or contingent. (25) "Director" - The Director of the Division of Gaming Enforcement. (26) "Division" - The Division of Gaming Enforcement. (27) "Encumbrance" - A mortgage, security interest, lien or charge of any nature in or upon property. (28) "Equal employment opportunity" - Equality in opportunity for employment by any person licensed pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. (29) "Equity security" - (A) Any voting stock of a corporation, or similar security; (B) any security convertible, with or without consideration, into such a security, or carrying any warrant or right to subscribe to or purchase such a security; (C) any such warrant or right; or (D) any security having a direct or indirect participation in the profits of the issuer. (30) "Establishment" - Any premises wherein or whereon any gaming is done. (31) "Family" - Spouse, parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren, siblings, uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, fathers-in-law, mothers-in-law, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, whether by the whole or half blood, by marriage, adoption or natural relationship. (32) "Game" or "gambling game" - Any banking or percentage game located within the casino or simulcasting facility played with cards, dice or any electronic, electrical, or mechanical device or machine for money, property, or any representative of value. (33) "Gaming" or "gambling" - The dealing, operating, carrying on, conducting, maintaining or exposing for pay of any game. (34) "Gaming device" or "gaming equipment" - Any electronic, electrical, or mechanical contrivance or machine used in connection with gaming or any game. (35) "Government" means the Government of the Virgin Islands. (36) "Gross revenue" - The total of all sums, including checks received by a casino licensee pursuant to section 457 of this title, whether collected or not, actually received by a casino licensee from gaming operations, less only the total of all sums paid out as winnings to patrons and a deduction for uncollectible gaming receivables. The deduction for uncollectible gaming receivables shall not exceed the lesser of: (1) a reasonable provision for uncollectible patron checks received from gaming operations; or (2) four percent (4%) of the total of all sums including checks, whether collected or not, less than the amount paid out as winnings to patrons. Gross revenue shall not include any amount received by a casino from casino simulcasting. For the purpose of this definition, any check which is invalid and unenforceable pursuant to subsection (f) of section 457 of this title, shall be treated as cash received by the casino licensee from gaming operations. (37) "Hearing examiner" - A Commissioner or other person authorized by the Commission to conduct hearings. (38) "Holding company" - Any corporation, association, firm, partnership, trust or other form of business organization not a natural person which, directly or indirectly, owns has the power or right to control, or has the power to vote any significant part of the outstanding voting securities of a corporation which hold or applies for a casino license. For the purpose of this definition, in addition to any other reasonable meaning of the words used, a "holding company" indirectly has, holds or owns any such power, right or security if it does so through any interest in a subsidiary or successive subsidiaries, however many such subsidiaries may intervene between the holding company and the corporate licensee or applicant. (39) "Institutional Investor" - Any retirement fund administered by a public agency for the exclusive benefit of federal, state, or territorial public employees; collective investment trust organized by banks; closed end investment trust; chartered or licensed life insurance company or property and casualty insurance company; banking and other chartered or licensed lending institution; and such other persons as the Commission may determine for reasons consistent with the policies of this chapter. (40) "Intermediary company" - Any corporation, association, firm, partnership, trust or any other form of business organization other than a natural person which: (A) Is a holding company with respect to a corporation which holds or applies for a casino license. (B) Is a subsidiary with respect to any holding company. (41) "Junket" - an arrangement the purpose of which is to induce any person, selected or approved for participation therein on the basis of his ability to satisfy a financial qualification obligation related to his ability or to his propensity to gamble, to come to a licensed casino hotel for the purpose of gambling and pursuant to which, and as consideration for which, any or all of the cost of transportation, food, lodging, and entertainment for said person is directly or indirectly paid by a casino licensee or employee or agent thereof. (42) "Junket enterprise" - Any person, other than the holder of or an applicant for a casino license, who employs or otherwise engages the services of a junket representative in connection with a junket to a licensed casino, regardless of whether or not those activities occur within the United States Virgin Islands. (43) "Junket representative" - Any natural person who negotiates the terms of, engages in the referral, procurement or selection of persons who may participate in, any junket to a licensed casino, regardless of whether or not those activities occur within the Virgin Islands. (44) "Legal residence" - Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, "legal residence" shall be defined as the place of domicile where a person continuously resides when not called elsewhere to work a government assignment, to study, or to serve active military duty; and that person is registered to vote in the Virgin Islands, except where otherwise exempted. (45) "License" - Any license required by this chapter. (46) "License or Registration Fee" - Any moneys required by law to be paid for the issuance or renewal of a casino license, or any other license or registration required by this chapter. (47) "Licensed casino operation" - Any casino licensed pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. (48) "Licensee" - Any person who is licensed under any of the provisions of this chapter. (49) "Native Virgin Islander" - Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, "Native Virgin Islander" shall be defined as any person born in the Virgin Islands; any person who is an offspring of parent(s) born in the Virgin Islands; or any person born outside the Virgin Islands to Native Virgin Islands parent(s) while that parent(s) was studying abroad, employed abroad, or in active military service. (50) "Operation" - The conduct of gaming as herein defined. (51) "Operation certificate" - A certificate issued by the Commission which certifies that operation of a casino and, if applicable, a simulcasting facility conforms to the requirements of this chapter and applicable regulations. (52) "Person" - Any corporation, association, operation firm, partnership, trust or other form of business association, as well as a natural person. (53) "Principal employee" - Any employee who, by reason of remuneration or of a management, supervisory or policy-making position or such other criteria as may be established by the Commission by regulation, holds or exercises such authority as shall in the judgment of the Commission be sufficiently related to the operation of a licensee so as to require approval by the Commission in the protection of the public interest. (54) "Property" - Real property, tangible and intangible personal property, and rights, claims and franchises of every nature. (55) "Publicly traded corporation" - Any corporation other legal entity, except a natural person, which - (A) Has one or more classes of security registered pursuant to section 12 of tsection 32e12 of the Securities Exchange Actnded ( 15 U.S.C. § 78 (l)), or (B) Is an issuer subject to section 15(d) of the SecuritiesSecurities Exchange Act of 1934d ( 15 U.S.C. 15 U.S.C. § 78 o 32 or (C) Has one or more classes of securities traded in any open market in any foreign jurisdiction or regulated pursuant to a statute of any foreign jurisdiction which the Commission determines to be substantially similar to either or both of the aforementioned statutes. (56) "Qualifying indoor public space" - That space provided in a proposed casino hotel (including convention centers, meeting rooms, banquet halls, dining, entertainment and sports facilities) which is required to satisfy the requirements of section 435(b) of this chapter. "Qualifying indoor public space" shall not include lobby areas, hallways, casinos, parking areas or any open space required by Title 29, chapter 3 of the Virgin Islands Code. (57) "Registration" - Any requirement other than one which requires a license as a prerequisite to conduct a particular business as specified by this chapter. (58) "Registrant" - Any person who is registered pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. (59) "Regulated complimentary service account" - An account maintained by a casino licensee on a regular basis which itemizes complimentary services and includes, without limitation, a listing of the cost of junket activities and any other service provided at no cost or reduced price. (60) "Resident worker" - Notwithstanding any law to the contrary "Resident worker" shall be defined as any person who is domiciled in the Virgin Islands for at least six (6) months and who has been employed continuously in the Virgin Islands for not less than five years, and is registered to vote in the Virgin Islands, except where otherwise exempted. (61) "Resort" - A destination property which offers the guest a full range of services, such as reservations, suites, public dining) and banquet facilities, lounge and entertainment areas (i.e.) theme parks, concert halls, cabaret and international shows) etc. room service, convention centers, meeting rooms, specialty shops, personal services (valet, laundry, hair care), swimming pool and other recreation facilities, ground transportation and an activities coordinator. Rest, relaxation, recreation and family entertainment are to be the focus of this class of accommodation. (62) "Respondent" - Any person against whom a complaint has been filed or a written request for information has been served. (63) "Restricted Casino Areas" - The cashier's cage, the soft count room, the hard count room, the slot cage booths and runway areas, the interior of table game pits, the surveillance room and catwalk areas, the slot machine repair room and any other area specifically designated by the Commission as restricted in a licensee's operation certificate. (64) "Security" - Any instrument evidencing a direct or indirect beneficial ownership or creditor interest in a corporation, including but not limited to, stock, common and preferred; bonds; mortgages; debentures; security agreements; notes; warrants; options and rights. (65) "Security Measures" - Any provisions taken by the licensee to ensure the safety and security of the casino, its patrons, and its employees. (66) "Self-exclusion list" - A compilation of names of persons who have voluntarily agreed to be excluded from all gaming activities and to be prohibited from collecting any winnings or recovering any losses at licensed casinos. (67) "Simulcasting facility" - A facility established in a casino hotel to facilitate the simultaneous transmission of off site horse racing, where parimutuel wagering is conducted on those races. (68) "Slot machine" - Any mechanical, electrical or other device, contrivance or machine which, upon insertion of a coin, token or similar object therein, or upon payment of any consideration whatsoever, is available to play or operate, the play or operation of which, whether by reason of the skill of the operator or application of the element of chance, or both, may deliver or entitle the person playing or operating the machine to receive cash or tokens to be exchanged for cash or to receive merchandise or any thing of value whatsoever, whether the payoff is made automatically from the machine or in any other manner whatsoever, except that the cash equivalent value of any merchandise or other thing of value shall not be included in the total of all sums paid out as winnings to patrons for purposes of determining gross revenues as defined by this chapter or be included in determining the payout percentage of any slot machine. The Commission shall promulgate rules defining "cash equivalent value" in order to assure fairness, uniformity and comparability of valuation of slot machine payoffs. (69) "Statement of compliance" - A statement by the Commission which may be issued to an applicant indicating satisfactory completion of a particular stage or stages of the license consideration process, and which states that unless there is a change of any material circumstance pertaining to such particular stage or stages of license consideration involved in the statement, such applicant has complied with requirements mandated by this chapter and by the Commission and is therefore approved for license qualification to the stage or stages for which the statement has been issued. (70) "Subsidiary" - (A) Any corporation, any significant part of whose outstanding equity securities are owned, subject to a power or right of control, or held with power to vote, by a holding company or an intermediary company; or (B) A significant interest in any firm, association, partnership, trust or other form of business organization, not a natural person, which is owned, subject to a power or right of control, or held with power to vote, by a holding company or an intermediary company. (71) "Transfer" - The sale and every other method, direct or indirect, of disposing of or parting with property or with an interest therein, or with the possession thereof, or of fixing a lien upon property or upon an interest therein, absolutely or conditionally, voluntarily or involuntarily, by or without judicial proceedings, as a conveyance, sale, payment, pledge, mortgage, lien, encumbrance, gift, security or otherwise; the retention of a security interest in property delivered to a corporation shall be deemed a transfer suffered by such corporation. (72) [Repealed.] (73) "Virgin Islands" or "Territory" means the Virgin Islands. (74) "Virgin Islands resident" - Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, "Virgin Islands resident" shall be defined as any person who is domiciled in the United States Virgin Islands for a minimum of six (6) months and is registered to vote in the Virgin Islands, except where otherwise exempted. (75) "Work Permit" - An authorization granted to a casino licensee for the employment of a particular casino hotel employee, casino employee or casino key employee in a particular capacity. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 29, 1996, No. 6102, §§ 3(a), 3(b), 3(c), Sess. L. 1996, p. 38; Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(1-15), Sess. L. 1997, p. 6; Nov. 12, 2007, No. 6971, § 2, Sess. L. 2007, p. 180; May 10, 2010, No. 7169, § 3(a), (b), Sess. L. 2010, p. 66; Oct. 27, 2011, No. 7318, § 3(2.)(a), Sess. L. 2011, p. 264; amended Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 5(a), (b), Sess. L. 2016, p. 233; amended Apr. 22, 2022, No. 8577, § 2(b)(1)(A), (B), Sess. L. 2022, p. 151.

In construing the provisions of this chapter, save when otherwise plainly declared or clearly apparent from the context: (a) Words in the present tense shall include the future tense. (b) Words in the masculine shall include the feminine and neuter genders. (c) Words in the singular shall include the plural and the plural shall include the singular. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

The Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission, consisting of three (3) members, is hereby created as an independent agency of the executive branch of the Government of the Virgin Islands, whose budget shall be approved annually by the Legislature of the Virgin Islands. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(16), Sess. L. 1997, p. 8; July 12, 2011, No. 7267, § 13(a), Sess. L. 2011, p. 123; amended Mar. 30, 2016, No. 7872, § 1(a), Sess. L. 2016, p. 73.

(a) Each member of the Commission shall be a citizen of the United States and a bona fide resident of the Virgin Islands. Two (2) shall be residents of St. Croix, one shall be a resident of St. Thomas/St. John district. The provisions of this subsection shall become effective upon the expiration of the term of the current commissioners with three (3) year terms. (b) No member of the Legislature, or person holding any elective or appointive office in the federal or territorial government shall be eligible to serve as a member of the Commission. (c) No more than two (2) members of the Commission may be of the same political affiliation. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(f)127, Sess. L. 1997, p. 22; July 12, 2011, No. 7267, § 13(b)(1), (2), Sess. L. 2011, p. 123; amended Mar. 30, 2016, No. 7872, § 1(b), Sess. L. 2016, p. 73.

(a) Initial appointments to the Commission made pursuant to this chapter shall be for terms as follows: (1) Two members for 2 years; (2) Two members for 3 years; with one member residing on the island of St. Thomas and one member residing on the island of St. John; (3) Two members for 4 years; (b) The term of each of the members first appointed pursuant to this chapter shall be designated by the Governor. (c) After the initial appointments, all members shall be appointed for terms of five (5) years; provided, however, that no member shall serve more than two consecutive five year terms. (d) Appointments to the Commission and designation of the chairman shall be made by the Governor with the advice and consent of the Legislature. Prior to nomination, the Governor shall cause an inquiry to be conducted by the Attorney General into the nominee's background, with particular regard to the nominee's financial stability, integrity, and responsibility and his reputation for good character, honesty, and integrity. (e) Appointments to fill vacancies on the Commission shall be for the unexpired term of the member to be replaced. (f) The member designated by the Governor to serve as chairman shall serve in such capacity throughout such member's entire term and until his successor shall have been duly appointed and qualified. No such member, however, shall serve in such capacity for more than ten (10) years. The chairman shall be the chief executive officer of the Commission. All members shall devote full time to their duties of office and shall not pursue or engage in any other business, occupation or other gainful employment. (g) A Commissioner may be removed from office for misconduct in office, willful neglect of duty, or other conduct evidencing unfitness for this office, or for incompetence. A proceeding for removal may be instituted by the Attorney General in the Superior Court. Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter or any other law, any Commissioner or employee of the Commission shall automatically forfeit his office or position upon conviction of a crime under the laws of the territory, any state or of the United States, which is punishable by more than six (6) months in prison, or any crime or offense involving moral turpitude. Each Commissioner or employee of the Commission shall be subject to the duty to appear and testify and to removal from his office, position or employment in accordance with the provisions of Title 3, chapter 25 of this Code. (h) Each member of the Commission shall serve for the duration of his term and until his successor shall be duly appointed and qualified, subject to the limitations in subsections (c) and (f) of this section; provided, however, that in the event that a successor is not duly appointed and qualified within 120 days after the expiration of the member's term, a vacancy shall be deemed to exist. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, §§ 4(17), 18, Sess. L. 1997, p. 8.

Each member of the Commission shall receive a minimum compensation of $60,000.00 per annum, not to exceed $100,000.00 per annum. The Chairman shall receive $5,000.00 per annum in addition to his salary as a member of the Commission, the Chairman's salary not to exceed $105,000.00. Notwithstanding any other law, no officer or employee of the Government of the Virgin Islands shall be deemed to have forfeited or shall forfeit his office or employment, or any benefits or emoluments thereof, nor shall any retiree forfeit his retirement benefits, by accepting the office of either an ex officio or an appointed member of the Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission, provided, however, that the retirement annuity of any retiree who accepts an appointment to the Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission shall continue to be contributed and calculated at the same amount prior to his appointment. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Feb. 21, 1996, No. 6092, § 28, Sess. L. 1996, p. 8.

(a) The Commission may establish, and from time to time alter, such plan of organization as it may deem expedient, and may incur expenses within the limits of funds available to it. (b) The Commission shall elect annually by a majority of the full Commission one of its members, other than the chairman, to serve as vice-chairman for the ensuing year. The vice-chairman shall be empowered to carry out all of the responsibilities of the chairman during his absence, disqualification, or inability to serve. (c) The Commission shall appoint an executive director who shall serve at its pleasure and shall be responsible for the conduct of its administrative affairs. No person shall be eligible for such appointment unless he shall have at least five (5) years of responsible experience in public or business administration or possesses broad management skills. (d) The Commission may employ such other personnel as it deems necessary. All employees of the Commission, excluding commissioners, shall serve at its pleasure. Notwithstanding the provisions of any other law to the contrary, the Commission may employ legal counsel who shall represent the Commission in any proceeding to which it is a party, and who shall render legal advice to the Commission upon its request. The Commission may contract for the services of other professional, technical and operational personnel and consultants as may be necessary to the performance of its responsibilities under this chapter. Members and employees of the Commission shall be enrolled in the Government Employees' Retirement System. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, §§ 4(19, 20), Sess. L. 1997, p. 8.

There is hereby established in the Department of Justice the Division of Gaming Enforcement. The Division shall be under the immediate supervision of a Director who shall also be sworn as an Assistant Attorney General and who shall administer the work of the division under the direction and supervision of the Attorney General. The Director shall be appointed by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Legislature, and shall serve during the term of office of the Governor, except that the first Director shall be appointed for a term of 2 years. The Director may be removed from office by the Attorney General for cause upon notice and opportunity to be heard. The Director and any employee or agent of the Division shall be subject to the duty to appear and testify and upon his failure or refusal to testify shall be subject to removal from his office, position or employment. The Attorney General shall be responsible for the exercise of the duties and powers assigned to the Division. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) The Attorney General shall organize the work of the Division in such bureaus and other organizational units as he/she may determine to be necessary for efficient and effective operation and shall assign to the Division such employees of the Department of Justice as may be necessary to assist the director in the performance of his duties. Subject to the approval of the Attorney General, the Commissioner of the Virgin Islands Police Department shall assign such supervisory and investigative personnel and other resources to the Division of Gaming Enforcement as may be necessary to fulfill its obligations under this chapter. (b) All employees of the Division, shall be in the exempt service. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(21), Sess. L. 1997, p. 8.

Employees and Division Employees and Agents (a) No person shall be appointed to or employed by the Commission or Division if, during the period commencing three (3) years prior to appointment or employment, said person held any direct or indirect interest in, or any employment by, any person which is licensed as a casino licensee pursuant to section 439 of this title or as a casino service industry pursuant to subsection (a) of section 444 of this title or has an application for such a license pending before the Commission; provided, however, that notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter to the contrary, any such person may be appointed to or employed by the Commission or Division if his interest in any such casino licensee or casino service industry would not, in the opinion of the employing agency, interfere with the objective discharge of such person's employment obligations, but in no instance shall any person be appointed to or employed by the Commission or Division if his interest in such a casino licensee or casino service industry constituted a controlling interest in that casino licensee or casino service industry; and provided further, however, that not withstanding any other provision of this chapter to the contrary, any such person may be employed by the Commission or Division in a secretarial or clerical position if, in the opinion of the employing agency, his previous employment by, or interest in, any such casino licensee or casino service industry would not interfere with the objective discharge of such person's employment obligations. (b) Prior to appointment or employment, each member of the Commission, each employee of the Commission, the Director of the Division of Gaming Enforcement and each employee and agent of the Division shall swear or affirm that he possesses no interest in any business or organization licensed by or registered with the Commission, and that he will uphold and defend the laws of the United States and the Virgin Islands. (c) Each member of the Commission and the Director of the Division shall file with the Commission of Ethics and Conflicts of Interest as provided under Title 3, section 1106 of this code, a financial disclosure statement listing all assets and liabilities, property and business interests, and sources of income of said member or Director and his spouse. Such statement shall be under oath and shall be filed at the time of appointment and annually thereafter. (d) Each employee of the Commission, except for secretarial and clerical personnel, and each employee and agent of the Division, except for secretarial and clerical personnel, shall file with the Commission of Ethics and Conflicts of Interest a financial disclosure statement listing all assets and liabilities, property and business interests, and sources of income of said employee or agent and his spouse. Such statement shall be under oath and shall be filed at the time of employment and annually thereafter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

Employees and Division Employees (a) The Virgin Islands Conflict of Interest Law as provided in Title 3, chapter 37 of this code shall apply to members of the Commission and to all employees of the Commission and the Division, except as herein specifically provided. (b) The Commission shall, no later than June 1, 1996, promulgate a Code of Ethics that is modeled upon the Code of Judicial Conduct of the American Bar Association, as amended and adopted. This Code of Ethics shall include, but not be limited to, provisions that address the propriety of relationships and dealings between the Commission and its staff, and licensees and applicants for licensure under this chapter. (c) The Division shall promulgate a Code of Ethics governing its specific needs. (d) The Codes of Ethics promulgated by the Commission and the Division shall not be in conflict with the laws of the Virgin Islands, except, however, that said Codes of Ethics may be more restrictive than any law of the Virgin Islands. (e) The Codes of Ethics promulgated by the Commission and the Division shall be submitted to the Attorney General for approval. The Codes of Ethics shall include, but not be limited to provisions that: (1) No Commission member or employee or Division employee or agent shall be permitted to gamble in any establishment licensed by the Commission except in the course of his duties. (2) No Commission member or employee or Division employee or agent shall solicit or accept employment from any person licensed by or registered with the Commission or from any applicant for a period of two (2) years after termination of service with the Commission or Division, unless subject to section 413 of this chapter. (3) No Commission member or employee or any Division employee or agent shall act in his official capacity in any matter wherein he or his spouse, child, parent or sibling has a direct or indirect personal financial interest that might reasonably be expected to impair his objectivity or independence of judgment. (4) No Commission employee or any Division employee or agent shall act in his official capacity in a matter concerning an applicant for licensure or a licensee who is the employer of a spouse, child, parent or sibling of said Commission or Division employee or agent when the fact of the employment of such spouse, child, parent or sibling might reasonably be expected to impair the objectivity and independence of judgment of said Commission employee or Division employee or agent. (5) No spouse, child, parent or sibling of a Commission member shall be employed in any capacity by an applicant for a casino license or a casino licensee nor by any holding, intermediary or subsidiary company thereof. (6) No Commission member shall meet with any person, except for any other member of the Commission or employee of the Commission, or discuss with any person any issues involving any pending or proposed application or any matter whatsoever which may reasonably be expected to come before the Commission, or any member thereof, for determination unless the meeting or discussion takes place on the business premises of the Commission, provided, however, that Commission members may meet to consider matters requiring the physical inspection of equipment or premises at the location of the equipment or premises. All meetings or discussions subject to this paragraph shall be noted in a log maintained for this purpose and available for inspection. (f) No Commission member or employee or Division employee or agent shall have any interest, direct or indirect, in any applicant or in any person licensed by or registered with the Commission during his term of office or employment. (g) Each Commission member and employee of the Commission, including legal counsel, and each employee and agent of the Division shall devote his entire time and attention to his duties and shall not pursue any other business or occupation or other gainful employment; provided, however, that secretarial and clerical personnel may engage in such other gainful employment as shall not interfere with their duties to the Commission or Division, unless otherwise directed; and provided further, however, that other employees of the Commission and Division and agents of the Division may engage in such other gainful employment as shall not interfere or be in conflict with their duties to the Commission or Division, upon approval by the Commission or the Director of the Division, as the case may be. (h) No member of the Commission, employee of the Commission, or employee or agent of the Division shall: (1) Use his official authority or influence for the purpose of interfering with or affecting the result of an election or a nomination for office; (2) Directly or indirectly coerce, attempt to coerce, command or advise any person to pay, lend or contribute anything of value to a party, committee, organization, agency or person for political purposes; or (3) Take any active part in political campaigns or the management thereof; provided, however, that nothing herein shall prohibit a person from voting as he chooses or from expressing his personal opinions on political subjects and candidates. (i) For the purpose of applying the provisions of the Conflicts of Interest Law, any consultant or other person under contract for services to the Commission and the Division shall be deemed to be a special employee. Such person and any corporation, firm or partnership in which he has an interest or by which he is employed shall not represent any person or party other than the Commission or the Division before the Commission. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, §§ 4(22, 23), Sess. L. 1997, p. 8.

(a) No member of the Commission shall hold any direct or indirect interest in, or be employed, retained or hired as a consultant by, any applicant or by any person licensed by or registered with the Commission for a period of two (2) years commencing on the date his membership on the Commission terminates. (b) No employee of the Commission or employee or agent of the Division may acquire any direct or indirect interest in, or accept employment with, any applicant or any person licensed by or registered with the Commission, for a period of two (2) years commencing at the termination of employment with the Commission or Division. At the end of two (2) years, the former employee or agent may acquire an interest in, or accept employment with, any applicant or person licensed by or registered with the Commission upon application to and the approval of the Commission upon a finding that the interest to be acquired or the employment will not create the appearance of a conflict of interest and does not evidence a conflict of interest in fact. (c) No Commission member or person employed by the Commission or Division shall represent any person or party other than the Territory before or against the Commission for a period of two (2) years from the termination of his office or employment with the Commission or Division. (d) No partnership, firm or corporation in which a former Commission member or employee or former Division employee or agent has an interest, nor any partner, officer or employee of any such partnership, firm or corporation shall make any appearance or representation which is prohibited to said former member, employee, or agent; prohibited to said former member, employee, or agent; provided, however, that nothing herein shall prohibit such partnership, firm or corporation from making such appearance or representation on behalf of a casino service industry licensed under subsection (c) of section 444 of this title, provided that the casino service industry is not a casino licensee or its subsidiary. (e) Notwithstanding any post-employment restriction imposed by this section, nothing herein shall prohibit a former Commission member or employee or former Division employee or agent, at any time after termination of such membership or employment, from acquiring an interest in, or soliciting or obtaining employment with, any person licensed as a casino service industry under section 444 of this title or any applicant for such licensure, provided that the casino service industry is not a casino licensee or its subsidiary. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(24), Sess. L. 1997, p. 8.

(a) No applicant or person or organization licensed by or registered with the Commission shall employ or offer to employ, or provide, transfer or sell, or offer to provide, transfer or sell any interest, direct or indirect, in any person licensed by or registered with the Commission to any person restricted from such transactions by the provisions of sections 411, 412 and 413 of this title. (b) The Commission shall impose such sanctions upon an applicant or a licensed or registered person for violations of this section as authorized by Article 9 of this chapter. (c) The Attorney General shall enforce the provisions of sections 411, 412 and 413 of this chapter pursuant to the Conflicts of Interest Law, Title 3, chapter 37 of this code. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(25), Sess. L. 1997, p. 8.

The Casino Control Commission shall have general responsibility for the implementation of this chapter, as hereinafter provided, including, without limitation, the responsibility: (a) To hear and decide promptly and in reasonable order all license, registration, certificate, and permit applications and causes affecting the granting, suspension, revocation, or renewal thereof; (b) To conduct all hearings pertaining to civil violations of this chapter or regulations promulgated hereunder; (c) To promulgate such regulations as in its judgment may be necessary to fulfill the policies of this chapter; (d) To collect all license and registration fees and taxes imposed by this chapter and the regulations issued pursuant thereto; (e) To levy and collect penalties for the violations of provisions of this chapter and the regulations promulgated hereunder; (f) To be present through its inspectors and agents at all times during the operation of any casino or simulcasting facility for the purpose of certifying the revenue thereof, receiving complaints from the public relating to the conduct of gaming and simulcast wagering operations, examining records of revenues and procedures, and conducting periodic reviews of operations and facilities for the purpose of evaluating current or suggested provisions of this chapter and the regulations promulgated thereunder; (g) To refer to the Division for investigation and prosecution any evidence of a violation of this chapter or the regulations promulgated thereunder; and (h) To review and rule upon any complaint by a casino licensee regarding any investigative procedures of the Division which are unnecessarily disruptive of casino or simulcasting facility operations. The need to inspect and investigate shall be presumed at all times. The disruption of a licensee's operations shall be proved by clear and convincing evidence, which evidence shall establish that: (1) the procedures had no reasonable law enforcement purpose, and (2) the procedures were so disruptive as to inhibit unreasonably casino or simulcasting facility operations. (i) To conduct an economic impact study on the community after three casinos have been in operation for six months, to determine the feasibility on issuing additional casino licenses, notwithstanding the provisions of section 435(c) of this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(26), Sess. L. 1997, p. 9.

The Commission shall ensure, to the extent required by this chapter, that licenses, approvals, certificates, or permits shall not be issued to, nor held by, nor shall there be any material involvement, directly or indirectly, with the licensed casino operations or the ownership thereof by, unqualified or disqualified persons or persons whose operations are conducted in a manner not conforming with the provisions of this chapter. For the purposes of this section, "unqualified person" shall mean any person who is found by the Commission to be unqualified pursuant to criteria set forth in section 436 or 441 of this title and "disqualified person" shall mean any person found by the Commission to be disqualified pursuant to the criteria set forth in section 438 of this title. In enforcing the provisions of this chapter, the Commission shall have the power and authority to deny any application; limit or restrict any license, registration, certificate, permit or approval; suspend or revoke any license, registration, certificate, permit or approval; and impose a penalty on any person licensed, registered, or previously approved for any cause deemed reasonable by the Commission pursuant to rules and regulations promulgated thereby except that no such denial, limitation, suspension or revocation shall be issued solely by reason of the fact that an applicant, registrant, or licensee holds an interest in or is associated with any licensed casino enterprise in any other jurisdiction. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

The Commission shall have the power and authority to issue subpoenas and to compel the attendance of witnesses at any place within this Territory, to administer oaths and to require testimony under oath before the Commission or Division in the course of any investigation or hearing conducted under this chapter. The Commission may serve or cause to be served its process or notices in a manner provided for the service of process and notice in civil actions in accordance with the rules of court. The Commission and the Division shall have the authority to propound written interrogatories and the Commission may appoint hearing examiners, to whom may be delegated the power and authority to administer oaths, issue subpoenas, propound written interrogatories and require testimony under oath. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

The Commission shall have the authority to conduct investigative hearings concerning the conduct of gaming and gaming operations as well as the development and well-being of the industries controlled by this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

The Commission may order any person to answer a question or questions or produce evidence of any kind and confer immunity as provided in this section. If, in the course of any investigation or hearing conducted under this chapter, a person refuses to answer a question or produce evidence on the grounds that he will be exposed to criminal prosecution thereby, then in addition to any other remedies or sanctions provided for by this chapter, the Commission may, by resolution of six of its members and after the written approval of the Attorney General, issue an order to answer or to produce evidence with immunity. If upon issuance of such an order, the person complies therewith, he shall be immune from having such responsive answer given by him or such responsive evidence produced by him, or evidence derived therefrom, used to expose him to criminal prosecution, except that such person may nevertheless be prosecuted for any perjury committed in such answer or in producing such evidence, or for contempt for failing to give an answer or produce evidence in accordance with the order of the Commission; provided, however, that no period of incarceration for contempt shall exceed 180 days in duration pursuant to this section. Any such answer given or evidence produced shall be admissible against him upon any criminal investigation, proceeding or trial against him for such perjury; upon any investigation, proceeding or trial against him for such contempt; or in any manner consonant with territorial and constitutional provisions. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

At any time within five years after any amount of fees or interest or penalties thereon required to be collected pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall become due and payable, the Commission is authorized to bring a civil action in the courts of this territory or any other territory, or state of the United States, in the name of this Government, to collect the amount delinquent, together with penalties and interest. An action may be brought whether or not the person owing the amount is at such time an applicant, licensee or registrant pursuant to the provision of this chapter. If such action is brought in this Territory, a writ of attachment may be issued and no bond or affidavit prior to the issuance thereon shall be required. In all actions in this territory, the records of the Commission shall be prima facie evidence of the determination of the fee or the amount of the delinquency. Each debt that is due and payable as a result of fees or interest and penalties thereon required to be collected pursuant to this chapter or the regulations promulgated thereunder, including any compensation authorized, and each regulatory obligation imposed as condition upon the issuance or renewal of a casino license which requires the licensee to maintain, as a fiduciary, a fund for a specific regulatory purpose, shall constitute a lien on the real property owned or hereafter acquired by the applicant, licensee or registrant owing such a debt or on whom such an obligation has been imposed. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, such a lien shall be a first lien paramount to all prior or subsequent liens, claims, or encumbrances on that property. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) The Commission shall be authorized to adopt, amend or repeal such regulations, consistent with the policy and objectives of this chapter, as it may deem necessary or desirable for the public interest in carrying out the provisions of this chapter. (b) Such regulations shall be adopted, amended, and repealed, after public notice and hearing. Public notice shall be made in the Virgin Islands newspapers and major media for four (4) weeks prior to the hearing. (c) Any interested person may, file a petition with the Commission requesting the adoption, amendment or repeal of a regulation. (d) The Commission may, in emergency circumstances, summarily adopt, amend or repeal any regulation. (e) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter to the contrary, the Commission may, after notice provided in accordance with this subsection, authorize the temporary adoption, amendment or repeal of any rule concerning the conduct of gaming or the use or design of gaming equipment for an experimental period not to exceed 180 days for the purpose of determining whether such rules should be adopted on a permanent basis in accordance with the requirements of this section. Any rules experiment authorized by this subsection shall be conducted under such terms and conditions as the Commission may deem appropriate. Notice of any temporary rulemaking action taken by the Commission pursuant to this subsection shall be published in newspapers designated by the Commission at least seven days prior to the initiation of the experimental period and shall be prominently posted in each casino participating in the experiment. Nothing herein shall be deemed to require the publication of the text of any temporary rules adopted by the Commission or notice of any modification of a rules experiment initiated in accordance with this subsection. The text of any temporary rule adopted by the Commission shall be posted in each casino participating in the experiment and shall be available upon request from the Commission. In no case shall any temporary rules authorize the use or operation of any game not authorized by the Legislature. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

The Commission shall, without limitation on the powers conferred in the preceding section, include within its regulations the following specific provisions in accordance with the provisions of this chapter: (a) Prescribing the methods and forms of application which any applicant shall follow and complete prior to consideration of his application by the Commission; (b) Prescribing the methods, procedures and form for delivery of information concerning any person's family, habits, character, associates, criminal record, business activities and financial affairs; (c) Prescribing procedures for the fingerprinting of an applicant, employee of a license, or registrant, or other methods of identification which may be necessary in the judgment of the Commission to accomplish effective enforcement of restrictions on access to the casino floor, the simulcasting facility, and other restricted areas of the casino hotel complex; (d) Prescribing the manner and procedure of all hearings conducted by the Commission or any hearing examiner, including special rules of evidence applicable thereto and notice thereof; (e) Prescribing the manner and method of collection of payments of taxes, fees, and penalties; (f) Defining and limiting the areas of operation, the rules of authorized games, odds, and devices permitted, and the method of operation of such games and devices; (g) Regulating the practice and procedures for negotiable transactions involving patrons, including limitations on the circumstances and amounts of such transactions, and the establishment of forms and procedures for negotiable instrument transactions, redemptions, and consolidations; (h) Prescribing grounds and procedures for the revocation or suspension of operating certificates and licenses; (i) Governing the manufacture, distribution, sale, and servicing of gaming devices and equipment; (j) Prescribing the procedures, forms and methods of management controls, including employee and supervisory tables of organization and responsibility, and minimum security standards, including security personnel structure, alarm and other electrical or visual security measures; (k) Prescribing the qualifications of, and the conditions pursuant to which, engineers, accountants, and others shall be permitted to practice before the Commission or to submit materials on behalf of any applicant or licensee; provided, however, that no member of the Legislature, nor any firm with which said members is associated, shall be permitted to appear or practice or act in any capacity whatsoever before the Commission or Division regarding any matter whatsoever, nor shall any member of the family of the Governor or of a member of the Legislature be permitted to so practice or appear in any capacity whatsoever before the Commission or Division regarding any matter whatsoever; (l) Prescribing minimum procedures for the exercise of effective control over the internal fiscal affairs of a licensee, including provisions for the safeguarding of assets and revenues, the recording of cash and evidence of indebtedness, and the maintenance of reliable records, accounts, and reports of transactions, operations and events, including reports to the Commission; (m) Providing for a minimum uniform standard of accountancy methods, procedures and forms; a uniform code of accounts and accounting classifications; and such other standard operating procedures, including those controls listed in section 455(a) of this title, as may be necessary to assure consistency, comparability, and effective disclosure of all financial information, including calculations of percentages of profit by games, tables, gaming devices and slot machines; (n) Requiring periodic financial reports and the form thereof, including an annual audit prepared by a certified public accountant licensed to do business in this Territory, attesting to the financial condition of a licensee and disclosing whether the accounts, records and control procedures examined are maintained by the licensee as required by this chapter and the regulations promulgated hereunder; (o) Governing the gaming-related advertising of licensees, their employees and agents, with the view toward assuring that such advertisements are in no way deceptive; provided, however, that such regulations: (1) shall not prohibit the advertisement of casino location, hours of operation, or types of games and other amenities offered; (2) shall require the promotion of a cautionary message regarding gambling to be determined by the Commission as part of an ongoing campaign, such message to appear on all signs, and other on-site advertising of a casino operation; (p) Governing entertainment presented by casino licensees in accordance with prevailing community standards as determined by the Commission; (q) Concerning the distribution and consumption of alcoholic beverages on the premises of the licensee, which regulations shall be insofar as possible consistent with Title 8, chapter 1 and Title 27, chapter 9 of this code, and shall deviate only insofar as necessary because of the unique character of the hotel casino premises and operations; and (r) Limiting signs and other on-site advertising, with a view toward minimizing solicitation for gaming purposes from the public thoroughfares or otherwise dominating or despoiling the architecture or environment of the town. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(27), Sess. L. 1997, p. 9.

Offenders Excludable From Casino Hotels (a) The Commission shall, by regulation, provide for the establishment of a list of persons who are to be excluded or ejected from any licensed casino establishments. Such provisions shall define the standards for exclusion, and shall include standards relating to persons; (1) Who are career or professional offenders as defined by regulations of the Commission; (2) Who have been convicted of a criminal offense which is punishable by more than six (6) months in prison, or any crime or offense involving moral turpitude; or (3) Whose presence in a licensed casino hotel would in the opinion of the Commission, be inimical to the interest of the Government or of licensed gaming therein, or both. The Commission shall promulgate definitions establishing those categories of persons who shall be excluded pursuant to this section, including cheats and persons whose privileges for licensure or registration have been revoked. (b) Race, color, creed, national origin or ancestry, or sex shall not be a reason for placing the name of any person upon such list. (c) The Commission may impose sanctions upon a licensed casino or individual licensee or registrant in accordance with the provisions of this chapter if such casino or individual licensee or registrant knowingly fails to exclude or eject from the premises of any licensed casino any person placed by the Commission on the list of persons to be excluded or ejected. (d) Any list compiled by the Commission of persons to be excluded or ejected shall not be deemed an all inclusive list, and licensed casino establishments shall have a duty to keep from their premises persons known to them to be within the classifications declared in subsection (a) of this section and the regulations promulgated thereunder; or known to them to be persons whose presence in a licensed casino hotel would be inimical to the interest of the Virgin Islands or of licensed gaming therein, or both, as defined in standards established by the Commission. (e) Whenever the name or description of any person is placed on a list pursuant to this section, the Commission shall serve notice of such fact to such person by personal service, by certified mail at the last known address of such person, or by publication daily for one (1) week in a newspaper of general circulation in the Virgin Islands. (f) Within 30 days after service by mail or in person or 60 days from the time of last publication, as the case may be, the person named for exclusion or ejection may demand a hearing before the Commission and show cause why he should have his name removed from such list; the Commission shall have the affirmative obligation to demonstrate by a preponderance of the evidence that the person named for exclusion or ejection satisfies the criteria for exclusion established by this section and the regulations promulgated by the Commission. Failure to demand such a hearing within 30 days after service shall be deemed an admission of all matters and facts alleged in the Commission's notice and shall preclude a person from having an administrative hearing, but shall in no way affect his right to judicial review as provided herein. (g) The Division may file an application with the Commission requesting preliminary placement on the list of a person named in a petition for exclusion or ejection pending completion of a hearing on the petition. The hearing on the application for preliminary placement shall be a limited proceeding at which the Division shall have the affirmative obligation to demonstrate that there is a reasonable possibility that the person satisfies the criteria for exclusion established by this section and the Commission's regulations. If a person has been placed on the list as a result of an application for preliminary placement, unless otherwise agreed by the Commission and the named person, a hearing on the petition for exclusion or ejection shall be initiated within thirty (30) days after the receipt of a demand for such hearing or the date of preliminary placement on the list, whichever is later. (h) If, upon completion of the hearing, the Commission determines that the regulation does not or should not apply to the person so listed, the Commission shall notify all casino licensees of such determination. (i) If, upon completion of a hearing, the Commission determines that the placement of the name of the person on the exclusionary list was appropriate, the Commission shall make and enter an order to that effect. Such order shall be subject to review by the Superior Court in accordance with the rules of court. (j) A casino licensee may exclude or eject from its casino hotel any person who is known to it to have been convicted of a felony, or on at least two occasions convicted of a misdemeanor in or on the premises of any casino hotel. Nothing in this section or in any other law of this Territory shall limit the right of a casino licensee to exercise its common law right to exclude or eject permanently from its hotel any person who disrupts the operations of its premises, threatens the security of its premises or its occupants, or is disorderly or intoxicated. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(28), Sess. L. 1997, p. 9.

(a) The Commission shall, by regulation, provide for the establishment of a list of persons who voluntarily seek to be excluded from gaming activities at all licensed casinos. The regulations must include procedures relating to: (1) the application of any person to request voluntary placement on the self-exclusion list by acknowledging, in a manner established by the Commission, that the person is a problem gambler and by agreeing that, during the period of voluntary exclusion, the person may not collect any winnings or recover any losses resulting from gaming activity at licensed casinos; (2) the creation of a list of persons self-excluded from gaming activities at licensed casinos; (3) the establishment of a procedure that allows a person to petition the Commission for removal of his name from the self-exclusion list after a one, two or three-year period, whichever the person elects; (4) the establishment of a procedure for the transmittal of identifying information concerning self- excluded persons to licensed casinos; (5) the requirement of licensed casino operators to establish internal controls providing for the removal of self-excluded persons from mailings or other forms of marketing and the denial of access to credit, check cashing privileges and other similar benefits; (6) the establishment of a method for informing casino patrons of the self-exclusion list and explaining how a person may add or remove his name from the list; and (7) the creation of a waiver and release that releases and forever discharges the Government of the Virgin Islands, the Commission and its employees and agents, the Division of Gaming Enforcement and casino licensees and their employees and agents from any liability to the person requesting self- exclusion for any injury, monetary or otherwise which may arise out of or by reason of any act or omission relating to the request for self-exclusion or request for removal from the self-exclusion list. The waiver and release must also contain an acknowledgment by the person requesting self-exclusion that during the period of voluntary exclusion the person will be deemed to be a trespasser upon entering any casino space in the Virgin Islands. (b) The application created by the Commission must be filled out at the offices of the Casino Control Commission and must: (1) seek information for proper identification of the person requesting to be placed on the self- exclusion list, including the person's name, any aliases or nicknames, date of birth, address of current residence, telephone number of current residence, social security number if voluntarily provided in accordance with section 7 of The Privacy Act, s5 U.S.C. §552aPrivacy Actcal5 U.S.C. §5n, including gender, height, weight, hair and eye color, and any other physical characteristics that may assist in the identification of the individual; (2) have a photograph of the applicant attached to it; (3) contain an acknowledgement by the applicant that he has read and consents to the waiver and release described in subsection (a)(7) of this section and to the enforcement of his agreement to be placed on the self-exclusion list; and (4) include a certification by the applicant that the information provided on the application form is true and correct. (c) The Commission, the Division of Gaming Enforcement, and the casino licensee, their employees and agents may not make the self-exclusion list available to the public. (d) No casino licensee, or its employees or agents may willfully disclose the name of, or any information about, any person who has requested self-exclusion to anyone other than employees or agents of the casino licensee whose duties and functions require access to such information. (e) A self-excluded person may not collect any winnings or recover any losses arising as a result of any gaming activity incurred while on the self-exclusion list. (f) Any person convicted of knowingly entering a licensed casino while listed on the self-excluded list is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than thirty days, or by a fine of $50, or by both the fine and imprisonment as provided in this subsection. (g) Any money or thing of value that has been obtained by or is owed to a self-excluded person is subject to forfeiture by the Commission following notice to the self-excluded person and an opportunity to be heard. The Commission shall deposit the forfeited amount into the Casino Revenue Fund for appropriation by the Legislature of the Virgin Islands to any public or private entity for gambling treatment programs. (h) The Commission may order in any proceeding brought by the Commission against a casino licensee for willful violation of this section, the payment of a fine and suspension or revocation of a license, or both the fine and suspension or revocation. Any money or thing of value obtained by the licensee from any self- excluded person is subject to forfeiture by the Commission. The Commission shall deposit the fine and forfeited amount into the Casino Revenue Fund as provided in subsection (g) of this section. (i) The Government of The Virgin Islands, the Commission and its employees and agents, the Division of Gaming and Enforcement and casino licensees and their employees and agents are not liable to any person requesting self-exclusion and his heirs, administrators, executors and assigns for any harm, monetary or otherwise, which may arise from or by reason of any act or omission relating to the request for self- exclusion or request for removal from the self-exclusion list including: its processing or enforcement; permitting a self-excluded person to gain entry to a licensed casino while on the self-excluded list; the exercise of duties pursuant to the administration or enforcement of the chapter and the related regulations; or disclosure of the information contained in a self-exclusion application or of an individual on the self- exclusion list, except for a willful unlawful disclosure of such information by a licensed casino. History: Added Nov. 12, 2007, No. 6971, § 1, Sess. L. 2007, p. 177.

The Commission shall carry on a continuous study of the operation and administration of casino control laws which may be in effect in other jurisdictions, literature on this subject which may from time to time become available, federal laws which may affect the operation of casino gaming in the Virgin Islands, and the reaction of citizens to existing and potential features of casino gaming under this chapter. It shall be responsible for ascertaining any defects in this chapter or in the rules and regulations issued thereunder, formulating recommendations for changes in this chapter to prevent abuses thereof, guarding against the use of this chapter as a cloak for the carrying on of illegal gambling or other criminal activities, and insuring that this chapter and the rules and regulations shall be in such form and be so administered as to serve the true purposes of this chapter. The Commission shall make to the Governor and the Legislature an annual report of all revenues, expenses and disbursements, and shall include therein such recommendations for changes in this chapter as the Commission deems necessary or desirable. The Commission shall report immediately to the Governor and the Legislature any matter which in its judgment require immediate changes in the laws of this Territory in order to prevent abuses and evasions of this chapter or rules and regulations promulgated hereunder, or to rectify undesirable conditions in connection with the operation and regulation of casino gaming. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) Meetings of the Commission will be held at the discretion of the chairman at such times and places as he may deem necessary and convenient, or at the call of two (2) members of the Commission. The Commission shall notify all Commission members of any such meeting, and shall certify each member's receipt of such in advance of the commencement thereof. (b) The Commission shall in all respects comply with the provisions of Title 1, chapter 15 of this code. (c) Any other law, rule or regulation to the contrary notwithstanding, the Commission shall take all necessary steps to ensure that all interested persons are given adequate notice of Commission meetings and the agenda of such meetings, through the utilization of all media engaged in the dissemination of information. (d) A majority of the full Commission shall determine any action of the Commission, except that no casino license or interim casino authorization may be issued without the approval of a majority of the Commission, provided that one (1) of the two (2) members residing on St. Croix support the action. In the event that a vacancy has existed in the Commission for more than sixty (60) days, a majority of the full Commission may act with respect to any matter, including the issuance of a casino license or interim casino authorization. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(29), Sess. L. 1997, p. 9; July 12, 2011, No. 7267, § 13(c)(1), (2), Sess. L. 2011, p. 124; amended Mar. 30, 2016, No. 7872, § 1(c), Sess. L. 2016, p. 73.

(a) The Commission shall cause to be made and kept a verbatim record of all proceedings held at public meetings of the Commission, which record shall be open to public inspection. A true copy of the minutes of every meeting of the Commission and of any regulations finally adopted by the Commission shall be forthwith delivered, by and under the certification of the executive secretary, to the Governor, and the President of the Legislature. A transcript will also be made available to any other person upon payment by that person of the costs of preparation. (b) The Commission shall keep and maintain a list of all applicants for licenses and registrations under this chapter together with a record of all actions taken with respect to such applicants, which file and record shall be open to public inspection; provided, however, that the foregoing information regarding any applicant whose license or registration has been denied, revoked, or not renewed shall be removed from such list after five years from the date of such action. (c) The Commission shall maintain such other files and records as may be deemed desirable. (d) Except as provided in subsection (h) of this section, all information and data required by the Commission to be furnished hereunder, or which may otherwise be obtained, relative to the internal controls specified in section 455(a) of this title or to the earnings or revenue of any applicant, registrant, or licensee shall be considered to be confidential and shall not be revealed in whole or in part, except in the course of the necessary administration of this chapter, or upon lawful order of a court of competent jurisdiction, or, with the approval of the Attorney General, to a duly authorized law enforcement agency. (e) All information and data pertaining to an applicant's criminal record, family, and background furnished to or obtained by the Commission from any source shall be considered confidential and shall be withheld in whole or in part, except that any information shall be released upon the lawful order of a court of competent jurisdiction or, with the approval of the Attorney General, to a duly authorized law enforcement agency. (f) Notice of the contents of any information or data released, except to a duly authorized law enforcement agency pursuant to subsection (d) or (e) of this section, shall be given to any applicant, registrant, or licensee in a manner prescribed by the rules and regulations adopted by the Commission. (g) Files, records, reports, and other information in the possession of the Office of Management and Budget pertaining to licensees shall be made available to the Commission and the division as may be necessary to the effective administration of this chapter. (h) The following information to be reported quarterly to the Commission by a casino licensee shall not be considered confidential and shall be made available for public inspection: (1) A licensee's gross revenue from all authorized games as herein defined; (2) (a) The dollar amount of patron checks initially accepted by a licensee, (b) the dollar amount of patron checks deposited to the licensee's bank account, (c) the dollar amount of such checks initially dishonored by the bank and returned to the licensee as "uncollected", and (d) the dollar amount ultimately uncollected after all reasonable efforts; (3) The amount of gross revenue tax or investment alternative tax actually paid and the amount of investment, if any, required and pursuant to section 515 of this title and subsection 3 of section 516 of this title. (4) A list of the premises and the nature of improvements, costs thereof and the payee for all such improvements, which were the subject of an investment required and allowed pursuant to section 515 and subsection 3 of section 516; (5) The amount of profits, if any, recaptured pursuant to section 521 of this title; (6) A list of the premises, nature of improvements and costs thereof for consideration as investments pursuant to section 516; (7) All quarterly and annual financial statements presenting historical data which are submitted to the Commission, including all annual financial statements which have been audited by an independent certified public accountant licensed to practice in the Virgin Islands. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to limit access by the public to those forms and documents required to be filed pursuant to Article 11 of this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, §§ 4(30, 31), Sess. L. 1997, p. 9.

The Commission may exercise any proper power or authority necessary to perform the duties assigned to it by law, and no specific enumeration of powers in this chapter shall be read to limit the authority of the Commission to administer this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) The Division of Gaming Enforcement shall promptly and in reasonable order investigate all applications, enforce the provisions of this chapter, and any regulations promulgated hereunder, and prosecute before the Commission all proceedings for violations of this chapter or any regulations promulgated hereunder. The Division shall provide the Commission with all information necessary for all action under Article 6 of this chapter and for all proceedings involving enforcement of the provisions of this chapter or any regulations promulgated hereunder. (b) The Division shall: (1) Investigate the qualifications of each applicant before any license certificate, or permit is issued pursuant to the provisions of this chapter; (2) Investigate the circumstances surrounding any act or transaction for which Commission approval is required; (3) Investigate violations of this chapter and regulations promulgated hereunder; (4) Initiate, prosecute and defend such proceedings before the Commission, or appeals therefrom, as the Division or Commission may deem appropriate; (5) Provide assistance upon request by the Commission in the consideration and promulgation of rules and regulations; (6) At the request of the Commission conduct reviews of casino operations through on-site observation and other reasonable means to assure compliance with this chapter and regulations promulgated hereunder, subject to section 415(a) of this title; (7) Receive and take appropriate action on any referral from the Commission relating to any evidence of a violation of this chapter or the regulations promulgated hereunder; (8) Exchange fingerprint data with, and receive criminal history record information from, the Federal Bureau of Investigation for use in considering applicants for any license or registration issued pursuant to the provisions of this chapter; (9) At the request of the Commission conduct audits of casino operations, including reviews of accounting, administrative and financial records, and management control systems, procedures and records utilized by a casino licensee, under such circumstances and to such extent as the Commission shall determine to ensure that there is not duplication of duties and responsibilities between it and the Commission; and (10) Be entitled to request and receive information, materials and any other data from any licensee or registrant, or applicant for a license or registration under this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(32-34), Sess. L. 1997, p. 9.

Division and Its Employees and Agents The Division and its employees and agents shall have such other law enforcement powers as may be delegated to it by the Attorney General to effectuate the purposes of this chapter. The Division shall prosecute all criminal violations of this chapter. To effectuate this power, the Division shall have access to the Grand Jury as is established in the Territory. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(35), Sess. L. 1997, p. 9.

Each licensee or registrant, or applicant for a license or registration under this chapter shall cooperate with the Division in the performance of its duties. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) The Division and its employees and agents, upon approval of the director, shall have the authority, without notice and without warrant: (1) To inspect and examine all premises wherein casino gaming is conducted; or gaming devices or equipment are manufactured, sold, distributed, or serviced; or wherein any records of such activities are prepared or maintained; (2) To inspect all equipment and supplies in, about, or around such premises; (3) To seize summarily and remove from such premises and impound any such equipment or supplies for the purposes of examination; (4) To inspect, examine and audit all books, records, and documents pertaining to a casino licensee's operation; (5) To seize, impound or assume physical control of any book, record, ledger, game, device, cash box and its contents, counting room or its equipment, or casino operations; and (6) To inspect the person, and personal effects in a casino facility licensed under this chapter, of any holder of a license or registration issued pursuant to this chapter while that person is present in a licensed casino facility. (b) The provisions of subsection (a) of this section shall in no way be deemed to limit warrantless inspections except in accordance with constitutional requirements. (c) To effectuate further the purposes of this chapter, the Division and its employees and agents may obtain administrative warrants for the inspection and seizure of any property possessed, controlled, bailed or otherwise held by any applicant, licensee, registrant, intermediary company, or holding company. (d) Issuance and execution of warrants for administrative inspection shall be in accordance with the following: (1) Any judge of a court having jurisdiction in the district where the inspection or seizure is to be conducted may, upon proper oath or affirmation showing probable cause, issue warrants for the purpose of conducting administrative inspections authorized by this chapter or regulations thereunder and seizures of property appropriate to such inspections. For the purposes of this section, "probable cause" means a valid public interest in the effective enforcement of the chapter or regulations sufficient to justify administrative inspection of the area, premises, building or conveyance in the circumstances specified in the application for the warrant. (2) A warrant shall issue only upon an affidavit of a person duly designated and having knowledge of the facts alleged, sworn to before the judge and establishing the grounds for issuing the warrant. If the judge is satisfied that grounds for the application exist or that there is probable cause to believe they exist, he shall issue a warrant identifying the area, premises, building, or conveyance to be inspected; the purpose of such inspection; and, where appropriate, the type of property to be inspected, if any. The warrant shall identify the item or types of property to be seized, if any. The warrant shall be directed to a person authorized to execute it. The warrant shall state the grounds for its issuance and the name of the person or persons whose affidavit has been taken in support thereof. It shall command the person to whom it is directed to inspect the area, premises, building, or conveyance identified for the purpose specified, and where appropriate, shall direct the seizure of the property specified. The warrant shall direct that it be served during normal business hours of the licensee. It shall designate the judge to whom it shall be returned. (3) A warrant issued pursuant to this section must be executed and returned within ten (10) days of its date. If property is seized pursuant to a warrant, the person executing the warrant shall give to the person from whom or from whose premises the property was taken a copy of the warrant and a receipt for the property taken or shall leave the copy and receipt at the place from which the property was taken. The return of the warrant shall be made promptly and shall be accompanied by a written inventory of any property taken. The inventory shall be made in the presence of the person executing the warrant and of the person from whose possession or premises the property was taken, if they are present, or in the presence of at least one credible person other than the person executing the warrant. The clerk of the court, upon request, shall deliver a copy of the inventory to the person from whom or from whose premises the property was taken and to the applicant for the warrant. (4) The judge who has issued a warrant under this section shall attach to the warrant a copy of the return and all papers filed in connection therewith and shall cause them to be filed with the court which issued such warrant. (e) The Division is authorized to make administrative inspections to check for compliance by any applicant, licensee, registrant, intermediary company or holding company with the provisions of this chapter or regulations promulgated thereunder, and to investigate any violations thereof. (f) This section shall not be construed to prevent entries and administrative inspections, including seizures of property, without a warrant: (1) With the consent of the owner, operator or agent in charge of the controlled premises; (2) In situations presenting imminent danger to health or safety; (3) In situations involving inspection of conveyance where there is reasonable cause to believe that the mobility of the conveyance makes it impractical to obtain a warrant or in any other exceptional or emergency circumstance where time or opportunity to apply for a warrant is lacking; (4) In accordance with the provisions of this chapter; or (5) In all other situations where a warrant is not constitutionally required. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) It shall be the affirmative responsibility of each applicant and licensee to establish by clear and convincing evidence his individual qualifications, and for a casino licensee the qualifications, of each person who is required to be qualified under this chapter as well as the facility in which the casino is to be located. (b) Any applicant, licensee, registrant, or any other person who must be qualified pursuant to this chapter shall provide all information required by this chapter and satisfy all requests for information pertaining to qualification and in the form specified by the Commission. All applicants, registrants, and licensees shall waive liability as to the Government of the Virgin Islands, and liability as to the Government of the Virgin Islands, and its instrumentalities and agents, for any damages resulting from any disclosure or publication in any manner, other than a willfully unlawful disclosure or publication, of any material or information acquired during inquiries, investigations or hearings. (c) All applicants, licensees, registrants, intermediary companies, and holding companies shall consent to inspections, searches and seizures and the supplying of handwriting exemplars, as authorized by this chapter and regulations promulgated hereunder. (d) All applicants, licensees, registrants, and other persons who shall be qualified pursuant to this chapter shall have the continuing duty to provide any assistance or information required by the Commission or Division, and to cooperate in any inquiry or investigation conducted by the Division and any inquiry, investigation, or hearing conducted by the Commission. If, upon issuance of a formal request to answer or produce information, evidence or testimony, any applicant, license, registrants, or any other person who shall be qualified pursuant to this chapter refuses to comply, the application, license, registration or qualification of such person may be denied or revoked by the Commission. (e) No applicant or licensee shall give or provide, offer to give or provide, directly or indirectly, any compensation or reward or any percentage or share of the money or property played or received through gaming or simulcast wagering activities, except as authorized by this chapter, in consideration for obtaining any license, authorization, permission or privilege to participate in any way in gaming or simulcast wagering operations. (f) Each applicant or person who must be qualified under this chapter shall be photographed and fingerprinted for identification and investigation purposes in accordance with procedures established by the Commission. (g) All licensees, all registrants, all persons required to be qualified under this chapter, and all persons employed by a casino service industry licensed pursuant to this chapter, shall have a duty to inform the Commission, of any action which they believe would constitute a violation of this chapter. No person who so informs the Commission shall be discriminated against by an applicant, licensee or registrant because of the supplying of such information. (h) Any person who must be qualified pursuant to this chapter in order to hold the securities of a casino licensee or any holding or intermediary company of a casino licensee may apply for qualification status prior to the acquisition of any such securities. The Commission may determine to accept such an application upon a finding that there is a reasonable likelihood that, if qualified, the applicant will obtain and hold securities of a licensee sufficient to require qualification. Such an applicant shall be subject to the provisions of this section and shall pay for the costs of all investigations and proceedings in relation to the application unless the applicant provides to the Commission an agreement with one or more casino licensees which states that the licensee or licensees will pay those costs. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(36), Sess. L. 1997, p. 9.

(a) (1) The Commission may in its discretion issue a statement of compliance to an applicant for any license or for qualification status under this chapter at any time the Commission is satisfied that the applicant has established by clear and convincing evidence that one or more particular eligibility criteria have been satisfied by an applicant. A request for the issuance of a statement of compliance pursuant to this paragraph shall be initiated by the applicant filing a petition with the commission. Before the commission refers any such petition to the division for investigation, the commission may require the applicant to establish to the satisfaction of the commission that the applicant actually intends, if found qualified, to engage in the business or activity that would require the issuance of the license or the determination of qualification status. (2) Any person who must be qualified pursuant to this Act in order to hold the securities of a casino licensee or any holding or intermediary company of a casino licensee may, prior to the acquisition of any such securities, request the issuance of a statement of compliance by the commission that the person is qualified to hold such securities. Any request for the issuance of a statement of compliance pursuant to this paragraph shall be initiated by the person filing a petition with the commission in which the person shall be required to establish that there is a reasonable likelihood that, if qualified, the person will obtain and hold the securities of a casino licensee or any holding or intermediary company thereof to such extent as to require the qualification of the person. If the commission finds that this reasonable likelihood exists, and if the commission is satisfied, after an investigation by the division, that the qualifications of the person have been established by clear and convincing evidence, the commission may, in its discretion, issue a statement of compliance that the person is qualified to hold such securities. Any person who requests a statement of compliance pursuant to this paragraph shall be subject to the provisions of this Act and shall pay for the costs of all investigations and proceedings in relation to the requests. (b) Such statement shall specify the eligibility criterion satisfied, the date of such satisfaction and reservation to the Commission to revoke the statement of compliance at any time based upon a change of circumstances affecting such compliance. (c) A statement of compliance certifying satisfaction of all of the requirements of section 436(c) of this title with respect to a specific casino hotel proposal submitted by an eligible applicant may be accompanied by a written commitment from the Commission that a casino license shall be reserved for a period not to exceed 30 months or within such additional time period as the Commission may, upon a showing of good cause therefor, establish and shall be issued to such eligible applicant with respect to such proposal that such applicant (1) complies in all respects with the provisions of this chapter (2) qualifies for a casino license within a period not to exceed 30 months of the date of such commitment or within such additional times as the Commission may, upon a showing of good cause therefor, establish, and (3) complies with such other conditions as the Commission shall impose. The Commission may revoke such reservation at any time it finds that the applicant is disqualified from receiving or holding a casino license or has failed to comply with any conditions imposed by the Commission. Such reservation shall be automatically revoked if the applicant does not qualify for a casino license within the period of such commitment. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(37-40), Sess. L. 1997, p. 10.

(a) No casino shall operate unless all necessary license and approvals therefor have been obtained in accordance with law. (b) Except as provided in subsection (d), only the following persons shall be eligible to hold a casino license; and, unless otherwise determined by the Commission in accordance with subsection (c) of this section, each of the following persons shall be required to hold a casino license prior to the operation of a casino in the hotel with respect to which the casino license has been applied for: (1) Any person who either owns an approved hotel building or owns or has a contract to purchase or construct a hotel which in the judgment of the Commission can become an approved hotel building within 30 months or within additional time period as the Commission may, upon a showing of good cause therefor, establish; (2) Any person who, whether as lessor or lessee, either leases an approved hotel building or leases or has an agreement to lease a hotel which in the judgment of the Commission can become an approved hotel building within 30 months or within such additional time period as the Commission may, upon a showing of good cause therefor, establish; (3) Any person who has a written agreement with a casino licensee or with an eligible applicant for a casino license for the complete management of a casino; and (4) Any other person who has any control over either an approved hotel building or the land thereunder or the operation of a casino. (c) Prior to the operation of the casino, every agreement to lease an approved hotel building or the land thereunder and every agreement for the management of the casino shall be in writing and filed with the Commission. No such agreement shall be effective unless expressly approved by the Commission. The Commission may require that any such agreement include within its terms any provision reasonably necessary to best accomplish the policies of this chapter consistent with the policies of this chapter. (1) The Commission, may determine that any person who does not have the ability to exercise any significant control over either the approved hotel building or the operation of the casino contained therein shall not be eligible to hold or required to hold a casino license; (2) The Commission, may determine that any owner, lessor or lessee of an approved hotel building or the land thereunder who does not own or lease the entire approved hotel building shall not be eligible to hold or required to hold a casino license; (3) The Commission shall require that any person or persons eligible to apply for a casino license organized itself or themselves into such form or forms of business association as the Commission shall deem necessary or desirable in the circumstances to carry out the policies of this chapter; (4) The Commission may issue separate casino license to any persons eligible to apply therefor; (5) As to agreements to lease an approved hotel building or the land thereunder, unless it expressly and by formal vote for good cause determines otherwise, the Commission shall require that each party thereto hold either a casino license or casino service industry license and that such an agreement be for a durational term exceeding 30 years, concern 100% of the entire approved hotel building or of the land upon which same is located, and include within its terms a buy-out provision conferring upon the casino licensee-lessee who controls the operation of the approved hotel the absolute right to purchase for an expressly set forth fixed sum the entire interest of the lessor or any person associated with the lessor in the approved hotel building or the land thereunder in the event that said lessor or said person associated with the lessor is found by the Commission to be unsuitable to be associated with a casino enterprise; (6) The Commission shall not permit an agreement for the leasing of an approved hotel building or the land thereunder to provide for the payment of an interest, percentage or share of money gambled at the casino or derived from casino gaming activity or of revenues or profits of the casino unless the party receiving payment of such interest, percentage or share is a party to the approved lease agreement; unless each party to the lease agreement holds either a casino license or casino service industry license and unless the agreement is for a durational term exceeding 30 years, concerns a significant portion of the entire approved hotel building or of the land upon which same is located, and includes within its terms a buy-out provision conforming to that described in paragraph (5) of this subsection above; (7) As to agreements for the management of a casino, the Commission shall require that each party thereto hold a casino license, that the party thereto who is to manage the casino own at least 10% of all outstanding equity securities of any casino licensee or of any eligible applicant for a casino license if the said licensee or applicant is a corporation and the ownership of an equivalent interest in any casino licensee or in any eligible applicant for a casino license if same is not a corporation, and that such an agreement be for the complete management of the casino, provide for the sole and unrestricted power to direct the casino operations of the casino which is the subject of the agreement, and be for such a durational term as to assure reasonable continuity, stability and independence in the management of the casino; (8) The Commission may permit an agreement for the management of a casino to provide for the payment to the managing party of an interest, percentage or share of money gambled at the casino or derived from casino gaming activity or of revenues or profits of the casino; (9) The Commission may permit an agreement between a casino licensee and a casino service industry pursuant to the provisions of subsection (a) of section 445 of this title for the conduct of casino simulcasting in a simulcasting facility to provide for the payment to the casino service industry of an interest, percentage or share of the money derived from the casino licensee's share of proceeds from simulcast wagering activity; and (10) As to agreements to lease an approved hotel building or the land thereunder, agreements to jointly own an approved hotel building or the land thereunder and agreements for the management of a casino or for the conduct of casino simulcasting in a simulcasting facility, the Commission shall require that each party thereto shall be jointly and severally liable for all acts, omissions and violations of this chapter by any party thereto regardless of actual knowledge of such act, omission or violation and notwithstanding any provision in such agreement to the contrary. (d) (1) The holder of a valid horse racing license granted by the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, or the Government under chapter chapter 11itle and a lease-franchise agreement under section 209 of this title may be issued a casino license to operate a casino at the horse racetrack in St. Croix under the conditions prescribed in this chapter; but gaming at the horse racetrack casino in St. Croix is limited to only slot machines operated by an entity with a valid Casino license. (2) (A) The holder of a Casino License may be issued a license to operate a casino at the horse racetrack in St. Croix under the conditions prescribed in this chapter, if the Casino Licensee has entered into a lease, management agreement, or other similar agreement with the holder of a Lease-Franchise Agreement under section 209 of this title for the horse racetrack in St. Croix. (B) No Casino License may be issued to operate slot machines at the horse racetrack in St. Croix unless a Lease Franchise Agreement under section 209 of this title is in effect for the horse racetrack in St. Croix. (e) No corporation shall be eligible to apply for a casino license unless: (1) The corporation shall be incorporated in the United States Virgin Islands, although such corporation may be a wholly or partially owned subsidiary of a corporation which is organized pursuant to the laws of a state of the United States or of a foreign country; (2) The corporation shall maintain an office of the corporation in the premises licensed or to be licensed; (3) The corporation shall comply with all the requirements of the laws of the Virgin Islands pertaining to corporations; (4) The corporation shall maintain a ledger in the principal office of the corporation in the Virgin Islands which shall at all times reflect the current ownership of every class of security issued by the corporation and shall be available for inspection by the Commission or upon referral by the Commission, the Division and authorized agents of the Commission and the Division at all reasonable times without notice; (5) The corporation shall maintain all operating accounts required by the Commission in a bank in the Virgin Islands; (6) The corporation shall include among the purposes stated in its certificate of incorporation the conduct of casino gaming and provide that the certificate of incorporation includes all provisions required by this chapter; (7) The corporation, if it is not a publicly traded corporation, shall file with the Commission such adopted corporate charter provisions as may be necessary to establish the right of prior approval by the Commission with regard to transfers of securities, shares, and other interests in the applicant corporation; and, if it is a publicly traded corporation, provide in its corporate charter that any securities of such corporation are held subject to the condition that if a holder thereof is found to be disqualified by the Commission pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, such holder shall dispose of his interest in the corporation; provided, however, that, notwithstanding the provisions of Title 11A, Article 8, VirgTitle 11As Article 8, Virgin Islands Codeed to require that any security of such corporation bear any legend to this effect; (8) The corporation, if it is not a publicly traded corporation, shall establish to the satisfaction of the Commission that appropriate charter provisions create the absolute right of such non-publicly traded corporations and companies to repurchase at the market price or the purchase price, whichever is the lesser, any security, share or other interest in the corporation in the event that the Commission disapproves a transfer in accordance with the provisions of this chapter; (9) Any publicly traded holding, intermediary, or subsidiary company of the corporation, whether the corporation is publicly traded or not, shall contain in its corporate charter the same provisions required under paragraph paragraph (7)ubsection for a publicly traded corporation to be eligible to apply for a casino license; and (10) Any non-publicly traded holding, intermediary or subsidiary company of the corporation, whether the corporation is publicly traded or not, shall establish to the satisfaction of the Commission that its charter provisions are the same as those required under paragraph (8) of this subsection for a non- publicly traded corporation to be eligible to apply for a casino license. The provisions of this subsection shall apply with the same force and effect with regard to casino license applicants and casino licensees which have a legal existence that is other than corporate to the extent which is appropriate. (f) No person shall be issued or be the holder of more than two casino licenses. For the purpose of this subsection a person shall be considered the holder of a casino license if such license is issued to such person or if such license is held by any holding, intermediary or subsidiary company thereof, or by any officer, director, casino key employee or principal employee of such person, or of any holding, intermediary or subsidiary company thereof. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(41-43), Sess. L. 1997, p. 10; May 10, 2010, No. 7169, § 4(a), (b), Sess. L. 2010, p. 66; Oct. 27, 2011, No. 7318, § 3(2.)(b)(i), (ii), Sess. L. 2011, p. 264; amended Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 6(a), (b)(1)(A), (C), (2), Sess. L. 2016, p. 233; amended Apr. 22, 2022, No. 8577, § 2(b)(2), Sess. L. 2022, p. 151; amended Oct. 4, 2023, No. 8772, § 2, Sess. L. 2023, p. 141.

(a) An approved hotel for the purposes of this chapter shall be a hotel providing qualifying sleeping units, qualifying public indoor space and casino space in accordance with this section. Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the authority of the Commission to determine the suitability of facilities as provided in this chapter, nor shall anything in this section be construed to require a casino to be larger than the minimum size or smaller than the maximum size provided herein. (b) An approved hotel shall be located on property with zoning designation which accommodates public gaming facilities, pursuant to Title 29, sections 228, 229 and 231, and shall contain a single casino with maximum square footage limited by the number of qualifying sleeping units and amount of qualifying indoor public space in the hotel in accordance with the following formula: Casino I Establishment. A hotel providing a minimum of 300-1,499 qualifying sleeping units and a minimum area of 10,000 square feet of qualifying indoor public space and shall contain a casino room with a minimum area of 10,000 square feet and a convention, banquet center that would accommodate a minimum of 1500 persons. Casino II Establishment. A hotel providing a minimum of 200-299 qualifying sleeping units and a minimum of 7,000 square feet of qualifying indoor public space, banquet facilities for a minimum of 500 persons with an on-site casino room with a minimum area of 7,000 square feet, or a freestanding off-site casino room with a maximum area of 7,000 square feet to be located in the historical district of the town closest to which the hotel is located, in space already established and in conformity with rules and regulations promulgated by the Historic Preservation Commission on St. Croix no improvements, additions, or alterations are to be made to the external structure of the freestanding off-site casino that result in change to the architectural aesthetics of the building or the town. For the purposes of this provision, the Frederiksted geographical district shall be comprised of the area from Estate Bethlehem westward to the town of Frederiksted; the Christiansted geographical district shall be comprised of the area from Estate Bethlehem eastward to the town of Christiansted. At least fifty-one (51%) percent of a Casino III Establishment hotel must be owned by a Native Virgin Islander. Casino III Establishment. A hotel providing a minimum of 150-199 qualifying sleeping units and a minimum of 2,000 square feet of qualifying indoor public space and shall contain a casino room with a minimum area of 5,000 square feet and banquet facilities for a minimum of 500 persons. Notwithstanding any law or provision to the contrary, any native Virgin Islander as defined in this chapter may construct, own or operate any hotel and casino facility of any size; provided such facility is at least 51% owned by a native Virgin Islander and provided further, such a facility is located on property within the zoning designation which permits public gaming facilities, pursuant to the provisions under Title 29, Virgin Islands Code. Qualifying indoor public space available should be of the sort regularly used at conventions, exhibits, meetings, banquets, and similar functions, and/or dining, entertainment and sports facilities, including restaurants, bars, lounges, show theaters, shops, dance halls, swimming facilities and tennis but excluding lobbies, casinos and parking areas. Casino IV Establishment. (A) A Hotel located within the Enterprise Zone of Christiansted or Frederiksted providing a minimum of 75 qualifying sleeping units that have been renovated or newly constructed and a minimum aggregate of 2,500 square feet of qualifying indoor public space, banquet facilities for a minimum of 75 persons, with an onsite casino room with a minimum area of 2,000 square feet; provided that the persons controlling the hotel shall be obligated to make qualifying Enterprise Zone Investments in an amount equal to sixty percent of the Net Cash Flow generated by their Consolidated Enterprise Zone Investments during the first ten years following the opening of their casino. If, as of the end of any calendar year, the persons controlling the hotel have not made Qualifying Enterprise Zone Investments, in the amount required by the previous sentence, they shall deposit any shortfall into an interest-bearing escrow account acceptable to the Commission. Sums held in the escrow account may be withdrawn at any time by the persons controlling the hotel for the sole purpose of making Qualifying Enterprise Zone Investments. All sums held in the escrow account at the expiration of fifteen years from the opening of the casino must be paid over to the Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission and used for its general purposes. The Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission shall prohibit table games in any such casino. (B) As used in this paragraph: (i) "Persons controlling the hotel" means the persons holding fee simple title to, or a leasehold interest in the hotel. (ii) "Qualifying Enterprise Zone Investments" means the acquisition or renovation of any property located within the Christiansted or Frederiksted Enterprise Zone. (iii) "Net Cash Flow for any year" means the net cash provided by "operating activities", as defined by the Financial Accounting Standards Board, less principal payments on debt and capitalized lease obligations, and less distributions for the satisfaction of tax obligations. (iv) "Consolidated Enterprise Zone Investments" means all of the property within the Enterprise Zone owned or leased by the persons controlling the hotel as of the effective date of this paragraph, or at any time thereafter. (c) Three hotels are allowed under the Casino I Establishment category; two hotels under the Casino II Establishment category; two hotels are allowed under the Casino III Establishment category and a minimum of one hotel in each Enterprise Zone within the Casino IV Establishment category. However, hotels in the Casino III Establishment category must be newly constructed or newly renovated hotels that have increased in total number of rooms to the next higher tier designation. (d) Once the hotel is initially approved, the Commission shall thereafter rely on the certification of the casino licensee with regard to the number of rooms and the amount of qualifying indoor public space, and shall permit rehabilitation, renovation or alteration of the approved hotel even if the rehabilitation, renovation, or alteration will mean that the casino does not temporarily meet the requirements of subsection (b) of this section, so long as the licensee certifies that the rehabilitation, renovation or alteration shall be completed within one year. (e) The Commission shall not impose any additional requirements regarding contents of the hotel, apart from the criteria or requirements regarding the quality and maintenance of the hotel. (f) In the event that the Government of the Virgin Islands or Government Employees Retirement System (collectively, "government entities") should hold an interest of at least 25% in a hotel of no less than one hundred and fifty rooms with a convention or banquet center, and where at least 20% of the casino operation is owned by the hotel in which the government entities has an interest, such hotel, by virtue of the government entities involvement shall be an "approved hotel building" for the purposes of this chapter, provided the hotel adheres to the requirements of section 435(b), notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a) of this section. The government entities interest must have been in existence prior to September 30, 2012. The location of such hotel(s), excluding historical districts within the towns, shall be deemed appropriate for the purposes intended under this chapter, and all fees, rules and regulations promulgated by the Commission, shall be applicable to its operation. (g) Notwithstanding any other law and for the purposes of this chapter, shoreline shall be defined as the area along the coastline from the seaward line of low tide, running inland a distance of 300 feet or to the extreme seaward boundary of natural vegetation which spreads continuously inland or to a natural barrier whichever is the shortest distance. Whenever the shoreline is extended into the sea by filling or dredging, the boundary of the shoreline shall be the boundary established before the filling or dredging. (h) In addition to the provisions established under Title 12, section 403 of this code and for the purposes of this chapter, an approved hotel shall provide a point of ingress and egress within its main building for the public to have access to the shoreline. (i) The Commission may waive any requirement in this section for a Hotel in the Enterprise Zones as needed to facilitate prompt commencement of the development on the condition that: (1) The Licensee posts a performance bond in an amount equal to 60 percent of the total projected cost of the development; and (2) All requirements of this section must be met no later than 18 months after the date the license was issued. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(44-47), Sess. L. 1997, p. 11; Aug. 12, 2004, No. 6683, § 1, Sess. L. 2004, p. 160; Sept. 22, 2006, No. 6864, §§ 20, 21, Sess. L. 2006, pp. 219, 220; amended Dec. 14, 2012, No. 7458, § 10(a), (b), Sess. L. 2012, p. 415; amended Dec. 19, 2014, No. 7702, § 2(1), (2), Sess. L. 2014, p. 376, 377; amended June 12, 2015, No. 7737, § 3, Sess. L. 2015, p. 25; amended Mar. 30, 2016, No. 7844, § 9, Sess. L. 2016, p. 12; amended Mar. 24, 2022, No. 8576, § 1, Sess. L. 2021, p. 149.

(a) The Commission may issue only one racetrack casino license on St. Croix. (b) The horse racetrack casino in St. Croix may not operate or be authorized to operate more than 200 slot machines. (c) No other type of gaming machine or casino gaming activity may take place at the horserace track in St. Croix, except as provided in section 434(d)(1). History: Added Oct. 27, 2011, No. 7318, § 3(2)(c)(i), Sess. L. 2011, pp. 264, 265; amended Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 7(a)(1)-(3), Sess. L. 2016, p. 233; amended Apr. 22, 2022, No. 8577, § 2(b)(3)(A), Sess. L. 2022, p. 152.

An applicant for a casino license, including an application for a casino license to operate at the horse racetrack on St. Croix must produce information, documentation and assurances concerning the following qualification criteria: (a) Each applicant shall produce such information, documentation and assurances concerning financial background and resources as may be required to establish by clear and convincing evidence the financial stability, integrity and responsibility of the applicant, including but not limited to bank references, business and personal income and disbursement schedules, tax returns and other reports filed with government agencies, and business and personal accounting and check records and ledgers. In addition, each applicant shall, in writing, authorize the examination of all bank accounts and records as may be deemed necessary by the Commission or the Division. (b) Each applicant shall produce such information, documentation and assurances as may be necessary to establish by clear and convincing evidence the integrity of all financial backers, investors, mortgagees, bond holders, and holders of indentures, notes or other evidences of indebtedness, either in effect or proposed, which bears any relation to the casino proposal submitted by the applicant or applicants; provided, however, that this section shall not apply to banking or other licensed lending institutions exempted from the qualification requirements of subsections (c) and (d) of section 437 of this title, and institutional investors waived from the qualification requirements of those subsections, pursuant to the provisions of subsection (f) of section 437 of this title. Any such banking or licensed lending institution or institutional investor shall, however, produce for the Commission or the Division, upon request, any document or information which bears any relation to the casino proposal submitted by the applicant or applicants. The integrity of financial sources shall be judged upon the same standards as the applicant. In addition, the applicant shall produce whatever information, documentation or assurances as may be required to establish by clear and convincing evidence the adequacy of financial resources both as to the completion of the casino proposal and the operation of the casino. (c) Each applicant shall produce such information, documentation and assurances as may be required to establish by clear and convincing evidence the applicant's good character, honesty and integrity. Such information shall include, without limitation, information pertaining to family, habits, character, reputation, criminal and arrest record, business activities, financial affairs, and business, professional and personal associates, covering at least the 10-year period immediately preceding the filing of the application. Each applicant shall notify the Commission of any civil judgments obtained against any such applicant pertaining to antitrust or security regulation laws of the federal government, of this Territory or of any state, jurisdiction, province or country. In addition, each applicant shall produce letters of reference from law enforcement agencies having jurisdiction in the applicant's place of residence and principal place of business, which letters of reference shall indicate that such law enforcement agencies do not have any pertinent information concerning the applicant, or if such law enforcement agency does have information pertaining to the applicant, shall specify what the information is. If the applicant has conducted gaming operations in a jurisdiction which permits such activity, the applicant shall produce letters of reference from the gaming or casino enforcement or control agency which shall specify the experiences of such agency with the applicant, his associates, and his gaming operation; provided, however, that if no such letters are received within sixty (60) days of request therefor, the applicant may submit a statement under oath that he is or was during the period such activities were conducted in good standing with such gaming or casino enforcement or control agency. (d) Each applicant shall produce such information, documentation and assurances as may be required to establish by clear and convincing evidence that the applicant has sufficient business ability and casino experience as to establish the likelihood of creation and maintenance of a successful, efficient casino operation, to include an aggressive marketing strategy targeting the Virgin Islands as a national and international tourist destination. Each applicant with a hotel connected to a casino or a casino related facility that receives benefits under the Industrial Development Program and/or through the Economic Development Commission as established in title 29, chapter 12 of the Virgin Islands Code, must also produce evidence that the hotel or casino related facility has sufficient business ability to establish the likelihood of the creation and maintenance of a successful, efficient operation to include an aggressive marketing strategy targeting the Virgin Islands as a national and international tourist destination, to be implemented as long as benefits are received. The applicant shall produce the names of all proposed casino key employees as they become known and a description of their respective or proposed responsibilities, and a full description of security systems and management controls proposed for the casino and related facilities. (e) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this section, those casino license applicants, who at the time of application for a license to operate a hotel/casino in the Virgin Islands, are holders of a casino license from another regulated casino jurisdiction in the United States, and who present verified and certified documentation from that jurisdiction that they are a licensee in good standing for two consecutive years prior to the application to operate a hotel/casino in the Virgin Islands, may be deemed to be eligible for licensure in accordance with the above provisions of this section, provided that the requirements of subsection (f) and all other applicable local requirements for licensure are met. (f) Each applicant shall produce such information, documentation and assurances to establish to the satisfaction of the Commission the suitability of the casino and related facilities and that its proposed location will not adversely affect casino operations or overall environmental conditions. Each applicant shall submit an impact statement which shall include, without limitation, architectural and site plans which establish that the proposed facilities comply in all respects with the requirements of this chapter, the requirements of the master plan, the planning ordinance of the Virgin Islands, the zoning ordinance as amended for gaming, Title 29, chapter 3, sections 228 and 229, without any use variance from the provisions thereof, and the requirements of the Coastal Zone Management Act, as amended, Title 12, chapter 21 of this code; a market impact study which analyzes the adequacy of the patron market and the effect of the proposal on such market and on the existing casino facilities licensed under this chapter; and an analysis of the effect of the proposal on the overall environment, including, without limitation, economic, social, demographic, and competitive conditions as well as the natural resources of St. Croix and the Virgin Islands. (g) The commission may, at its discretion recognize and accept the conclusions of other political jurisdictions in the investigatory process of approving prospective casino licensees, casino key employees and casino service industries. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, §§ 4(d)125, 6(a), Sess. L. 1997, p. 22; May 10, 2010, No. 7169, § 5(b), Sess. L. 2010, p. 67; Sept. 20, 2011, No. 7270, § 1, Sess. L. 2011, p. 131; Oct. 27, 2011, No. 7318, § 3(2.)(c)(ii), Sess. L. 2011, p. 265; amended Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 7(b), Sess. L. 2016, p. 234; amended Apr. 22, 2022, No. 8577, § 2(b)(3)(B), Sess. L. 2022, p. 152.

(a) In addition to other information required by this chapter, a corporation applying for a casino license shall provide the following information: (1) The organization, financial structure and nature of all businesses operated by the corporation; the names and personal employment and criminal histories of all officers, directors and principal employees of the corporation; the names of all holding, intermediary and subsidiary companies of the corporation; and the organization, financial structure and nature of all businesses operated by such of its holding, intermediary and subsidiary companies as the Commission may require, including names and personal employment and criminal histories of such officers, directors and principal employees of such corporations and companies as the Commission may require; (2) The rights and privileges acquired by the holders of different classes of authorized securities of such corporations and companies as the Commission may require, including the names, addresses and amounts held by all holders of such securities; (3) The terms upon which securities have been or are to be offered; (4) The terms and conditions of all outstanding loans, mortgages, trust deeds, pledges or any other indebtedness or security devices utilized by the corporation; (5) The extent of the equity security holding in the corporation of all officers, directors and underwriters, and their remuneration in the form of salary, wages, fees or otherwise; (6) Names of persons other than directors and officers who occupy positions specified by the Commission or whose compensation exceeds an amount determined by the Commission, and the amount of their compensation; (7) A description of all bonus and profit-sharing arrangements; (8) Copies of all management and service contracts; and (9) A listing of stock options existing or to be created. (b) If a corporation applying for a casino license is, or if a corporation holding a casino license is to become, a subsidiary, each holding company and each intermediary company with respect thereto must, as a condition of the said subsidiary acquiring or retaining such license, as the case may be: (1) Qualify to do business in the United States Virgin Islands; and (2) If it is a corporation, register with the Commission and furnish the Commission with all the information required of a corporate licensee as specified in subsection (a)(1), (2) and (3) of this section and such other information as the Commission may require; or (3) If it is not a corporation, register with the Commission and furnish the Commission with such information as the Commission may prescribe. The Commission may, in its discretion, make such investigations concerning the officers, directors, underwriters, security holders, partners, principals, trustees or persons owning or beneficially holding any interest in any holding company or intermediary company as it deems necessary, either at the time of initial registration or at any time thereafter. (c) No corporation shall be eligible to hold a casino license unless each officer; each director; each person who directly or indirectly holds any beneficial interest or ownership of the securities issued by the corporation; any person who in the opinion of the Commission has the ability to control the corporation or elect a majority of the board of directors of that corporation, other than a banking or other licensed lending institution which makes a loan, holds a mortgage or other lien acquired in the ordinary course of business; each principal employee; and any lender, underwriter, agent, employee of the corporation, or other person whom the Commission may consider appropriate for approval or qualification would, but for residence, individually be qualified for approval as a casino key employee pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. (d) No corporation which is a subsidiary shall be eligible to receive or hold a casino license unless each holding and intermediary company with respect thereto: (1) If it is a corporation, shall comply with the provisions of subsection (c) of this section as if said holding or intermediary company were itself applying for a casino license; provided, however, that the Commission with the concurrence of the director may waive compliance with the provisions of subsection (c) of this section on the part of a publicly-traded corporation which is a holding company as to any officer, director, lender, underwriter, agent or employee thereof, or person directly or indirectly holding a beneficial interest or ownership of the securities of such corporation, where the Commission and the director are satisfied that such officer, director, lender, underwriter, agent or employee is not significantly involved in the activities of the corporate licensee, and in the case of security in the activities of the corporate licensee, and in the case of security holders, does not have the ability to control the publicly-traded corporation or elect one or more directors thereof; or (2) If it is not a corporation, shall comply with the provisions of subsection (e) of this section as if said company were itself applying for a casino license. (e) Any non-corporate applicant for a casino license shall provide the information required in subsection (a) of this section in such form as may be required by the Commission. No such applicant shall be eligible to hold a casino license unless each person who directly or indirectly holds any beneficial interest or ownership in the applicant, or who in the opinion of the Commission has the ability to control the applicant, or whom the Commission may consider appropriate for approval or qualification, would, but for residence, individually be qualified for approval as a casino key employee pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. (f) Notwithstanding the provision of subsections (c) and (d) of this section, and in the absence of a prima facie showing by the Director that there is any cause to believe that the institutional investor may be found unqualified, an institutional investor holding either (1) under 10% of the equity securities of a casino licensee's holding or intermediary companies, or (2) debt securities of a casino licensee's holding or intermediary companies, or another subsidiary company of a casino licensee's holding or intermediary companies which is related in any way to the financing of the casino licensee, where the securities represent a percentage of the outstanding debt of the company not exceeding 20%, or a percentage of any issue of the outstanding debt of the company not exceeding 50%, shall be granted a waiver of qualification if such securities are those of a publicly traded corporation and its holdings of such securities were purchased for investment purposes only and upon request by the Commission it files with the Commission a certified statement to the effect that it has no intention of influencing or affecting the affairs of the issuer, the casino licensee or its holding or intermediary companies; provided, however, that it shall be permitted to vote on matters put to the vote of the outstanding security holders. The Commission may grant a waiver of qualification to an institutional investor holding a higher percentage of such securities upon a showing of good cause and if the conditions specified above are met. Any institutional investor granted a waiver under this subsection which subsequently determines to influence or affect the affairs of the issuer shall provide not less than thirty (30) days notice of such intent and shall file with the Commission an application for qualification before taking any action that may influence or affect the affairs of the issuer; provided, however, that it shall be permitted to vote on matters put to the vote of the outstanding security holders. If an institutional investor changes its investment intent, or if the Commission finds reasonable cause to believe that the institutional investor may be found unqualified, no action other than divestiture shall be taken by such investor with respect to its security holdings until there has been compliance with the provisions of section 447 of this title, including the execution of a trust agreement. The casino licensee and its relevant holding, intermediary or subsidiary company shall immediately notify the Commission and the Division of any information about, or actions of, an institutional investor holding its equity or debt securities where such information or action may impact upon the eligibility of such institutional investor for a waiver pursuant to this subsection. (g) If at any time the Commission finds that an institutional investor holding any security of a holding or intermediary company of a casino licensee, or, where relevant, of another subsidiary company of a holding or relevant, of another subsidiary company of a holding or intermediary company of a casino licensee which is related in any way to the financing of the casino licensee, fails to comply with the terms of subsection (f) of this section, or if at any time the Commission finds that, by reason of the extent or nature of its holdings, an institutional investor is in a position to exercise such a substantial impact upon the controlling interests of a licensee that qualification of the institutional investor is necessary to protect the public interest, the Commission may, in accordance with the provisions of subsections (a) through (e) of this section or subsections (d) and (e) of section 464 of this title, take any necessary action to protect the public interest, including requiring such an institutional investor to be qualified pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. (h) To obtain a casino license, each publicly-held corporate casino license applicant, shall agree to earmark 10% of its stock offering for an employee stock ownership plan. (i) The University of the Virgin Islands, the St. Croix Vocational School, or any other accredited educational facility shall provide training to resident workers in every facet of casino operations in order to prepare the people of the Virgin Islands to participate in the best financial opportunities to be derived from this chapter. Legalized casino gaming shall not be permitted in the territory until resident workers have been trained and qualified to assume jobs at all levels within casino and casino hotel operations in the Virgin Islands. Successful casino operations in the Virgin Islands is dependent upon a marriage between complete training and guaranteed hiring of the resident work force. Eighty (80) percent of the employees at all levels of each casino or casino hotel licensee shall be residents of the Virgin Islands. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(49), Sess. L. 1997, p. 11; Dec. 2, 1999, No. 6333, § 11, Sess. L. 1999, p. 186.

The Commission shall deny a casino license to any applicant who is disqualified on the basis of any of the following criteria: (a) Failure of the applicant to prove by clear and convincing evidence that the applicant is qualified in accordance with the provisions of this chapter; (b) Failure of the applicant to provide information, documentation and assurances required by the chapter or requested by the Commission, or failure of the applicant to reveal any fact material to qualification, or the supplying of information which is untrue or misleading as to a material fact pertaining to the qualification criteria; (c) The conviction of the applicant, or of any person required to be qualified under this chapter as a condition of a casino license, of any offense in any jurisdiction which would be: (1) Any of the following offenses under the "Virgin IslVirgin Islands Codeed and supplemented included but not limited to Title 14 oTitle 14ode all crimes of the first degree; 14 V.I.C., chapter 15 (attempt to commit an offense which is listed in this subsection); 14 V.I.C., chapter 27 (conspiracy to commit an offense which is listed in this subsection); 14 V.I.C., sections 924 and 925 (manslaughter); 14 V.I.C., section 298 (aggravated assault); 14 V.I.C., chapter 53 (kidnapping); 14 V.I.C. 1702, 1703, and 1709, (sexual offenses which constitute crimes of the second or third degree); 14 V.I.C., chapter 93 (robberies); 14 V.I.C., chapter 11 (involving arson and related offenses); 14 V.I.C., chapter 91 (causing or risking widespread injury or damage); 14 V.I.C., section 443 (burglary which constitutes a crime of the second degree); 14 V.I.C., chapter 55 (theft, petty and grand larceny or third degree); 14 V.I.C., chapter 39 (forgery and fraudulent practices), to include counterfeiting; 14 V.I.C., chapter 89 (falsifying or tampering with records); 9 V.I.C. 126 (receiving deposits in a failing financial institution); 19 V.I.C., chapter 29 (manufacturing, distributing or dispensing a controlled dangerous substance or a controlled dangerous substance analog which constitutes a crime of the second or third degree); 19 V.I.C., chapter 29 (employing a juvenile in a drug distribution scheme); 19 V.I.C., chapter 29 (distribution, possession or manufacture of imitation controlled dangerous substances); 19 V.I.C., chapter 29 (acquisition of controlled dangerous substances by fraud); 14 V.I.C., chapter 61 (gambling offenses which constitute crimes of third or fourth degree); 14 V.I.C., chapter 29 (possession of a gambling device); or (2) Any other offense under present United States Virgin Islands or federal law which indicates that licensure of the applicant would be inimical to the policy of this chapter and to casino operations; provided, however, that the automatic disqualification provisions of this subsection shall not apply with regard to any conviction which did not occur within the 10-year period immediately preceding application for licensure and which the applicant demonstrates by clear and convincing evidence does not justify automatic disqualification pursuant to this subsection and any conviction which has been the subject of a judicial order of expungement or sealing; (d) Current prosecution or pending charges in any jurisdiction of the applicant or of any person who is required to be qualified under this chapter as a condition of a casino license, for any of the offenses enumerated in subsection (c) of this section; provided, however, that at the request of the applicant or the person charged, the Commission shall defer decision upon such application during the pendency of such charge; (e) The pursuit by the applicant or any person who is required to be qualified under this chapter as a condition of a casino license of economic gain in an occupational manner or context which is in violation of the criminal or civil public policies of the Government, if such pursuit creates a reasonable belief that the participation of such person in casino operations would be inimical to the policies of this chapter or to legalized gaming in the Virgin Islands. For purposes of this section, occupational manner or context shall be defined as the systematic planning, administration, management, or execution of an activity for financial gain; (f) The identification of the applicant or any person who is required to be qualified under this chapter as a condition of a casino license as a career offender or a member of a career offender cartel or an associate of a career offender or career offender cartel in such a manner which creates a reasonable belief that the association is of such a nature as to be inimical to the policy of this chapter and to gaming operations. For purposes of this section, career offender shall be defined as any person whose behavior is pursued in an occupational manner or context for the purpose of economic gain, utilizing such methods as are deemed criminal violations of the public policy of the Virgin Islands. A career offender cartel shall be defined as any group of persons who operate together as career offenders; (g) The commission by the applicant or any person who is required to be qualified under this chapter as a condition of a casino license of any act or acts which would constitute any offense under subsection (c) of this section, even if such conduct has not been or may not be prosecuted under the criminal laws of the Virgin Islands or any other jurisdiction or has been prosecuted under the criminal laws of the Virgin Islands or any other jurisdiction and such prosecution has been terminated in a manner other than with a conviction; and (h) Contumacious defiance by the applicant or any person who is required to be qualified under this chapter or any legislative investigatory body or other official investigatory body of any territory, state or of the United States when such body is engaged in the investigation of crimes relating to gaming, official corruption, or organized crime activity. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

Or Denying License - Requirement to Begin Casino Project Within Six (6) Months of Approval (a) Upon the filing of an application for a casino license and such supplemental information as the Commission may require, the Commission shall request the Division to conduct such investigation into the qualification of the applicant, and the Commission shall conduct a hearing thereon concerning the qualification of the applicant in accordance with its regulations. (b) After such investigation and hearing, the Commission may either deny the application or grant a casino license to an applicant whom it determines to be qualified to hold such license. (c) The Commission shall have the authority to deny any application pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. When an application is denied, the Commission shall prepare and file an order denying such application with the general reasons therefor, and if required by the applicant, shall further prepare and file a statement of the reasons for the denial, including the specific findings of facts. (d) After an application is submitted to the Commission, final action of the Commission shall be taken within 90 days after completion of all hearings and investigations and the receipt of all information required by the Commission. (e) If satisfied that an applicant is qualified to receive a casino license, and upon tender of all license fees and taxes as required by law and regulations of the Commission, and such bonds as the Commission may require for the faithful performance of all requirement imposed by law or regulations, the Commission shall issue a casino license for the term of 1 year. (f) The Commission shall fix the amount of the bond or bonds to be required under this section in such amounts as it may deem appropriate, by rules of uniform application. The bonds so furnished may be applied by the Commission to the payment of any unpaid liability of the licensee under this chapter. The bond shall be furnished in cash or negotiable securities, by a surety bond guaranteed by a satisfactory guarantor, or by an irrevocable letter of credit issued by a banking institution of the United States Virgin Islands acceptable to the Commission. If furnished in cash or negotiable securities, the principal shall be placed without restriction at the disposal of the Commission, but any income shall inure to the benefit of the licensee. (g) Within six (6) months of obtaining all necessary licenses, permits and all other requirements needed to proceed with the construction and operation of the casino hotel or horse racetrack casino, the casino licensee shall commence and continue substantial construction of the casino hotel or horse racetrack casino. In the event construction has not commenced within the time period required by this section, the Commission, after submittal of an application by the casino licensee for an extension, and after investigation and hearing, may grant an extension of six (6) months within which construction must begin. (h) After the expiration of the six (6) month extension period, if the casino licensee has not commenced substantial construction of the casino hotel or horse racetrack casino, the Commission shall automatically suspend the license of the casino licensee to operate a casino on St. Croix. The casino licensee shall be entitled to a hearing to show reasonable cause as to why the delay is justified. Should the Commission find reasonable cause exists to justify delay, an additional three (3) month extension may be granted, during which time construction must commence. If at the hearing no reasonable cause is found to justify the casino licensee's delay, the Commission shall immediately rescind the casino licensee's license to operate a casino on St. Croix. (i) If, after being granted the additional three (3) month period, the casino licensee still has not commenced construction of the casino hotel or horse racetrack casino by the expiration of the extension period, the Commission shall automatically rescind the license of the casino licensee to operate a casino on St. Croix. A casino licensee whose license has been revoked as a result of non-compliance with the provisions of subsections (g), (h) and (i) of this section shall from thereon be precluded from filing an application for the operation of a casino hotel or horse racetrack casino in the Virgin Islands. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended May 10, 2010, No. 7169, § 5(c), Sess. L. 2010, p. 67; Oct. 27, 2011, No. 7318, § 3(2.)(c)(iii), Sess. L. 2011, p. 265.

(a) Subject to the power of the Commission to deny, revoke, or suspend licenses, any casino license in force shall be renewed by the Commission for the next succeeding license period upon proper application for renewal and payment of license fees and taxes as required by law and the regulations of the Commission. The license period for a renewed casino license shall be up to two years for each of the first two renewal periods succeeding the initial issuance of a casino license pursuant to section 439 of this title. Thereafter, the renewal periods shall be up to four years each, but the Commission may reopen licensing hearings at any time. In addition, the Commission shall reopen licensing hearings at any time at the request of the Division of Gaming Enforcement in the Department of Justice. (b) Application for renewal shall be filed with the Commission no later than 120 days prior to the expiration of the current license, and all license fees and taxes as required by law shall be paid to the Commission on or before the date of expiration of the current license. (c) Upon renewal of any license the Commission shall issue an appropriate renewal certificate or validating device or sticker which shall be attached to each casino license. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, §§ 4(50, 51), Sess. L. 1997, p. 11.

(a) No person may be employed as a casino key employee unless he is the holder of a valid casino key employee license issued by the Commission. (b) Each applicant must, prior to the issuance of any casino key employee license, produce information, documentation and assurances concerning the following qualification criteria: (1) Each applicant for a casino key employee license shall produce such information, documentation and assurances as may be required to establish by clear and convincing evidence the financial stability, integrity and responsibility of the applicant, including but not limited to bank references, business and personal income and disbursements schedules, tax returns and other reports filed with governmental agencies, and business and personal accounting and check records and ledgers. In addition, each applicant shall, in writing, authorize the examination of all bank accounts and records as may be deemed necessary by the Commission or the Division. (2) Each applicant for a casino key employee license shall produce such information, documentation and assurances as may be required by the Commission to establish by clear and convincing evidence the applicant's good character, honesty and integrity. Such information shall include, without limitation, data pertaining to family, habits, character, reputation, criminal and arrest record, business activities, financial affairs, and business, professional and personal associates, covering at least the 10-year period immediately preceding the filing of the application. Each applicant shall notify the Commission of any civil judgments obtained against such applicant pertaining to antitrust or security regulation laws of the federal government, of the Virgin Islands or any other state, jurisdiction, province or country. In addition, each applicant shall, upon request of the Commission or the Division, produce letters of reference from law enforcement agencies having jurisdiction in the applicant's place of residence and principal place of business, which letter of reference shall indicate that such law enforcement agencies do not have any pertinent information concerning the applicant, or if such law enforcement agency does have information pertaining to the applicant, shall specify what that information is. If the applicant has been associated with gaming or casino operations in any capacity, position or employment in a jurisdiction which permits such activity, the applicant shall, upon request of the Commission or Division, produce letters of reference from the gaming or casino enforcement or control agency, which shall specify the experience of such agency with the applicant, his associates and his participation in the gaming operations of that jurisdiction; provided, however, that if no such letters are received from the appropriate law enforcement agencies within 60 days of the applicants request therefor, the applicant may submit a statement under oath that he is or was during the period such activities were conducted in good standing with such gaming or casino enforcement or control agency. (3) Each applicant shall be a resident of the Virgin Islands prior to the issuance of a casino key employee license; provided, however, that upon petition by the holder of a casino license, the Commission may waive this residency requirement for any applicant whose particular position will require him to be employed outside the Virgin Islands. The Commission may also, by regulation, require that all applicants for casino key employee licenses be residents of the Virgin Islands for a period not to exceed six months immediately prior to the issuance of such license, but application may be made prior to the expiration of the required period of residency. The Commission shall, by resolution, waive the required residency period for an applicant only upon a showing of good cause. (c) [Deleted] (d) The Commission shall deny a casino key employee license to any applicant who is disqualified on the basis of the criteria contained in section 438 of this title. (e) Upon petition by the holder of a casino license, the Commission may, issue a temporary license to an applicant for a casino key employee license, provided that: (1) The applicant for the casino key employee license has filed a complete application as required by the Commission; (2) The Division either certifies to the Commission that the complete casino key employee license application as specified in paragraph (1) of thiparagraph (1)has been in the possession of the Division for at least 15 days or agrees to allow the Commission to consider the application in some lesser time; (3) The petition for a temporary casino key employee license certifies, and the Commission finds, that an existing casino key employee position of the petitioner is vacant or will become vacant within 60 days of the date of the petition and that the issuance of a temporary key employee license is necessary to fill the said vacancy on an emergency basis to continue the efficient operation of the casino, and that such circumstances are extraordinary and not designed to circumvent the normal licensing procedures of this chapter; (4) The Division does not object to the issuance of the temporary casino key employee license; In the event that an applicant for a casino key employee license is the holder of a valid casino employee license issued pursuant to section 442 of this title, and if the provisions of paragraphs (1), (2), and (4) of this subsection are satisfied, the Commission may issue a temporary casino key employee license upon petition by the holder of a casino license, if the Commission finds the issuance of a casino key employee license will be delayed by necessary investigations and the said temporary casino key employee license is necessary for the operation of the casino. Unless otherwise terminated pursuant to this chapter, any temporary casino key employee license issued pursuant to this subsection shall expire nine months from the date of its issuance. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(52-57), Sess. L. 1997, p. 11.

(a) No person may commence employment as a casino employee unless he is the holder of a valid casino employee license. (b) Any applicant for a casino employee license must, prior to the issuance of any such license, produce sufficient information, documentation and assurances to meet the qualification criteria, including the Virgin Islands residency, contained in subsection (b) of section 441 of this title and any additional residency requirement imposed under subsection (c) of this section. (c) The Commission may, by regulation, require that all applicants for casino employee licenses be residents of the Virgin Islands for a period not to exceed six months immediately prior to the issuance of such license, but application may be made prior to the expiration of the required period of residency. The Commission shall, by resolution, waive the required residency period for an applicant only upon a showing of good cause. (d) The Commission shall deny a casino employee license to any applicant who is disqualified on the basis of the criteria contained in section 438 of this title. (e) For the purpose of this section, casino security employees shall be considered casino employees and must, in addition to any requirements under other laws, be licensed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. (f) Upon petition by the holder of a casino license a temporary license may be issued by the Commission to an applicant for an employee license provided that: (1) The applicant for the casino employee license has filed a complete application as required by the commission; (2) The division either certifies through the commission that the completed casino employee license application as specified in paragraph (1) of thiparagraph (1)has been in the possession of the division for at least 15 days or agrees to allow the commission to consider the application in some lesser time; (3) The petition for a temporary casino license certifies, and the commission finds that the issuance of a plenary license will be restricted by necessary investigations, and the temporary licensing of the applicant is necessary for the operation of the casino is not designed to circumvent the normal licensing procedures; and (4) The division does not object to the issuance of a temporary casino employee license. Unless otherwise terminated pursuant to this chapter, a temporary license issued pursuant to this subsection shall expire six (6) months from the date of its issuance and be renewable, at the discretion of the commission, for one additional six (6) month period. (g) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (e) of this section, no applicant shall be denied a casino employee license on the basis of a conviction of any of the offenses enumerated in this chapter as disqualification criteria or the Commission of any act or acts which would constitute any offense under subsection (c) of section 438 of this title, as specified in subsection (g) of that section; provided that the applicant has affirmatively demonstrated his rehabilitation. In determining whether the applicant has affirmatively demonstrated his rehabilitation the Commission shall consider the following factors: (1) The nature and duties of the position applied for: (2) The nature and seriousness of the offense or conduct; (3) The circumstances under which the offense or conduct occurred; (4) The date of the offense or conduct; (5) The age of the applicant when the offense or conduct was committed; (6) Whether the offense or conduct was an isolated or repeated incident; (7) Any social conditions which may have contributed to the offense or conduct; (8) Any evidence of rehabilitation, including good conduct in prison or in the community, counseling or psychiatric treatment received, acquisition of additional academic or vocational schooling, successful participation in correctional work-release programs, or the recommendation of persons who have or have had the applicant under their supervision. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(58-61), Sess. L. 1997, p. 12.

(a) No person may commence employment as a casino service employee, unless that person has been registered with the Commission, which registration shall be in accordance with subsection (f) of this section. (b) Any applicant for casino service employee registration shall produce such information as the Commission may require. Subsequent to the registration of a casino service employee, the Commission may revoke, suspend, limit, or otherwise restrict the registration upon a finding that the registrant is disqualified on the basis of the criteria contained in section 438 of this title. (c) The Commission may, by regulation, require that all applicants for casino service employee registration be residents of the Virgin Islands for a period not to exceed six months immediately prior to such registration, but application may be made prior to the expiration of the required period of residency. The Commission shall waive the required residency period for an applicant only upon a showing of good cause. (d) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (b) of this section no casino service employee registration shall be revoked on the basis of a conviction of any of the offenses enumerated in this chapter as disqualification criteria or the commission of any act or acts which would constitute any offense under subsection (c) of section 438, as specified in subsection (g) of that section provided that the registrant has affirmatively demonstrated the registrant's rehabilitation. In determining whether the registrant has affirmatively demonstrated the registrant's rehabilitation the Commission shall consider the following factors: (1) The nature and duties of the registrant's position; (2) The nature and seriousness of the offense or conduct; (3) The circumstances under which the offense or conduct occurred; (4) The date of the offense or conduct; (5) The age of the registrant when the offense or conduct was committed; (6) Whether the offense or conduct was an isolated or repeated incident; (7) Any social conditions which may have contributed to the offense or conduct; (8) Any evidence of rehabilitation, including good conduct in prison or in the community, counseling or psychiatric treatment received, acquisition of additional academic or vocational schooling, successful participation in correctional work-release programs, or the recommendation of persons who have or have had the registrant under their supervision. (e) The Commission may waive any disqualification criterion for a casino service employee consistent with the public policy of this chapter and upon a finding that the interests of justice so require. (f) Upon petition by the holder of a casino license, casino service employee registration shall be granted to each applicant for casino service employee registration named therein, provided that the petition certifies that each such applicant has filed a completed application for casino service employee registration as required by the Commission. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(62), Sess. L. 1997, p. 13.

(a) (1) All casino service industries offering goods or services which directly relate to casino or gaming activity, including gaming, internet gaming and internet gambling and simulcast wagering equipment manufacturers, suppliers and repairers, schools teaching gaming and either playing or dealing techniques, and casino security services, shall be licensed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter prior to conducting any business whatsoever with a casino applicant or licensee, its employees or agents, and in the case of a school, prior to enrollment of any students or offering of any courses to the public whether for compensation or not; provided, however, that upon a showing of good cause by a casino applicant or licensee for each business transaction, the Commission may permit an applicant for a casino service industry license to conduct business transactions with such casino applicant or licensee prior to the licensure of that service industry applicant under this subsection. (2) In addition to the requirements of paragraph (1) of this subsection, any casino service industry intending to manufacture, sell, distribute or repair slot machines within the Virgin Islands, other than slot machines manufactured prior to 1941 shall be licensed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter prior to engaging in any such activities; provided, however, that upon a showing of good cause by a casino applicant or licensee for each business transaction, the Commission may permit an applicant for a casino service industry license to conduct business transactions with the casino applicant or licensee prior to the licensure of that service industry applicant under this subsection; and provided further, however, that upon a showing of good cause by an applicant required to be licensed as a casino service industry pursuant to this paragraph, the Commission may permit the service industry applicant to initiate the manufacture of slot machines or engage in the sale, distribution or repair of slot machines with any person other than a casino applicant or licensee, its employees or agents, prior to the licensure of that service industry applicant under this subsection. (b) Each casino service industry in subsection (a) of this section, as well as its owners, management and supervisory personnel and other principal employees must qualify under the standards, except residency, established for qualification of a casino key employee under this chapter. In addition, if the business or enterprise is a school teaching gaming and either playing or dealing techniques, each resident director, instructor, principal employee, and sales representative employed thereby shall be licensed under the standards established for qualification of a casino employee under this chapter; provided, however, that nothing in this subsection shall be deemed to require, in the case of a public school district or a public institution of higher education, the licensure or qualification of any individuals except those instructors and other principal employees responsible for teaching of playing or dealing techniques. The Commission, in its discretion, may issue a temporary license to an applicant for an instructor's license upon a finding that the applicant meets the educational and experiential requirements for such license, that the issuance of a permanent license will be restricted by necessary investigations, and that temporary licensing is necessary for the operation of the gaming school. Unless otherwise terminated pursuant to this chapter, a temporary license issued pursuant to this subsection shall expire six months from the date of its issuance and be renewable, at the discretion of the Commission, for one additional six-month period. (c) All casino service industries not included in subsection (a) of this section shall be licensed in accordance with rules of the Commission prior to commencement or continuation of any business with a casino applicant or licensee or its employees or agents. Such casino service industries, whether or not directly related to gaming operations, shall include suppliers of alcoholic beverages, food and nonalcoholic beverages; garbage handlers; vending machine providers; linen suppliers; maintenance companies; shopkeepers located within the approved hotels; limousine services and construction companies contracting with casino applicants or licensees or their employees or agents. The Commission may exempt any person or field of commerce from the licensing requirements of this subsection if the person or field of commerce demonstrates (1) that it is regulated by a public agency or that it will provide goods or services in insubstantial or insignificant amounts or quantities, and (2) that licensing is not deemed necessary in order to protect the public interest or to accomplish the policies established by this chapter. Upon granting an exemption or at any time thereafter, the Commission may limit or place such restrictions thereupon as it may deem necessary in the public interest, and shall require the exempted person to cooperate with the Commission and the Division and, upon request, to provide information in the same manner as required of a casino service industry licensed pursuant to this subsection; provided, however, that no exemption be granted unless the casino service industry complies with the requirements of sections 506 and 507 of this title. (d) Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this section, those casino service industry license applicants, who at the time of application for a license to operate a hotel/casino service industry in the Virgin Islands, are holders of a casino service industry license from another regulated casino jurisdiction in the United States, and who present verified and certified documentation from that jurisdiction that they are a licensee in good standing for two consecutive years prior to the application to operate a hotel/casino service industry in the Virgin Islands, may be deemed to be eligible for licensure in accordance with the above provisions of this section, provided that the requirements of subsection (e) and all other applicable local requirements for licensure are met. (e) Licensure pursuant to subsection (c) of this section of any casino service industry may be denied to any applicant disqualified in accordance with the criteria contained in section 438 of this title. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 6(b), Sess. L. 1997, p. 23; Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 6, Sess. L. 2001, p. 103.

(a) Each labor organization, union or affiliate seeking to represent employees licensed or registered under this chapter and employed by a casino hotel or a casino licensee shall register with the Commission annually, and shall disclose such information to the Commission as the Commission may require, including the names of all affiliated organizations, pension and welfare systems and all officers and agents of such organizations and systems; provided, however, that no labor organization, union, or affiliate shall be required to furnish such information to the extent such information is included in a report filed by any labor organization, union, or affiliate with the Secretary of Labor pursuant to 29 U.S.C., section431 et seq. or section 1001 et seq. if a copy of such report, or of the portion thereof containing such information, is furnished to the Commission pursuant to the aforesaid federal provisions. The Commission may in its discretion exempt any labor organization, union, or affiliate from the registration requirements of this subsection where the Commission finds that such organization, union or affiliate is not the certified bargaining representative of any employee licensed or registered under this chapter, is not involved actively, directly or substantially in the control or direction of the representation of any such employee, and is not seeking to do so. (b) No person may act as an officer, agent or principal employee of a labor organization, union or affiliate registered or required to be registered pursuant to this section and representing or seeking to represent employees licensed or registered under this chapter if the person has been found disqualified by the Commission in accordance with the criteria contained in section 438 of this title. The Commission may, for purposes of this subsection, waive any disqualification criterion consistent with the public policy of this chapter and upon a finding that the interests of justice so require. (c) Neither a labor organization, union or affiliate nor its officers and agents not otherwise individually licensed or registered under this chapter and employed by a casino licensee may hold any financial interest whatsoever in the casino hotel or casino licensee whose employees they represent. (d) Any person, including any labor organization, union or affiliate, who shall violate, aid and abet the violation, or conspire or attempt to violate this section is guilty of a felony. (e) The Commission or the Division may maintain a civil action and proceed in a summary manner, without posting bond, against any person, including any labor organization, union or affiliate, to compel compliance with this section, or to prevent any violations, the aiding and abetting thereof, or any attempt or conspiracy to violate this section. (f) In addition to any other remedies provided in this section, a labor organization, union or affiliate registered or required to be registered pursuant to this section and representing or seeking to represent employees licensed or registered under this chapter may be prohibited by the Commission from receiving any dues from any employee licensed or registered under this chapter and employed by a casino licensee or its agent, if any officer, agent or principal employee of the labor organization, union or affiliate has been found disqualified and if such disqualification has not been waived by the Commission in accordance with subsection (b) of this section. The Commission or the Division may proceed in the manner provided by subsection (e) of this section to enforce an order of the Commission prohibiting the receipt of dues. (g) Nothing contained in this section shall limit the power of the Commission to proceed in accordance with subsection (c) of section 467 of this title. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

Casino Licenses (a) Upon the filing of an application for any license or registration required by this chapter, other than a casino license, and after submission of such supplemental information as the Commission may require, the Commission shall request the Division to conduct such investigation into the qualification of the applicant, and the Commission shall conduct such hearings concerning the qualification of the applicant, in accordance with its regulations, as may be necessary to determine qualification for such license or registration. (b) After such investigation, accept the registration of an applicant whom it determines to be qualified to hold such license or registration. (c) The Commission shall have the authority to deny an application pursuant to the provisions of this chapter. When an application is denied, the Commission shall prepare and file its order denying such application with the general reasons therefor, and if requested by the applicant, shall further prepare and file a statement of the reasons for the denial, including the specific findings of fact. (d) When the Commission grants an application, the Commission may limit or place such restrictions thereupon as it may deem necessary in the public interest. A casino hotel employee registration shall, upon issuance, remain in effect unless revoked, suspended, limited, or otherwise restricted by the Commission. Licenses may be granted and renewed as follows: (1) All casino employee licenses, gaming school resident director, instructor, principal employee and sales representative licenses, casino service industry licenses issued pursuant to subsection (c) of section 444 of this title, and junket representative and junket enterprise licenses issued pursuant to section 461 of this title shall be issued for an initial term of three years, and may be renewed for subsequent terms of four years each; and (2) All casino key employee licenses and casino service industry licenses required pursuant to subsection (a) of section 447 of this title shall be issued for an initial term of two years, and may be renewed for subsequent terms of two years each. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Commission shall reconsider the granting of any license or the approval of any registration at any time at the request of the Division. (e) After an application is submitted to the Commission, final action of the Commission shall be taken within 90 days after completion of all hearings and investigations and the receipt of all information required by the Commission. (f) Subject to the power of the Commission to deny, revoke or suspend any license or registration, any license other than a casino license or any registration may be renewed upon proper application for renewal and the payment of fees in accordance with the rules of the Commission, but in no event later than the date of expiration of the current license or registration. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, whenever any person contracts to transfer any property relating to an ongoing casino operation, including a security holding in a casino licensee or holding or intermediary company, under circumstances which require that the transferee obtain casino licensure under section 434 of this title or qualification under section 436 or 437 of this title, the contract shall not specify a closing or settlement date which is earlier than the 121st day after the submission of a completed application for licensure or qualification, which application shall include a fully executed and approved trust agreement in accordance with section 449 of this title. Any contract provision which specifies an earlier closing or settlement date shall be void for all purposes. Subsequent to the earlier of the report of the Division on interim authorization or the 90th day after the timely submission of the completed application, but no later than the closing or settlement date, the Commission shall hold a hearing and render a decision on the interim authorization of the applicant. If the Commission grants interim authorization, then, subject to the provisions of sections 447 through 451 of this title the closing or settlement may occur without interruption of the casino operations. If the Commission denies interim authorization, there shall be no closing or settlement until the Commission makes a determination on the qualification of the applicant, and if the Commission then denies qualification the contract shall thereby be terminated for all purposes without liability on the part of the transferor. (b) Whenever any person, as a result of a transfer of publicly-traded securities of a casino licensee or a holding or intermediary company or a financing entity of a casino licensee, is required to qualify under section 436 or 437 of this title, the person shall, within 30 days after the Commission determines that qualification is required or declines to waive qualification under section 434, under paragraph (1) of subsection (d) of section 437 or under subsection (f) of section 437, or within such additional time as the Commission may for good cause allow, file a completed application for such licensure or qualification, which application shall include a fully executed and approved trust agreement in accordance with section 449, or in the alternative, such person, within 120 days after the Commission determines that qualification is required or a waiver of qualification is denied, shall divest such securities as the Commission may require in order to remove the need for qualification. If such person determines to divest such securities, notice of such determination shall be filed with the Commission within 30 days after the Commission determines the qualification is required or that a waiver of qualification is denied. No extension of the time for filing a completed application shall be granted unless the person submits a written acknowledgment of the jurisdiction of the Commission and the obligations imposed by this chapter. If a person required by this section to file an application fails to do so in a timely manner, such failure shall constitute a per se disqualification to continue to act as a security holder, and the Commission shall take appropriate action under this chapter. If a person required by this section to file an application does so in a timely manner, then, subsequent to the earlier of the report of the Division on interim authorization or the 90th day after submission of the completed application, but not later than the 120th day after such submission, the Commission shall hold a hearing and render a decision on the interim authorization of such person. The pendency of proceedings under this subsection shall not prevent the renewal of a casino license under section 440 of this title, so long as any person required by this subsection to file an application has complied with this subsection and has otherwise complied with this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

Authorization (a) The Commission may grant interim authorization where it finds by clear and convincing evidence (1) that statements of compliance have been issued pursuant to sections 433, 434(c), (d) and (e), 436(e) and 506 of this title; (2) that the casino hotel facility is an approved hotel in accordance with the requirements of section 435 of this title; (3) that the trustee or trustees required by section 449 of this title have satisfied the qualification criteria applicable to a casino key employee, except for residency and casino experience; and (4) that interim operation will best serve the interests of the public with particular reference to the policies and purposes enumerated in this chapter. (b) The Commission's consideration of a request for interim authorization shall include, but not be limited to, consideration of such relevant information as may be presented to it by the Division. In responding to the request and in determining whether to concur, the Division shall not be required to disclose any information the disclosure of which, in its judgment, may prejudice or otherwise compromise any continuing investigation. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) (1) Where the applicant is not required to obtain a casino license, the trust agreement filed pursuant to section 447 of this title shall transfer and convey all of the applicant's present and future right, title and interest in the property described in section 447, including all voting rights in securities, to the trustee. (2) Where the applicant is required to obtain a casino license, the trust agreement filed pursuant to section 447 shall transfer and convey to the trustee, if the applicant is a corporation, all outstanding equity securities of the corporation, and, if the applicant is other than a corporation, all outstanding interest in the applicant. (3) The compensation for the service, costs and expenses of the trustee or trustees shall be stated in the trust agreement and shall be approved by the Commission. (4) The trust agreement filed pursuant to section 447 shall, in all instances, contain such provisions as the Commission may deem necessary and desirable. (b) With respect to applicants described in subsection (b) of section 447, if the Commission denies interim authorization, it shall order that the trust agreement become operative, or take such other action as may be appropriate in accordance with this act. With respect to all applicants under section 447, if the Commission grants interim authorization, it shall thereafter order that the trust agreement become operative at such time as it finds reasonable cause to believe that the applicant or any person required to be qualified in connection with the application may be found unqualified. (c) While the trust agreement remains operative, the trustee shall exercise all rights incident to the ownership of the property subject to the trust, and shall be invested with all powers, authority and duties necessary to the unencumbered exercise of such rights, as provided in sections 492 through 502 of this title, except that the applicant shall have no right to participate in the earnings of the casino hotel or receive any return on its investment or debt security holdings during the time the trust is operative. (d) The trust agreement, once operative, shall remain operative until the Commission finds the applicant qualified, or the Commission finds the applicant unqualified and the property subject to the trust is disposed of in accordance with subsection (e) of section 449 of this title except that the applicant may request the Commission to direct the trustee to dispose of the property subject to the trust, in accordance with that subsection (e), prior to a finding with respect to qualification. If the Commission denies qualification to a person subject to sections 447 through 451 of this title, the trustee shall endeavor and be authorized to sell, assign, convey, or otherwise dispose of all property subject to the trust to such persons as shall be appropriately licensed or qualified or shall obtain interim authorization in accordance with those sections. The disposition of trust property by the trustee shall be completed within 120 days of the denial of qualification, or within such additional time as the Commission may for good cause allow, and shall be conducted in accordance with sections 492 through 502, except that the proceeds of such disposition shall be distributed to the unqualified applicant only in an amount not to exceed the lower of the actual cost of the assets to such unqualified applicant; such assets calculated as if the investment had been made on the date the trust becomes operative, and any excess remaining proceeds shall be paid to the casino revenue fund. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

During the period of interim authorization, the Commission and the Division shall continue such procedures as are provided by this chapter and the regulations promulgated thereunder as may be necessary for a determination of the qualification of the person granted interim authorization. The obligations and responsibilities incumbent upon an applicant, licensee or person required to be qualified are in no way relieved by granting of interim authorization. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

Within nine months after a grant or denial of interim authorization, which period may be extended by the Commission for one three-month period, the Commission shall hold a hearing and render a decision on the qualification of the applicant. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) Notwithstanding the issuance of a license therefor, no casino or simulcasting facility may be opened or remain open to the public, and no gaming or simulcasting wagering activity, except for test purposes, may be conducted therein, unless and until a valid operation certificate has been issued to the casino licensee by the Commission. Such certificate shall be issued by the Commission upon a finding each complies in all respects with the requirements of this chapter and regulations promulgated hereunder, that the casino licensee has implement necessary management controls and security precautions for the efficient operation of the casino, and if applicable, the simulcasting facility, that casino and simulcasting facility personnel are properly trained and licensed for the efficient performance of their respective responsibilities, and that the casino and any applicable simulcasting facility are prepared in all respects to receive and entertain the public. (b) The operation certificate shall include a statement of compliance with subsection (a) of this section and an itemized list by category and number of the authorized games permitted in the particular casino establishment and any applicable simulcasting facility. (c) A casino licensee shall notify the Commission in advance of any proposed change in the number of authorized games to be played in its casino or simulcasting facility, and any changes in the configuration of the casino or simulcasting facility, and shall request the issuance of an operation certificate which permits such changes to occur. The Commission shall issue a revised operation certificate unless it finds that the planned change in authorized games or configuration of facilities does not conform to the requirements of this chapter or regulations promulgated hereunder, or that there has been a change of circumstances in the casino or with respect to the casino licensee materially affecting compliance with subsection (a) of this section. (d) An operation certificate shall remain in force and effect unless altered in accordance with subsection (c) of this section, or revoked, suspended, limited, or otherwise altered by the Commission in accordance with this chapter. (e) It shall be an express condition of continued operation under this chapter that a casino licensee shall maintain all books, records, and documents pertaining to the licensee's operations, including casino simulcasting, and approved hotel in a manner and location within the Virgin Islands approved by the Commission. All such books, records and documents shall be immediately available for inspection during all hours of operation in accordance with the rules of the Commission and shall be maintained for a period of seven years or such other period of time as the Commission shall require. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) No casino licensed pursuant to this chapter shall operate between the hours of 4 a.m. and 10 a.m., except that the Commission may extend the hours of operation, up to and including 24 hours of operation on any Saturday, Territorial, or Federal holiday, or on any day that an extension of the operating hours would, in the judgment of the Casino Commission, have an economic impact on the casino industry or on tourism on St. Croix which would justify the extension of those hours. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a casino at the horse racetrack in St. Croix may not operate more than 14 hours within a 24-hour period. In making this finding, the Commission shall consider, among other factors: (1) the anticipated volume of visitor, convention or tourist traffic as a result of any scheduled meetings or events; (2) any special promotions or market expansion programs undertaken by the casino industry or others to increase such traffic; or (3) any other basis for the conclusion that an extension of operating hours would, under the circumstances, effect a significant impact on the volume of casino business and thereby on revenues dependent thereupon. Any resolution approving an extension of operating hours shall be considered at a regularly scheduled meeting of the Commission. (b) A casino licensee shall file with the Commission a schedule of hours prior to the issuance of an initial operation certificate. If the casino licensee proposes any change in scheduled hours, such change may not be effected until such licensee files a notice of the new schedule of hours with the Commission. Such filing must be made 30 days prior to the effective date of the proposed change in hours. (c) Nothing herein shall be construed to limit a casino licensee in opening its casino later than, or closing its casino earlier than, the times stated in its schedule of operating hours; provided, however, that any such alterations in its hours shall comply with the provisions of subsection (a) of this section and with regulations of the Commission pertaining to such alterations. (d) No person under the age of twenty-one (21) years of age shall be admitted into, nor be permitted to place any wager in any hotel casino or horse racetrack casino. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended May 10, 2010, No. 7169, § 6(a) (1), (2), Sess. L. 2010, p. 67; Oct. 27, 2011, No. 7318, § 3(2.)(d)(i)(1), (2), Sess. L. 2011, p. 265; amended Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 8(a), Sess. L. 2016, p. 234; amended Apr. 22, 2022, No. 8577, § 2(b)(4), Sess. L. 2022, p. 152.

(a) Each casino licensee shall arrange the facilities of its casino and, if appropriate, its simulcasting facility in such a manner as to promote maximum comfort for the patrons and optimum security for the casino and simulcasting facility operations, and shall comply in all respects with regulations of the Commission pertaining thereto. (b) Each casino shall include: (1) A closed circuit television system according to specifications approved by the Commission, with access on the licensed premises to the system or its signal by the Commission, in accordance with regulations pertaining thereto; (2) One or more rooms or locations approved by the Commission as casino space; and (3) Design specifications that insure that visibility in a casino or in the simulcasting facility is not obstructed in any way that might interfere with the ability of the commission to supervise casino or simulcasting facility operations. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(69-72), Sess. L. 1997, p. 13.

(a) Each casino licensee shall submit to the Commission a description of its system of internal procedures and administrative and accounting controls. Such submission shall be made at least 120 days before gaming operations are to commence or at least 90 days before changes in previously submitted control plans are to become effective, unless otherwise directed by the Commission. Each such submission shall contain both narrative and diagrammatic representations of the internal control systems to be utilized by the casino, including, but not limited to: (1) Accounting controls, including the standardization of forms and definition of terms to be utilized in the gaming and simulcast wagering operations; (2) Procedures, forms, and, where appropriate, formulas covering the calculation of hold percentages, revenue drop, expense and overhead schedules, complimentary services, junkets, cash equivalent transactions, salary structure and personnel practices; (3) Job descriptions and the system of personnel and chain-of-command, establishing a diversity of responsibility among employees engaged in casino or simulcasting facility operations and identifying primary and secondary supervisory positions for areas of responsibility, which areas shall not be so extensive as to be impractical for an individual to monitor; (4) Procedures within the cashier's cage for the receipt, storage and disbursal of chips, cash, and other cash equivalents used in gaming; the cashing of checks; the redemption of chips and other cash equivalents used in gaming; the pay-off of jackpots; and the recording of transactions pertaining to gaming operations; (5) Procedures for the collection and security of moneys at the gaming tables; (6) Procedures for the transfer and recordation of chips between the gaming tables and the cashier's cage and the transfer and recordation of moneys within the simulcasting facility; (7) Procedures for the transfer of moneys from the gaming tables to the counting process and the transfer of moneys within the simulcasting facility for the counting process; (8) Procedures and security for the counting and recordation of revenue; (9) Procedures for the security, storage and recordation of chips and other cash equivalents utilized in the gaming operation; (10) Procedures for the transfer of moneys or chips from and to the slot machines; (11) Procedures and standards for the opening and security of slot machines; (12) Procedures for the payment and recordation of slot machine jackpots; (13) Procedures for the cashing and recordation of checks exchanged by casino patrons; (14) Procedures governing the utilization of the private security force within the casino; (15) Procedures and security standards for the handling and storage of gaming apparatus including cards, dice, machines, wheels and all other gaming equipment; (16) Procedures and rules governing the conduct of particular games and the responsibility of casino personnel in respect thereto; and (17) Procedures for separately recording all transactions pursuant to section 457 of this title involving the Governor, any Territory officer or employee, or any special Territory officer or employee, any member of the Judiciary, any member of the Legislature, or any officer of a municipality or county in which casino gaming is authorized, and for the quarterly filing with the Attorney General of a list reporting all such transactions. If required by regulation of the Commission, each casino licensee shall also submit to the Commission a description of its system of internal procedures and administrative and accounting controls for non-gaming operations and a description of any changes thereto no later than five days after those operations commence or after any change in those operations commence or after any change in those procedures or controls takes effect. (b) The Commission shall review each submission required by subsection (a) of this section, and shall determine whether it conforms to the requirements of this chapter and to the regulations promulgated thereunder and whether the system submitted provides adequate and effective controls for the operations of the particular casino submitting it. If the Commission finds any insufficiencies, it shall specify same in writing to the casino licensee, who shall make appropriate alterations. When the Commission determines a submission to be adequate in all respects, it shall notify the casino licensee of same. No casino licensee shall commence gaming operations, or alter in fact its internal controls, unless and until such system of controls is approved by the Commission. The Commission shall make a determination concerning a submission for changes in previously submitted control plans no later than 90 days following receipt of the submission unless the Commission and the casino licensee agree to extend the period for making such a determination. If there is no determination made within 90 days and there is no agreement to extend the period for making such a determination, then the submission shall be deemed to be approved. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) This chapter shall not be construed to permit any gaming except the conduct of authorized games in a casino room or in a simulcasting facility in accordance with this chapter and the regulations promulgated hereunder. The Commission shall have exclusive jurisdiction over the types of games to be played in hotel casinos or the horse racetrack casino. Nothing in this chapter shall limit the Commission's jurisdiction over the addition of alternative means of gambling, such as off-track betting or simulcasting, but not limited thereto. (b) Gaming equipment shall not be possessed, maintained or exhibited by any person on the premises of a hotel casino or horse racetrack casino complex except in the casino room, in the simulcasting facility, or in restricted casino areas used for the inspection, repair or storage of such equipment and specifically designated for that purpose by the casino licensee with the approval of the Commission. Gaming equipment which supports the conduct of gaming in the casino or simulcasting facility but does not permit or require patron access, such as computers, may be possessed and maintained by a casino licensee in restricted casino areas specifically designated for that purpose by the casino licensee with the approval of the Commission. No gaming equipment shall be possessed, maintained, exhibited, brought into or removed from a casino room or simulcasting facility by any person unless such equipment is necessary to the conduct of an authorized game, has permanently affixed, imprinted, impressed or engraved thereon an identification number or symbol authorized by the Commission, is under the exclusive control of a casino licensee or his employees, and is brought into or removed from the casino room or simulcasting facility at times authorized for that purpose by the Commission or at other times when prior notice has been given to and written approval granted by an authorized agent of the Commission. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a person may, with the prior approval of the Commission and under such terms and conditions as may be required by the Commission, possess, maintain or exhibit gaming equipment in any other area of the casino complex; provided such equipment is used for non-gaming purposes. (c) Each hotel casino or horse racetrack casino shall contain a count room and such other secure facilities as may be required by the Commission for the counting and storage of cash, coins, tokens and checks received in the conduct of gaming and for the inspection, counting and storage of dice, cards, chips and other representatives of value. All drop boxes and other devices wherein cash, coins, or tokens are deposited at the gaming tables or in slot machines, and all areas wherein such boxes and devices are kept while in use, shall be equipped with two locking devices, one key to which shall be under the exclusive control of the Commission and the other under the exclusive control of the casino licensee, and said drop boxes and other devices shall not be brought into or removed from the casino room or simulcasting facility, or locked or unlocked, except at such times, in such places, and according to such procedures as the Commission may require. (d) All chips used in gaming at all casinos shall be of such size and uniform color by denomination as the Commission shall require by regulation. (e) All gaming shall be conducted according to rules promulgated by the Commission. All wagers and pay- offs of winning wagers shall be made according to rules promulgated by the Commission, which shall establish such limitations as may be necessary to assure the vitality of casino operations and fair odds to and maximum participation by casino patrons; provided, however, that a licensee may establish a higher minimum wager with the prior approval of the Commission. Each slot machine shall have a minimum payout of 83%. (f) Each casino licensee shall make available in printed form to any casino patron upon request the complete text of the rules of the Commission regarding games and the conduct of gaming, pay-offs of winning wagers, an approximation of the odds of winning for each wager, and such other advice to player as the Commission shall require. Each casino licensee shall prominently post within the casino room and simulcasting facility, as appropriate according to regulations of the Commission, such information about gaming rules, pay-offs of winning wagers, the odds of winning for each wager, and such other advice to the player as the Commission shall require. (g) Each gaming table shall be equipped with a sign indicating the permissible minimum and maximum wagers pertaining thereto. It shall be unlawful for a casino licensee to require any wager to be greater than the stated minimum or less than the stated maximum; provided, however, that any wager actually made by a patron and not rejected by a casino licensee prior to the commencement of play shall be treated as a valid wager. (h) (1) No slot machine shall be used to conduct gaming unless it is identical in all electrical, mechanical and other aspects to a model thereof which has been specifically tested by the Division or the Division's duly authorized agent and licensed for use by the Commission. The Commission shall, by regulation, establish such technical standards for licensure, including mechanical and electrical reliability, security against tampering, the comprehensibility of wagering, and noise and light levels, as it may deem necessary to protect the player from fraud or deception and to insure the integrity of gaming. The denominations of such machines shall be set the licensee, subject to the prior approval of the Commission. (2) The Commission shall, by regulation determine the permissible number and density of slot machines in a licensed casino so as to: (a) promote optimum security for casino operations; (b) avoid deception or frequent distraction to players at gaming tables; (c) promote the comfort of patrons; (d) create and maintain a gracious playing environment in the casino; and (e) encourage and preserve competition in casino operations by assuring that a variety of gaming opportunities is offered to the public. (i) (1) It shall be unlawful for any person to exchange or redeem chips for anything whatsoever, except currency, negotiable personal checks, negotiable counter checks, other chips, coupons or similar complimentary vouchers distributed pursuant to a program approved by the Commission or maintained pursuant to Commission regulation, or if authorized by regulation of the Commission a valid charge to a credit card account. A casino licensee shall upon the request of any person, redeem that licensee's gaming chips surrendered by that person in any amount over $25.00 with a check drawn upon the licensee's account at any banking institution in the Virgin Islands and made payable to that person. (2) It shall be unlawful for any casino licensee or its agents or employees to employ, contract with, or use any shill or barker to induce any person to enter a casino or simulcasting facility or play at any game or for any purpose whatsoever. (j) It shall be unlawful for a dealer in any authorized game in which cards are dealt to deal cards by hand or other than from a device specifically designed for that purpose. (k) It shall be unlawful for any casino key employee, other than a junket representative, or any person who is required to hold a casino key employee license as a condition of employment or qualification to wager in any casino, or simulcasting facility or any casino employee, other than a bartender, waiter, waitress, or other casino employee who, in the judgment of the Commission, is not directly involved with the conduct of gaming operations, to wager in the casino or simulcasting facility in which the employee is employed or in any other casino which is owned or operated by the same casino licensee. Any casino employee, other than a bartender, waiter, waitress, or other casino employee who, in the judgment of the Commission, is not directly involved with the conduct of gaming operations, must wait at least 30 days following the date that the employee either leaves employment with a casino licensee or is terminated from employment with a casino licensee before the employee may wager or play in the casino or simulcasting facility in which the employee was formerly employed or in any other casino or simulcasting facility on St. Croix which is owned or operated by the same casino licensee. (l) (1) It shall be unlawful for any casino key employee or boxman, floorman, or any other casino employee who shall serve in a supervisory position to solicit or accept, and for any other casino employee to solicit, any tip or gratuity from any player or patron at the casino where he is employed. (2) A dealer may accept tips or gratuities from a patron at the table at which such dealer is conducting play, subject to the provisions of this subsection. All such tips or gratuities shall be immediately deposited in a lockbox reserved for that purpose, accounted for, and placed in a pool for distribution pro rata among the dealers on a weekly basis, with the distribution based upon the number of hours each dealer has worked. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(73), Sess. L. 1997, p. 14; May 10, 2010, No. 7169, § 6(b), Sess. L. 2010, p. 67; Oct. 27, 2011, No. 7318, § 3(2.)(d)(ii), (iii), Sess. L. 2011, p. 265; amended Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 8(b), Sess. L. 2016, p. 234.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, no casino licensee or any person licensed under this chapter, and no person acting on behalf of or under any arrangement with a casino licensee or other person licensed under this chapter, shall: (1) Cash any check, make any loan, or otherwise provide or allow to any person any credit or advance of anything of value or which represents value to enable any person to take part in gaming or simulcasting facility wagers activity as a player; or (2) Release or discharge any debt, either in whole or in part, or make loan which represents any losses incurred by any player in gaming or simulcasting wagers activity, without maintaining a written record thereof in accordance with the rules of the Commission. (b) No casino licensee or any person licensed under this chapter, and no person acting on behalf of or under any arrangement with a casino licensee or other person licensed under this chapter, may accept a check, other than a recognized traveler's check or other cash equivalent from any person to enable such person to take part in gaming or simulcasting wagering activity as a player, or may give cash or cash equivalents in exchange for such check unless: (1) The check is made payable to the casino licensee; (2) The check is dated, but not postdated; (3) The check is presented to the cashier or cashier's representative at a location in the casino approved by the Commission and is exchanged for cash or slot tokens which total an amount equal to the amount for which the check is drawn, or the check is presented to the cashier's representative at a gaming table in exchange for chips which total an amount equal to the amount for which the check is drawn; and (4) The regulations concerning check cashing procedures are observed by the casino licensee and its employees and agents. Nothing in this subsection shall be deemed to preclude the establishment of an account by any person with a casino licensee by a deposit of cash, recognized traveler's check or other cash equivalent, or a check which meets the requirements of subsection (g) of this section, or to preclude the withdrawal, either in whole or in part, of any amount contained in such account. (c) When a casino licensee or other person licensed under this chapter, or any person acting on behalf of or under any arrangement with a casino licensee or other person licensed under this chapter, cashes a check in conformity with the requirements of subsection (b) of this section, the casino licensee shall cause the deposit of such check in a bank for collection or payment within: (1) seven calendar days of the date of the transaction for a check in an amount of $1,000.00 or less; (2) 14 calendar days of the date of the transaction for a check in an amount greater than $1,000.00 but less than or equal to $5,000.00; or (3) 45 calendar days of the date of the transaction for a check in amount greater than $5,000.00. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the drawer of the check may redeem the check by exchanging cash, cash equivalent, chips, or a check which meets the requirements of subsection (g) of this section for the difference between the original check and the cash or chips tendered; or he may issue one check which meets the requirements of subsection (b) of this section in an amount sufficient to redeem two or more checks drawn to the order of the casino licensee. If there has been a partial redemption or a consolidation in conformity with the provisions of this subsection, the newly issued check shall be delivered to a bank for collection or payment within the period herein specified. No casino licensee or any person licensed under this chapter, and no person acting on behalf of or under any arrangement with a casino licensee or other person licensed under this chapter, shall accept any check or series of checks in redemption or consolidation of another check or checks in accordance with this subsection for the purpose of avoiding or delaying the deposit of a check in a bank for collection or payment within the time period prescribed by this subsection. In computing a time period prescribed by this subsection, the last day of the period shall be included unless it is a Saturday, Sunday, or a local or federal holiday, in which event the time period shall run until the next business day. (d) No casino licensee or any other person licensed under this chapter, or any other person acting on behalf of or under any arrangement with a casino licensee or other person licensed under this chapter, shall transfer, convey, or give, with or without consideration, a check cashed in conformity with the requirements of this section to any person other than: (1) The drawer of the check upon redemption or consolidation in accordance with subsection (c) of this section; (2) A bank for collection or payment of the check; or (3) A purchaser of the casino license as approved by the Commission. The limitation on transferability of checks imposed herein shall apply to checks returned by any bank to the casino licensee without full and final payment. (e) No person other than one licensed as a casino key employee or as a casino employee may engage in efforts to collect upon checks that have been returned by banks without full and final payment, except that an attorney-at-law representing a casino licensee may bring action for such collection. (f) Notwithstanding the provisions of any law to the contrary, checks cashed in conformity with the requirements of this chapter shall be valid instruments, enforceable at law in the courts of the Virgin Islands. Any check cashed, transferred, conveyed or given in violation of this chapter shall be invalid and unenforceable for the purposes of collection but shall be included in the calculation of gross revenue pursuant to section 402 of this title. (g) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (b) of this section to the contrary, a casino licensee may accept a check from a person to enable the person to take part in gaming or simulcast wagering activity as a player, or may give cash or cash equivalents in exchange for the check or may accept a check in redemption or partial redemption of a check issued in accordance with subsection (b) of this section, provided that: (1) (a) The check is drawn by a casino licensee pursuant to the provisions of subsection (i) of section 456 of this title or upon a withdrawal of funds from an account established in accordance with the provisions of subsection (b) of this section or is drawn by a casino licensee for winnings from slot machine payoffs, simulcasting wagers or authorized games; (b) The check is issued by a banking institution which is chartered in a country other than the Virgin Islands or the United States, on its account at a federally chartered or territorially chartered bank, and is made payable to "cash", "bearer", a casino licensee, or the person presenting the check, or (c) The check is issued by a banking institution which is chartered in the United States on its account at another at another federal chartered or state-chartered bank is made payable to "cash", "bearer", a casino service licensee, or the person presenting the check, (2) The check is identifiable in a manner approved by the Commission as a check issued for a purpose listed in paragraph (1) of this subsection; (3) The check is dated, but not postdated; (4) The check is presented to the cashier or the cashier's representative by the original payee and its validity is verified by the drawer; and (5) The regulations concerning check cashing procedures are observed by the casino licensee and its employees and agents. No casino licensee shall issue a check for the purpose of making a loan or otherwise providing or allowing any advance or credit to a person to enable the person to take part in gaming activity as a player. (h) (1) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsections (b) and (c) of this section a casino licensee may, at a location outside the casino, accept a personal check or checks from a person for up to $1,500 in exchange for cash or cash equivalents, and may at such locations within the casino as may be permitted by the commission, accept a personal check or checks for up to $1,500 in exchange for cash, cash equivalents, tokens, chips or plaques to enable the person to take part in gaming or simulcast wagering activity as a player provided that: (a) The check is drawn on the patron's bank or brokerage cash management account; (b) The check is for a specific amount; (c) The check is made payable to the casino licensee; (d) The check is dated but not post-dated; (e) The patron's identify is established by examination of one of the following: valid credit card, driver's license, passport, or other form of identification credential which contains at a minimum, the patron's signature; (f) The check is restrictively endorsed "For Deposit Only" to the casino licensee's bank account and deposited on the next banking day following the date of the transaction; and (g) The total amount of personal checks accepted by any one licensee pursuant to this subsection that are outstanding at any time including the current check being submitted does not exceed $1,500. (2) Nothing in paragraph (1) of this subsection shall be construed to limit the authority of the casino licensee to accept and exchange for cash or cash equivalents other than tokens, chips or plaques a check from a patron that is not offered or exchanged in order to enable the patron or anyone else to take part in gaming or simulcast wagering activity as a player, provided that: (a) The patron so certifies; (b) The casino licensee has no reason to believe that the cash equivalents will be used to enable the patron or anyone else to take part in gaming or simulcast wagering activity as a player; (c) The check is not accepted or exchanged in the casino or simulcasting facility; and (d) The casino licensee maintains full documentation of the transaction in accordance with regulations established by the commission. (i) Checks cashed pursuant to the provisions of paragraph (1) of subsection (h) of this section which are subsequently uncollectable may not be deducted from the total of all sums received in calculating gross revenue pursuant to section 402 paragraph (34) of this chapter. (j) A person may request the commission to put that person's name on a list of persons to whom the extension of credit by a casino as provided in this section would prohibited by submitting to the commission the person's name address and date of birth. The person does not need to provide a reason for this request. The commission or the credit department of a casino shall divulge the names on this list to any person or entity other than those provided for in this subsection. If such a person wishes to have that person's named removed from the list, the person shall submit this request to the commission, which shall so inform the credit departments of casinos no later than three days after the submission of the request. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(74), Sess. L. 1997, p. 14; Aug. 27, 1997, No. 6149, § 2(a), Sess. L. 1997, p. 44.

Multiple Transactions No casino licensee or any person licensed under this chapter, and no person acting on behalf of or under any arrangement with a casino licensee or other person licensed under this chapter, shall, in a single transaction during a gaming day, accept cash from a person offered for the purpose of establishing an account when the amount offered totals $10,000.00 or more, unless the person presents proof of his identity and passport identification number if he is not a United States citizen. Multiple currency transactions shall be treated as a single transaction if the casino licensee, person licensed under this chapter, or person acting on behalf of or under any arrangement with a casino licensee or other person licensed under this chapter, has knowledge that the transactions are by or on behalf of one person and result in either cash in or cash out totaling more than $10,000.00 during a gaming day. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

Markers No casino licensee or any person licensed under this chapter, and no person acting on behalf of or under any arrangement with a casino licensee or other person licensed under this chapter shall, in a single transaction during a gaming day, redeem for cash or credit any chips or markers in an amount of $10,000.00 or more or exchange chips for cash in an amount of $10,000.00 or more, from any one person, unless the person seeking to redeem the chips or markers presents proof of his identity and passport identification number if he is not a United States citizen. Multiple currency transactions shall be treated as a single transaction if the casino licensee, person licensed under this chapter, or person acting on behalf of or under any arrangement with a casino licensee or other person licensed under this chapter has knowledge that the transactions are by or on behalf of one person and result in either cash in or cash out totaling more than $10,000.00 during a gaming day. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

No casino licensee or any person licensed under this chapter, and no person acting on behalf of or under any arrangement with a casino licensee or other person licensed under this chapter, who accept cash or redeem chips or markers totaling $10,000.00 or more in a gaming day for which identification is required pursuant to sections 444 and 446 of this title shall at least once every 30 days report the identities and passport numbers of the persons offering the cash, chips or markers, to the Division of Gaming Enforcement. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) No junkets may be organized or permitted except in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. No person may act as a junket representative or junket enterprise except in accordance with this section. (b) A junket representative employed by a casino licensee or an applicant for a casino license or an affiliate of a casino licensee shall be licensed as a casino employee in accordance with the provisions of this chapter provided, however, that said licensee need not be a resident of the Virgin Islands. Any person who holds a current and valid casino employee license may act as a junket representative while employed by a casino licensee or an affiliate. No casino licensee or applicant for a casino license may employ or otherwise engage a junket representative who is not so licensed. (c) Junket enterprises, and junket representatives which are not employed by a casino licensee or an applicant for a casino license or by a junket enterprise engaged in activities governed by this section shall be subject to the provisions of subsection (c) of section 444 and subsection (b) of section 463 of this chapter with regards to those activities, unless otherwise directed by the commission pursuant to subsection (k) of this section. Such of the owners, management and supervisory personnel and other principal employees of a junket enterprise as the commission may consider appropriate for qualification shall qualify under the standard, except for residency, established for qualification of a casino key employee under this chapter. (d) Prior to the issuance of any license required by this section, an applicant for licensure shall submit to the jurisdiction of the Virgin Islands and shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Commission that he is amenable to service of process within this Territory. Failure to establish or maintain compliance with the requirements of this subsection shall constitute sufficient cause for the denial, suspension or revocation of any license issued pursuant to this section. (e) Upon petition by the holder of a casino license, an applicant for junket representative licensure may be issued a temporary license by the Commission, provided that: (1) the applicant for licensure is employed by a casino licensee; (2) the applicant for licensure has filed a completed application as required by the Commission; (3) the Division either certifies to the Commission that the completed application for licensure as specified in paragraph paragraph (2)ubsection has been in the possession of the Division for at least 60 days or agrees to allow the Commission to consider the application in some lesser time; and (4) the Division does not object to the temporary licensure of the applicant; provided, however, that failure of the Division to object prior to the temporary licensure of the applicant shall not be construed to reflect in any manner upon the qualifications of the applicant for licensure. In addition to any other authority granted by this chapter, the Commission shall have the authority, upon receipt of a representation by the Division that it possesses information which raises a reasonable possibility that a junket representative does not qualify for licensure, to immediately suspend, limit or condition any temporary license issued pursuant to this subsection, pending a hearing on the qualifications of the junket representative, in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. Unless otherwise terminated pursuant to this chapter, any temporary license issued pursuant to this subsection shall expire 12 months from the date of its issuance, and shall be renewable by the Commission, in the absence of an objection by the Division, as specified in paragraph (4) of this subsection, for one additional six-month period. (f) Every agreement concerning junkets entered into by a casino licensee and a junket representative or junket enterprise shall be deemed to include a provision for its termination without liability on the part of the casino licensee, if the Commission orders the termination upon the suspension, limitation, conditioning, denial or revocation of the licensure of the junket representative or junket enterprise, in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. Failure to expressly include such a condition in the agreement shall not constitute a defense in any action brought to terminate the agreement. (g) A casino licensee shall be responsible for the conduct of any junket representative or junket enterprise associated with it and for the terms and conditions of any junket engaged in on its premises, regardless of the fact that the junket may involve persons not employed by such a casino licensee. (h) A casino licensee shall be responsible for any violation or deviation from the terms of a junket. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this chapter, the Commission may, after hearings in accordance with this chapter, order restitution to junket participants, assess penalties for such violations or deviations, prohibit future junkets by the casino junket enterprise or junket representative, and order such further relief as it deems appropriate. (i) The Commission shall, by regulation, prescribe methods, procedures and forms for the delivery and retention of information concerning the conduct of junkets by casino licensees. Without limitation of the foregoing, each casino licensee, in accordance with the rules of the Commission, shall: (1) Maintain on file a report describing the operation of any junket engaged in on its premises, which report may include acknowledgments by the participants, signed on the date of arrival, that they understand the terms of the particular junket; (2) Submit to the Commission and Division a report on those arrangements which would be junkets but for the fact that those arrangements do not include a selection or approval of participants in accordance with the terms of section 402 of this title; and (3) Submit to the Commission and Division a list of all its employees who are acting as junket representatives but whose licenses are not endorsed as such. (j) Each casino licensee, junket representative or junket enterprise shall, in accordance with the rules of the Commission, file a report with the Division with respect to each list of junket patrons or potential junket patrons purchased directly or indirectly by the casino licensee, junket representative or enterprise. (k) The Commission shall have the authority to determine, either by regulations, or upon petition by the holder of a casino license, that a type of arrangement otherwise included within the definition of "junket" established by section 402 shall not require compliance with any or all of the requirements of this section. The Commission shall seek the opinion of the Division prior to granting any exemption. In granting exemptions, the Commission shall consider such factors as the nature, volume and significance of the particular type of arrangement, and whether the exemption would be consistent with the public policies established by this chapter. In applying the provisions of this subsection, the Commission may condition, limit, or restrict any exemption as the Commission may deem appropriate. (l) No junket enterprise or junket representative or person acting as a junket representative may: (1) Engage in efforts to collect upon checks that have been returned by banks without full and final payment; (2) Exercise approval authority with regard to the authorization or issuance of credit pursuant to section 458 of this title; (3) Act on behalf of or under any arrangement with a casino licensee or a gaming patron with regard to the redemption, consolidation, or substitution of the gaming patron's checks awaiting deposit pursuant to subsection (c) of section 457 of this title; (4) Individually receive or retain any fee from a patron for the privilege of participating in a junket; (5) Pay for any services, including transportation, or other items of value provided to, or for the benefit of, any patron participating in a junket. (m) No casino licensee shall offer or provide any complimentary services, gifts, cash or other items of value to any person unless: (1) The complimentary consists of room, food, beverage or entertainment expenses provided directly to the patron and his guests by the licensee or indirectly to the patron and his guests on behalf of a licensee by a third party; or (2) The complimentary consists of documented transportation expenses provided directly to the patron and his guests by the licensee or indirectly to the patron and his guests on behalf of a licensee by a third party, provided that the licensee complies with regulations promulgated by the Commission to ensure that a patron's and his guests' documented transportation expenses are paid for or reimbursed only one; or (3) The complimentary consists of coins, tokens, cash or other complimentary items or services provided through a complimentary distribution program approved by the Commission or maintained pursuant to Commission regulation. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a casino licensee may offer and provide complimentary cash or non-cash gifts which are not otherwise included in paragraphs (1) through (3) of this subsection to any person, provided that any such gifts in excess of $2,000.00 per trip, or such greater amount as the Commission may establish by regulation, are supported by documentation regarding the reason the gift was provided to the patron and his guests, including where applicable, a patron's player rating, which documentation shall be maintained by the casino licensee. For the purposes of this paragraph, all gifts presented to a patron and the patron's guests directly by the licensee or indirectly on behalf of the licensee by a third party within any five-day period shall be considered to have been made during a single trip. In the case of cash gifts, the Commission shall establish by regulation the total amount of such gifts that a licensee may provide to a patron each year. Each casino licensee shall maintain a regulated complimentary service account, for those complimentaries which are permitted pursuant to this section, and shall submit a quarterly report to the Commission based upon such account and covering all complimentary services offered or engaged in by the licensee during the immediately preceding quarter. Such reports shall include identification of the regulated complimentary services and their respective costs, the number of persons by category of service who received the same, and such other information as the Commission may require. (n) As used in this subsection, "person" means any territorial officer or employee subject to financial disclosure by law or executive order and any other territorial officer or employee with responsibility for matters affecting casino activity; any special territorial officer or employee with responsibility for matters affecting casino activity; the Governor; any member of the Legislature or full-time member of the Judiciary; any full-time professional employee of the Office of the Governor, or the Legislature; members of the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority; the head of a principal department; the assistant or deputy heads of a principal department, including all assistant and deputy Commissioners; the head of any Division of a principal department; any member of the governing body, or the judge or the attorney of a district wherein a casino is located; any member of or attorney for the planning board or zoning board of a district wherein a casino is located, or any professional planner or consultant regularly employed or retained by such planning board or zoning board. No casino applicant or licensee shall provide directly or indirectly to any person any complimentary service or discount which is other than such service or discount that is offered to members of the general public in like circumstance. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(79-82), Sess. L. 1997, p. 16.

(a) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the authority to grant any license for, or to permit or prohibit the presence of, alcoholic beverages in, on, or about any premises licensed as part of a casino hotel shall exclusively be vested in the Commission. (b) Unless otherwise stated, and except where inconsistent with the purpose or intent of this chapter or the common understanding of usage thereof, definitions contained in Title 8 of this code shall apply to this section. Any definition contained therein shall apply to the same word in any form. (c) Notwithstanding any provision of Title 8 of this code, the rules, regulations and bulletins promulgated by the Commissioner of the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs and the Virgin Islands Board of Control of Alcoholic Beverages, or any provision promulgated by any local authority, the authority to issue, renew, transfer, revoke or suspend a casino hotel alcoholic beverage license or any portion, location, privilege or condition thereof; to fine or penalize a casino hotel alcoholic beverage licensee; to enforce all statutes, laws, ruling, or regulations relating to such license; and to collect license fees and establish application standards therefor, shall be, consistent with this chapter, exclusively vested in the Commission. (d) Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary, the Commission may promulgate any regulations and special rulings and findings as may be necessary for the proper enforcement, regulation, and control of alcoholic beverages in casino hotels when the Commission finds that the uniqueness of casino operations and the public interest require that such regulations, rulings, and findings are appropriate. Regulations of the Commission may include but are not limited to: designation and duties of enforcement personnel; all forms necessary or convenient in the administration of this section; inspections, investigations, searches, seizures; licensing and disciplinary standards; requirements and standards for any hearings or disciplinary or other proceedings that may be required from time to time; the assessment of fines or penalties for violations; hours of sale; sales in original containers; sales on credit; out-of-door sales; limitations on sales; gifts and promotional materials; locations or places for sale; control of signs and other displays; identification of licensees and their employees; employment of aliens and minors; storage, transportation and sanitary requirements; records to be kept by the casino hotel alcoholic beverage licensees and availability thereof; practices unduly designed to increase consumption of alcoholic beverages; and such other matters whatsoever as are or may become necessary and consistent with the administration of this chapter. (e) (1) It shall be unlawful for any person, including any casino licensee, or any of its lessees, agents or employees to expose for sale, solicit or promote the sale of, possess with intent to sell, sell, give, dispense, or otherwise transfer or dispose of alcoholic beverages in, on or about any portion of the premises of a casino hotel, unless said person possesses a casino hotel alcoholic beverage license. (2) It shall be unlawful for any person issued a casino hotel alcoholic beverage license to expose, possess, sell, give, dispense, transfer, or otherwise dispose of alcoholic beverages, other than within the terms and conditions of the casino hotel alcoholic beverage license issued, the provisions of Title 8 of this code, the rules and regulations promulgated by the Commissioner of the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs, and, when applicable, the regulations promulgated pursuant to this chapter. (f) In issuing a casino hotel alcoholic beverage license the Commission shall describe the scope of the particular license and the restrictions and limitations thereon as it deems necessary and reasonable. The Commission may, in a single casino hotel alcoholic beverage license, permit the holder of such a license to perform any or all of the following activities, subject to applicable laws, rules and regulations: (1) To sell or serve alcoholic beverages by the bottle glass, drink or other open receptacle to any person except a person under the age of eighteen (18) years, nor shall any person issued a casino hotel beverage license employ a person under the age of eighteen (18) years to mix and/or dispense alcoholic beverages. (2) To sell any alcoholic beverage by the glass or other open receptacle, but not in an original container, for on-premises consumption within a casino or simulcasting facility; provided, however, that no alcoholic beverage, shall be sold, given or be available for consumption; offered, delivered or otherwise brought to a patron; or consumed at a gaming, table, unless so requested by the patron. (3) To sell any alcoholic beverage by the glass or other open receptacle for on-premise consumption within a casino hotel, but not in a casino or simulcasting facility, or from a fixed location outside a building or structure containing a casino but on a casino hotel's premises. (4) To sell any alcoholic beverage in original containers for consumption outside the licensed area from an enclosed package room not in a casino or simulcasting facility. (5) To sell any alcoholic beverage by the glass or other open receptacle or in original containers from a room service location within an enclosed room not in a casino or simulcasting facility provided however, that any sale of alcoholic beverages is delivered only to a guest room or to any other room in the casino hotel authorized by the Commission, other than any room authorized by the Commission pursuant to paragraph paragraph (1), (3)f this subsection. (6) To possess or to store alcoholic beverages in original containers intended but not actually exposed for sale at a fixed location on a casino hotel premises, not in a casino or simulcasting facility; and to transfer or deliver such alcoholic beverages only to a location approved pursuant to this section; provided, however, that no access to or from a storage location shall be permitted except during normal course of business by employees or agents of the licensee, or by licensed employees or agents of licensed wholesalers/distributors; and provided further, however, that no provision of this section shall be construed to prohibit a casino hotel alcoholic beverage licensee from obtaining an off-site storage permit from the Commission. (g) (1) No casino hotel alcoholic beverage license which authorizes the sale of alcoholic beverages within a casino pursuant to subsection (f)(1) of this section shall issue to any applicant who does not hold a casino license issued pursuant to this chapter; (2) No Casino Hotel Alcoholic Beverage License which authorizes the possession, sale or storage of alcoholic beverages pursuant to subsection (f)(2), (3), (4), or (5) of this section shall issue to any applicant who would not qualify under the standards for licensure of a casino service industry pursuant to subsection (c) of section 444 of this title; (3) No casino hotel alcoholic beverage license which authorizes the possession or storage of alcoholic beverages pursuant to subsection (f)(6) of this section shall issue to any applicant who does not hold a casino hotel alcoholic beverage license, permitting any activity pursuant to subsection (f)(1), (2), (3), or (4) of this section. (h) The Commission may revoke, suspend, refuse to renew or refuse to transfer any casino hotel alcoholic beverage license, or fine or penalize any casino hotel alcoholic beverage licensee for violations of any provision of Title 27 of this code, the rules and regulations promulgated by the Commissioner of the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs, and the regulations promulgated by the Commission. (i) Jurisdiction over all alcoholic beverage licenses issued with respect to the casino hotel facility is hereby vested in the Commission which in its discretion may by regulation provide for the conversion thereof into a casino hotel alcoholic beverage license as provided in this section. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(83-88), Sess. L. 1997, p. 16.

(a) (1) Unless otherwise provided in this subsection, no agreement which provides for the payment, however defined, of any direct or indirect interest, percentage or share of any money or property gambled at a casino or derived from casino gaming activity or of any such interest, percentage, or share of any revenues, profits or earnings of a casino shall be lawful. (2) Agreements which provide only for the payment of a fixed sum which is in no way affected by the amount of any such money, property, revenues, profits or earnings shall not be subject to the provisions of this subsection; and receipts, rentals or charges for real property, personal property or services shall not lose their character as payments of a fixed sum because of contract, lease, or license provisions for adjustments in charges, rentals or fees on account of changes in taxes or assessments, cost-of-living index escalations, expansion or improvement of facilities, or changes in services supplied. (3) Agreements between a casino licensee and its employees which provide for casino employee or casino key employee profit sharing and which are in writing and have been filed with the Commission shall be lawful and effective only if expressly approved as to their terms by the Commission. (4) Agreements to lease an approved hotel building or the land thereunder and agreements for the complete management of a casino shall not be subject to the provisions of this subsection but shall rather be subject to the provisions of subsections (b) and (c) of section 434 of this title. (5) Agreements which provide for percentage charges between the casino licensee and a holding company or intermediary company of the casino licensee shall be in writing and filed with the Commission but shall not be subject to the provisions of this subsection. (6) Agreements which provide only for the payment of a fixed sum which is based upon the number of times a slot machine or a specified game feature of such slot machine is utilized shall not be subject to the provision of this subdivision. (7) Agreements which provide only for the payment of a fixed sum which is based upon the outcome or an event which occurs as part of an authorized game shall not be subject to the provisions of this subdivision. (b) Each casino applicant or licensee shall maintain, in accordance with the rules of the Commission, a record of each written or unwritten agreement regarding the realty, construction, maintenance, or business of a proposed or existing casino hotel or related facility. The foregoing obligation shall apply regardless of whether the casino applicant or licensee is a party to the agreement. Any such agreement may be reviewed by the Commission on the basis of the reasonableness of its terms, including the terms of compensation, and of the qualifications of the owners, officers, employees and directors of any enterprise involved in the agreement, which qualifications shall be reviewed according to the standards enumerated in section 438 of this title. If the Commission disapproves such an agreement or the owners, officers, employees or directors of any enterprise involved therein, the Commission may require its termination. Every agreement required to be maintained, and every related agreement the performance of which is dependent upon the performance of any such agreement, shall be deemed to include a provision to the effect that, if the Commission shall require termination of an agreement pursuant to this subsection, such termination shall occur without liability on the part of the casino applicant or licensee or any qualified party to the agreement or any related agreement. Failure expressly to include such a provision in the agreement shall not constitute a defense in any action brought to terminate the agreement. If the agreement is not maintained or presented to the Commission in accordance with Commission regulations, or the disapproved agreement is not terminated, the Commission may pursue any remedy or combination of remedies provided in this chapter. For the purposes of this subsection, "casino applicant" includes any person required to hold a casino license pursuant to section 434 who has applied to the Commission for a casino license or any approval required under this chapter. (c) Nothing in this chapter shall be deemed to permit the transfer of any license, or any interest in any license, or any certificate of compliance or any commitment or reservation. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(89), Sess. L. 1997, p. 17.

(a) The sale, assignment, transfer, pledge or other disposition of any security issued by a corporation which holds a casino license is conditional and shall be ineffective if disapproved by the Commission. (b) Every security issued by a corporation which holds a casino license shall bear, on both sides of the certificate evidencing such security, a statement of the restrictions imposed by this section, except that in the case of a publicly traded corporation incorporated prior to October 25, 1995, a statement of restriction shall be necessary only insofar as certificates are issued by such corporation after October 25, 1995. (c) The Lieutenant Governor shall not accept for filing any articles of incorporation of any corporation which includes as a stated purpose the conduct of casino gaming, or any amendment which adds such purpose to articles of incorporation already filed, unless such articles or amendments have been approved by the Commission and a copy of such approval is annexed thereto upon presentation for filing with the Lieutenant Governor. (d) If at any time the Commission finds that an individual owner or holder of any security of a corporate licensee or of a holding or intermediary company with respect thereto is not qualified under this chapter, and if as a result the corporate licensee is no longer qualified to continue as a casino licensee in the Virgin Islands, the Commission shall, pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, take any necessary action to protect the public interest, including the suspension or revocation of the casino license of the corporation; provided, however, that if the holding or intermediary company is a publicly traded corporation and the Commission finds disqualified under section 437(d) of this title, and the Commission also finds that: (1) the holding or intermediary company has complied with the provisions of section 434(e)(7) of this title, (2) the holding or intermediary company has made a good faith effort, including the prosecution of all legal remedies, to comply with any order of the Commission requiring the divestiture of the security interest held by the disqualified holder; and (3) such disqualified holder does not have the ability to control the corporate licensee or any holding or intermediary company with respect thereto, or to elect one or more members of the board of directors of such corporation or company, the Commission shall not take action against the casino licensee or the holding or intermediary company with respect to the continued ownership of the security interest by the disqualified holder. For purposes of this chapter, a security holder shall be presumed to have the ability to control a publicly traded corporation, or to elect one or more members of its board of directors, if such holder owns or beneficially holds 5% or more of the equity securities of such corporation, unless such presumption of control or ability to elect is rebutted by clear and convincing evidence. (e) Commencing on the date the Commission serves notice upon a corporation of the determination of disqualification under subsection (d) of this section, it shall be unlawful for the named individual: (1) To receive any dividends or interest upon any such securities; (2) To exercise, directly or through any trustee or nominee, any right conferred by such securities; or (3) To receive any remuneration in any form from the corporate licensee for services rendered or otherwise. (f) After a non-publicly traded corporation has been issued a casino license pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, but prior to the issuance or transfer of any security to any person required to be but not yet qualified in accordance with the provisions of this chapter, such corporation shall file a report of its proposed action with the Commission and shall request the approval of the Commission for the transaction. If the Commission shall deny the request, the corporation shall not issue or transfer such security. After a publicly traded corporation has been issued a casino license, such corporation shall file a report quarterly with the Commission, which report shall list all owners and holders of any security issued by such corporate casino licensee. (g) Each corporation which has been issued a casino license pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall file a report of any change of its corporate officers or members of its board of directors with the Commission. No officer or director shall be entitled to exercise any powers of the office to which he was so elected or appointed until qualified by the Commission in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

Provision (a) A casino licensee shall not appoint or employ any person not registered or not possessing a current and valid license permitting such appointment or employment. A casino licensee shall in accordance with the rules of the Commission, apply for a work permit for each employee, which shall be granted if the employee is the holder of a current and valid registration or license which permits employment in the position to be held. Each work permit shall be renewed annually in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated by the Commission. (b) A casino licensee shall, within 24 hours or receipt of written notice thereof, terminate the appointment or employment of any person whose license or registration has been revoked or has expired. A casino licensee shall comply in all respects with any order of the Commission imposing limitations or restrictions upon the terms of employment or appointment in the course of any investigation or hearing. (c) By the end of the third year of the opening of the first casino hotel facility licensed to operate in the Virgin Islands, ninety (90%) percent of all persons employed to work in any and all casino hotels and the local office of casino service industries licensed to do business in the Virgin Islands shall be bona fide residents, as defined in section 557 of this title. In the years prior to the end of the third year, the casino licensees and casino service industries licensed to do business in the Virgin Islands shall employ bona fide residents in the following percentages, in accordance with the timetable stated: at least sixty-five (65%) percent by the end of the first year of the opening of the first casino hotel facility licensed to do business in the Virgin Islands; at least seventy-five (75%) percent by the end of the second year of the opening of the first casino hotel facility licensed to do business in the Virgin Islands. (1) The primary obligation for carrying out the 90% "bona fide continuous resident" provision rests with the casino licensees who shall submit quarterly reports to the Casino Control Commission showing strict compliance with this measure. Waiver from this provision will only be granted upon demonstration by the casino licensee or casino service industry in its local office that diligent efforts were made to locate qualified, bona fide continuous residents through the Department of Labor and by publication in local newspapers and other media, and that none were available. (2) The Commission shall establish a fine to be imposed on a casino licensee who does not comply with this provision, the Commission shall assess a fine against the Casino licensee. (3) If the Commission determines that a casino licensee has failed to demonstrate compliance with the 90% bona fide continuous resident provision, the casino licensee will have 90 days from the date of the determination within which to comply with the provision. (4) Continued non-compliance shall result in suspension of the licensee's casino license, unless the licensee can clearly demonstrate to the Commission the non-availability of bona fide residents. (5) Any and all violations of this subsection shall be considered a civil violation subject to penalties established by the Commission. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, §§ 4(90, 91), Sess. L. 1997, p. 17.

(a) Workers shall be entitled to severance pay. Severance pay is compensation for workers who have been laid off from their jobs for at least thirty (30) days, either on a temporary or permanent basis: (1) Severance pay shall be one (1) week's pay for each year a worker is employed, whether temporary or permanent, calculated at the worker's rate of pay at the time of severance. (2) Severance pay shall be made available in lump sum payment, and shall not be considered in lieu of unemployment or workers' compensation administration benefits. Unemployment and workers' compensation administration benefits shall be provided upon appropriate application for benefits, and workers shall not be required to exhaust their severance pay in order to receive these benefits. (3) Employers, public or private, are prohibited from requiring any waiver of benefits as a condition of employment, or in derogation of any labor law of the Virgin Islands and other applicable laws. (4) Failure to comply with subsection (a) shall be a violation of the statute and subject the offending entity to civil and criminal penalties. Penalties for non-compliance shall be instituted as follows: 1st Offense - A fine equivalent to three (3) times the amount of money owed the offended employee(s) for severance pay. 2nd Offense - A fine equivalent to six (6) times the amount of money owed the offended employee(s) for severance pay. 3rd Offense - A fine equivalent to ten (10) times the amount of money owed the offended employee(s). Prosecution for actions under this subsection shall be instituted by the Virgin Islands Office of the Attorney General upon petition by an aggrieved employee. (b) Each casino licensee shall provide an employee pension benefit plan for its employees as provided under 29 U.S.C.A 1001 et seq. The commission shall establish by rules and regulations, licensee reporting requirements and civil penalties for failure to provide the pension plan as provided under the provisions of this subsection. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(92-94), Sess. L. 1997, p. 17.

Rehearing (a) At all hearings of the Commission in contested cases: (1) The Commission shall hear all matters directly; provided, however, that the chairman may, in his discretion, designate a member of the Commission, or any other qualified person other than an employee of the Commission, to serve as hearing examiner in a particular matter; (2) The proceedings at the hearing shall be recorded or transcribed; (3) Oral evidence shall be taken only upon oath or affirmation; (4) Each party to a hearing shall have the right to call and examine witnesses; to introduce exhibits relevant to the issues of the case, including the transcript of testimony at any investigative hearing conducted by or on behalf of the Commission; to cross-examine opposing witnesses in any matters relevant to the issue of the case; to impeach any witness, regardless of which party called him to testify; and to offer rebuttal evidence; (5) If an applicant, licensee, registrant or person who shall be qualified pursuant to this chapter is a party and if such party shall not testify in his own behalf, he may be called and examined as if under cross-examination; (6) The hearing shall not be conducted according to rules relating to the admissibility of evidence in courts of law. Any relevant evidence may be admitted and shall be sufficient in itself to support a finding if it is the sort of evidence upon which responsible persons are accustomed to rely in the conduct of serious affairs, regardless of the existence of any common law or statutory rule which might make improper the admission of such evidence over objection in a civil action; and (7) The parties or their counsel may, by written stipulation, agree that certain specified evidence may be admitted, although such evidence may be otherwise subject to objection. (b) The Commission may take official notice of any generally accepted information or technical or scientific matter in the field of gaming and of any other fact which may be judicially noticed by the courts of the United States Virgin Islands. The parties shall be informed of any information, matters or facts so noticed and shall be given a reasonable opportunity, on request, to refute such information, matters or facts by evidence or by written or oral presentation of authorities, the manner of such refutation to be determined by the Commission. The Commission may, in its discretion, before rendering its decision, permit the filing of amended or supplemental pleadings and shall notify all parties thereof and provide a reasonable opportunity for objections thereto. (c) If any person in proceedings before the Commission disobeys or resists any lawful order, refuses to respond to a subpoena, refuses to take the oath or affirmation as a witness or thereafter refuses to be examined, or is guilty of misconduct at the hearing or so near the place thereof as to obstruct the proceeding, the person may be punished for contempt in accordance with the Rules of Court if the Commission certifies the facts underlying the contumacious behavior to the Superior Court. Thereafter, the courts shall have jurisdiction in the matter and the same proceeding shall be had, the same penalties may be imposed, and the person charged may purge himself of the contempt in the same way as in the case of a person who has committed contempt in the trial of a civil action before the Superior Court. (d) (1) The Commission may, upon motion therefor made within 10 days after the service of the decision and order, order a rehearing before the Commission upon such terms and conditions as it may deem just and proper when the Commission finds cause to believe that the decision and order should be reconsidered in view of the legal, policy or factual matters advanced by the moving party or raised by the Commission on its own motion. (2) Upon motion made within a reasonable time, but in no event later than one year from the service of the decision and order, the Commission may relieve a party from the decision and order upon a showing that there is additional evidence which is material and necessary and which would be reasonably likely to change the decision of the Commission, and that sufficient reason existed for failure to present such evidence at the hearing of the Commission or on a motion under paragraph paragraph (1)is subsection. The motion shall be supported by an affidavit of the moving party or his counsel showing with particularity the materiality and necessity of the additional evidence and the reason why it was not presented at the hearing or on a motion under paragraph paragraph (1)ubsection. Upon rehearing, rebuttal evidence to the additional evidence shall be admitted. After rehearing, the Commission may modify its decision and order as the additional evidence may warrant. (3) A motion for relief from a decision and order which is based on any ground other than the presentation of newly discovered evidence shall be governed as to both timeliness and sufficiency by the regulations of the Commission which shall be modeled, to the extent practical, upon the rules then governing similar motions before the courts of the Virgin Islands. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) Any proceedings against a licensee or registrant shall be brought on by written complaint, which shall include a statement setting forth in ordinary and concise language the charges and the acts or omissions supporting such charges. (b) Upon filing of the complaint the Commission shall serve a copy upon the licensee or registrant either personally or by certified mail to his address on file with the Commission. (c) Within 15 days after service upon him of the complaint, the licensee or registrant may file with the Commission a notice of defense, in which he may: (1) Request a hearing; (2) Admit the accusation in whole or in part; (3) Present new matters or explanations by way of defense; or (4) State any legal objections to the complaint. Within the time specified, the licensee or registrant may file one or more notices of defense upon any or all of the above grounds. (d) The licensee or registrant shall be entitled to a hearing on the merits if he files the required notice of defense within the time allowed by subsection (c) of this section, and any such notice shall be deemed a specific denial of all parts of the complaint not expressly admitted. Failure to timely file the required notice of defense or to appear at the hearing shall constitute an admission of all matters and facts contained in the complaint and a waiver of the licensee's or registrant's rights to a hearing, but the Commission, in its discretion, may nevertheless order a hearing. All affirmative defenses shall be specifically stated, and unless objection is taken as provided in paragraph (4) of subsection (c) of this section, all objections to the form of the complaint shall be deemed waived. (e) The Commission shall determine the time and place of the hearing as soon as is reasonably practical after receiving the licensee's or registrant's notice of defense. The Commission shall deliver or send by certified mail a notice to all parties at least 10 days prior to the hearing. Unless the licensee or registrant consents, the hearing shall not be held prior to the expiration time within which the licensee or registrant is entitled to file the notice of defense. (f) Prior to a hearing before the Commission, and during a hearing upon reasonable cause shown, the Commission shall issue subpoenas and subpoenas duces tecum at the request of a licensee, registrant, or the Division. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

Notwithstanding any provisions of this article, the Commission may issue an emergency order for the suspension, limitation or conditioning of any operation certificate or any license, other than a casino license, or any registration, or may issue an emergency order requiring the licensed casino to keep an individual from the premises of such licensed casino or not to pay such individual any remuneration for services or any profits, income or accruals on his investment in such casino, in the following manner: (a) An emergency order shall be issued only when the Commission finds that: (1) There has been charged a violation of any of the criminal laws of the Territory by a licensee or registrant, or (2) Such action is necessary to prevent a violation of any such provision, or (3) Such action is necessary immediately for the preservation of the public peace, health, safety, morals, good order and general welfare or to preserve the public policies declared by this chapter. (b) An emergency order shall set forth the grounds upon which it is issued, including the statement of facts constituting the alleged emergency necessitating such action. (c) The emergency order shall be effective immediately upon issuance and service upon the licensee, registrant, or resident agent of the licensee. The emergency order may suspend, limit, condition or take other action in relation to the approval of one or more individuals who were required to be approved in any operation, without necessarily affecting any other individuals or the licensed casino establishment. The emergency order shall remain effective until further order of the Commission or final disposition of the case. (d) Within 5 days after issuance of an emergency order, the Commission shall cause a complaint to be filed and served upon the person or entity involved in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. (e) Thereafter, the person or entity against whom the emergency order has been issued and served shall be entitled to a hearing before the Commission in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) The Division or any person aggrieved by a final decision or order of the Commission made after hearing or rehearing by the Commission, whether or not a petition for hearing was filed, may obtain judicial review thereof by appeal to the Superior Court in accordance with the Rules of Courts of the Virgin Islands. (b) Filing of an appeal shall not stay enforcement of the decision or order of the Commission unless the stay is obtained from the court upon application in accordance with the Rules of Courts of the Virgin Islands or from the Commission upon such terms and conditions as it deems proper. (c) The reviewing court may affirm the decision and order of the Commission, may remand the case for further proceedings, or may reverse the decision if the substantive rights of the petitioner have been prejudiced because the decision is: (1) In violation of constitutional provisions; (2) In excess of the statutory authority and jurisdiction of the Commission; or (3) Arbitrary or capricious or otherwise not in accordance with law. (d) In order to protect the public interest and the regulatory authority of the Commission, any action by the Commission taken pursuant to the provision of sections 417, 421(d) or 422 of this title shall not be subject to the injunctive authority of the Superior Court prior to the exhaustion of the administrative procedures herein specified, unless it shall appear evident to the court, by clear and convincing evidence, that a manifest denial of justice would be effectuated by the refusal to enjoin the contemplated action of the Commission. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

Acts and Omissions Any person who willfully fails to report, pay or truthfully account for and pay over any license fee imposed by the provisions of this chapter, or willfully attempts in any manner to evade or defeat any such license fee or payment thereof, is guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to not more than one year imprisonment or a fine of $25,000.00 or both, and in the case of a person other than a natural person, to a fine of not more than $100,000.00 and shall in addition be liable for a penalty of three times the amount of the license fee evaded and not paid, collected or paid over, which penalty shall be assessed by the Commission and collected in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) Any person who violates the provisions of sections 432 or 434 of this title or of Article 7 of this chapter, or permits any gambling game, slot machine or device to be conducted, operated, dealt or carried on in any casino by a person other than a person licensed for such purposes pursuant to this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to a term of imprisonment of not more than one year or a fine of $25,000.00 or both, and in the case of a person other than a natural person, to a fine of not more than $100,000.00. (b) Any licensee who places game or slot machines into play or displays such games or slot machines in a casino without authority of the Commission to do so is guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to not more than one year imprisonment or a fine of $25,000.00 or both, and in the case of a person other than a natural person, to a fine of not more than $100,000.00. (c) Any person who operates, carries on or exposes for play any gambling game, gaming device or slot machine after his license has expired and prior to the actual renewal thereof is guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to not more than one year imprisonment or a fine of $25,000.00 or both, and in the case of a person other than a natural person, to a fine of not more than $100,000.00. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, any person who by any trick or sleight of hand performance, or by a fraud or fraudulent scheme, cards, dice or device, for himself or for another wins or attempts to win money or property or a representative of either or reduces a losing wager or attempts to reduce a losing wager in connection with casino gaming is guilty of a felony and subject to a term of imprisonment of up to two (2) years and subject to a fine of not more than $50,000.00 and in the case of a person other than a natural person, to a fine of not more than $100,000.00 and any other appropriate disposition authorized by Title 14 of this code. (b) Any person who by any trick or sleight of hand performance, or by fraud or fraudulent scheme, cards, dice or device, for himself or for another wins or attempts to win money or property or a representative of either or reduces a losing wager or attempts to reduce a losing wager in connection with casino gaming is guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to not more than one hundred and eighty days imprisonment or a fine of not more than $10,000.00 or both if the value of such money or property or representative of either is $25.00 or under. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, §§ 4(95, 96), Sess. L. 1997, p. 17.

Misdemeanor; Forfeiture; Notice A person commits a misdemeanor if, in playing a game in a licensed casino or simulcast facility, the person uses, or assists another in the use of an electronic, electric or mechanical device which is designed, constructed or programmed specifically for use in obtaining an advantage at playing any game in a licensed casino or simulcasting facility. A device used by any person in violation of this section shall be subject or forfeiture and the Commission and the Division of Gaming Enforcement are authorized and required to seize any such device found in the possession or under the control of such person, and to deliver the same to the director of the Division of Gaming Enforcement. History: Added Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(97), Sess. L. 1997, p. 17.

Dice, Cheating Devices, Unlawful Coins; Penalty (a) It shall be unlawful for any person playing any licensed gambling game: (1) Knowingly to use or counterfeit chips or gaming billets, or knowingly to substitute and use in any such game cards or dice that have been marked, loaded or tampered with; or (2) Knowingly to use or possess any cheating device with intent to cheat or defraud. (b) It shall be unlawful for any person, playing or using any slot machine in a licensed casino: (1) Knowingly to use other than a lawful coin or legal tender of the United States of America, or to use coin not of the same denomination as the coin intended to be used in such slot machine, except that in the playing of any slot machine or similar gaming device, it shall be lawful for any person to use gaming billets, tokens or similar objects therein which are approved by the Commission; or (2) To use any cheating or thieving device, including but not limited to tools, drills, wires, coins or tokens attached to strings or wires, or electronic or magnetic devices, to facilitate the alignment of any winning combination or removing from any slot machine any money or other contents thereof. (c) It shall be unlawful for any person knowingly to possess or use while on the premises of a licensed casino, any cheating or thieving device, including but not limited to tools, wires, drills, coins attached to strings or wires or electronic or magnetic devices to facilitate removing from any slot machine any money or contents thereof, except that a duly authorized employee of a licensed casino may possess and use any of the foregoing only in furtherance of his employment in the casino. (d) It shall be unlawful for any person knowingly to possess or use while on the premises of any licensed casino any key or device designed for the purpose of or suitable for opening or entering any slot machine or similar gaming device or drop box, except that a duly authorized employee of a licensed casino or the Commission may possess and use any of the foregoing only in furtherance of his employment. (e) Any person who violates this section is guilty of a felony and shall be subject to a fine of not more than $50,000.00 or subject to not more than two years imprisonment or both, and in the case of a person other than a natural person, to a fine of not more than $250,000.00 and any other appropriate disposition authorized by Title 14 of this code. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(98), Sess. L. 1997, p. 18.

(a) It shall be unlawful: (1) Knowingly to conduct, carry on, operate, deal or allow to be conducted, carried on, operated or dealt any cheating or thieving game or devices; or (2) Knowingly to deal, conduct, carry on, operate or expose for play any game or games played with cards, dice or any mechanical device, or any combination of games or devices, which have in any manner been marked or tampered with, or placed in condition, or operated in a manner, the result of which tends to deceive the public or tends to alter the normal random selection of characteristics or the normal chance of the game which could determine or alter the result of the game. (b) It shall be unlawful knowingly to use or possess any marked cards, loaded dice, plugged or tampered with machines or devices. (c) Any person who violates this section is guilty of a felony or subject to not more than three years imprisonment or a fine of $50,000.00 or both, and in the case of a person other than a natural person, to a fine of not more than $250,000.00. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(99), Sess. L. 1997, p. 18; Aug. 27, 1997, No. 6149, § 2(b), Sess. L. 1997, p. 44.

Illegally Manufactured, Distributed, Sold Or Serviced Any person, applicant or licensee who possesses, buys, sells, transfers to another, or imports any slot machine, gambling device, equipment or material which he knows has been imported, manufactured, distributed, sold, tampered with or serviced in violation of the provisions of this chapter is guilty of a felony and subject to not more than two years imprisonment or a fine of $50,000.00 or both, and in the case of a person other than a natural person, to a fine of not more than $250,000.00. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, §§ 4(100, 101), Sess. L. 1997, p. 18.

Penalty (a) Any person, who, without obtaining the requisite license or registration as provided in this chapter, works or is employed in a position whose duties would require licensing or registration under the provisions of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to not more than one year imprisonment or a fine of $10,000 or both, and in the case of a person other than a natural person, to a fine of not more than $50,000. (b) Any person who employs or continues to employ an individual not duly licensed or registered under the provisions of this chapter in a position whose duties require a license or registration under the provisions of this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to not more than one year imprisonment or a fine of $10,000 or both, and in the case of a person other than a natural person, to a fine of not more than $50,000. (c) Any person who employs an individual without obtaining a work permit as required by this chapter, is guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to a fine of not more than $10,000.00, and in the case of a person other than a natural person, to a fine of not more than $50,000.00. (d) Any person violating the provisions of subsection 456(e) of this title shall be guilty of a misdemeanor, and shall be subject to imprisonment for not more than one year or a fine of not more than $25,000.00, or both and in the case of a person other than a natural person, to a fine of not more than 100,000.00 and any other appropriate disposition authorized by Title 14 of this code. Any licensee permitting or allowing such a violation shall also be punishable under this subsection, in addition to any sanctions the Commission may impose. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(102), Sess. L. 1997, p. 18.

Registrant of Persons Prohibited From Employment; Penalty (a) No applicant or person or organization licensed by or registered with the Commission shall employ or offer to employ any person who is prohibited from accepting employment from a licensee or applicant or any holding or intermediary company. (b) An applicant or licensee or person or organization who violates the provisions of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to not more than one year imprisonment or a fine of not more than $25,000.00 or both and in the case of a person other than a natural person, to a fine not more than $100,000.00. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(103), Sess. L. 1997, p. 18.

From Licensed Casinos; Unlawful Entry By Person Whose Name Has Been Placed On List; Penalty Any person whose name is on the list of persons promulgated by the commission pursuant to the provisions of section 423 of this title who knowingly enters the premises of a licensed casino is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by incarceration of up to six (6) months or a fine of not more than $25,000.00 or both; except that any person who has been convicted of this offense on at least three occasions is guilty of a felony for each subsequent offense and is subject to a period of incarceration of not more than eighteen (18) months or a fine of not more than $50,000.00. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(104), Sess. L. 1997, p. 18.

(a) No person under the age of 21 shall enter, or wager in a licensed casino or simulcasting facility; provided however, that such a person may enter a casino or simulcasting facility by a way of passage to another room and provided further, however, that any such person who is licensed or registered under the provisions of this chapter may enter a casino or simulcasting facility in the regular course of the person. (b) Any licensee or employee of a casino or other person or any licensed or unlicensed gambling operation except such persons and organizations licensed by the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or the St. Thomas-St. John Horse Racing Commission, as appropriate, who allows a person under the age of 21 to enter into, to remain, or wager in a casino or to gamble in any commercial establishment or other place where organized gambling is being conducted, whether, licensed or unlicensed or in a gambling enterprise of any description is guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to imprisonment of not more than six (6) months or a fine of not more than $25,000.00 except that the establishment of all the following facts by a person, organization licensee or employee allowing any such underage person to remain shall constitute a defense to any prosecution thereof: (1) That the underage person falsely represented in writing that he or she was at or over the age of 21. (2) That the appearance of the underage person was such that an ordinary prudent person would believe him or her to be at or over the age of 21. (3) That the admission was made in good faith, relying upon such written representation and appearance, and in the reasonable belief that the underage person was actually at or over the age of 21. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, §§ 4(105, 106), Sess. L. 1997, p. 19; amended Oct. 4, 2023, No. 8772, § 3, Sess. L. 2023, p. 141.

Any person who makes or causes to be made a political contribution prohibited by the provisions of this chapter is guilty of a felony and subject to not more than three years' imprisonment or a fine of $100,000.00 or both, and in the case of a person other than a natural person, to a fine of not more than $250,000.00. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

Persons Suspected of Cheating; Immunity From Liability; Posted Notice Required (a) Any licensee or its officers, employees or agents may question any individual in the casino reasonably suspected of violating any of the provisions of sections 473 through 476 of this title. No licensee or its officers, employees or agents shall be criminally or civilly liable by reason of any such questioning. (b) Any licensee or its officers, employees or agents who shall have probable cause for believing there has been a violation of sections 473 through 476 of this title in the casino by any person may refuse to permit such person to continue gaming or wagering or may take such person into custody and detain him in the establishment in a reasonable manner for a reasonable length of time, for the purpose of notifying law enforcement or commission authorities. Such refusal or taking into custody and detention shall not render such licensee or its officers, employees or agents criminally or civilly liable for false arrest, false imprisonment, slander or unlawful detention, unless such refusal or taking into custody or detention is unreasonable under all of the circumstances. (c) No licensee or his officers, employees or agents shall be entitled to any immunity from civil or criminal liability provided in this section unless there is displayed in a conspicuous manner in the casino a notice in bold face type clearly legible and in substantially this form: "Any gaming licensee or officer, employee or agent thereof who has probable cause for believing that any person is violating any of the provisions of the Casino Control Act prohibiting cheating or swindling in gaming may detain such person in the establishment for the purpose of notifying a police officer or Casino Control Commission authorities." History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) Notwithstanding any other law, anyone who violates any provision of this chapter, the penalty for which is not specifically fixed, is guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to imprisonment of not more than one (1) year and a fine of not more than $25,000.00. (b) Notwithstanding any other law, the maximum fines for misdemeanors, as designated in this chapter is $25,000.00 for natural persons and $100,000.00 for persons other than natural persons. (c) The maximum fines for felonies as designated under this chapter, unless otherwise stated, is $50,000.00 and the maximum term of imprisonment five (5) years for natural persons and the maximum fine for persons other than natural persons is $250,000.00. (d) Notwithstanding any other law, and whether specifically stated in the provision of this chapter or not, the violations set forth in this chapter and the penalties assessed thereof shall be and are in addition to any other violation and penalty which may be charged and assessed pursuant to Title 14 and Title 33, Virgin Islands Code and other applicable criminal provision of the Virgin Islands Code. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(110), Sess. L. 1997, p. 19.

(a) A violation of any of the provisions of this chapter which is an offense of a continuing nature shall be deemed to be a separate offense on each day during which it occurs. Nothing herein shall be deemed to preclude the Commission of multiple violations within a day of those provisions of this chapter which establish offenses consisting of separate and distinct acts. (b) Any person who aids, abets, counsels, commands, induces, procures or causes another to violate a provision of this chapter is punishable as a principal and subject to all sanctions and penalties, both civil and criminal, provided by this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

The provisions of Title 14, sections 1224 and 1225 of this code, shall not apply to any person who, as a licensee operating pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, or as a player in any game authorized pursuant to the provisions of this chapter, engages in gaming as authorized herein. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

For purposes of this section and sections 487 through 490 of this title: (a) "Racketeering activity" means (1) any act or threat involving murder, kidnapping, gambling, arson, robbery, bribery, extortion, or dealing in narcotic or other dangerous drugs, which is chargeable under territorial law and punishable by imprisonment for more than 1 year; (2) any act which is indictable under any of the following provisions of Title 18, United StaTitle 18, United St201oderelating to bribery), section 224 (relating to sports bribery), sections 471 through 509 (relating to counterfeiting), section 659 (relating to theft from interstate shipment) if the act indictable under section 659 is felonious, section 664 (relating to embezzlement from pension and welfare funds), sections 891-894 (relating to extortionate credit transactions), section 1084 (relating to the transmission of gambling information), section 1341 (relating to wire fraud), section 1503 (relating to obstruction of justice), section 1510 (relating to obstruction of criminal investigations), section 1511 (relating to the obstruction of State or local law enforcement), section 1951 (relating to interference with commerce, robbery, or extortion), section 1952 (relating to racketeering), section 1953 (relating to interstate transportation of wagering paraphernalia), section 1954 (relating to unlawful fund payments), section 1955 (relating to the prohibition of illegal gambling businesses), sections 2314 and 2315 (relating to interstate transportation of stolen property), sections 2421-2424 (relating to white slave traffic); (3) any act which is indictable under Title T29, United States Code, section186tion29ating to restrictions on payments and loans to labor organizations) or section 501(c) (relating to embezzlement from union funds); or (4) any offense involving bankruptcy fraud, fraud in the sale of securities, or the felonious manufacture, importation, receiving, concealment, buying, selling, or otherwise dealing in narcotic or other dangerous drugs, punishable under any law of the United States. (b) "Person" includes any individual or entity holding or capable of holding a legal or beneficial interest in property. (c) "Enterprise" includes any individual, partnership, corporation, association, or other legal entity, and any union or group of individuals associated in fact although not a legal entity. (d) "Pattern of racketeering activity" requires at least two acts of racketeering activity, one of which occurred after October 25, 1995 and the last of which occurred within 10 years (excluding any period of imprisonment) after the Commission of a prior act of racketeering activity. (e) "Unlawful debt" means a debt (1) which was incurred or contracted in gambling activity which was in violation of the law of the United States, a state or political subdivision thereof; or (2) which is unenforceable under state or Federal law in whole or in part as to principal or interest because of the laws relating to usury; or (3) which was incurred in connection with the business of gambling in violation of the law of the United States, a state or political subdivision thereof; or (4) which was incurred in connection with the business of lending money or a thing of value at a rate usurious under State or Federal law, where the usurious rate is at least twice the enforceable rate. (f) "Documentary material" includes any book, paper, document, record, recording, or other material. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person who has received any income derived, directly or indirectly, from pattern of racketeering activity or through collection of an unlawful debt in which such person has participated as a principal within the meaning of section 484 of this title to use or invest, directly or indirectly, any part of such income, or the proceeds of such income, in acquisition of any interest in, or the establishment or operation of, any enterprise which is engaged in or the activities of which affect casino gaming operations or ancillary industries which do business with any casino licensee. A purchase of securities on the open market for purposes of investments, and without the intention of controlling or participating in the control of the issuer or of assisting another to do so, shall not be unlawful under this subsection, provided that the sum total of the securities of the issuer held by the purchaser, the members of his family, and his or their accomplices in any pattern of racketeering activity or in the collection of an unlawful debt does not amount in the aggregate to one percent of the outstanding securities of any one class, or does not, either in law or in fact, empower the holders thereof to elect one or more directors of the issuer. (b) It shall be unlawful for any person through a pattern of racketeering activity or through collection of an unlawful debt to acquire or maintain, directly or indirectly, any interest in or control of any enterprise which is engaged in, or the activities of which affect, casino gaming operations or ancillary industries which do business with any casino licensee. (c) It shall be unlawful for any person employed by or associated with any enterprise engaged in, or the activities of which affect casino gaming operations or ancillary industries which do business with any casino licensee, to conduct or participate, directly or indirectly, in the conduct of such enterprise's affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity or collection of unlawful debt. (d) It shall be unlawful for any person to conspire to violate any of the provisions of subsections (a), (b), (c) of this section. (e) Any person who violates any provision of this section shall be fined not more than $50,000.00 or imprisoned not more than twenty years or both and shall forfeit to the Government (1) any interest he has acquired or maintained in violation of this section (2) any interest in, security of, claim against, or property or contractual right of any kind affording a source of influence over any enterprise which he has established, operated, controlled, conducted or participated in the conduct of, in violation of this section. (f) In any action brought by the Attorney General under this section, the Superior Court shall have jurisdiction to enter such restraining orders or prohibitions, or to take such other actions including, but not limited to, the acceptance of satisfactory performance bonds, in connection with any property or other interest subject to forfeiture under this section, as it shall deem proper. (g) Upon conviction of a person under this section, the court shall authorize the Attorney General to seize all property or other interest declared forfeited under this section upon such terms and conditions as the court shall deem proper. If a property right or other interest is not exercisable or transferable for value by the Government, it shall expire and shall not revert to the convicted person. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) The Superior Court shall have jurisdiction to prevent and restrain violations of section 487 of this title by issuing appropriate orders, including, but not limited to, ordering any person to divest himself of any interest, direct or indirect, in any enterprise; imposing reasonable restrictions on the future activities or investments of any person, including, but not limited to, prohibiting any person from engaging in the same type of endeavor as the enterprise engaged in, the activities of which affect casino gaming operations or ancillary industries which do business with any casino licensee; or ordering dissolution or reorganization of any enterprise, making due provision for the rights of innocent persons. (b) The Attorney General may institute proceedings in Superior Court for violations of section 487 of this title. In any action brought under this section, the court shall proceed as soon as practicable to the hearing and determination thereof. Pending final determination thereof, the court may at any time enter such restraining orders or prohibitions, or take such other actions, including the acceptance of satisfactory performance bonds, as it shall deem proper. (c) Any person injured in his business or property by reason of a violation of section 487 of this title may sue therefor in any appropriate court and shall recover threefold any damages he sustains and the cost of the suit, including a reasonable attorney's fee. (d) A final judgment or decree rendered in favor of the Government in any criminal proceeding brought under this chapter shall estop the defendant from denying the essential allegations of the criminal offense in a subsequent civil proceeding brought by the Attorney General. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) Whenever the Attorney General has reason to believe that any person or enterprise may be in possession, custody, or control of any documentary materials relevant to an investigation under this chapter, he may, prior to the institution of a civil or criminal proceeding thereon, issue in writing, and cause to be served upon such person, a civil investigative demand requiring such person to produce such material for examination. (b) Each such demand shall: (1) State the nature of the conduct constituting the alleged violation which is under investigation and the provision of law applicable thereto; (2) Describe the class or classes of documentary material to be produced thereunder with such specificity and certainty as to permit such material to be fairly identified; (3) Prescribe a return date which will provide a reasonable period of time within which the material so demanded may be assembled and made available for inspection and copying or reproduction; and (4) Identify the custodian to whom such material shall be made available. (c) No such demand shall: (1) Contain any requirement which would be held to be unreasonable if contained in a subpoena duces tecum issued in aid of a grand jury investigation; or (2) Require the production of any documentary evidence which would be otherwise privileged from disclosure if demanded by a subpoena duces tecum issued in aid of a grand jury investigation. (d) Service of any such demand or any petition filed under this section may be made upon a person by: (1) Delivering a duly executed copy thereof to any partner, executive officer, managing agent, or to any agent thereof authorized by appointment or by law to receive service of process on behalf of such person, or upon any individual person; (2) Delivering a duly executed copy thereof to the principal office or place of business of the person to be served; or (3) Depositing such copy in the United States mail, by registered or certified mail duly addressed to such person at its principal office or place of business. (e) A verified return by the individual serving any such demand or petition setting forth the manner of such service shall be prima facie proof of such service. In the case of service by registered or certified mail, such return shall be accompanied by the return post office receipt of delivery of such demand. (f) Any person upon whom any demand issued under this section has been duly served shall make such material available for inspection and copying or reproduction to the Attorney General at the principal place of business of such person, or at such other place as the Attorney General and such person thereafter may agree and prescribe in writing, on the return date specified in such demand or on such later date as the Attorney General may prescribe in writing. Upon written agreement between such person and the Attorney General, copies may be substituted for all or any part of such original materials. The Attorney General may cause the preparation of such copies of documentary material as may be required for official use by the Attorney General. While in the possession of the Attorney General, no material so produced shall be available for examination, without the consent of the person who produced such material, by any individual other than the Attorney General or his duly appointed representatives. Under such reasonable terms and conditions as the Attorney General shall prescribe, documentary material while in his possession shall be available for examination by the persons who produced such material or any duly authorized representatives of such person. (g) Upon completion of: (1) The review and investigation for which any documentary material that was produced under this action; and (2) Any case or proceeding arising from such investigation, the Attorney General shall return to the person who produced such material all such material other than copies thereof made by the Attorney General pursuant to this section which has not passed into the control of any court or grand jury through the introduction thereof into the record of such case or proceeding. (h) When any documentary material has been produced by any person under this section for use in any racketeering investigation, and no such case or proceeding arising therefrom has been instituted within a reasonable time after completion of the examination and analysis of all evidence assembled in the course of such investigation, such person shall be entitled, upon written demand made upon the Attorney General, to the return of all documentary material other than copies thereof made pursuant to this section so produced by such person. (i) Whenever any person fails to comply with any civil investigate demand duly served upon him under this section or whenever satisfactory copying or reproduction of any such material cannot be done and such person refuses to surrender such material, the Attorney General may file in the Superior Court a petition for an order of such court for the enforcement of this section. (j) The provisions of this section shall not apply to any situation covered by the provisions of section 431 of this title, and shall in no way limit the Division's authority under that section. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

In addition to any penalty, fine or term of imprisonment authorized by law, the commission shall, after appropriate hearings and factual determinations, have the authority to impose the following sanctions upon any person licensed or registered pursuant to this chapter: (1) Revoke the license or registration of any person for the conviction of any criminal offense under this chapter or for the commission of any other offense or violation of this chapter which would disqualify such person from holding his license or registration; (2) Revoke the license or registration of any person for willfully and knowingly violating an order of the commission directed to such person; (3) Suspend the license or registration of any person pending hearing and determination, in any case in which license or registration revocation could result; (4) Suspend the operation certificate of any casino licensee for violation of any provisions of this chapter or regulations promulgated hereunder relating to the operation of its casino, including games, internal and accountancy controls and security; (5) Assess such civil penalties as may be necessary to punish misconduct and to deter future violations, which penalties may not exceed $10,000.00 in the case of any individual licensee or registrant, except that in the case of a casino licensee the penalty may not exceed $50,000.00; (6) Order restitution of any moneys or property unlawfully obtained or retained by a licensee or registrant; (7) Enter a cease and desist order which specifies the conduct which is to be discontinued, altered or implemented by the licensee or registrant; (8) Issue letters of reprimand or censure, which letters shall be made a permanent part of the file of each licensee or registrant so sanctioned; or (9) Impose any or all of the foregoing sanctions in combination with each other. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

In considering appropriate sanctions in a particular case, the Commission shall consider: (a) The risk to the public and to the integrity of gaming operations created by the conduct of the licensee or registrant; (b) The seriousness of the conduct of the licensee or registrant, and whether the conduct was purposeful and with knowledge that it was in contravention of the provisions of this chapter or regulations promulgated hereunder; (c) Any justification or excuse for such conduct by the licensee or registrant; (d) The prior history of the particular licensee or registrant involved with respect to gaming activity; (e) The corrective action taken by the licensee or registrant to prevent future misconduct of a like nature from occurring; and (f) In the case of a monetary penalty, the amount of the penalty in relation to the severity of the misconduct and the financial means of the licensee or registrant. The Commission may impose any schedule or terms of payment of such penalty as it may deem appropriate. (g) It shall be no defense to disciplinary action before the Commission that an applicant, licensee, registrant, intermediary company, or holding company inadvertently, unintentionally, or unknowingly violated a provision of this chapter. Such factors shall only go to the degree of the penalty to be imposed by the Commission, and not to a finding of a violation itself. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) Notwithstanding any other provisions of the Casino Control Act, (1) upon the revocation of a casino license, (2) upon, in the discretion of the Commission, the suspension of a casino license or operation certificate for a period of in excess of 120 days, or (3) upon the failure or refusal to renew a casino license, and notwithstanding the pendency of any appeal therefrom, the Commission shall appoint and constitute a conservator to, among other things, take over and into his possession and control all the property and business of the licensee relating to the casino and the approved hotel; provided, however, that this subsection shall not apply in any instance in which the casino in the casino hotel facility for which the casino license had been issued has not been, in fact, in operation and open to the public, and provided further that no person shall be appointed as conservator unless the Commission is satisfied that he is individually qualified according to the standard applicable to casino key employees; (b) The Commission may proceed in a conservatorship action in a summary manner or otherwise and shall have the power to appoint and remove one or more conservators and to enjoin the former or suspended licensee from exercising any of its privileges and franchises, from collecting or receiving any debts and from paying out, selling, assigning or transferring any of its property to other than a conservator, except as the Commission may otherwise order. The Commission shall have such further powers as shall be appropriate for the fulfillment of the purposes of this chapter. (c) Every conservator shall, before assuming his duties, execute and file a bond for the faithful performance of his duties payable to the Commission in the office of the Commission with such surety or sureties and in such form as the Commission shall approve and in such amount as the Commission shall prescribe. (d) When more than one conservator is appointed pursuant to this section, the provisions of this article applicable to one conservator shall be applicable to all; the debts and property of the former or suspended licensee may be collected and received by any of them; and the powers and rights conferred upon them shall be exercised by a majority of them. (e) The Commission shall require that the former or suspended licensee purchase liability insurance, in an amount determined by the Commission, to protect a conservator from liability for any acts or omissions of the conservator occurring during the duration of the conservatorship which are reasonably related to, and within the scope of, the conservator's duties. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) Upon his appointment, the conservator shall become vested with the title of all the property of the former or suspended licensee relating to the casino and the approved hotel, subject to any and all valid liens, claims, and encumbrances. The conservator shall have the duty to conserve and preserve the assets so acquired to the end that such assets shall continue to be operated on a sound and businesslike basis. (b) Subject to the direct supervision of the Commission and pursuant to the written instructions of the Commission issued pursuant to section 408 of this title, and any other order the Commission may deem appropriate, a conservator shall have the power to: (1) Take into his possession all the property of the former or suspended licensee relating to the casino and the approved hotel, including its books, records and papers; (2) Institute and defend actions by or on behalf of the former or suspended licensee; (3) Settle or compromise with any debtor or creditor of the former or suspended licensee, including any taxing authority; (4) Continue the business of the former or suspended licensee and to that end enter into contracts, borrow money and pledge, mortgage or otherwise encumber the property of the former or suspended licensee as security for the repayment of the conservator's loans; provided, however, that such power shall be subject to any provisions and restrictions in any existing credit documents; (5) Hire, fire and discipline employees; (6) Review all outstanding agreements to which the former or suspended licensee is a party that fall within the purview of section 463(b) of this title and agreements should be the subject of scrutiny, examination or investigation by the Commission; and (7) Do all further acts as shall best fulfill the purposes of the Casino Control Act. (c) Except during the pendency of a suspension or during the pendency of any appeal from any action or event set forth in section 492(a) of this title which precipitated the conservatorship or in instances in which the Commission finds that the interest of justice so require, the conservator, subject to the prior approval of and in accordance with such terms and conditions as may be prescribed by the Commission, and after appropriate prior consultation with the former licensee as to the reasonableness of such terms and conditions, shall endeavor to and be authorized to sell, assign, convey or otherwise dispose of in bulk, subject to any and all valid liens, claims, and encumbrances, all the property of a former licensee relating to the casino and the approved hotel only upon prior written notice to all creditors and other parties in interest and only to such persons who shall be eligible to apply for and shall qualify as a casino licensee in accordance with the provisions of the Casino Control Act. Prior to any such sale, the former licensee shall be granted, upon request, a summary review by the Commission of such proposed sale. (d) The Commission may direct that the conservator, for an indefinite period of time, retain the property and continue the business of the former or suspended licensee relating to the casino and the approved hotel. During such period of time or any period of operation by the conservator, he shall pay when due, without in any way being personally liable, all secured obligations and shall not be immune from foreclosure or other legal proceedings to collect the secured debts, nor with respect thereto shall such conservator have any legal rights, claims, or defenses other than those which would have been available to the former or suspended licensee. (e) A conservator shall cooperate fully with any investigation or inquiry conducted by the Commission of the Division during the conservatorship or after the discontinuation of the conservatorship. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

In any proceedings pursuant to section 492 of this title, the Commission shall upon the appointment of a conservator, establish a reasonable rate of compensation for the services, costs and expenses in the conservatorship action of the conservator. The Commission shall also designate the party or parties responsible for the payment of compensation to the conservator and shall direct that the responsible party or parties guarantee payment in such manner as the Commission shall deem appropriate. The rate of compensation payable to the attorney for the conservator, the appraiser, the auctioneer, the accountant and such other persons as the Commission may appoint in connection with the conservatorship action shall be established by the Commission at the time of appointment. All requests for payment by the conservator and other persons appointed by the Commission in connection with the conservatorship shall be subject to the approval of the Commission, and the Commission shall reduce any fee which deems to be excessive. Fees payable to the conservator and expenses incurred in the course of the conservatorship shall have priority for payment over all other debts or obligations of the former or suspended licensee, including debts or obligations secured by the former or suspended licensee's property. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

As an incident of its prior approval pursuant to section 493(c) of this title of the sale, assignment, conveyance or other disposition in bulk of all property of the former licensee relating to the casino and the approved hotel, the Commission may, in its discretion, require that the purchaser thereof assume in a form and substance acceptable to the Commission all of the outstanding debts of the former licensee that arose from or were based upon the operation of either or both the casino or the approved hotel. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

No payment of net earnings during the period of the conservatorship may be made by the conservator without the prior approval of the Commission, which may, in its discretion, direct that all or any part of same be paid either to the suspended or former licensee or to the Casino Revenue Fund in accordance with regulations of the Commission; provided, however, that the former or suspended licensee shall be entitled to a fair rate of return out of net earnings, if any, during the period of the conservatorship on the property retained by the conservator taking into consideration that which amounts to a fair rate of return in the casino industry or the hotel industry, as the case may be. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

Following any sale, assignment, conveyance or other disposition in bulk of all the property subject to the conservatorship, the net proceeds therefrom, if any, after payment of all obligations owing to the Government of the Virgin Islands and any political subdivision thereof and of those allowances set forth in section 494 of this title shall be paid by the conservator to the former or suspended licensee. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

A conservator appointed pursuant to section 492 of this title shall at all times be subject to the Casino Control Act and such regulations, limitations, restrictions, terms and conditions as the commission may from time to time prescribe. Except as may be otherwise provided in this act, during the period of any conservatorship imposed by the provisions of section 492 of this title, the casino operation in the form of the conservatorship shall be deemed to be a licensed casino operation and any reference in the Casino Control Act to any obligation or responsibilities incumbent upon a casino licensee or those persons dealing with, affiliated with, having an interest in, or employed by a casino licensee shall be deemed to apply to the said casino operation. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) The Commission shall direct the discontinuation of any conservatorship action instituted pursuant to section 492 of this title when the conservator has, pursuant to section 493 of this title and with the prior approval of the Commission, consummated the sale, assignment, conveyance or other disposition in bulk of all the property of the former licensee relating to the casino and the approved hotel. (b) The Commission may direct the discontinuation of any such conservatorship action when it determines that for any reason the cause for which the action was instituted no longer exists. (c) Upon the discontinuation of the conservatorship action and with the approval of the Commission, the conservator shall take such steps as may be necessary in order to effect an orderly transfer of the property of the former or suspended licensee. (d) The sale, assignment, transfer, pledge or other disposition of the securities issued by a former or suspended licensee during the pendency of a conservatorship action instituted pursuant to this article shall neither divest, have the effect of divesting, nor otherwise affect the powers conferred upon a conservator by this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

A conservator appointed and constituted pursuant to section 492 of this title shall file with the Commission such reports with regards to the administration of the conservatorship in such form and at such intervals as the Commission shall prescribe. Such reports shall be available for examination and inspection by any creditor or party in interest and, in addition, the Commission may direct that copies of any such reports be mailed to such creditors or other parties in interest as it may designate and that summaries of any such reports be published in such newspapers of general circulation as it may designate. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

A creditor or party in interest aggrieved by any alleged breach of a fiduciary obligation of a conservator in the discharge of his duties shall be entitled, upon request, to a review thereof in accordance with regulations to be promulgated by the Commission. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

The Division shall investigate and report to the Commission with regard to the qualifications of each person who is proposed as a candidate to serve as a conservator pursuant to this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

Provisions of 15 U.s.c. Section 1172 Pursuant to section 2 of Act of Congress of the United States entitled "An act to prohibit transportation of gambling devices in interstate and foreign commerce," approved January 2, 1951, being Chapter 1194, 64 Stat. 1134, and also designated as 15 U.S.C. Sec. (1171-1177) the Government, acting by and through the duly elected and qualified members of its Legislature, does hereby, in accordance with and in compliance with the provisions of section 2 of said Act of Congress, declare and proclaim that Section 2 of that Act of Congress shall not apply to any gambling device in the Virgin Islands where the transportation of such a device is specifically authorized by and done in compliance with the provisions of this chapter, any other applicable statute of the Virgin Islands, and any regulations promulgated pursuant thereto, and that any such gambling device transported in compliance with Virgin Islands law and regulations shall be exempt from the provisions of that Act of Congress. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) All shipments into the Virgin Islands of gaming devices, including slot machines, the registering, recording and labeling of which has been duly had by manufacturer or dealer thereof in accordance with Sections 3 and 4 of an Act of Congress of the United States entitled "An act to prohibit transportation of gambling devices in interstate and foreign commerce," approved January 2, 1951, being Chapter 1194, 64 Stat. 1134, and also designated as 15 U.S.C. (1173-1174), shall be deemed legal shipments thereof into the Virgin Islands. (b) Any person who imports or possesses any gaining device including the device commonly known as a slot machine into the Territory of the Virgin Islands without having been duly licensed by the Casino Control Commission or the Virgin Islands Lottery Commission or its Executive Director is guilty of a felony and may be fined not more than $25,000. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Sept. 20, 2011, No. 7280, § 1, Sess. L. 2011, p. 152.

(a) If any clause, subparagraph, paragraph, subsection, section, article or other portion of this chapter or the application thereof to any person or circumstances shall be held to be invalid, such holding shall not affect, impair or invalidate the remainder of this chapter or the application of such portion held invalid to any other person or circumstances, but shall be confined in its operation to the clause, sentence, paragraph, subparagraph, subsection, section, article or other portion thereof directly involved in such holding or to the person or circumstance therein involved. (b) If any provision of this chapter is inconsistent with, in conflict with, or contrary to any other provision of law, such provision of this chapter shall prevail over such other provision and such other provision shall be deemed to be amended, superseded or repealed to the extent of such inconsistency or conflict. The commission shall have exclusive jurisdiction over all matters delegated to it or within the scope of its powers under the provisions of this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) Each applicant at the time of submitting architectural plans or sites plan to the Commission for approval of proposed construction, renovation or reconstruction of any structure or facility to be used as an approved hotel or casino shall accompany same with a written guaranty that all contracts and subcontracts to be awarded in connection therewith shall contain appropriate provisions by which contractors and subcontractors or their assignees agree to comply with the preferred bidders statute, Title 31, section 236a of this code. An applicant shall also be required to demonstrate compliance with Title 29, section 710 of this code and such that prospective employment has been afforded to all bona-fide residents as defined in section 557 of this title and pursuant to section 465 of this title in connection with the actual construction of any structure or facility to be used as an approved hotel or casino prior to submission of architectural plans or site plans to the Commission. (b) No license shall be issued by the Commission to any applicant, including a casino service industry as defined in section 402 of this title, who has not agreed to afford employment of bona-fide residents. (c) Each applicant shall formulate for Commission approval and abide by Title 29, section 710 of this code whereby the applicant guarantees to provide employment opportunity to rehabilitated offenders eligible under sections 441 and 442 of this title and bona fide residents qualified for licensure in all employment categories, including the handicapped, in accordance with the provisions of Title 24 of this code, except in the case of the mentally handicapped, if it can be clearly shown that such handicap would prevent such person from performing a particular job. (d) Any license issued by the commission in violation of this section shall be null and void. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

The Commission, in addition to and without limitation of other powers which it may have by law, shall have the following powers: (a) To investigate and determine the percentage of population of bona fide residents in the Virgin Islands or in areas thereof from which the work force for the licensee is or may be drawn; (b) To establish and promulgate such percentages as guidelines in determining the adequacy of programs submitted for approval pursuant to the provisions of section 506 of this title; (c) To impose such sanctions as may be necessary to accomplish the objectives of section 506. (d) To refer to the Attorney General or his designee circumstances which may constitute violation of laws; (e) To enforce in a court of law the provisions of section 506 or to join in or assist any enforcement proceeding initiated by any aggrieved person; and (f) To require the designation by a licensee of an equal employment officer to enforce the provisions of section 506 and this section and the regulations promulgated hereunder. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

All hotel and other facilities of a casino licensee, which are public accommodations and are subject to the regulatory powers of the Commission under this chapter, shall be constructed or renovated to conform with the provisions of Title 29, section 325 relating to barrier free design for providing facilities for the physically handicapped in public buildings, and the rules, regulations and codes thereunder promulgated. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

Persons Holding an Elective Or Appointive Office (a) No applicant for or holder of a casino license, nor any holding, intermediary or subsidiary company thereof, nor any officer, director, casino key employee or principal employee of an applicant or holder of a casino license or of any holding, intermediary or subsidiary company thereof nor any person or agent on behalf of any such applicant, holder, company or person, shall directly or indirectly, pay or contribute any money or thing of value to any candidate for nomination or election to any public office in the Territory, or to any committee of any political party in this Territory, or to any group, committee or association organized in support of any such candidate or political party. (b) Political officeholders shall abide by the Code of Ethics to be promulgated by the Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission pursuant to section 412(b) of this title; the Code of Ethics shall be promulgated in conjunction with the applicable provisions of the Virgin Islands Code. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

The Commission shall, by regulation, establish fees for issuance or renewal of casino licenses. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(111), Sess. L. 1997, p. 20.

(a) In addition to any other tax or fee imposed by this chapter, the commission shall, by regulation, impose an annual license fee upon every slot machine maintained for use or in use in any licensed casino establishment in the Virgin Islands. (b) License fees imposed under the provisions of this section shall be imposed as of the first day of July of each year with regard to all slot machines maintained for use or in use on that date, and on a pro rata basis thereafter during the year with regard to all slot machines maintained or use or placed in use after July 1. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(112), Sess. L. 1997, p. 20.

The Commission shall, by regulation, establish fees for the investigation and consideration of applications for the issuance and renewal of registrations and licenses other than casino licenses, which fees shall be payable by the applicant, licensee or registrant. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

The Commission shall, by regulation, establish annual fees for the issuance and renewal of work permits, which fees shall be payable by the employer licensee. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) There is hereby created and established in the Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission a separate special revolving fund, into which shall be deposited all license, registration, permit, fines, penalties, and other fees, all sums appropriated thereto by the Legislature of the Virgin Islands, and all donations, gifts and bequests. (b) The Casino Control Commission shall provide for the administration and maintenance of the special checking account. (c) All monies in the special checking account shall be disbursed by the Casino Control Commission and the Attorney General of Virgin Islands, exclusively for expenditures by the Casino Control Commission and the Department of Justice, Division of Gaming Enforcement respectively, as established under this chapter, for all operating costs, expenses associated with the investigation of applicants, organization of the Division of Gaming Enforcement, and for any other operating cost and expenses related thereto. Eighty percent of funds deposited in the special checking account must be allocated to the Casino Control Commission, and twenty percent to the Division of Gaming Enforcement. (d) Deleted. (e) The Casino Control Commission and the Director of Division of Gaming Enforcement Commission may expend monies from the special checking account. The Casino Control Commission shall submit to the Department of Finance by the 30th day of the month following the end of each quarter a report detailing the amount, nature, and the justification for each item of expenditure in the previous quarter. The report shall be accompanied by receipts and any other documentation required by the Department of Finance's rules and regulations or other laws of the Virgin Islands. An annual financial report of the fiscal year's expenditures from the special checking account shall be compiled by the Casino Control Commission and submitted to the Legislature and the Department of Finance by the 30th of the month following the end of the fiscal year. (f) The Casino Control Commission shall engage a certified public accountant to perform an independent annual audit of the activities of the special checking account and present a copy of the audit report to the Commissioner of Finance and the Legislature no later six months after completion of the annual audit. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Dec. 2, 1999, No. 6333, § 12, Sess. L. 1999, p. 186; amended Aug. 13, 2014, No. 7643, § 3(1)-(6), Sess. L. 2014, p. 221, 222; amended July 20, 2019, No. 8184, § 4(a), (b), Sess. L. 2019, p. 26.

There is hereby imposed an annual tax on gross revenues as defined in section 402 of this title as follows: (a) Eight (8%) percent per annum during the first two years of operations, (b) Ten (10%) percent per annum during the third and fourth years of operations which annual tax on gross revenue shall not be reduced when or if the casino or the hotel or the hotel complex is sold or transferred to a new licensee(s) and or owner(s), and (c) Twelve (12%) percent per annum for each succeeding year which annual tax on gross revenue shall not be reduced when or if the casino on the hotel or the hotel complex is sold or transferred to a new licensee(s) and or owner(s). Gross revenues from casino gaming shall not be subject to gross receipts tax. However, gross revenues from hotel operations are subject to gross receipt tax. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(113), Sess. L. 1997, p. 20.

Project Areas; Allocation of Moneys; Housing Facilities; Accounting and Returns; Investment and Returns; Investments (a) (1) Effective with the first fiscal year beginning after December 31, 1995, an investment alternative tax is imposed on the gross revenue of the licensee in the amount of 2.5 percent of gross revenue, as defined in section 402 of this title. The tax imposed with respect to each fiscal year shall be due within 30 days following the last day of the fiscal year concerned. No investment alternative tax shall be imposed, however, on the gross revenues received by a licensee during its first fiscal year. (2) A licensee shall pay to the Director of the Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue on or before the 15th day of the first, fourth, seventh, and 10th months of each year as partial payment of the investment alternative tax imposed pursuant to paragraph (1) of this subsection an amount equal to 1.25% of the estimated gross revenues for the three-month period immediately preceding the first day of those months. The moneys received shall be placed in an escrow account and shall be held until the licensee directs that the moneys be transferred to the Economic Development Bank for the purchase of bonds issued by or offered through the Economic Development Bank or pursuant to a contract for such a purchase, be made available to the licensee for a direct investment approved by the authority, or be transferred to the Casino Revenue Fund as partial payment of the investment alternative tax imposed pursuant to paragraph (1) of this subsection. Any interest derived from the moneys in the escrow account shall be paid or made available to the Casino Revenue Fund. If a licensee fails to pay the amount due or underpays by an unjustifiable amount, the Casino Control Commission shall impose a fine of 5% of the amount due or of the underpayment, as the case may be, for each month or portion thereof the licensee is in default of payment, up to 25% of the amount in default. Any fine imposed shall be paid to the Economic Development Bank and shall be used for the purposes of this chapter. (b) Each licensee shall be entitled to an investment tax credit against the tax imposed by subsection (a) of this section: (1) for the first 10 years of a licensee's tax obligation, in an amount equal to twice the purchase price of bonds issued by the Economic Development Bank pursuant to sections 535 and 536 of this title, purchased by the licensee, or twice the amount of the investments authorized in lieu thereof, and (2) for the remainder of a licensee's tax obligation, in an amount equal to twice the purchase price of bonds issued by the Economic Development Bank pursuant to sections 535 and 536 of this title, purchased by the licensee, or twice the amount of the investments authorized in lieu thereof, and twice the amount of investments made by a licensee in other approved eligible investments made pursuant to section 546 of this title. The Economic Development Bank shall have the power to enter into a contract or contracts with a licensee pursuant to which the Economic Development Bank agrees to issue and sell bonds to the licensee, and the licensee agrees to purchase the bonds issued by or offered through the Economic Development Bank, in annual purchase price amounts as will constitute a credit against at least 50% of the tax to become due in any future year or years. The contract may contain those terms and conditions relating to the terms of the bonds and to the issuance and sale of the bonds to the licensee as the Economic Development Bank shall deem necessary or desirable. The contract shall not be deemed to be in violation of section 463 of this title. After the first 10 years of a licensee's investment alternative tax obligation, a licensee will have the option of entering into a contract with the Economic Development Bank to have its tax credit comprised of direct investments in approved eligible projects. These direct investments shall not comprise more than 50% of a licensee's eligible tax credit in any one year. The entering of a contract pursuant to this section shall be sufficient to entitle a licensee to an investment tax credit for the appropriate tax year. (c) A contract entered into between a licensee and the Economic Development Bank may provide for a deferral of payment for and delivery of bonds required to be purchased and for a deferral from making approved eligible investments in any year, but no deferral shall occur more than two years consecutively. A deferral of payment for any bonds required to be purchased by a licensee and a deferral from making eligible investments may be granted by the Economic Development Bank only upon a determination by the Casino Control Commission that purchase of these bonds or making approved eligible investments would cause extreme financial hardship to the licensee and a determination by the Economic Development Bank that the deferral of the payment would not violate any covenant or agreement or impair any financial obligation of the Economic Development Bank. The contract may establish a late payment charge to be paid in the event of deferral or other late payment at a rate as shall be agreed to by the Economic Development Bank. If a deferral of purchase or investment is granted, the licensee shall be deemed to have made the purchase or investment at the time required by the contract, except that if the purchase is not made at the time to which the purchase or investment was deferred, then the licensee shall be deemed not to have made the purchase or investment. The Casino Control Commission shall adopt regulations establishing a uniform definition of extreme financial hardship applicable to all these contracts. If a licensee petitions the Economic Development Bank for a deferral, the Economic Development Bank shall give notice of that petition to the Casino Control Commission and to the Division of Gaming Enforcement within three days of the filing of the petition. The Casino Control Commission shall render a decision with 60 days of notice as to whether the licensee has established extreme financial hardship, after consultation with the Division of Gaming Enforcement. The Economic Development Bank shall render a decision as to the availability of the deferral within 10 days of the receipt by it of the decision of the Casino Control Commission and shall notify the Division of Gaming Enforcement and the Casino Control Commission of that decision. If a deferral is granted, the Economic Development Bank may determine whether the purchases or investments shall be made in a lump sum, made over a period of years, or whether the period of obligation shall be extended and additional period of time equivalent to the period of time deferred. (d) The license of any licensee which has defaulted in its obligation to make any purchase of bonds or investment in any approved eligible project under a contract entered into pursuant to subsection (b) of this section for a period of 90 days may be suspended by the Casino Control Commission until that purchase is made or deferred in accordance with subsection (b) of this section, or a fine or other penalty may be imposed upon the licensee by the Commission. If the Casino Control Commission elects not to suspend the license of a licensee after the licensee has first defaulted in its obligation but instead imposes some lesser penalty and the licensee continues to be in default of its obligation after a period of 30 additional days and after any additional 30-day period, the Commission may impose another fine or penalty upon the licensee, which may include suspension of that licensee's license. The fine shall be 5% of the amount of the obligation owed for each month or portion thereof a licensee is in default, up to 25% of that obligation; shall be paid to the Economic Development; and shall be used for the purposes of this chapter. (e) A contract entered into by a licensee and the Economic Development Bank pursuant to subsection (b) of this section may provide that after the first 10 years of a licensee's investment alternative tax obligation imposed by subsection (a) of this section, the Economic Development Bank may repurchase bonds previously sold to the licensee, which were issued after the 10th year of a licensee's investment alternative tax obligation, by the Economic Development Bank, if the Economic Development Bank determines that the repurchase will not violate any agreement or covenant or impair any financial obligation of the Economic Development Bank and that the licensee will reinvest the proceeds of the resale in an eligible project approved by the Economic Development Bank. (f) (1) During the 25 years a licensee is obligated to pay an investment alternative tax pursuant to subsection (k) of this section, 60% of the total of the proceeds of all bonds purchased by a licensee from or through the Economic Development Bank and shall be devoted to funding of the Economic Development Bank created under Title 29, chapter 14Title 29, c901 14, section 29e901 et. seq. of the Virgin Islands Codeal shall be devoted to funding the Economic Development Bank. Within 36 months from October 25, 1995, the Economic Development Bank shall determine the allocation of projected available moneys to the United States Virgin Islands Government, giving priority to the housing needs of lower and middle income residents of St. Croix. Government agencies and departments shall present to the Economic Development Bank comprehensive plans or projects for which the monies shall be used. The Economic Development Bank shall make a determination of eligibility of the plan or project within a reasonable amount of time not to exceed one year from the submittal of the application. If the Economic Development Bank makes a positive determination of any plan or project, whose total cost exceeds the amount allocated to that project for the first five years of the receipt of funds by the Economic Development Bank shall make available sufficient funds in subsequent years necessary to complete those plans or projects, or to complete that portion of the plan or project originally agreed to be funded through the Economic Development Bank in the years following the fifth year of the receipt of funds by the government. (2) For the purposes of this chapter, "low income families" means families whose income does not exceed 50% of the median income of the area, with adjustments for smaller and larger families. "Moderate income families" means families whose income does not exceed 80% and is not less than 50% of the median income for the area with adjustments for smaller and larger families. "Median range income families" means families whose income does not exceed 120% and is not less than 80% of the median income for the area, with adjustments for smaller and larger families. "Middle income families" means families whose income does not exceed 150% and not less than 120% of the median income for the area, with adjustments for smaller and larger families. "Median income" means and income defined as median within the Virgin Islands by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. (3) Notwithstanding any other law or section to the contrary, particularly this subsection regarding the waiver of the required percentages for housing in the Virgin Islands, subsection (i) of section 535, and sections 547, 548, 549, 550, and 552 of this title, nothing shall be implemented or waived by the Economic Development Bank which would reduce, impair, or prevent the fulfillment of the priorities established and contained in this subsection. (g) If a person is a licensee with regard to more than one approved hotel pursuant to section 434 of this title, the person shall separately account for the gross revenues, the investment alternative tax obligations, and the investments for a tax credit against the investment alternative tax for each approved hotel, and the tax obligations of the licensee under this section shall be determined separately for each approved hotel. The licensee may apportion investments between its approved hotels; provided that no amount of investment shall be credited more than once. If a licensee receives the prior approval of the Economic Development Bank, the licensee may make eligible investments in excess of the investments necessary to receive a tax credit against the investment alternative tax for a given calendar year, and the licensee may carry forward this excess investment and have it credited to its next investment alternative tax obligation. If the Economic Development Bank approves of such excess investment and approves the carry forward of this excess investment, and a licensee elects to purchase bonds of the Economic Development Bank or makes direct investment necessary to receive a tax credit against the investment alternative tax for its current obligation, the licensee shall be entitled to a reduction of the amount of investments necessary in future years, which amount shall be determined annually by the Economic Development Bank, taking into account a current market discount rate from the date of the purchase or investment to the date the purchase or investment would have been required to be made. (h) Each casino licensee shall prepare and file, in a form prescribed by the Economic Development Bank, an annual return reporting that financial information as shall be deemed necessary by the Economic Development Bank to carry out the provisions of this chapter. This return shall be filed with the Economic Development Bank and the Casino Control Commission on or before April 30 following the calendar year on which the return is based. The Casino Control Commission shall verify to the Economic Development Bank the information contained in the report, to the fullest extent possible. Nothing in this subsection shall be deemed to affect the due dates for making any investment or paying any tax under this section. (i) Any purchase by a licensee of bonds issued by or offered through the Economic Development Bank pursuant to sections 535 and 536 of this title and subsection (b) of this section and all approved eligible investments made by a licensee pursuant to section 535 of this title and subsection (b) of this section are to be considered investments and not taxes owed or grants to the Government or any political subdivision thereof. As such, a licensee shall have the possibility of the return of principal and a return on the capital invested as with other investment. Investors in the bonds issued by or offered through the Economic Development Bank shall be provided with an opinion from a recognized financial rating agency or a financial advisory firm with national standing that each loan of bond proceeds by the Economic Development Bank has the minimum characteristics of an investment, in that a degree of assurance exists that interest and principal payments can be made and other terms of the proposed investment be maintained over the period of the investment, and that the loan of the bond proceeds would qualify for a bond rating of "C" or better. If an opinion cannot be obtained from a recognized financial rating agency or a financial advisory firm with national standing, an opinion shall be obtained from an expert financial analyst with national standing, selected and hired by the Economic Development Bank. In order to achieve a balanced portfolio, assure the viability of the authority and the projects, facilities and programs undertaken pursuant to this chapter, no more than 25% of the total investments made by or through the Economic Development Bank with the proceeds of bonds generated in each year shall be investments which would qualify for a bond rating of "C", unless all holders of obligations in each year agree to waive the 25% limit for that year. Nothing herein shall be interpreted as limiting the Economic Development Bank from taking any steps it deems appropriate to protect the characteristics of its investment in projects or any other investments from not being real investments with a prospect for the return of principal and a return on the capital invested. Anything contained in this section shall not be considered a guarantee by the Government or any political subdivision thereof of any return of principal or interest, but any purchase by a licensee of bonds or approved eligible investments made by a licensee pursuant to this chapter shall be at the risk of the licensee. A licensee or the licensees purchasing an issue of bonds by the Economic Development Bank in any given year may arrange, at their option, for those bonds or the investments, made by or through the Economic Development Bank with the proceeds of those bonds, to be insured. The cost of any such insurance purchased by a licensee or licensees shall be paid by the licensee or licensees desiring such insurance. (j) The Economic Development Bank shall promulgate rules and regulations deemed necessary to carry out the purposes of this section, other than subsection (a)(1) of this section. The Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue shall promulgate rules and regulations deemed necessary to carry out the purposes of subsection (a)(1). (k) The obligation of a licensee to pay an investment alternative tax pursuant to subsection (a) of this section shall end for each licensed facility operated by the licensee 25 years after any investment alternative tax obligation is first incurred in connection with each licensed facility operated by the licensee, unless extended in connection with a deferral granted by the Economic Development Bank pursuant to subsection (c) of this section. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, §§ 4(114, 115), Sess. L. 1997, p. 21.

(a) There is hereby created and established in the Department of Finance a separate special account to be known as the "Casino Revenue Fund" into which shall be deposited all revenues derived from the tax imposed pursuant to Title 32, sections 515 and 516(a)(1) Virgin Islands Code. (b) The Commission may require a monthly report and recognition statement to be filed with it on or before the 10th day of each month, with respect to gross revenues and deposits received and made during the preceding month. (c) Monies in the Casino Revenue Fund must be allocated and used exclusively as follows: (1) 23 percent to the Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission for its operations; (2) 15 percent to the Department of Education for youth related extracurricular activities, such as: school-related clubs, organizations, sports, including travel within and outside of the Virgin Islands; (3) 10 percent to the Department of Justice, Division of Gaming Enforcement, for salaries and fringe benefits for additional administrative, investigative and support staff, excluding the Director of the Division; (4) 10 percent to the Department of Health; (5) 10 percent to the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation to fund territorial youth sport leagues, including basketball, baseball, tennis and soccer and for travel within and outside of the Virgin Islands; (6) 10 percent to the Virgin Islands Police Department; (7) 10 percent to youth programs sponsored by the Department of Labor; (8) Five percent to the Department of Agriculture to facilitate the mandates of the Territorial Agriculture Plan; (9) Four percent to the Virgin Islands Government Hospitals and Health Facilities Corporation; (10) Two percent to the Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority to be deposited into a revolving fund established for the specific purpose of reconstruction and rehabilitation of the historic district towns of Christiansted and Frederiksted; and (11) One percent to the Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission for programs to treat and prevent gambling addiction." (d) On March 15 and September 16 of each year, the Commissioner of Finance shall publish in not less than two newspapers of general circulation in the Virgin Islands a report detailing the total revenues received in the Casino Revenue Fund, the total disbursements from the Fund and the specific purpose of the disbursement. The report must cover the preceding six months ending December 31 and June 30. In addition to the appropriated funds in the annual budget of the Government of the Virgin Islands, a percentage of the funds must also be appropriated to the Department of Health for behavioral health facilities and initiatives as follows: (1) One percent in years one, two and three; (2) 0.05 percent in years four and five; and (3) 0.0025 percent every successive year thereafter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Sept. 9, 1996, No. 6117, §§ 12(B), 12(A), Sess. L. 1996, p. 91; Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, §§ 4(116-118), 4(e)(126), Sess. L. 1997, p. 21; Aug. 27, 1997, No. 6149, § 1(c), Sess. L. 1997, p. 44; Aug. 2, 2002, No. 6534, § 24, Sess. L. 2002, p. 439; Jan. 15, 2010, No. 7100, § 2(a), (b), Sess. L. 2009, p. 176; amended Oct. 5, 2012, No. 7442, § 1, Sess. L. 2012, p. 340; amended Apr. 22, 2022, No. 8577, § 2(b)(5), Sess. L. 2022, p. -; amended Jan. 19, 2023, No. 8688, § 2, Sess. L. 2022, p. 393; amended Nov. 10, 2025, No. 9052, § 9, Sess. L. 2025, p. -

Contributions From Casino Licensees For Programs of Employment Training and Assistance In Obtaining a Ged; Partial Funding of Jovig Program; Money to Initially Come From Tourism Fund (a) The Commission shall allocate ten (10%) percent of the moneys from the Casino Revenue Fund earmarked to youth related programs to assist in the partial funding of the following job training programs: (1) for financial assistance to help casino employees to obtain their G.E.D. and further education, to include but not limited to college education; (2) for financial assistance for casino employees to obtain certification in the field of Hotel/Hospitality Management at the St. Croix Vocational School. (3) for fifty (50%) percent of the budgetary needs of the Jobs for America's Graduates Virgin Islands program, its purpose being to assist at-risk and disadvantaged youth in graduating from high school and thereafter finding and keeping quality jobs, through a territory supported school-to-work transition program. (b) The Commission shall make available to the casino licensee half the cost of each employee participating in the GED or Hotel/Hospitality programs. This is to be matched by the casino licensee for each of its employees participating in any of the programs. (c) The GED and Hotel/Hospitality programs shall be instituted by each casino licensee prior to the beginning of the casino licensee's operation in St. Croix and the casino licensee shall notify their employees and/or prospective employees of the existence of the program on an ongoing basis. (d) All casino employees and casino key employees, as defined in this chapter, having no vocational training and/or high school diploma/GED equivalent, shall as a requirement of maintaining their employment, enroll in a vocational training program in the Hotel/Hospitality Management School of the United States Virgin Islands or an equivalent institution within six months of becoming employed in a casino hotel licensed to do business in the Virgin Islands. (e) After the second full year of a casino hotel commencing operations in the Virgin Islands, all casino employees and casino key employees shall be holders of vocational training certificates or a high school diploma. (f) Not less than five (5%) percent of the total monies allotted to education shall be devoted to the establishment of an African and Caribbean Studies program at the University of the Virgin Islands for persons desirous of attaining bachelors, masters or doctorate degrees in the fields or related areas; and to further provide that monies may also be used to provide funds for persons desirous of pursuing a bachelors, masters, or doctorate degree in the following areas of study: African and Caribbean Studies, Math; Science; Architecture, or Medicine. (g) Initial moneys for the funding of the programs are to be borrowed from any available fund from which the Governor is authorized to borrow monies, for a period of two (2) years if needed. Repayment at the rate of five (5) percent shall begin as the casino revenue fund becomes viable; repayment shall be completed no later than five years after the initial loan was procured. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Aug. 27, 1997, No. 6149, § 2(c), Sess. L. 1997, p. 44; amended Oct. 7, 2016, No. 7941, § 1, Sess. L. 2016, p. 199.

Amount (a) Any income realized by reason of the investment of the moneys in the "Casino Revenue Fund", shall be credited to the fund. (b) For the purpose of determining the amount of investment income to be credited to the "Casino Revenue Fund" the Commissioner of Finance shall calculate the average rate of earnings from the territories general investments during each fiscal year and apply that rate to the average daily balance of the fund during that fiscal year. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

The Commission, in conjunction with the Bureau of Internal Revenue, shall make rules and regulations for the determination of profits where not otherwise provided under this chapter or the tax laws of the United States and the Virgin Islands, under the provisions of this section. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

(a) The tax imposed under section 516 of this title shall be due within 30 calendar days following the last day of the month concerned and shall be based upon gross revenues derived during the previous month. A licensee shall file its first return and shall report gross revenues from the time it commenced operations and ending on the last day of the month. Such return shall be filed with the Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue within 30 calendar days following the last day of the month concerned. A copy of the return shall also be filed with the Commission by the same date. (b) Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, any business conducted by an individual, partnership, or corporation or any other entity, or any combination thereof, holding a license pursuant to this chapter shall, in addition to all other taxes imposed by this chapter, file a corporate income tax or individual income tax return and pay the taxes indicated thereon. The Director of the Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue shall administer the taxes imposed under sections 515 and 516 of this title in accordance with the procedures set out in Title 33, Virgin Islands Code. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(119), Sess. L. 1997, p. 21.

The Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue shall administer the taxes imposed under sections 515 and 516 of this title in accordance with the procedures set out in Title 33, Virgin Islands Code. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(120), Sess. L. 1997, p. 21.

(a) Any licensee who shall fail to file its return when due or to pay any tax or deposit when the same becomes due, as herein provided, shall be subject to the payment of a penalty at the rate of five (5%) percent per month or any fraction thereof, but shall not exceed twenty-five (25%) percent in the aggregate. (b) The Director of the Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue, upon satisfactory proof by a taxpayer that failure to file a return or pay any tax or penalty required under the provisions of this chapter was due to reasonable cause and not due to willful neglect, may waive any and all penalties. (c) Interest on any underpayment or in nonpayment shall be computed in accordance with the rate Title 33, Chapter 33, section 1231, subsection (a), Virgin Islands Code. (d) Whoever willfully attempts in any manner to evade or defeat any tax imposed by this act or the payment thereof or who willfully fails to make any returns, keep such information, at the time or times required by this act or regulations promulgated thereunder, shall, in addition to other penalties provided by law, be fined not more than $100,000 or imprisoned not more than six months, or both, together with the costs of prosecution. (e) If any part of any underpayment of tax required to be shown on a return is due to fraud, there shall be added to the tax an amount equal to fifty (50%) percent of the underpayment. The term "underpayment" shall have the same meaning as contained in Title 33, chapter 35, section 1283, subsection (c), item (2), Virgin Islands Code. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; amended Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(121), Sess. L. 1997, p. 21.

(a) Taxes-In addition to the other powers granted by this chapter, the Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue is hereby authorized and empowered to prepare and distribute all forms and returns necessary for the implementation of this chapter related to the taxes imposed by this chapter, including without limitation forms related to the filing, collection, and enforcement of such taxes. (b) Fees and other forms and returns under authority of Commission - The Commission is hereby authorized and empowered to prepare and distribute any other forms and returns necessary to the implementation of this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

The taxes imposed by this chapter shall be governed in all respects by the provisions of Title 33 of the Virgin Islands Code, and the provisions of this chapter related to the administration of such taxes are intended to be consistent with the provisions of Title 33 of the Virgin Islands Code. To the extent that a specific provision of this chapter is determined to be in conflict with the provisions of Title 33 of the Virgin Islands Code, as determined by the Virgin Island Bureau of Internal Revenue, then the provision of this act shall govern. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12.

The Legislature declares that the opportunity for full participation of bona fide continuous resident's business enterprises and women's business enterprises in the tourism and casino industry is essential if social and economic parity is to be obtained and if the local economy of St. Croix is to be stimulated and sustained, as intended by the "Casino Control Act". To satisfy this objective, bona fide resident's business enterprises and women's business enterprises, as defined in Section 527 of this title, shall be referred to as "Preferred Contractor's" under this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; renumbered Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(122), Sess. L. 1997, p. 21.

As used in this chapter: (a) "Bona fide resident" is (1) a person who has been domiciled in the Virgin Islands continuously for at least five (5) years or was born in the Virgin Islands; (b) "Bona fide resident business enterprise is: (1) A firm, partnership or corporation in which at least fifty-one (51%) percent of the legal or equitable ownership is held by a person or persons who have been a bona fide resident of the Virgin Islands for at least five (5) years, or who were born in the Virgin Islands, and the management and daily operations of which are controlled by one or more of the bona fide continuous residents who own it; and (2) Said person, firm, partnership, or corporation is licensed in and maintains his/her or its principal place of business in the Virgin Islands and who owns, operates, or maintains a store, warehouse, or other place of business in the Virgin Islands or is duly authorized agent, dealer, distributor or representative in the Virgin Islands for the materials, supplies, articles, or equipment of the general character required by the licensee and casino service industry. (c) A Women's Business Enterprise is: (1) A sole proprietorship owned and controlled by a woman; or (2) A partnership or joint venture owned and controlled by women in which at least 51% of the ownership is held by women and the management and daily business operations of which are controlled by one or more women who own it; or (3) A corporation or other entity whose management and daily business operations are controlled by one or more women who own it, and which is at least 51% owned by women, or if stock is issued, at least 51% of the stock is owned by one or more women. (d) Any person, firm, partnership, or corporation meeting the requirements of subsections (a), (b), and (c) of this section must register his/her name with the Casino Control Commission in order to insure their participation. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; renumbered Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, §§ 4(122), 5, Sess. L. 1997, p. 21.

Enterprises; Percentage Requirements and Goals (a) Notwithstanding the provisions of any law, rule or regulation to the contrary, every casino licensee shall establish goals of expending at least 65% of the dollar value of its purchased goods and services with bona fide residents business enterprises. Each casino licensee shall be required to demonstrate annually to the Commission that the requirements of this act have been met, by submitting a report which shall include the total dollar value of purchases for goods or services and the percentage thereof awarded to bona fide resident business enterprises. As used in this section, goods and services shall include Virgin Islands produced beverages, pastries, breads, milk and other dairy products, meats, vegetables and other locally produced foodstuff; arts and crafts; musicians, dancers and other such performing artists; transportation services, security services but not be limited to the above. As used in this section, "goods and services" shall not include- (1) utilities and taxes; (2) financing costs, such as mortgages, loans or any other type of debt; (3) medical insurance; (4) fees to the Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission; (5) fees and payments to a parent or affiliated company of the casino licensee other than those that represent fees and payments for goods and services supplied by non-affiliated persons through an affiliated company for the use or benefit of the casino licensee; and (6) rents paid for real property and any payments constituting the price of an interest in real property as a result of a real estate transaction. (b) Notwithstanding the provisions of any law, rule, or regulation to the contrary, every casino licensee licensed to do business in the Virgin Islands shall lease at least fifty (50%) percent of the retail establishment space within any casino licensee's hotel and/or casino to bona fide resident businesses, and shall limit the amount of non-bona fide resident businesses to no more than fifty thousand (50,000) square feet within any casino licensee's hotel and/or casino. This square footage requirement shall not apply to bars, restaurants and laundries within a casino and/or related hotel. (c) A casino licensee shall make a good faith effort to meet the requirements of this section and shall annually demonstrate to the Commission that such an effort was made. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; renumbered Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(122), Sess. L. 1997, p. 21.

Assignments to Preferred Contractor's Business Enterprises; Suspension, Revocation Or Other Penalties Compliance Period If the Commission determines that the provisions of section 528 of this title relating to expenditures and assignment to preferred contractor's business enterprises have not been met by a licensee, the Commission may suspend or revoke the casino license, or fine or impose appropriate conditions on the licensee, to ensure that the goals for expenditures and assignments to preferred contractor's business enterprises are met; except that if a determination is made that a casino licensee has failed to demonstrate compliance with the provisions of section 528 casino licensee will have ninety (90) days from the date of the determination of non-compliance within which to comply with the provisions of those sections. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; renumbered Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(122), Sess. L. 1997, p. 21.

Business Enterprises The Department of Labor shall establish and administer a unified certification procedure for preferred contractor's business enterprises that do business with casino licensees on contracts for goods and services. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; renumbered Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(122), Sess. L. 1997, p. 21.

Designation The Department of Labor shall supply casino licensees with a list of those preferred contractor's business enterprises which it has certified. The Department shall review the list annually to determine which of those preferred contractor's business enterprises shall continue to be certified. The Division shall establish a procedure whereby the designation of a certified preferred contractor's business enterprise may be challenged. The procedure shall include proper notice and hearing for all parties concerned. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; renumbered Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(122), Sess. L. 1997, p. 21.

The Department of Labor and the Casino Control Commission shall develop such other regulations as may be necessary to interpret and implement the provisions of this chapter. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; renumbered Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(122), Sess. L. 1997, p. 21.

Subcontractors and Their Assignees Notwithstanding any law to the contrary: (1) No special legislation or IDC certificate shall exempt the casino licensee from full compliance with the provisions of this chapter; (2) The provisions of this chapter shall be applicable to any and all corporations, businesses, or individuals providing services to the casino hotel licensee; (3) Casino hotel licensees shall not abrogate: any provision of this chapter through contract(s) or contractual employee(s): provided further that in the event there is a contract(s) or contractual employee(s), all provisions relating to employment, and benefits, but not limited thereto, shall apply; (4) Jurisdiction of the commission under this chapter extends to any and all subcontractors doing business with the casino hotel licensees. History: Added Nov. 3, 1995, No. 6069, § 6, Sess. L. 1995, p. 12; renumbered Mar. 26, 1997, No. 6132, § 4(122), Sess. L. 1997, p. 21.

This Article may be cited and shall be known as the "Virgin Islands Internet Gaming and Internet Gambling Act". History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

It is the purpose of this Article to make provision for the protection of persons participating in approved Internet gaming and approved Internet gambling by the licensing and regulation of such services. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

As used in this Article, the words and terms have the meanings ascribed unless a different meaning clearly appears in the context: (a) "Approved Game" or "Approved Gambling Game" means an Internet game or Internet gambling authorized and permitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Commission that a licensee is authorized to conduct pursuant to this Article; provided, however, if the Commission determines that a game or gambling is contrary to the public interest, the Chairman by written notice to the Master Service Provider may declare the game or gambling to be prohibited. (b) "Bank" means an institution organized under federal, state or territorial law which: (1) accepts demand deposits or deposits that the depositor may use for payment to third parties and engages in the business of making commercial loans; or (2) engages in credit card operations, does not accept demand deposits or deposits that the depositor may use for payments to third parties, does not accept a savings or time deposit less than $100,000, maintains only one office that accepts deposits, and does not engage in the business of making consumer loans. (c) "Commission" means the Casino Control Commission established pursuant to the provisions of title 32, Virgin Islands Code. (d) "Computer" means an electronic device which by means of stored instruction and information performs rapid, often complex, calculations or compiles, correlates and selects data. (e) "Computer Server" means a computer that is capable of communicating with another computer or device; and providing to that other computer or device: (1) access to a database; (2) transaction based services; (3) software applications; or (4) interactive services (f) "Control" means: (1) ownership of, or the power to vote, directly or indirectly, at least fifteen percent (15%) of a class of voting securities or voting interests of a licensee or person in control of a licensee; (2) power to elect a majority of executive officers, managers, directors, trustees, or other persons exercising managerial authority of a licensee or person in control of a licensee; or (3) the power to exercise directly or indirectly, a controlling influence over the management or policies of a licensee or person in control of a licensee, if the Commission, after notice and opportunity for hearing, so determines. (g) "Control System" means any system of internal controls and administrative and accounting procedures for the operation of an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling by a licensee. (h) "Court" means the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands. (i) "Division" means the Division of Gaming Enforcement as established under this chapter. (j) "Employ" means to engage the services or labor of someone or a corporation, business, partnership, or company for compensation. (k) "Employee" in relation to a licensee, means a person employed by the licensee in functions related to the conduct of approved Internet games or approved Internet gambling. (l) "Executive Officer" means a president, chairperson of the executive committee, chief financial officer, principal employee, responsible individual, or other individual who performs similar functions. (m) "Gaming Record" means information that is inscribed on a tangible medium or that is stored in an electronic or other medium and is retrievable in perceivable form, including a document, about the operation or an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling conducted by a licensee pursuant to a license issued in accordance with this Article. (n) Gross Service Provider Revenue means the total of all sums received by the Master Service Providers from licensees. (o) "Gross Internet Gaming Revenue" or "Gross Internet Gambling Revenue" means the total of all sums, including checks received by the Licensee under this Article actually received by a licensee from gaming operations, less only the total of all sums paid out as winnings to players, and a deduction for uncollectible gaming receivables. The deduction for uncollectible gaming receivables shall not exceed the lesser of: (1) a reasonable provision for uncollectible player checks received from gaming operations; or (2) four percent (4%) of the total of all sums including checks, whether collected or not, less than the amount paid out as winnings to players. (p) "Hardware" means any computer, computer server, or other device whether electronic, electrical or mechanical required for or used in approved Internet gaming or approved Internet gambling operations. (q) "Identity" in relation to a person means name, physical, mailing and e-mail address, date of birth or a prescribed aspect of the person's identity. (r) "Internet Funds" are funds that are transferred through a third party or peer-to-peer and which the payee can access and retrieve those funds for debt or credit to an account. (s) "Internet Game" means a scheme, arrangement, or plan comprised of prize, chance, and consideration that is approved and authorized by the Commission. (t) "Internet Gambling" means the dealing, operating, carrying on, conducting, maintaining or exposing for pay of any Internet game. (u) "Internet Gaming Equipment" or "Internet Gambling Equipment" means a computer or other device (whether electronic, electrical, or mechanical), computer software, or another thing used, or suitable for use, in the conduct of an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling. (v) "License" means a license for Internet gaming or Internet gambling issued pursuant to this article. (w) "Licensee" means the holder of a license for an Internet gaming site issued by the Commission pursuant to this Article. (x) "Master Service Provider" means the person or entity authorized by this article to conduct the operation of approved Internet gaming or approved Internet gambling in the Virgin Islands, all shareholders, partners, members, or other owners thereof, subject to the rules and regulations promulgated by the Commission in accordance with the provisions of section 4 of this article. (y) "Outstanding," with respect to a payment instrument, means issued, awarded, or sold by or for the licensee and which has been reported as issued, awarded or sold but not yet paid by or for the licensee. (z) "Play" means participate in an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling conducted by a licensee. (aa) "Player" means a person who participates in an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling conducted by a licensee. (bb) "Random Number Generator" means a computer or computer server or software programs used to produce a selection of numbers in no particular order and with no favor being given to any numbers that behave similar to realizations of independent, identically distributed random variables, a procedure which produces different values each time it is called simulating a random selection process that ensures the fairness of an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling. (cc) "Record" means information that is inscribed on a tangible medium or that is stored in an electronic or other medium and is retrievable in perceivable form. (dd) "Responsible individual" means an individual who programs or customizes the hardware platform, operating system and application software that can affect game play or has access to sensitive areas or who, is employed by a licensee and has principal, active, managerial authority, empowered to make discretionary decisions over the provision of approved, internet gaming and approved Internet gambling by the licensee in the Virgin Islands. (ee) "Software" means the assembled, compiled or engineered intellectual information in a program and includes procedures and associated documentation concerned with the operation of a computer, computer program, or computer network. (ff) "Unsafe or unsound practice" means a practice or conduct by a person licensed to engage in approved Internet gaming or approved Internet gambling which creates the likelihood of insolvency or material loss dissipation of the licensee's assets beyond that prescribed by law, or otherwise materially prejudices the interests of its players. (gg) "Virgin Islands" means the Virgin Islands. (hh) "Wager" means an amount a player puts at risk in playing an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling conducted by a licensee. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 35(a), Sess. L. 2002, p. 347.

Consistent with this chapter and in accordance with the provisions of section 421(a), (b), (c) and (d), of this title, the Commission shall promulgate such rules and regulations as may be necessary to effectuate the purposes of this Article. Internet Gaming shall not commence until the Commission has adopted rules and regulations under this Article and has determined that: (a) Internet gaming can be operated in compliance with all applicable laws; (b) Internet gaming systems are secure and reliable, and provide reasonable assurance that players will be of lawful age and communicating only for jurisdictions where it is lawful to make such communications; (c) Adoption of such regulations is consistent with the public policy of the Virgin Islands to foster the stability and success of Internet gaming; and History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended Dec. 31, 2020, No. 8397, § 1(a), Sess. L. 2020, p. 258.

(a) Unless first obtaining a license pursuant to subarticle B of this Article, a person or entity shall not: (1) conduct an Internet gaming or Internet gambling business at or from a place in the Virgin Islands; (2) own, control, or operate a computer server in the Virgin Islands that enables an Internet game or Internet gambling to be played; (3) offer, advertise, solicit in the Virgin Islands the playing of Internet games or Internet gambling; (4) seek to obtain a commercial advantage from the use of premises other than those of the Master Service Provider in the Virgin Islands for playing Internet games or Internet gambling; (5) hold themselves out as a licensee. (b) A license is not transferable or assignable. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 35(b), Sess. L. 2002, p. 347.

An approved Internet gaming or approved Internet gambling licensee may consolidate or merge with a casino operation in the Virgin Islands as provided in this chapter with the approval of the Commission. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

(a) A person applying for a license pursuant to this Article must do so in writing, under oath, and in a form prescribed by the Commission. The application must state or contain: (1) the legal name, residential and business addresses of the applicant and any fictitious or trade name used by the applicant in the conduct of its business; (2) the applicant's civil litigation for the last five (5) years; (3) a description of any gaming business previously or presently engaged in by the applicant; (4) a copy of any software and an inventory of computer hardware to be utilized by the applicant in the proposed Internet gaming or Internet gambling business; (5) the name and address of any clearing financial institutions through which the applicant's prizes will be payable through, if any; (6) a document confirming that the requirements for security and net worth as set forth in sections 612 and 615, of this article, have been or will be satisfied; (7) a document confirming that the applicant acknowledges that the laws of the Virgin Islands and the United States, as applicable, shall apply to the conduct of its operations and that the applicant shall comply with all rules and regulations promulgated by the Commission as applicable to the conduct of approved Internet games or approved Internet gambling and that the applicant agrees to the location of its operations within the central data bank operated by the Master Service Provider; and (8) such other information the Commission may reasonably require with respect to the applicant. (b) If an applicant is a corporation, the applicant shall also provide: (1) the date of the applicant's incorporation and the jurisdiction of incorporation; (2) a certificate of good standing from the jurisdiction in which the applicant is incorporated; (3) a description of the corporate structure of the applicant, including any parent or subsidiary of the applicant, and whether any parent or subsidiary is publicly traded on a securities exchange; (4) the legal and any fictitious name, business and residential addresses, and employment, for the past five years, of each executive officer, director, principal employee, and controlling persons of the applicant; (5) civil litigation and criminal convictions for the past ten years of each executive officer, director, principal employee, and controlling persons of the applicant; (6) a copy of the applicant's audited financial statements for the most recent fiscal year and, if available, for the next preceding two years; (7) a copy of the applicant's unconsolidated financial statements for the current year, whether audited or not, and, if available, for the next preceding two (2) years; (8) if the applicant is a publicly traded corporation, a copy of the most recent 10-K report filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission; (9) if the applicant is a wholly owned subsidiary of: (A) a corporation publicly traded in the United States, a copy of the articles of incorporation and all amendments, audited financial statements for the parent corporation for the current year or the parent corporation's most recent 10K reports filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission; (B) a corporation publicly traded outside of the United States, similar documentation filed with the parent corporation's non-United States regulator; and (10) such other information the Commission reasonably requires. (c) If the applicant is not a corporation, the applicant shall also provide: (1) evidence that the applicant is qualified to do business in the Virgin Islands; (2) the legal and any fictitious name, business and residential addresses, personal financial statements, and employment for the last five years, for each controlling person that is an individual and each responsible individual of the applicant; (3) civil litigation and criminal convictions, for the last ten years, of each controlling person that is an individual and each responsible individual of the applicant; (4) a copy of the applicant's audited financial statements for the current year, and, if available, for the next preceding two years; and (5) such other information as the Commission reasonably requires. (d) A nonrefundable application fee must accompany the application. For the first year after the commencement of Internet Gaming and Gambling, the nonrefundable application fee is $25,000. Thereafter, the amount of the nonrefundable application fee will be established through the regulations promulgated by the Commission. The applicant shall also pay the total costs associated with the investigation of the applicant in addition to the application fee and license fee required by this section. (e) (1) Once the application for a license has been granted, a license fee must be paid by a time certain set forth by the Commission. For the first year after the commencement of Internet Gaming and Internet Gambling, the license fee is $50,000. Thereafter, the Commission, through its regulations may increase the license fee as it considers appropriate. (2) A license is not effective, and the holder of the license may not operate under the license until the license fee is paid. (3) If an applicant fails to pay the license fee within thirty (30) days of the due date set by the Commission, the Commission shall revoke the license. (f) The Commission may waive a requirement of subsections (a) through (c) of this section or permit an applicant to submit substituted information in lieu of the required information. (g) A license is required, under the provisions of this section, for every shareholder owning directly or indirectly over fifteen percent (15%) of any class of voting securities, and all executive officers, all directors, principal programmers and any other persons as the Commission or the Division may determine to. However, the Commission shall establish the license fees for the issuance of a license under the provisions of this subsection. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 36, Sess. L. 2002, p. 350; amended Dec. 31, 2020, No. 8397, § 1(b)(1), Sess. L. 2020, p. 259.

(a) A surety bond, or other similar security acceptable to the Commission, in an amount of not less than $100,000 must accompany an application for a license. (b) Notwithstanding subsection (a), the Commission, may increase the amount of security required based upon the potential outstanding liability of a licensee for jackpots, player deposits, and money held in trust. (c) A security must be in a form satisfactory to the Commission and run to the Government of the Virgin Islands for the benefit of any claimant against the licensee to secure the faithful performance of the obligations of the licensee with respect to payment of prizes and monies held on account for players. (d) The aggregate liability on a surety bond may not exceed the principal sum of the bond. A claimant against a licensee may maintain an action directly on the bond, or the Commission may maintain an action on behalf of the claimant. The bond must run to the Government of the Virgin Islands for the benefit of the Commission or any person injured by a wrongful act, omission, default, fraud, or misrepresentation of a licensee or employee of the licensee in the conduct of its business as a licensee. Only one bond is required of a licensee, irrespective of the number of executive officers, directors, principal employees or other employees of the licensee. (e) A surety bond must remain in effect until cancellation, which may occur only after 30 days' written notice to the Commission of the intended cancellation. (f) A surety bond must cover claims effective for as long as the Commission specifies, but at least five years after the licensee ceases to be an approved Internet gaming or approved Internet gambling business in the Virgin Islands. However, the Commission may permit the amount of security to be reduced or eliminated before that time to the extent that the amount of the licensee's prizes outstanding are reduced. The Commission may permit a licensee to substitute another form of security acceptable to the Commission for the security effective at the time the licensee ceases to be an approved Internet gaming or Internet gambling business in the Virgin Islands. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

(a) Upon the filing of an application for a license, under the provisions of this Article and such supplemental information as the Commission may require, the Commission shall request the Division to conduct such investigation into the qualification of the applicant, and the Commission shall conduct a hearing thereon concerning the qualifications of the applicant. The Commission may issue a license to an applicant under this Article if it finds that all of the following conditions have been fulfilled: (1) The applicant has complied with sections 607 and 608 of this Article; (2) The competence, experience, character, and general fitness of the executive officers, directors, principal employees and controlling persons indicate that it is in the interest of the public to permit the applicant to conduct approved Internet games and approved Internet gambling pursuant to this Article; and (3) The applicant has paid the requisite application fee, provide services fees, license fees and the total costs of the investigation; and (4) The applicant has executed an operations contract with the Master Service Provider. (b) Without limiting the matters to which conditions may relate, the conditions of a license may relate to: (1) any matter for which provision is made in this Article, but must not be inconsistent with the provisions of this Article; (2) approval of Internet games, Internet gambling and random number generator. (3) approval of rules of Internet games and Internet gambling; (4) approval of executive officers and responsible individuals; (5) approval of internal control system, including the keeping of records, holding of funds on behalf of players, financial statements, reports, accounts and prizes; and (6) approval of computer equipment including, but not limited to, computer servers and associated processing devises. (c) An applicant whose application is denied by the Commission pursuant to this Article may request a hearing before the Commission, within thirty (30) days after receipt of the notice of the denial. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

(a) A licensee under this Article shall pay an annual license fee in accordance with the provisions of section 607(d) of this Article and an annual renewal fee of $25,000 thirty (30) days before the anniversary of the issuance of the license or, if that date is not a business day, on the first business day after that date. The Master Service Provider shall report all provide services fees collected under this section to the Commission not more than thirty (30) days after such fees are received by the Master Service Provider. The Commission in its discretion may require the licensee to undergo an investigation prior to the renewal of the license. The licensee shall be responsible for the total costs associated with the investigation. (b) A licensee under this Article shall submit with the renewal and processing fee a report, in a form prescribed by the Commission. The renewal report shall state or contain: (1) a copy of the licensee's most recent annual financial statement or, if the licensee is a wholly owned subsidiary of another corporation, the most recent consolidated annual financial statement of the parent corporation or the licensee's most recent consolidated annual financial statement; (2) the number prizes issued by the licensee that have not been previously included on a renewal report, the monetary amount of those prizes, and the monetary amount of prizes currently outstanding; (3) a description of each material change in information submitted by the licensee in its original license application which has not been previously reported to the Commission on any required report; (4) a list of the licensee's permissible investments and a certification that the licensee continues to maintain permissible investments according to the requirements set forth in sections 629 and 630 of this title; and (5) proof that the licensee continues to maintain adequate security as required by section 608 of this title. (c) If a licensee fails to file a renewal report or to pay its renewal fee by the renewal date, and has not been granted an extension of time to do so by the Commission, its license is suspended on the renewal date and all approved Internet games or approved Internet gambling shall cease. The licensee has 30 days after its license is suspended in which to file a renewal report and to pay the annual license fee in accordance with the provisions of section 607(d) of this Article and an annual renewal fee of $25,000, plus $2,500 for each day thereafter that the Commission does not receive the renewal form and application. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 35(c), Sess. L. 2002, p. 347; amended Dec. 31, 2020, No. 8397, § 1(b)(2)(A), (B), Sess. L. 2020, p. 259.

In order to assure the licensee's ability to meet its obligations to players, the Commission shall establish the necessary amounts of funds to be segregated in a manner that they are bankruptcy remote and accessible by the Commission to pay players' claims. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

The Commission shall ensure that approved Internet games and approved Internet gambling of each licensee is audited and certified by a licensed auditor approved by the Commission to ensure that the payout to players is commensurate with the odds of the game played. The licensee shall be responsible for the total costs associated with this audit. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

(a) Notwithstanding the provisions of Article XI of this chapter, and in lieu of taxes and fees imposed pursuant to such Article, the Master Service Provider and the licensees shall pay taxes to the Casino Revenue Fund on Gross Service Provider Revenues, gross Internet gaming and Internet gambling revenue as applicable and in accordance with the provisions of subsection (b) herein. Notwithstanding any other law, the Master Service Provider, the licensees and any owners thereof, shall not be required to pay any other taxes and fees to the Virgin Islands, including but without limitation those imposed pursuant to The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as applicable to the Virgin Islands, and to titles 13 and 33 of this Code. (b) The Master Service Providers and the Licensees shall be subject to an annual tax on Gross Service Provider Revenues, gross Internet gaming revenues and gross Internet gambling revenues as applicable and as defined in section 603 of this chapter, as follows: (i) A Master Service Provider shall pay an annual tax of two and one-half (2 1/2) percent of its Gross Service Provider Revenue; and (ii) A Licensee shall pay an annual tax of one and one-half (1 1/2) percent of its Gross Internet Gaming Revenues and Gross Internet Gambling Revenues. (c) Application fees, license fees, and renewal fees imposed pursuant to section 607, subsection (d) and section 610, subsection (a) of this Article, shall be covered into the Casino Control Fund established pursuant to section 514(d) and (e) of this title. (d) The Master Service Provider and licensees shall report to the Commission monthly all revenue categories received and generated pursuant to this Article. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 35(d), Sess. L. 2002, p. 348.

(a) A licensee shall not permit a person to play an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling unless the person is registered with the licensee as a player and the person's identity has been authenticated in accordance with the conditions of the license. (b) A licensee shall not register a person as a player who is: (1) under 21 years of age; or (2) a resident of a jurisdiction where Internet gaming or Internet gambling is prohibited. (c) A licensee shall not accept a wager from a player in an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling unless: (1) the player is registered; and (2) the funds necessary to cover the amount of the wager are held by the licensee on behalf of the player. (d) A registered player upon playing an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling conducted by a licensee shall be deemed to subject himself to the law and jurisdiction of the Virgin Islands. (e) A licensee or a key employee of the licensee or an immediate family member of a key employee of a licensee shall not participate as a player in an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling conducted by any licensee. (f) The Master Service Provider or a key employee of the Master Service Provider or an immediate family member of a key employee of the Master Service Provider shall not participate as a player in an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling conducted by any licensee. (g) The Commission shall establish standards and procedures for player acceptance under the provisions of this section. The standards and procedures authorized under this subsection shall include but not be limited to software and hardware requirements, and internal control procedures that a Licensee shall employ to identify players and their physical location. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 35(e), Sess. L. 2002, p. 348.

(a) A licensee shall, at the request of a registered player or the personal representative of the registered player, remit funds of the player held by the licensee on behalf of the player as directed by the player no later than two (2) business days after the request is received. (b) A licensee shall not have recourse to funds held on behalf of a player except as follows: (1) To debit the funds of a player for a wager made by the player or an amount the player indicates the player wants to wager in the course of an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling the player is playing or is about to play; (2) To remit funds to the player at the player's request; or (3) As otherwise authorized pursuant to this Article. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

A licensee shall not provide credit to a player. Players shall be required to deposit money prior to playing any approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling by payment in advance, credit or debit card, wire transfer, check, money order, or Internet funds. Notwithstanding the provisions of any law to the contrary, payments made to a licensee by check, credit card, internet funds or other similar instrument, and the debt that such instrument represents, shall be valid and may be enforced by legal process. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 35(f), Sess. L. 2002, p. 348.

If no transaction has been recorded on behalf of a player for a period of one (1) year, the licensee shall remit any funds held on behalf of the player to the player or, if the player cannot be located, such funds shall be paid into the Virgin Islands Education Initiative Fund established pursuant to title 33, section 3093 of this Code. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

(a) A registered player may, by notice to a licensee, set a limit on the amount the player may wager. (b) A player who has set a limit pursuant to this section may amend or revoke the limit on wagers by written notice given to the licensee. (c) A notice increasing or revoking the limit shall not take effect unless: (1) Seven (7) calendar days have passed since the licensee received the notice; and (2) The player has not notified the licensee of an intention to withdraw the notice. (d) A notice reducing the limit has effect on its receipt by the licensee. (e) A licensee shall not accept a wager from a player contrary to a limit set for the player pursuant to this section. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

(a) If a person or player gives written notice to a licensee to the effect that the person or player is not to be permitted to play an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling conducted by the licensee, the licensee shall: (1) Forward a copy of the notice to Commission and the Master Service Provider; and (2) Not permit the person or player to play an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling conducted by the licensee unless the notice is revoked in accordance with this section. (b) A person or player may revoke a notice given pursuant to subsection (a) of this section by giving notice to that effect to the licensee; provided that such revocation shall not take effect unless: (1) Seven (7) calendar days have passed since the person or player gave the notice; and (2) The player has not withdrawn the notice. (c) A licensee shall not accept a wager from a person or player who has given notice pursuant to subsection (a) of this section. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 36, Sess. L. 2002, p. 351.

(a) If a claim for a prize in an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling is made to a licensee within one (1) year after the end of the approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling or, the licensee after immediate notification to the Commission shall: (1) immediately attempt to resolve the claim; and (2) if the licensee is not able to resolve the claim, by notice in a record given to the claimant, promptly inform the claimant of the licensee's decision on the claim. (b) If the claim is not resolved by the licensee within ten (10) days of receiving the claim, the claimant may request the Commission to review the licensee's decision on the claim, or if the claimant has not received a claim result notice, to resolve the claim. (c) A request to the Commission under subsection (b) of this section: (1) Must be in the approved form; and (2) If the claimant received a claim result notice, must be made within five (5) business days after receiving the notice. (d) If a request is made to the Commission, the Commission may carry out investigations the Commission considers necessary to resolve matters in dispute. (e) If a prize is not claimed within one (1) year after the end of the approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling in which the prize was won, the licensee shall cover the amount of the prize into the Virgin Islands Education Initiative Fund established pursuant to title 33, section 3093 of this Code. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 35(g), Sess. L. 2002, p. 349.

(a) If a licensee has reason to believe that the result of an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling has been affected by an illegal activity or malfunction of equipment, the licensee may withhold a prize in the approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling. (b) If a licensee withholds a prize pursuant to this section, the licensee shall: (1) immediately inform the Commission and the player of the circumstances of the incident; and (2) not conduct a further approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling if a recurrence of the illegality or malfunction is likely. (c) After investigating the incident, the Commission may, by notice in writing to the licensee and the player: (1) direct the licensee to pay the prize; or (2) confirm the licensee's decision to withhold the prize, but direct the licensee to refund amounts wagered in the approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling. (d) The licensee shall comply with the directive of the Commission pursuant to subsection (c) of this section. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

(a) A licensee shall investigate: (1) a complaint made to the licensee by a person about: (A) the conduct of an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling by the licensee; or (B) the conduct of an agent of the licensee in operations related to an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling; or (C) a complaint referred to the licensee by the Commission or the Master Service Provider under subsection (c) of this section. (b) Within ten (10) calendar days after the complaint is received by or referred to the licensee, the licensee shall give notice in writing of the result of the inquiry to the complainant, the Commission and the Master Service Provider. (c) If a complaint is made to the Commission or the Master Service Provider about the conduct of an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling, or the conduct of an agent in operations related to an approved Internet game or approved Internet gambling, the Commission shall promptly investigate the complaint. (d) The Commission shall promptly notify the complainant in writing of the result of the Commission's inquiry. (e) To be considered, a complaint shall: (1) be in writing; (2) state the complainant's name, physical, and e-mail address; and (3) give appropriate details of the complaint. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 36, Sess. L. 2002, p. 351.

(a) The Commission shall conduct examinations of a licensee with or without notice when deemed appropriate by the Commission. (b) The Commission shall examine the licensee without having given notice, if the Commission has reason to believe that the licensee is engaging in an unsafe or unsound practice or has violated or is violating this chapter or a rule or regulation adopted or an order issued pursuant to this chapter. (c) If the Commission concludes that an on-site or remote examination, or both an on-site and remote examination under subsection (b), of this section, are necessary, the licensee shall pay all costs of the examination reasonably incurred by the Commission. (d) Information obtained during an examination under this Subarticle may be disclosed only as provided in section 628 of this title. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 35(h), Sess. L. 2002, p. 349.

(a) A licensee shall file with the Commission and the Master Service Provider within fifteen (15) business days any changes in information provided in a licensee's application and any other changes prescribed by the Commission. (b) A licensee shall file with the Commission and the Master Service Provider, within ten (10) days after the end of each fiscal quarter, a current list of all employees, consultants, and all other persons involved in the operations. The licensee must state or include its physical, mailing, and e-mail address. (c) A licensee shall file a report with the Commission within one (1) business day after the licensee has reason to know of the occurrence of any of the following events: (1) the filing of a petition under the United States Bankruptcy Code for bankruptcy or reorganization; (2) the filing of a petition for receivership; (3) the commencement of a proceeding to revoke or suspend its license in any jurisdiction; (4) the cancellation or other impairment of the licensee's bond or other security; (5) an indictment, prosecution, or conviction of the licensee or of an executive officer, director, principal employee or controlling person for a felony. (6) additional information established by the Commission in its rules and regulations. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 36, Sess. L. 2002, p. 351.

(a) A person or group of persons that proposes to acquire control shall give written notice to the Commission and the Master Service Provider and request approval of the acquisition and also submit a nonrefundable fee of $25,000 to the Commission or the cost of the investigation whichever is greater. (b) After review of the request for approval under subsection (a) of this section, the Commission may require the licensee to provide additional information concerning the proposed controlling person. The additional information must be limited to the same types required of the licensee or controlling person as part of its original license or renewal application. (c) The Commission may approve a request for change of control under subsection (a) if, after investigation, the Commission determines that the person or group of persons requesting approval has the competence, experience, character, and general fitness to operate the licensee or controlling person in a lawful and proper manner and that the interests of the public will not be jeopardized by the change of control. (d) The following persons or transactions are exempt from the requirements of subsection (a) but must still notify the Commission and the Master Service Provider of the change of control: (1) a person that acts as a proxy for the sole purpose of voting at a designated meeting of the security holders or holders of voting interests of a licensee or controlling person of a licensee; (2) a person that acquires control of a licensee or controlling person of a licensee by devise or descent; (3) a person that acquires control as a personal representative, custodian, guardian, conservator, or trustee, or as an officer appointed by a court of competent jurisdiction or by operation of law; and (4) a person or transaction that the Commission by rule or order exempts in the public interest. (e) Subsection (a) of this section does not apply to public offerings of securities. (f) Before filing a request for approval to acquire control, a person may request in writing a determination from the Commission as to whether the person would be considered a controlling person upon consummation of a proposed transaction. If the Commission determines that the person would not be a controlling person, the Commission shall enter an order to that effect and the proposed person and transaction is not subject to the requirements of subsections (a) through (c) of this section. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 36, Sess. L. 2002, p. 351; amended Dec. 31, 2020, No. 8397, § 1(c)(1)(A), (B), Sess. L. 2020, p. 259.

(a) A licensee shall maintain books, accounts, documents, and other records necessary to determine the licensee's compliance with this Article. A licensee shall maintain the following for at least three (3) years after the record is created: (1) a record of each wager accepted; (2) a record of each prize paid; (3) a general ledger posted at least monthly containing all assets, liability, capital, income and expense accounts; (4) bank statements and bank reconciliation records; (5) records of outstanding prizes and monies held on behalf of players; (6) records of each prize paid within the three-year period; and (7) any other books, accounts, documents, and other records that may be prescribed by the Commission by rule or regulation. (b) The items specified in subsection (a) may be maintained in paper, photographic, electronic, or similar permanent medium. (c) Books, accounts, documents, and other records may be maintained outside of the Virgin Islands if they are made accessible to the Commission on seven (7) business days notice that is set in a record. (d) All books, accounts, documents and records maintained by the licensee as required in subsections (a) through (c) of this section, shall be open to inspection by the Commission pursuant to section 628 of this chapter. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

A licensee and the Master Service Provider shall file with the appropriate Federal Agencies and the Division of Gaming Enforcement of the Virgin Islands Department of Justice all reports required by federal currency reporting, record keeping, and suspicious transaction reporting requirements as set forth in 31 U.S.C. Section5311, 31 C.F.R. Part 103 as amended, and other federal and territorial laws pertaining to money laundering. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 36, Sess. L. 2002, p. 351.

(a) Financial information not normally available to the public that is submitted on a confidential basis by an applicant or a licensee to comply with licensing or other regulatory functions of the Commission is confidential. (b) Nothing in this section prohibits the Commission from releasing to the public a list of persons licensed under this Article or from releasing aggregate financial data on licensees. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

(a) A licensee shall maintain at all times permissible investments that have a market value computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles of not less than the aggregate amount of all of its outstanding prizes and monies held on account for players by the licensee. (b) The Commission with respect to any licensees, may limit the extent to which a type of investment within a class of permissible investments may be considered a permissible investment, except for money and certificates of deposit issued by a bank. The Commission by rule or regulation may prescribe or by order allow other types of investments that the Commission determines to have a safety substantially equivalent to other permissible investments. (c) Permissible investments, even if commingled with other assets of the licensee, are held in trust for the benefit of the players and their personal representatives in the event of bankruptcy or receivership of the licensee. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

(a) Except to the extent otherwise limited by the Commission pursuant to section 629 of this Article, the following investments are permissible under section 629: (1) cash, a certificate of deposit, or senior debt obligation of an insured depositary institution, as defined in section 3 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act 12 U.S.C. §1813; (2) a banker's acceptanc12 U.S.C. §12exchange that is eligible for purchase upon endorsement by a member bank of the Federal Reserve System and is eligible for purchase by a Federal Reserve Bank; (3) an investment bearing a rating of one of the three highest grades as defined by a nationally recognized organization that rates securities; (4) an investment security that is an obligation of the United States or a department, agency, or instrumentality thereof; an investment in an obligation that is guaranteed fully as to principal and interest by the United States; or an investment in an obligation of a State or a governmental subdivision, agency, or instrumentality thereof; (5) receivables that are payable to a licensee from its authorized delegates, in the ordinary course of business, pursuant to contracts which are not past due or doubtful of collection if the aggregate amount of investments in receivables under this paragraph does not exceed twenty percent (20%) of the total permissible investments of a licensee and the licensee does not have at one time investments in receivables under this paragraph in any one person aggregating more than 10 percent of the licensee's total permissible investments; and (6) a share or a certificate issued by an open-end management investment company that is registered with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission under the Investment Company Act of 1940 [15 U.S.C. §80a-1 et seq.], and whose portfolio is restricted by the management company's investment policy to investments specified in paragraphs (1) through (4) of this subsection. (b) The following investments are permissible under section 629, but only to the extent specified: (1) an interest-bearing bill, note, bond, or debenture of a person whose equity shares are traded on a national securities exchange or on a national over-the-counter market, if the aggregate of investments under this paragraph do not exceed twenty percent (20%) of the total permissible investments of a licensee and the licensee does not at one time have investments under this paragraph in any one person aggregating more than ten percent (10%) of the licensee's total permissible investments; (2) a share traded on a national securities exchange or a national over-the-counter market or a share or a certificate issued by an open-end management investment company that is registered with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission under the Investment Company ActInvestment Company Act of 1940is restricted by the management company's investment policy to shares traded on a national securities exchange or a national over-the-counter market, if the aggregate of investments under this paragraph does not exceed twenty percent (20%) of the total permissible investments of a licensee and the licensee does not at one time have investments under this paragraph in any one person aggregating more than ten percent (10%) of the licensee's total permissible investments; (3) a demand-borrowing agreement made to a corporation or a subsidiary of a corporation whose securities are traded on a national securities exchange if the aggregate of the amount of principal and interest outstanding under demand-borrowing agreements under this paragraph does not exceed twenty percent (20%) of the total permissible investments of a licensee and the licensee does not at one time have principal and interest outstanding under demand-borrowing agreements under this paragraph with any one person aggregating more than ten percent (10%) of the licensee's total permissible investments; and (4) any other investment the Commission reasonably determines to be permissible, to the extent specified by the Commission. (c) The aggregate of investments under subsection (b) may not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the total permissible investments of a licensee calculated in accordance with section 629 of this Article. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 35(i), Sess. L. 2002, p. 349.

The Commission may suspend or revoke a license or place a licensee in receivership if: (a) the licensee violates this Article or a rule or regulation adopted or an order issued pursuant to this Article; (b) the licensee does not cooperate with an examination or investigation by the Commission and/or the Division of Gaming Enforcement; (c) the licensee engages in fraud, intentional misrepresentation, or gross negligence; (d) the licensee or a key employee is convicted of a violation of a territorial or federal anti-money laundering statute or a provision of this Article, or violates a rule or regulation adopted or an order issued under this Article, as a result of the licensee's willful misconduct or willful blindness; (e) the competence, experience, character, or general fitness of the licensee, key employee, person in control of a licensee, or responsible person of the licensee or authorized delegate indicates that it is not in the public interest to permit the person to conduct an Internet gaming or Internet gambling business; (f) the licensee engages in an unsafe or unsound practice; (g) the licensee is insolvent, suspends payment of its obligations, or makes an assignment for the benefit of its creditors; or (h) the licensee does not remove an agent or key employee after the Commission issues and serves upon the licensee a final order including a finding that the person has violated this Article. (i) providing materially false or misleading representations in the license application. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

(a) If the Commission determines that a violation of this Article or of a rule or regulation adopted or an order issued pursuant to this Article by a licensee is likely to cause immediate and irreparable harm to the licensee, its players, or the public as a result of the violation, or cause insolvency or significant dissipation of assets of the licensee, the Commission may issue an order requiring the licensee to cease and desist from the violation. The order becomes effective upon the electronic, written or facsimile service of it upon the licensee. (b) An order to cease and desist remains effective and enforceable pending the completion of an administrative proceeding pursuant to this chapter. (c) A licensee or an authorized delegate that is served with an order to cease and desist may petition the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands, for a judicial order setting aside, limiting, or suspending the enforcement, operation, or effectiveness of the order pending the completion of an administrative proceeding pursuant to this Article. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

The Commission may enter into a consent order at any time with a person to resolve a matter arising under this chapter. A consent order must be signed by the person to whom it is issued or by the person's authorized representative, and must indicate agreement with the terms contained in the order. A consent order may provide that it does not constitute an admission by a person that this chapter or a rule or regulation adopted or an order issued under this chapter has been violated. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

The Commission may assess a civil penalty against a person that violates this Article or a rule or regulation adopted or an order issued pursuant to this Article in an amount not to exceed $25,000 per day for each day the violation is outstanding, plus the Commission's costs and expenses for the investigation and prosecution of the matter, including reasonable attorney's fees and expenses incurred by the Commission. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended Dec. 31, 2020, No. 8397, § 1(d), Sess. L. 2020, p. 259.

(a) A person that intentionally makes a false statement, misrepresentation, or false certification in a record filed or required to be maintained under this Article or that intentionally makes a false entry or omits a material entry in such a record is guilty of a felony. (b) A person that knowingly engages in any activity for which a license is required under this Article without being licensed under this Article and who receives an Internet gaming or Internet gambling wager is guilty of a felony. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

(a) If the Commission has reason to believe that a person has violated or is violating section 605 of this Article, the Commission may issue an order to show cause why a cease and desist order should not be issued. (b) An order to cease and desist becomes effective upon service of it upon the person. (c) An order to cease and desist remains effective and enforceable pending the completion of an administrative proceeding pursuant to this Article. (d) A person that is served with an order to cease and desist for violating section 605 may petition the Commission for reconsideration of such order. (e) The Commission shall commence an administrative proceeding within ten (10) days after issuing an order to cease and desist. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

All administrative proceedings must be conducted in accordance with this Article and the regulations promulgated by the Commission not in conflict with this Article. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended Dec. 31, 2020, No. 8397, § 1(e) (1), Sess. L. 2020, p. 259, 260.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this Article, the Commission may not suspend or revoke a license, place a licensee in receivership, issue an order to cease and desist, or assess a civil penalty without notice and an opportunity to be heard. (b) (1) The Commission, upon request, may also hold a hearing to reconsider the denial of an application. The request for reconsideration must: (A) Be made within 10 days of the Commission's denial of the application for a license; and (B) Be based on new information that was not previously available when the initial application was submitted or to correct clear error in fact which lead to the denial of the application. (2) If the Commission grants a hearing on the applicant's request for reconsideration, the Commission shall hold a hearing not later than 15 days after receipt of the request unless extended for good cause shown. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended Dec. 31, 2020, No. 8397, § 1(e) (2), Sess. L. 2020, p. 260.

(a) Any determination of the Commission may be appealed, within thirty (30) days after the issuance of the order, to the Superior Court for a judicial order setting aside, limiting, or suspending the enforcement, operation, or effectiveness of the order pending the completion of an administrative proceeding pursuant to this Article. (b) Any hearing before the Superior Court shall be based exclusively upon the record established before the Commission. The Superior Court may reverse an order of the Commission if it determines it to be arbitrary and capricious. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

Gambling Debts (a) All applicable laws of the Virgin Islands shall apply to the activities authorized by this Article. Any person who is a registered player submits to the laws and jurisdiction of the Virgin Islands. (b) A debt incurred by a registered player to a licensee for playing any approved Internet game shall be valid and may be enforced by legal process. History: Added June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 35(j), Sess. L. 2002, p. 349.

If any Court shall declare any provision of this Article invalid, the remaining parts or portions of this Article shall remain in full force and effect. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68.

Provider The Casino Control Commission shall on a timely basis provide to the appropriate Master Franchisor copies of written communications between the Commission and a licensee with respect to the results of investigations relating to that licensee, or its players. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 35(k), Sess. L. 2002, p. 349.

the Master Service Provider In addition to complying with the rules and regulations promulgated by the Commission, the licensees shall execute a provide services agreement with the Master Service Provider to insure the licensee's compliance with the Master Service Provider's policies and procedures for the operation of Internet Gaming and Internet Gambling. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 36, Sess. L. 2002, p. 35.

Software and Equipment Any person, business, corporation, company, partnership or other business entity supplying industry related software, hardware or other gaming equipment used in Internet gaming shall be required to be licensed under the provisions of this chapter under provisions established by the Commission and all industry related software, hardware, and industry-related gaming equipment used to conduct Internet gaming or Internet gambling and approved by the Master Service Provider shall be specifically tested by the Division of Gaming Enforcement and approved by the Commission. The Division may, in its discretion, and for the purpose of expediting the approval process, refer testing to any laboratory processing a license as a casino service industry. The Director shall give priority to the testing of the software, hardware, and industry-related gaming equipment to be used to conduct Internet gaming or Internet gambling. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, §§ 35(l), 35(m), Sess. L. 2002, p. 349.

All of the expenses incurred by the Commission and the Division to monitor or examine the Master Service Providers and the licensees under this Article shall be charged to and paid by the Master Service Providers and licensees, respectively. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 2, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 36, Sess. L. 2002, p. 351.

(a) There is hereby granted Master Service Provider to United States Virgin Islands Technologies Initiative, LLP and St. Croix Internet Group, LLC, under the terms and conditions outlined in this section and title 32, chapter 21, Article XIV, Virgin Islands Code and subject to investigation by the Commission which shall be conducted in accordance with and shall include the requirements contained in title 32, section 436(a), (b) and (c), Virgin Islands Code. The Master Service Provider Agreement shall provide the exclusive right to provide services and license approved licensees for the conduct of approved Internet gaming and approved Internet gambling in St. Croix, pursuant to title 32, chapter 21, Article XIV, Virgin Islands Code, and the Master Service Provider Agreement. The Master Service Providers shall also be responsible to: (1) Provide sufficient bandwidth and telecommunication capability to adequately operate approved Internet gaming and approved Internet gambling services to all licensees. (2) Provide sufficient redundancy and "back up" technology and procedures to ensure continuous operation independent of local utilities in case of natural disaster or emergency. (3) Provide in the provide services agreement of each Master Service Provider that the licensees shall be in compliance with the terms of their license and the rules and regulations of the Commission. (4) Provide such banking services for a licensee as outlined in the provide services Agreement of each Master Service Provider. (5) Establish provide services fees reasonable service fees as outlined herein. (6) Establish policies and procedures for the operation of approved internet gaming or approved internet gambling. (b) The Master Service Provider shall be for an initial period of ten (10) years; provided however, the Master Service Providers shall have the option to renew the Master Service Provider Agreement for two (2) additional ten (10) year periods, subject to the provisions of this Act, by submitting written notice to the Governor at least ninety (90) days prior to the expiration of its current term of the intent of the Master Service Providers to exercise its option to renew. (c) Within one (1) year of the commencement of Internet gaming and Internet gambling the Master Service Provider shall commence the process for providing: (1) Free high speed Internet access to all United States Virgin Islands public schools; (2) Establishing and maintaining a technology work-study program for the youth of the Virgin Islands; and (3) Establishing and maintaining a "Train the Teacher Program" for the public school teachers in the Virgin Islands. (4) In order to effectuate the provisions of this subsection, the Master Service Providers shall contribute one-half percent of their annual Gross Service Provider Revenue into the Education Initiative Fund established pursuant to title 33, section 3093, Virgin Islands Code. (d) In accordance with the initial ten-year option granted pursuant to this subsection, after a Master Service Provider has successfully completed the investigatory process, the Commission shall grant a license to the Master Service Provider for an initial period of three years. The license may be renewed by the commission for two successive periods of three and four years, respectively. Thereafter, the license shall be renewed for periods of five years in accordance with each ten-year option granted pursuant to the provisions of this subsection. (e) The Master Service Provider shall pay a license fee of $25,000 for each period of licensure in accordance with a schedule established by the Commission. The Commission shall, by regulations, establish fees for the Investigation of the Master Service Provider and licensees. (f) The Master Service Providers and the licensees may accept and transmit financial transactions over the Internet/worldwide web (electronic data interchange) and telebanking which shall include, but are not limited to, credit cards, debit cards, prepaid transaction cards, electronic transfers and wire transfers for the purpose of conducting approved Internet gaming and approved Internet gambling in accordance with the provisions of title 32, chapter 21, Virgin Islands Code and the Master Service Provider Agreement. (g) The Master Service Providers shall operate all approved Internet gaming and approved Internet gambling web sites as approved by the Virgin Islands Casino Control Commission. The facilities shall be operated with high security procedures and strictly controlled access. Access to the communication center for computer hardware, software and telecommunications utilized for approved Internet gaming and approved Internet gambling shall be made available to those authorized by the Commission and the Master Service Providers. Access shall be further secured with electronic locks, 24 hour security cameras with videotape or similar medium and documented entry logs. (h) The Master Service Providers shall provide consistent and equal telecommunication services to all licensees and shall not discriminate with regard to its operations based on race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, nationality, creed, physical disability or marital status. (i) All personnel with access to the secured area shall be required to pass a criminal background and security check by the Commission. (j) Any controversy or claim arising out of, or relating to the provisions of title 32, chapter 21, Virgin Islands Code and the Master Service Provider Agreement shall be subject to and interpreted pursuant to Virgin Islands law and the jurisdiction shall be in the Virgin Islands. (k) A Master Service Provider may be substituted by an affiliated entity upon the approval of the Casino Control Commission. (l) The Master Service Providers shall not be held liable by any party for the actions of the Government of the Virgin Islands or the Commission with respect to the enforcement of any of the provisions of this Act. (m) If a Master Service Provider commit any of the prohibited acts contained in title 32, section 438, Virgin Islands Code, or the requirements of the terms and conditions of the agreement, or defaults on any of the provisions of the Master Service Provider Agreement, the Commission may terminate the Master Service Provider Agreement of that entity and seek Requests for Proposals for a new Master Service Provider, provided, however, that prior to termination by the Commission for default, the Master Service Provider shall be given thirty (30) days to cure the default. The grant of a Master Service Provider Agreement to a new Master Service Provider shall not become final until approved by the Legislature. A Master Service Provider shall have the right to obtain judicial review of a decision by the Commission to terminate a Master Service Provider Agreement by appeal to the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands in accordance with the provisions of title 5, chapter 97, Virgin Islands Code, and the rules of the Court. History: Added Aug. 2, 2001, No. 6419, § 4, Sess. L. 2001, p. 68; amended June 19, 2002, No. 6529, § 36, Sess. L. 2002, p. 351.

(a) Operational slot machines may be located only on the land upon which the horse racetrack in St. Croix is located or land contiguous thereto, excluding public rights of way. (b) The licensee shall display pari-mutuel races within the structure where the horse racetrack in St. Croix and the horse racetrack on St. Thomas is located and offer patrons the ability to engage in pari-mutuel wagering on live and simulcast races conducted or offered to patrons of the racetrack. (c) The licensee shall post signs warning of the risks and dangers of gambling, showing the odds of winning, and informing patrons of the toll-free telephone number available to provide information and referral services regarding compulsive or problem gambling. (d) The licensee shall provide adequate office space at no cost to the Casino Control Commission for the oversight of the slot machine operations. The Commission shall adopt rules establishing the criteria for adequate space, configuration, and location and needed electronic technology and technological requirements for office space required by this subsection. History: Added Oct. 27, 2011, No. 7318, § 3(3.), Sess. L. 2011, pp. 265, 266; amended Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 9(a), Sess. L. 2016, p. 234; amended Apr. 22, 2022, No. 8577, § 2(b)(6)(A), Sess. L. 2022, p. 152.

A casino license for a horse racetrack in St. Croix becomes void when after a formal determination and required notice by the St. Croix Horse Racing Commission or a determination by a competent judicial body that the operator of the racetrack is in default of its franchise agreement issued under section 209 of this title. History: Added Oct. 27, 2011, No. 7318, § 3(3.), Sess. L. 2011, p. 266; amended Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 9(b), Sess. L. 2016, p. 234; amended Oct. 4, 2023, No. 8772, § 4, Sess. L. 2023, p. 141.

(a) Sections 515 and 516 of this chapter do not apply to any gross revenues derived from the operation of the casino at the horse racetrack in St. Croix. Gross revenues derived at the racetrack casino in St. Croix are not subject to gross receipts tax. Gross revenues received by the holder of a Lease-Franchise or Concession pursuant to 32 V.I.C. § 209 and derived from a License Agreement with the operator of the racetrack casino in St. Croix are not subject to gross receipts tax. (b) There is imposed on the racetrack casino in St. Croix an annual tax of 25 percent on gross revenues as defined in Section 402 of this Title. Notwithstanding anything in this chapter, video lottery terminals at the St. Thomas racetrack are not subject to taxation or regulation under this chapter. (c) Monies derived through taxation of casino gaming at the horse racetrack in St. Croix are separate and apart from any live racing agreement between the racetrack operators and the St. Croix Horsemen Association. History: Added Oct. 27, 2011, No. 7318, § 3(3.), Sess. L. 2011, pp. 266, 267; amended Jan. 26, 2016, No. 7832, § 9, Sess. L. 2015, p. 265; amended Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 9(c)(1)-(3), Sess. L. 2016, p. 234; amended Apr. 22, 2022, No. 8577, § 2(b)(6)(B)(i)-(iii), Sess. L. 2022, p. 152, 153.

(a) A separate and distinct special fund is established in the Treasury of the Virgin Islands known as the "Horse Racetrack Casino Revenue Fund" into which all revenues derived from the tax imposed by section 803(b) must be deposited. (b) Monies in the Fund may be distributed only for the purpose prescribed under this subsection as follows: (1) 45 percent to the Casino Revenue Fund codified at 32 V.I.C. § 517; (2) 40% to the promoter or franchisee of the Randall Doc James Racetrack, for purses; (3) 3 percent to the Department of Agriculture to place in a special Horse Treatment Fund for the treatment of horses who are injured or cannot continue to race to assist the Horsemen Associations on both St. Croix and St. Thomas in taking care of the medical needs of the horses as well as their euthanasia if needed; (4) 4 percent to the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation for the development of youth sports activities in the Territory; (5) 3 percent to the Virgin Islands Olympic Committee for funding of athletes and national teams to represent the Virgin Islands in national and regional competitions; and (6) 5 percent for maintenance of recreational facilities that are administered by the Department of Sports, Parks and Recreation, the funds to be divided evenly between the districts. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 4(a), Sess. L. 2017, p. 104, 105; amended Apr. 22, 2022, No. 8577, § 2(b)(7)(A)-(D), Sess. L. 2022, p. 153.

(a) A separate and distinct special fund is established in the Treasury of the Virgin Islands for promotion of horse racing in the Virgin Islands designated as the Thoroughbred Fund. Monies in the Thoroughbred Fund are administered by the Commission, through the Department of Finance. (b) The Fund consists of monies disbursed from the Horse Racetrack Casino Revenue Fund pursuant to section 901(b)(3). (c) Monies in the Fund must be used to stimulate the horse racing industry in the Virgin Islands through assistance with increased economic activity and vitality to enable the industry to improve its facilities and breeding stock and create and meet industry standards for the registration of all native thorough bred horses. History: Added Jan. 10, 2018, No. 8020, § 4(c), Sess. L. 2017, p. 105.

(a) A separate and distinct special fund is established in the Treasury of the Virgin Islands for hospitality training in St. Croix designated the "St. Croix Hospitality Training Fund." (b) The Fund is administered by the Commissioner of Department of Finance. (c) Monies in the Fund may be used solely for hospitality training on St. Croix. (d) The Fund consists of monies distributed from the St. Croix Horse Racetrack Casino Revenue Fund pursuant to section 901(b)(4). (e) The Department of Tourism shall coordinate the training programs to be implemented under the Fund. History: Added Oct. 27, 2011, No. 7318, § 3(3.), Sess. L. 2011, p. 268.

History: Repealed. Dec. 15, 2016, No. 7952, § 10, Sess. L. 2016, p. 234.