{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where state = \"VI\" and year = 2023 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4404", "PLASKETT EXTENDS WELCOME TO PRESIDENT BIDEN AND DR. JILL BIDEN FOR HOLIDAY AND NEW YEAR VISIT", "2023-12-28", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nDecember 28, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT EXTENDS WELCOME TO PRESIDENT BIDEN AND DR. JILL BIDEN FOR HOLIDAY AND NEW YEAR VISIT\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement:\n\n\u201cI am pleased to welcome President Biden and his lovely wife, Dr. Jill Biden to once again spend the remainder of the holiday season and the new year with us on St. Croix. It is my hope that the President and Dr. Biden will enjoy this much needed respite. The Spirit of St. Croix exemplifies the best of America - a place steeped in rich history of multiple cultures come together; a people continually striving for liberty and equality; and an island which reveres its past, embraces community, and looks for prosperity for its children. Spending time on St. Croix during the Crucian Christmas Festival season is second-to-none; I am certain that President Biden and the First Lady will enjoy the spirit of the season that is distinctive to our beloved St. Croix during their time with us.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4400", "CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ANNOUNCES EXTENSION OF INSULIN CAP FOR COMMERCIALLY INSURED PATIENTS IN THE VIRGIN ISLANDS", "2023-12-06", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nDecember 6th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nCONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ANNOUNCES EXTENSION OF INSULIN CAP FOR COMMERCIALLY INSURED PATIENTS IN THE VIRGIN ISLANDS\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing the extension by Eli Lilly of the $35 per month cap on insulin to commercially insured patients at participating retail pharmacies in the U.S. Virgin Islands.\n\nAs part of President Biden\u2019s historic Inflation Reduction Act, nearly four million seniors on Medicare with diabetes started to see their insulin costs capped at $35 per month in January of 2023, saving some seniors hundreds of dollars for a month\u2019s supply. In March 2023 Eli Lilly, the largest manufacturer of insulin in the United States agreed to lower the cost of insulin in the 50 states and Puerto Rico. Eli Lilly announced they would lower the cost of insulin by 70% and cap what patients pay out-of-pocket for insulin at $35. This action was driven by the momentum from the Inflation Reduction Act. Congresswoman Plaskett\u2019s office began discussions with Eli Lilly to request that the new price offered by the manufacturer be available in the Virgin Islands. After several months of negotiation, we are grateful that Eli Lilly has agreed to operate in an equitable fashion in the Virgin Islands.\n\n\u201cWith the prevalence of diabetes in the Virgin Islands this extension is a huge difference maker, particularly for territories like ours. Initially the program that provided the $35 per month cap on insulin was only available to the 50 states and Puerto Rico, but through the work of my office, beginning in 2024, the program will be available to patients and beneficiaries in the U.S. Virgin Islands who have private insurance, including government employees,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett.\n\nClick here for more information including how to apply for the program.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4401", "GOVERNOR BRYAN AND CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ANNOUNCE $133 MILLION IN FUNDING FOR JULIUS E. SPRAUVE SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION ON ST. JOHN", "2023-12-06", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nDecember 6th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nGOVERNOR BRYAN AND CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ANNOUNCE $133 MILLION IN FUNDING FOR JULIUS E. SPRAUVE SCHOOL CONSTRUCTION ON ST. JOHN\n\nU.S. Virgin Islands \u2013 Governor Albert Bryan and Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett released the following statement announcing $133 million in federal grant funding to rebuild the Julius E. Sprauve School on St. John:\n\n\u201cThis historic investment from FEMA marks a transformative moment for the future of education in St. John. With these funds, we will not just rebuild the Julius E. Sprauve School, but we will create a beacon of learning and community resilience, ensuring our children have a state-of-the-art educational facility that stands as a symbol of our unyielding commitment to their futures and to the enduring strength of the Virgin Islands,\u201d stated Governor Bryan.\n\n\u201cThe funding awarded by FEMA for the demolition and construction of the Julius Sprauve School is timely and will allow the Virgin Islands Government to move forward in the construction of the much-needed kindergarten thru 12thschool on St. John, said Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cFunding for the school has been granted under the prudent replacement standard, which is integral for improving our preparedness and resiliency against natural disasters. The changes in law I was able to obtain allow FEMA, for the duration of the recovery from Hurricanes Irma and Maria in the Virgin Islands, to rebuild critical infrastructure like the Julius Sprauve School to incorporate resilient design and features, up to the latest industry building standards and notwithstanding pre-disaster conditions in the Virgin Islands (the standard that normally applies). I want to congratulate the Governor and his team for holding fast and presenting the necessary case to ensure that the award incorporated all the needs of the community along with the true damages from the storm.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4399", "CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT OFFERS GREETINGS FOR THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY AND SHARES NOTABLE BIPARTISAN EFFORTS", "2023-11-22", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nNovember 22nd, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nCONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT OFFERS GREETINGS FOR THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY AND SHARES NOTABLE BIPARTISAN EFFORTS\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett shared the following statement in honor of the Thanksgiving holiday:\n\n\u201cThanksgiving is my favorite holiday and every year I look forward to spending time with my family and friends as we give thanks for all our many blessings. This year, I am keenly grateful for the ways in which my colleagues and I have been able to work, sometimes in significant bipartisan ways to introduce and advance various legislation and other efforts within the last quarter to provide support and relief to our various constituencies. Some of those ways include:\n\n1. The Expediting Disaster Recovery Act (H.R.6084), which I reintroduced with my colleague, Congressman Garret Graves (R-LA) to create a new funding stream for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to provide assistance necessary for meeting unmet needs in the immediate aftermath of a disaster.\n\n1. The Farm to School Act, which I introduced with Congressman Marc Molinaro (R-NY) to get more fresh, locally grown foods in schools. The bill would also expand the farm to school program for school-aged children by increasing funding for the program from $5 million to $10 million.\n\n\u201cAdditionally, in June of this year, the House Natural Resources Committee\u2019s Subcommittee on Federal Lands, chaired by Congressman Tom Tiffany (R-MN), hosted a legislative hearing which included testimony in support of H.R. 3025\u2014legislation I introduced that would provide for no net increase in the total acreage of Federal land in the Virgin Islands National Park on St. John.\n\n\u201cI am tremendously thankful that despite the chaos that has taken place in Congress over the past year, I have still been able to work effectively with my colleagues\u2014both Democrats and Republicans\u2014for the people of the Virgin Islands.\n\n\u201cIt is my hope that you and your loved ones enjoy this Thanksgiving holiday with good health and strength. May you harvest a brighter tomorrow and may you reap peace always.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4398", "PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON PASSAGE OF CONTINUING RESOLUTION TO AVERT GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN", "2023-11-15", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nNovember 15th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON PASSAGE OF CONTINUING RESOLUTION TO AVERT GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement on the House passage of H.R. 6363, a Continuing Resolution (CR) to keep the government running and avert a shutdown:\n\n\u201cThis week, the House passed a Continuing Resolution (CR) that would keep the U.S. government running at its current budget into next year. Despite the chaos our chamber has dealt with over the past few months, I am pleased that my fellow House colleagues and I were able to come together to pass a CR that would fund the government at least through the new year, preventing a shutdown that would have severe negative consequences for the Virgin Islands. A swift resolution through this CR provides stability, allowing the Virgin Islands to maintain vital programs and services without interruption, and safeguarding the overall welfare of its residents as we continue our recovery.\n\n\u201cAs stated by Leader Hakeem Jeffries, House Democrats consistently demonstrate that we put people over politics and work to find common ground with our Republican colleagues wherever possible, while pushing back against Republican extremism whenever necessary. It is imperative that we continue to come together to advance the resources needed to support American families and complete a full-year budget that reflects the values and priorities of our people.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4390", "PLASKETT AND GRAVES REINTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO IMPROVE FEDERAL DISASTER RECOVERY AND RESPONSE", "2023-11-10", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nNovember 10th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT AND GRAVES REINTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO IMPROVE FEDERAL DISASTER RECOVERY AND RESPONSE\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-VI) joined her Republican colleague, Rep. Garret Graves (R-LA-6) to reintroduce a bipartisan disaster relief bill, the Expediting Disaster Recovery Act (H.R.6084), which provides for a new funding stream for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to provide assistance necessary for meeting unmet needs in the immediate aftermath of a disaster.\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett released the following statement regarding the bill:\n\n\u201cI am pleased to reintroduce the Expediting Disaster Recovery Act (H.R. 6084)\u2013 a bill that creates a separate funding stream for FEMA, after the declaration of a major disaster, to expeditiously (within 30 days) allocate additional assistance to cover unmet needs as a result of such disaster.\n\n\u201cAfter the experiences of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, it was abundantly clear that our territory and the other disaster-impacted areas need the support of the federal government to rebuild lives, businesses, and communities as quickly as possible. This bill cuts out some of the unnecessary federal process to put a minimum amount of long-term recovery funding on the ground in the immediate aftermath of a major disaster, without taking away oversight of taxpayer dollars.\n\n\u201cWhen disaster strikes, disruptive changes happen to people fast \u2013 the federal response needs to match the urgency that victims feel after having their lives turned upside down. That is why I am pleased to join my Republican colleague, Rep. Graves to reintroduce this important legislation. By establishing a separate funding stream for FEMA to disburse at least 10 percent of the estimated amount of grants for permanent repairs, restoration and replacement of damaged facilities in the immediate aftermath of disaster to address long-term rebuilding needs, this bill provides people a way out of the slow, unnecessary federal processes that often re-victimize people and jeopardize recovery for entire communities.\u201d\n\nThe bill would also clarify that assistance to individuals and households can be used to ensure homes are habitable during long-term recovery from natural disasters, and that use of direct assistance for permanent or semi-permanent housing is permissible if it is a cost-effective alternative to other housing solutions.\n\nCongressman Graves, the bill\u2019s co-author, shared, \u201cThe foundation of this legislation is built on tough lessons learned from communities that are, unfortunately, experts in disaster response and recovery. The legislation will expedite recovery by pushing predictable federal dollars toward our impacted communities immediately because the federal response needs to meet the urgency folks are feeling. But this bill isn\u2019t just about Louisiana. Several states have experienced disasters recently, and sadly, under FEMA\u2019s existing processes, their experience with the federal response timeline will also be woefully inadequate if history is any indication. Getting this bill signed into law is a national priority.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe next step in this process will be approval by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. The bill must still come the Floor of the House of Representatives and be passed by the House and Senate before it gets to the President\u2019s desk for signature into law,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cIn addition, we are working to have a companion measure considered by the Senate.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4391", "PLASKETT AND MOLINARO INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO RENEW AND ENHANCE FARM TO SCHOOL PROGRAM", "2023-11-09", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nNovember 9th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT AND MOLINARO INTRODUCE BIPARTISAN BILL TO RENEW AND ENHANCE FARM TO SCHOOL PROGRAM\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 This week, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-VI) joined her House colleague, Congressman Marc Molinaro (R-NY) to introduce the Farm to School Act to get more fresh, locally grown foods in schools across the nation. The bill would expand the farm to school program for school-aged children by making significant investments and notably increases the funding for the program from $5 million to $10 million.\n\n\u201cThe increased demand for Farm to School programming tells us that more people are beginning to understand the connection between local foods and healthy young minds. Through the Farm to School Grant Program, participating schools, nonprofit organizations, and local, state and tribal governments can help schools offer locally grown, fresh food to students,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cThe Farm to School Act is a blueprint for nourishing our children and invigorating our local economies. Since its inception, the program has channeled more than $52 million into projects across all states and territories, including the U.S. Virgin Islands, benefiting nearly 21 million students in 47,000 schools. This Act not only broadens access to nutritious, locally-sourced meals for millions of students but also provides a much-needed economic lifeline to our small and socially disadvantaged farmers, ranchers, and fishermen. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation alongside Congressman Molinaro in support of our nation\u2019s schools and local farmers who help improve classroom diets and local economies; a bill that closely aligns with our collective mission: to build a healthier, more equitable future for all.\"\n\nSommer Sibilly-Brown, Founder and Executive Director of the Virgin Islands Good Food Coalition shared, \u201cFarm to School is not a cure-all for the things that plague our communities as it relates to the inequalities in our food system. However, it's a help-more. Farm to School increases access to healthy food for our youth, supports the small farmer and the local food economy, increases the opportunity for knowledge transfer to students with new mediums for applied learning, and strengthens communities. In the Virgin Islands, I personally see Farm to School as a pillar of building a more resilient food system; the money and support infused in our community through the federal dollars committed to farm to school bolsters our food economy and supports reduction of imports.\u201d\n\n\u201cFarm to school and farm to early childhood activities can address some of the most important issues facing communities\u2014children's mental and physical health, local jobs and economies, and educational engagement, to name a few. The Farm to School Act of 2023 will expand access and increase sustained funding so this critical grant program reaches even more projects across the country,\u201d stated Karen Spangler, Policy Director with the National Farm to School Network (NFSN).\n\nHannah Quigley, Policy Specialist for the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) shared, \u201cFarm to School programs nationwide are strengthening local food economies, providing nutritious foods, and promoting a culture of health among students. The Farm to School Act of 2023 responds to the growing demand of cafeteria managers and farmers that want to provide high quality, locally produced foods for their students. The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition applauds Representatives Plaskett and Molinaro for their commitment to investing in healthy communities.\u201d\n\nCongressman Molinaro (R-NY) also shared, \"The Farm to School program is a win-win for farmers and students. It provides more economic opportunities for local farmers and ensures a steady stream of fresh, nutritious food in our schools. I am proud to expand the impact of this program by making additional investments.\"\n\nThe Farm to School Act of 2023 is supported by the National Farm to School Network and the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.\n\nClick here to follow the progress of H.R. 6308.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4383", "PLASKETT APPLAUDS $22 MILLION GRANT FOR RECONSTRUCTION OF ST. CROIX TERMINAL", "2023-11-05", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nNovember 5th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT APPLAUDS $22 MILLION GRANT FOR RECONSTRUCTION OF ST. CROIX TERMINAL\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing $22.4 million in grant funding for the Wilfred \u201cBomba\u201d Allick Terminal on St. Croix:\n\n\u201cI am tremendously pleased that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded the Virgin Islands Port Authority a grant of $22.4 million for the reconstruction and modernization of the Wilfred \u201cBomba\u201d Allick Terminal on St. Croix through DOT\u2019s Port Infrastructure Development Program.\n\n\u201cThe Virgin Islands, like other noncontiguous areas of the U.S., face unique challenges when it comes to infrastructure development and the importation of essential goods. This DOT award of $22.4 million promises significant assistance in overcoming these challenges. The importance of this award cannot be overstated. A well-functioning and modern port infrastructure is essential to ensure the smooth flow of goods, support our economy, and enhance the quality of life for our residents.\n\n\u201cThe project to be funded by this award, designated as phases 1A and 1B, will encompass a range of critical improvements, including pile cap replacements, concrete pile repairs, concrete and steel deck repairs, mooring foundation repairs, bollard replacement, and extensive pavement reconstruction in the container yard. These enhancements will not only increase the efficiency and capacity of the Wilfred \"Bomba\" Allick Terminal, but also ensure its long-term sustainability. The modernization of the terminal will have a positive ripple effect on our islands, boosting trade, creating jobs, and ensuring a more resilient future for our community.\n\n\u201cThe funding for this grant is made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021. This historic legislation reflects our commitment, under the leadership of the Biden-Harris Administration, to investing in our infrastructure, creating jobs, and supporting the growth of communities across the United States, including the Virgin Islands. I am thankful for the continued support of DOT and the Maritime Administration for strengthening our port infrastructure.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett also shared, \u201cI am proud of the work of the Virgin Island Port Authority and look forward to working with them to ensure the funds are fully utilized for a lasting, transformative impact on St. Croix and the Virgin Islands.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4382", "PLASKETT MAKES STATEMENT ON ISRAEL-PALESTINE CONFLICT", "2023-11-03", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nNovember 3rd, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT MAKES STATEMENT ON ISRAEL-PALESTINE CONFLICT\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement:\n\n\u201cAs an American and a Member of Congress, I feel a strong responsibility to protect human rights, defend the innocent, and uphold democracy worldwide. Having lived through the attack in our country on September 11th, 2001, and having served as a politically appointed lawyer in the Justice Department in the attack\u2019s immediate aftermath, I am keenly aware of the desire to protect the homeland of the U.S., but also aware of mistakes made in our 20 plus year war on terrorism.\n\n\u201cI am a person of color and a Virgin Islander; I come from a diverse community where people of various backgrounds, including Christians, Muslims, and Jews, have lived in peace. From that background, I understand the need to support those who have been displaced, persecuted, and seek a peaceful future. The hostilities in Gaza have deeply troubled me.\n\n\u201cI condemn the Hamas attacks on innocent Israeli civilians and in the days after expressed that. When invited, I went to hold space with my Jewish neighbors in person, on the phone and at our local synagogue in St. Thomas, USVI. I am also grateful for time spent and meaningful discussions with Palestinian-Americans around the country and at home in the Virgin Islands. I am deeply concerned and heartbroken over the escalating violence that has claimed the lives of thousands of innocent Palestinian women, children, and men in Gaza. I am grateful for meaningful discussions I have had with Palestinian-Americans around the country and at home.\n\nIn my role in the House of Representatives, I've advocated for a safe corridor to evacuate civilians and provide humanitarian aid. I'm disappointed by the absence of any of the humanitarian aid to Gaza requested by the Biden-Harris administration in the new House Speaker\u2019s recently proposed, highly partisan Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Bill (H.R.6126), which the House adopted largely along party lines.\n\n\u201cIn recent weeks, I have discussed several key points with my colleagues and administration officials:\n\nI can condemn Hamas and support Israel's right to self-defense while calling for a temporary cessation of hostilities and safe passage for civilians and humanitarian aid to Gaza.\n\nI can acknowledge Israel's right to exist as a state, while critiquing Israel's military objectives and previous actions of the Netanyahu government and expressing concerns about settler incursion in the West Bank.\n\nWe must address the weaponization of hate, including anti-immigrant rhetoric, antisemitism, Islamophobia, and white supremacy, which fuel domestic violence. We must stand together for equality and peace.\n\n\u201cThe administration and congressional leaders must use their power to bring Israeli and Palestinian leadership together for a long-term resolution to the conflict that can lead to a peaceful two-state solution. These are my goals as I work with my colleagues, the Biden-Harris administration, and my community to find a resolution to the cycle of violence, inequity, and division in the region.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4373", "CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF VI FIRE AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTOR, DARYL GEORGE", "2023-10-24", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nOctober 24th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nCONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF VI FIRE AND EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES DIRECTOR, DARYL GEORGE\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement expressing condolences on the passing of Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services Director, Daryl George:\n\n\u201cIt is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Daryl George, a cherished member of the Virgin Islands community. He leaves behind a legacy of great dedication and commitment to the well-being of his fellow Virgin Islanders.\n\n\u201cDirector George worked in our community as a Virgin Islands firefighter for over 20 years and served in numerous capacities within the VI Fire Service, including Assistant Director and Special Assistant to the Director. In all his capacities, it was evident that he put our community first. Director George was a true first responder, never hesitating to put his life on the line to be that lifeline for those in danger or at risk. Most importantly, Director George or \u2018Mousy\u2019, as he was known to so many, knew how to be a friend \u2013 a smile, an arm around your shoulder, loudly boasting or quietly reprimanding \u2013 he cared about those he claimed as his. THAT will be sorely missed.\n\n\u201cJonathan and I, along with our staff \u2013 especially the St. Thomas team - send our prayers for comfort and peace to his loved ones, family (especially his children) and friends during this difficult time.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4374", "PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON RECENT WATER TEST RESULTS ON ST. CROIX", "2023-10-24", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nOctober 24th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON RECENT WATER TEST RESULTS ON ST. CROIX\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement concerning the recent water test results released by the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority for numerous sites on St. Croix:\n\n\u201cI am deeply troubled by the persistent water crisis faced by Virgin Islanders on St. Croix, and the recent results shared by the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority regarding extremely high levels\u2014tested by the EPA\u2014of copper and lead in the drinking water in numerous locations.\n\n\u201cI and my fellow Democratic colleagues have passed legislation on water infrastructure in the last 2 years, providing significant federal resources to states and territories like the Virgin Islands to replace aging water infrastructure. Within the last few months, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced two consolidated grants through the Infrastructure and Jobs Act (IIJA) for drinking and clean water infrastructure, totaling approximately $43 million dollars to the V.I. Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR), with subawards to the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA) and the V.I. Waste Management Authority (VIWMA). The funding from these consolidated grants can be used to address the longstanding infrastructure issues that cause the brown water on St. Croix.\n\n\u201cProvisions of that same bill meant that early this year the Biden administration provided over $52 million in further funding to the territory under the Clean Water Act. These funds are to be used to upgrade and replace essential water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure to further public health and water quality improvement and protection objectives. Some of the proposed projects can include wastewater collection system repair and replacement and aim to provide metered, reliable potable drinking water to USVI residents.\n\n\u201cIn addition, any portion of the over $500 million that the Government of the Virgin Islands received from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) could be used to fund improving or replacing water & sewer infrastructure. Cities like Albany, NY (pop: 98,000), Wausau, WI (pop: 40,000) and Rochester, NY (pop: 210,000) have used ARPA funding to replace public and private lead service lines in an exceptionally cost-efficient way.\n\n\u201cFurthermore, I look forward to the realization of FEMA\u2019s commitment to replace the entire wastewater system on St. Croix\u2014this project would provide an estimated $1 billion in funding to allow VIWMA to rebuild its aging wastewater infrastructure on St. Croix in accordance with current industry standards. In 2021, the Virgin Islands Office of Disaster Recovery along with VI Government consultants at Witt O\u2019Brien insisted that FEMA was not using the correct formula to evaluate the cost to rebuild our territory\u2019s critical infrastructure. My office pressed and organized a summit between FEMA, the Virgin Islands government, and the appropriate professional staff in Congress to have FEMA re-evaluate the figures for rebuilding our critical infrastructure. That summit allowed FEMA to hear from the individuals working on the ground and have validation on the intent of the formula for rebuilding from the staff in Congress who wrote the language under the law for our rebuilding funds. Thanks to the work accomplished during the summit, FEMA has authorized over $1 billion dollars in funding to replace the water infrastructure on St. Croix in its entirety.\n\n\u201cThe various provisions shared above are resources that we can use to address an untenable present problem. I, like many people on St. Croix and in the Virgin Islands, am disturbed and concerned about the water issues we currently face. It will take all of us working calmly and vigilantly, taking in new ideas and strategies, both short and long-term, to mitigate this water crisis while we find a permanent solution.\n\n\u201cDuring this time, please continue to observe and abide by all precautionary measures shared by WAPA regarding water use on St. Croix, which include not using water for drinking or consumption at this time in the following areas: Estates Castle Burke, Colquhoun, Diamond, and Mon Bijou.\n\n\u201cMy office is committed to working with the Virgin Islands Government, WAPA, VIWMA and other government agencies to employ both short and long-term solutions to the water issues in the territory.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4372", "PLASKETT SHARES THOUGHTS ON WHITE HOUSE FUNDING REQUEST TO CONGRESS; ADVOCATES FOR SIGNIFICANT HUMANITARIAN AID", "2023-10-23", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nOctober 23rd, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT SHARES THOUGHTS ON WHITE HOUSE FUNDING REQUEST TO CONGRESS; ADVOCATES FOR SIGNIFICANT HUMANITARIAN AID\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett addresses the ongoing crisis in Israel and the Gaza region, emphasizing the imperative need for additional humanitarian relief to Palestinians following the White House request to Congress for $9.15 billion in supplemental U.S. humanitarian assistance for Ukraine, Israel, Gaza, and other needs. The Congresswoman has been a passionate advocate for a more comprehensive approach that acknowledges the humanitarian concerns of both Palestinians and Israelis in the region.\n\nThe White House has taken commendable steps to alleviate the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza by securing a deal with Israel that allows for the delivery of humanitarian aid from Egypt. Additionally, they have pledged $100 million in new U.S. funding to support humanitarian efforts in Gaza and the West Bank. However, Congresswoman Plaskett stresses that significantly more U.S. funding will be required to fully address the complex needs in the region.\n\n\"In this time of crisis, we must prioritize humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians living in Gaza and the West Bank along with their Israeli neighbors. The White House's commitment to the region is a step in the right direction, but we should be prepared to provide substantial assistance to address the suffering of the Palestinian people during this conflict,\" said Congresswoman Plaskett.\n\nAs a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, Congresswoman Plaskett has used her position to advocate for comprehensive humanitarian solutions. She has been steadfast in her efforts; pressing U.S. officials to address humanitarian concerns not only in Gaza but also in the West Bank. On multiple trips to the region, Plaskett has shared with congressional colleagues, the Biden administration, and especially the Intelligence Community her concerns with certain Israeli rhetoric and policies which have led to settlers aggression into Palestinian areas of the West Bank. Congresswoman Plaskett has stressed the deep concern and, in some cases, anger felt by American lawmakers over the situation. In Capitol Hill meetings, Plaskett has discussed not only the present situation but next steps for peace and equality for all in the region. It is essential that Congress carefully consider the White House supplemental foreign aid request and sufficiently address these humanitarian issues to promote lasting peace and stability in the region.\n\nFurthermore, Congresswoman Plaskett has chosen not to sign on to several House resolutions introduced in Congress recently (including H.Res.768, H.Res.770, and H.Res.771), even though they collectively have garnered substantial support from fellow members of the House of Representatives, because they do not go far enough in providing comprehensive support for all the people, particularly Palestinians, living in the region. Her stance emphasizes the importance of balancing the fight against terrorism, preserving the welfare of Palestinians and Israelis alike, and working towards a peaceful coexistence of all peoples in the region.\n\nIn the coming weeks, Congresswoman Plaskett will continue her advocacy efforts, pushing for substantial humanitarian aid inclusive of Palestinians, and will be closely reviewing the White House's request to Congress. Her dedication to addressing the humanitarian crisis in Israel and Gaza, as well as true movement in creating equality and two states, reflects a commitment to finding a just and sustainable solution to the ongoing conflict.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4371", "PLASKETT INTRODUCES RESOLUTION IN U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TO HONOR VIRGIN ISLANDS NATIONAL GUARD\u2019S 50TH ANNIVERSARY", "2023-10-21", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nOctober 21st, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT INTRODUCES RESOLUTION IN U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TO HONOR VIRGIN ISLANDS NATIONAL GUARD\u2019S 50TH ANNIVERSARY\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 October 19th, 2023 marked the 50th anniversary of the Virgin Islands National Guard; to honor this important milestone Congresswoman Plaskett introduced a resolution celebrating the service and sacrifice of all those have served our territory.\n\n\u201cSince October 19th, 1973, the National Guard has been instrumental in the U.S. Virgin Islands by assisting with response to natural disasters, national defense, and most recently providing much needed support as we battled a global pandemic,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett, \u201cLocal units of the National Guard are in every state and territory, but we know in the Virgin Islands we ask for so much more from our men and women in uniform, and they never fail to answer the call.\u201d\n\nBeresford Edwards, Virgin Islands Veteran and President of the National Guard Association shared, \"The Virgin Islands National Guard has protected the home front throughout its 50-year history. From Hurricanes David and Frederick to Hugo, to Marilyn, to Irma and Maria, the Virgin Islands National Guard assured the people of the Virgin Islands that they were not alone. When they were down, you helped lift them. You gave hope to the hopeless. You comfort the comfortless! Always Ready, Always There.\"\n\nVirgin Islands National Guard Adjutant General, Kodjo Knox-Limbacker shared, \u201cWe are truly honored by this milestone and recognition of our 50 years journey of service to our nation and our territory. The Guardians of the eastern front will continue to deploy in support of warfighting requirements globally, while providing civil support assistance in our territory locally.\"\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett also stated, \u201cThe founders of our territory\u2019s Guard were veterans of foreign wars and former members of the United States Army Reserve who believed that the territory of the Virgin Islands was vulnerable and in a general state of unreadiness following the incorporation of the Virgin Islands as a territory of the United States. Their ingenuity and bravery paved the way for the excellence and support that we receive through our VING members today. It is a privilege to recognize and pay homage to the service men and woman of the VI National Guard and to the institution itself on its 50th anniversary.\u201d\n\nYou can find the resolution here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4370", "PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON BRUTAL MURDER OF 6-YEAR OLD PALESTINIAN AMERICAN", "2023-10-16", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nOctober 16th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON BRUTAL MURDER OF 6-YEAR OLD PALESTINIAN AMERICAN\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement:\n\n\u201cThis past Saturday just outside Chicago, Wadea Al-Fayoum, a 6-year-old, was stabbed to death\u2014murdered in the place he called home. His mother was also stabbed repeatedly, severely injured by the same attacker. She is still in critical condition with more than a dozen stab wounds.\n\n\u201cThe murder of an innocent child can never be justified for any reason. Wadea, a Muslim Palestinian American and his mother came to America in search of a safe place to live in peace and freedom from fear. Unfortunately, the cascade of violence in the Middle East has invigorated hate in this country. It has opened a rift in our society where hate\u2014particularly in the forms of Antisemitism and Islamophobia\u2014is coming to the fore. The sheer brutality and disregard for innocent lives represents an open and unacceptable endorsement of violence.\n\n\u201cAntisemitism and Islamophobia are never acceptable in any form or fashion. I plead for peace in America and abroad, I plead for leaders to think of the innocent children as we hold our own. I ask for vigilance in our communities and respect for all our neighbors.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4369", "PLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON CONDITIONS IN ISRAEL AND GAZA", "2023-10-15", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nOctober 15th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON CONDITIONS IN ISRAEL AND GAZA\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement:\n\n\u201cMy thoughts and prayers continue to be with the families of the thousands of innocent Israelis and Palestinians who have been killed in recent days, as well as those who have been displaced and are currently living in fear in the Middle East.\n\n\u201cAs a member of the U.S. House of Representatives\u2019 Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, I have leveraged the opportunity to speak with the U.S. State Department and officials from the U.S. Departments of Defense and Homeland Security this week, advocating and receiving updates on the safe exit for American Palestinians living in Gaza as well as impressing the need to keep peace in the West Bank and support innocent people during this time. I am grateful that American officials were able to reach an agreement with Egypt to provide safe evacuation. I and many colleagues in Congress continue to urge the U.S. government to pressure Egypt to live up to the agreement, and for Egypt and Israel to open passage to provide critical support to those living in Gaza.\n\n\"It is imperative to take immediate action to address the worsening humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. This conflict has left millions of people in that area without access to electricity, water, food, medicine, and other critical resources. We cannot lose sight of the fact that there are millions of innocent Palestinians caught in the balance of attacks\u2014initiated by Hamas this week and the military actions by Israel\u2014who are in dire need of aid and who are not responsible for the atrocities of Hamas that have taken place the past several days. I support providing aid immediately to people living in these areas. I and my office continue to remain in discussions with the U.S. government, Congress, and international agencies to support the provision of immediate humanitarian relief to those impacted by the war. Simultaneous discussions must begin on creating true equality of all people living in the region \u2013 Israel, the West Bank and Gaza.\n\n\u201cI am thankful that through discussions in the last day with leadership of the Congressional Black Caucus, which consists of 58 members, the Caucus has issued a strong statement and is working to support President Biden's call for the United Nations and governments in Israel and surrounding Arab nations to provide immediate humanitarian relief to those impacted by this war. The events of this week represent a stain on humanity. We must pray for peace and a better way forward as we recognize the humanity and equality of all God's children.\u201d\n\nPlease visit plaskett.house.gov or call our D.C. office at 202-225-1790 for more information and updates for U.S. citizens in Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4367", "PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON HAMAS TERRORIST ATTACK", "2023-10-08", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nOctober 8th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON HAMAS TERRORIST ATTACK\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement on the Hamas terrorist attack on Israel:\n\n\u201cI strongly condemn the horrific attacks against Israel by Hamas. There is no justification for this terrorism, and my heart goes out to the innocent civilians suffering from this violence. I support the actions of Israel to defend itself and protect its people from terrorism.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4365", "PLASKETT EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF FORMER SENATOR ALICIA CHUCKY HANSEN", "2023-10-03", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nOctober 3rd, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF FORMER SENATOR ALICIA CHUCKY HANSEN\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement expressing condolences on the passing of former Senator, Alicia \u201cChucky\u201d Hansen:\n\n\u201cI am deeply saddened by the news of Senator Alicia \u201cChucky\u201d Hansen\u2019s passing.\n\n\u201c \u2018Chucky\u2019, as she was affectionately known and as she would always correct you, was larger than life with a personality and voice to match. From the moment she stepped into the Virgin Islands Legislature in 1986, she committed herself to being a tremendous advocate for Virgin Islanders and individuals from all walks of life. She served 11 terms as a St. Croix Senator in the V.I. Legislature and even now continues to hold the record of the top vote-getter in a senatorial election, territory wide.\n\n\u201cSenator Hansen also committed her time and talent within the American Legion, assisting and providing support to our territory\u2019s veterans for many years. She was a lively radio personality, engaging with our community on a weekly basis and providing a platform for discussion of our local issues. More than all of these, Senator Hansen was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother to her family. There was no doubt that she was just as passionate about her family as she was about her engagement and influence in our community, if not more so.\n\n\u201cSenator Hansen\u2019s passing has left a tremendous void in our culture and our community. Her voice, her influence, and her passion for the people of the Virgin Islands, particularly of St. Croix, will be sorely missed.\n\n\u201cI send my love and prayers to her husband, children, grandchildren and all those grieved by her passing.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4366", "PLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON SPEAKER MCCARTHY\u2019S OUST AS SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE", "2023-10-03", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nOctober 3rd, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON SPEAKER MCCARTHY\u2019S OUST AS SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement:\n\n\u201cYet again, the Republican Conference of the House has placed our chamber in a precarious position, refusing to find common ground and break from their extremism. The last time the House voted on removing a speaker was in 1910, which was unsuccessful. Rep. McCarthy is the first House speaker to be removed from the job by a House vote, which is a clear indication of the ongoing contention within the Republican party and his party\u2019s inability to work in a constructive, bipartisan manner.\n\n\u201cAs mentioned by Leader Hakeem Jeffries, my Democratic colleagues and I remain willing to find common ground to move us forward as a body. Even more important, unlike the Republicans who have spent the last 10 months working to destabilize our rule of law, weaponize Congress for their power and push an agenda that continues to support corporations at the expense of the American people - Democrats continue to put people over politics and come to work every day ready to support the American dream for all.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4364", "PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON STOPGAP FUNDING BILL TO AVERT GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN", "2023-10-01", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nOctober 1st, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON STOPGAP FUNDING BILL TO AVERT GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement on H.R.5860, Continuing Appropriations Act, 2024 and Other Extensions Act:\n\n\u201cWith federal government funding slated to lapse at midnight on October 1st, I am pleased to share that yesterday, the House and Senate passed legislation to provide stop-gap funding to keep the federal government fully operating, and to give lawmakers additional time to negotiate and develop full-year federal government funding legislation for fiscal year 2024. The bill also continues various expiring federal programs for the life of the continued government funding, including the National Flood Insurance Program, community health centers, and pandemic preparedness authorities.\n\nOf equal importance, this bill supports communities like the Virgin Islands recovering from natural disasters. As we are still amidst hurricane season and with hurricane recovery efforts underway, this bill provides $16 billion in supplemental Disaster Relief Funds to allow FEMA to continue working with the Virgin Islands to finance the rebuilding needs of our schools, hospitals, utilities, roads, water infrastructure, and other services, as well as to be able to respond to future disasters.\n\nAdditionally, this bill rejects the severe cuts recently proposed by Republicans. Democrats won the fight against slashing important government services and programs. Today, we continue our fight to hold Republicans to the budget agreement reached with President Biden in June of this year. Democrats have led the way in averting a reckless, unnecessary government shutdown, while also preventing devastating Republican cuts to critical federal programs that would affect children, our elders and even our service men and women.\n\nI am proud of the work being done by the House to meet our responsibilities and advance the interests of all Americans.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4363", "PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON POTENTIAL FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN", "2023-09-28", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nSeptember 28th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON POTENTIAL FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement on the impending federal government shut down:\n\n\u201cWith just 2 days remaining until a potential federal government shutdown, I and my Democratic colleagues in the House are doing everything in our power to keep the government running and working without interruption for our respective districts. The Speaker made a promise to the American people in May to pass bipartisan legislation that keeps the government open\u2014it is time for House Republicans to do their jobs and put American families first.\n\n\u201cNonetheless, we must prepare ourselves if Speaker McCarthy is unable to foster agreement on a Continuing Resolution (CR) that would keep the government funded until November 15th, or longer-term appropriation bills that would fund the government for a year. According to new data released by House Budget Committee Democrats, a Republican government shutdown would mean:\n\nThe approximately 417 civilian federal government employees in the Virgin Islands, not including our servicemembers in the Armed forces, would be potentially furloughed and unable to work.\n\nFederal law enforcement, air traffic controllers, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers, and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and military servicemembers will remain on the job but will be required to work without being paid.\n\nUSDA has enough resources to administer SNAP for one month following a September 30 shutdown. (Benefits will be safe for October.) If the shutdown lasts into November or beyond, those benefits will be impacted.\n\nU.S. Department of Agriculture loans will not be processed for farmers.\n\nPassport offices will not process new passports and ones in process will be delayed.\n\nSocial Security (SS) Recipients will continue to receive their Social Security checks. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will provide limited services like issuing Social Security cards and holding appointments for benefit applications. However, SSA will stop services like benefit verifications and processing overpayments. Customer service wait times will dramatically increase.\n\nCurrent Medicare, Medicaid, and disability insurance beneficiaries will continue to receive their benefits assuming a shutdown lasts less than three months.\n\nAll Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities and clinics will remain operational. The VA will continue to process veterans\u2019 benefits. However, veterans will be affected by the shutdown of other services that they count on, including education and job training, support for veteran owned businesses, and even assistance for homeless veterans.\n\nUSPS operations will not be affected and will continue as normal.\n\n\u201cSenate Democrats, Senate Republicans and House Democrat Members have all worked together to craft a Continuing Resolution (CR) that keeps the government open until November 15th as details of longer appropriations bills are negotiated with Speaker McCarthy, his Caucus, and House Democrats. We are grateful that the Senate Leadership placed much needed funding into FEMA\u2019s Disaster Relief Fund, especially since last week FEMA had announced that its nationwide Disaster Relief Fund was approaching exhaustion and had imposed an \u201cImmediate Needs Funding\u201d guidance for the remaining balances in the Fund. Under this new protocol, there are no new commitments from the Disaster Relief Fund to provide assistance not essential for lifesaving and life-sustaining activities, such as permanent rebuilding and hazard mitigation work. The FEMA Immediate Needs Funding restrictions will hold up projects that have not had funds obligated to date but are otherwise worthy of funding to rebuild critical infrastructure like schools and hospitals both in the Virgin Islands as well as those across the nation. The allocation by the Senate of $6 billion dollars, if passed by the House in the Continuing Resolution will ensure that new rebuilding projects in the Virgin Islands which have not been obligated will continue to move toward an obligation award by FEMA working with the Office of Disaster Recovery.\n\n\u201cMy staff and I will continue working on your behalf and will remain available to assist as we are able, although we may not be able to get answers from federal agencies that have been impacted.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4361", "PLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON BUDGET TALKS AND FEMA DISASTER FUND EMERGENCY PROTOCOLS", "2023-09-18", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nSeptember 18th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON BUDGET TALKS AND FEMA DISASTER FUND EMERGENCY PROTOCOLS\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement:\n\n\u201cAs many of us are aware, federal government funding is scheduled to expire at the close of this fiscal year on September 30th. At present, the House of Representatives has 8 working days to pass a continuing resolution (CR), to continue current funding levels and avoid a government shutdown, with negotiations ongoing for full fiscal year 2024 government spending. While the Senate has been able to work well on their spending compromises, it is my hope that my colleagues in the House will be able to come to a place of agreement in short order. While the shutdown will not affect Social Security and Medicare, it would affect federal employees\u2019 ability to be paid as well as some services such as those to seniors and veterans.\n\n\u201cAdditionally, FEMA has announced that its nationwide Disaster Relief Fund is approaching exhaustion and has imposed an \u201cImmediate Needs Funding\u201d guidance for the remaining balances in the Fund. Under this protocol, there will not be new commitments from the Disaster Relief Fund to provide assistance not essential for lifesaving and life-sustaining activities, permanent rebuilding and hazard mitigation work. New commitments to fund these activities out of the Disaster Relief Fund will be paused until the Fund is sufficiently replenished.\n\n\u201cI have been working in earnest with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to fulfill President Biden\u2019s request to replenish the Disaster Relief Fund with an additional $16 billion dollars so that funding for permanent disaster recovery and rebuilding work may resume nationwide. Jurisdictions around the country are affected by this depletion of funds. From California and Texas, to Florida, Mississippi, and Louisiana \u2013 numerous jurisdictions are impacted by the need for the Disaster Relief Fund to be replenished. My office has shared this information with Governor Bryan\u2019s team as this announcement from FEMA has a direct impact on numerous projects in the Virgin Islands. The FEMA Immediate Needs Funding restrictions will hold up projects that have not had funds obligated to date but are otherwise worthy of funding to rebuild critical infrastructure like schools and hospitals both in the Virgin Islands as well as those across the nation. Presently, new rebuilding projects in the Virgin Islands which have not been obligated will be paused until replenishment of the Disaster Relief Fund is enacted. I\u2019m grateful for the information and work of the Office of Disaster Recovery to obligate funding as quickly as possible.\n\n\u201cI have sought to redirect federal funding from elsewhere (such as former President Trump\u2019s border wall) into the Disaster Relief Fund until the emergency replenishment requested by President Biden goes through. I will be making further efforts with my colleagues on Capitol Hill in the coming days to see that the President\u2019s request for more disaster relief funding is fulfilled as soon as possible, as well as to work to ensure a government shutdown does not take place.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4359", "PLASKETT EXTENDS CONDOLENCES TO REP. MARY PELTOLA ON THE SUDDEN LOSS OF HER HUSBAND, EUGENE PELTOLA", "2023-09-15", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nSeptember 15th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT EXTENDS CONDOLENCES TO REP. MARY PELTOLA ON THE SUDDEN LOSS OF HER HUSBAND, EUGENE PELTOLA\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement:\n\n\u201cIt is with deep sadness that I convey my condolences to my colleague, Rep. Mary Peltola on the passing of her husband, Eugene Peltola. As Members of Congress, our families, our spouses in particular, provide an invaluable source of support and I am incredibly heartbroken for Rep. Mary and her children Conrad, Matthew, Job, Nora, Gene, Trevor and Kaeli on this sudden loss. I, my staff and my family stand ready to provide support in any way we can and pray for peace and comfort during this very difficult time.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4360", "PLASKETT CHOSEN AS HONORARY CO-CHAIR OF CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS'S 52ND ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE", "2023-09-15", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nSeptember 15th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT CHOSEN AS HONORARY CO-CHAIR OF CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS'S 52ND ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement on her appointment as honorary co-chair of the Congressional Black Caucus\u2019s (CBC) 52nd Annual Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C.:\n\n\u201cI am excited to join my esteemed colleague, Senator and Reverend Raphael Warnock as a co-chair of the CBC\u2019s 52nd Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) this year. Each year, 2 members of the Black Caucus are tapped as the Co-Chairs and I am honored to be named by the Foundation as this year\u2019s Co-Chair. The Congressional Black Caucus\u2019s tireless work to elevate and advocate the themes of democracy, freedom, and culture, especially among Black Americans and people of color is embodied in this annual conference and I am humbled by the opportunity to play such an integral part.\n\n\u201cThe conference hosts over 10,000 participants and raises over $9M through the Gala Dinner and other sponsorships for scholarships, fellowships, and policy work. I am also happy to welcome Governor Bryan and numerous members of his administration to host the VI Government\u2019s first Meet and Match event at the conference\u2014an avenue for contractors (both local and stateside) to learn about contracting opportunities in the Virgin Islands firsthand from government agencies, including the Office of Disaster Recovery (ODR), the Office of Management & Budget (OMB), and the USVI Economic Development Authority (EDA) among others.\n\n\u201cAdditionally, I am proud to share that during ALC, the Congressional Caucus on Black Innovation (CCBI), of which I am co-founder and co-chair with my colleague Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), will host the 2nd Annual Black Innovation Summit which will include a 2-part panel on the importance of empowering black innovators and creators.\n\n\u201cTo all my fellow Virgin Islanders joining us for the conference, especially those of you will travel to be present, I look forward to seeing you! Thanks for being a part of the conference, learning from the other participants, and of course, amplifying the issues of the Virgin Islands and the Caribbean.\u201d\n\nThe CBC\u2019s 52nd Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) is themed \"Securing Our Democracy. Protecting Our Freedoms. Uplifting Our Culture,\" and will take place from Wednesday, September 20th, 2023 through Sunday, September 24th, 2023 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC. To register for the conference, click here.\n\nFor more information on the Meet and Match, click here and for more details on the Congressional Caucus on Black Innovation\u2019s Summit and 2-part panel click here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4358", "PLASKETT CHOSEN AS HONORARY CO-CHAIR OF CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS'S 52ND ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE", "2023-09-13", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nSeptember 13th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT CHOSEN AS HONORARY CO-CHAIR OF CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS'S 52ND ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement on her appointment as honorary co-chair of the Congressional Black Caucus\u2019s (CBC) 52nd Annual Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C.:\n\n\u201cI am excited to join my esteemed colleague, Senator and Reverend Raphael Warnock as a co-chair of the CBC\u2019s 52nd Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) this year. The Congressional Black Caucus\u2019s tireless work to elevate and advocate the themes of democracy, freedom and culture, especially among Black Americans and people of color is embodied in this annual conference each year and I am humbled by the opportunity to play such an integral part. The conference hosts tens of thousands of individuals for the 5 day event. I am also happy to welcome Governor Bryan and numerous members of his administration to host the VI Government\u2019s first Meet and Match event at the conference\u2014an avenue for businesses (both local and stateside) to learn about contracting and business opportunities in the Virgin Islands firsthand from government agencies, including the Office of Disaster Recovery (ODR), the Office of Management & Budget (OMB), and the USVI Economic Development Authority (EDA) among others.\n\n\u201cAdditionally, I am proud to share that during ALC, the Congressional Caucus on Black Innovation (CCBI), of which I am co-founder and co-chair with my colleague Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), will host the 2nd Annual Black Innovation Summit which will include a 2-part panel on the importance of empowering black innovators and creators.\n\n\u201cTo all of my fellow Virgin Islanders joining us for the conference, especially those of you will travel to be present, I look forward to seeing you!\u201d\n\nThe CBC\u2019s 52nd Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) is themed \"Securing Our Democracy. Protecting Our Freedoms. Uplifting Our Culture,\" and will take place from Wednesday, September 20th, 2023 through Sunday, September 24th, 2023 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, DC. To register for the conference, click here.\n\nFor more information on the Meet and Match, click here and for more details on the Congressional Caucus on Black Innovation\u2019s Summit and 2-part panel click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4357", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES $3.9 MILLION IN FUNDING FOR MARINE ENFORCEMENT VESSELS FOR THE VIRGIN ISLANDS", "2023-09-12", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nSeptember 12th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT ANNOUNCES $3.9 MILLION IN FUNDING FOR MARINE ENFORCEMENT VESSELS FOR THE VIRGIN ISLANDS\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing a $3.9 million grant to the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) for the purchase of marine enforcement vessels:\n\n\u201cI am tremendously pleased to announce that the VIPD has received a grant from the Department of Justice in the amount of $3,984,000 to purchase three marine enforcement vessels. The vessels will assist with the interdiction of drug-trafficking related criminal activity through the Virgin Islands as well as safety patrols through local waters, which have seen a significant uptick in recreational vessel traffic in recent years.\n\n\u201cThis grant is one of numerous Fiscal Year 2023 Community Project Funding requests that I and my team successfully included in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023. Marine-capable law enforcement is imperative to ensure the safety and protection of life and property of inhabitants and visitors of the United States Virgin Islands. I am proud of the work being done and look forward to VIPD\u2019s continued marine patrols and improved intelligence gathering.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4356", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES $75M IN GRANT FUNDING FOR THE ALFREDO ANDREWS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL", "2023-08-17", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nAugust 17, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT ANNOUNCES $75M IN GRANT FUNDING FOR THE ALFREDO ANDREWS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing a $75 million grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to the Virgin Islands Department of Education on St. Croix for the Alfredo Andrews Elementary School:\n\n\u201cI am very pleased to announce that FEMA has awarded a grant totalling $75,499,497.16 to the Virgin Islands Department to demolish and replace the Alfredo Andrews Elementary School that was damaged as a direct result Hurricane Maria. This funding is authorized under Section 428 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. I secured provisions in the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 to ensure that FEMA can make repairs and replace infrastructure in the Virgin Islands to incorporate resilient design and features, regardless of pre-disaster condition (the standard that otherwise applies), for the duration of the recovery from Hurricanes Irma and Maria. This school will be built back not as it was before the storm but to current industry standards, incorporating the most resilient engineering and building techniques, allowing our community to better educate our young people and to continue our path towards preparedness and resiliency against natural disasters.\n\n\u201cThis project marks another important step in our rebuilding. I am proud of the work being done in the Virgin Islands and would like to acknowledge the work done by Governor Bryan and his team at the Office of Disaster Recovery and the Virgin Islands Department of Education who have made the case to FEMA so we can take full advantage of the change in the law. I look forward to working with these offices to ensure the funds are fully utilized.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4354", "PLASKETT HOSTS LAND EXCHANGE BRIEFING WITH THE LEGISLATURE OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS AND HOUSE NATURAL RESOURCES SUBCOMMITTEE ON FEDERAL LANDS RANKING MEMBER", "2023-08-09", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nAugust 9, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT HOSTS LAND EXCHANGE BRIEFING WITH THE LEGISLATURE OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS AND HOUSE NATURAL RESOURCES SUBCOMMITTEE ON FEDERAL LANDS RANKING MEMBER\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 This week, Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett hosted a briefing regarding the proposed land exchange between the Government of the Virgin Islands and the National Park Service (NPS) for the construction of a kindergarten through 12th grade school on St. John. Members of the Legislature of the Virgin Islands\u2019 Subcommittee on the Land Exchange heard from and engaged with Member of Congress and professional staff members of the relevant House and Senate Committees. Participants on the call included Congressman Joe Neguse (CO-2), Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands; Brian Modeste, Minority Staff Director of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs; and Pat Bond, Senior Advisor on Energy, Environment, and Transportation for Senator Angus King of Maine, Chair of the Senate Energy and Resources Subcommittee on National Parks.\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett shared, \u201cThe virtual briefing gave an opportunity to provide an overview of the history and feasibility of congressional actions related to NPS land for the establishment of a Kindergarten through 12th grade school on St. John. In my role as the Member of Congress for the Virgin Islands of the United States, I have advocated for the voices of our constituents to ensure the stakeholders of the proposed land exchange, the Government of the Virgin Islands and the NPS, are aware of Virgin Islanders\u2019 opinions. My office has hosted community meetings and town halls related to this matter, and I have kept constituents informed of federal actions via press releases, radio announcements, and social media engagement.\n\n\u201cLast month, I sent correspondence outlining previous congressional actions related to this matter to Senate President Novelle Francis and clarified legislation related to the Acadia National Park. Senate President Francis and his team have moved expeditiously to support a dialogue with relevant congressional partners to be briefed on actions taken and available. I continue to acknowledge that our local government faces the difficult task of determining how to move forward with the proposed St. John Land Exchange. I also want to reinforce my office\u2019s commitment and advocacy on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands. Additionally, I continue to emphasize the importance of ensuring that we do not put out half-truths or inaccuracies regarding the history and future feasibility of NPS actions.\n\n\u201cThere are a few takeaways from the briefing that I would like to emphasize:\n\nThe professional staff on the call have been intimately engaged for over 30 years at the legislative level with the issue of utilizing National Park Service land on St John for the building of a high school on the island and the various proposals.\n\nCongressional staff emphasized that when an action is taken by the National Park Serivce, it sets the precedent and opens the door for similar action in other National Parks. The National Park Service and previous Presidential Administrations have opposed giving or leasing land not solely to the Government of the Virgin Islands for the construction of a Kindergarten through 12th grade school, but for those purposes throughout the country (despite our unique island geography). Furthermore, the National Park Service has a \u201cno net reduction policy\u201d and has opposed measures that reduce National Park lands in the Virgin Islands National Park, as well as other National Parks throughout the country.\n\nThe House Natural Resources Committee shared that the previous legislation for a lease of land on the St. John National Park passed by the US House of Representatives in the 110th Congress (H.R. 53) was opposed by the National Park Service and received an unfavorable Statement of Administration Policy. Such statement from the President\u2019s Administration signaled that if passed in the Senate it would not be signed into law, therefore H.R. 53 was not taken up in the Senate as the Administration was opposed to the legislation. That opposition has continued and the Biden Administration and National Park Service have not changed their position, which means the bill would not likely be taken up by the Senate and therefore is not an option of actually being made law.\n\nWhen discussing the recent actions surrounding Acadia National Park in Maine, it was explained that that action taken last year to seemingly give land out of the NPS to the state government of Maine was in actuality, an exchange, as parcels have been, since 1986, disposed from the Acadia National Park and added to the Park in a manner that the National Park Service determined would serve their purpose. The parcel disposed of and used for National Park workforce last year was the last parcel in the addition and removal of multiple parcels over an almost 40 year process. Maine\u2019s Members of Congress did not convince the National Park Service to create an exception for giving land to the people of Maine in their state.\n\nThis Congress, I introduced H.R. 3025 to prohibit the net increase of federally owned land in the Virgin Islands National Park Service on St. John. This legislation addresses the consistent concerns of Virgin Islanders about the ever-expanding presence of the Park on St. John and has been moving through the legislative process expeditiously. Within two months of introduction, the Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands held a hearing on this legislation. Presently, my staff, the House Natural Resources Committee Majority and Minority, and the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee are working to determine language that can be agreed upon by all sides, including the National Park Service. I have tenaciously worked with Committee leadership to advance this legislation.\n\nCongressman Joe Neguse shared, \u201cI am grateful for Congresswoman Plaskett\u2019s continued efforts and advocacy on behalf of the Virgin Islands. She is a tireless champion for her constituents, and I am proud to serve alongside her in the House of Representatives. I appreciate her convening this important meeting.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett also shared, \u201cI would like to thank my colleague, Congressman Neguse, for his continued support for the people of our territory, as well as Mr. Modeste, Mr. Bond and my team, for their engagement and knowledge on congressional actions related to this matter and the Acadia National Park, respectively. I also extend my gratitude to Senate President Novelle Francis and the members of the Legislature of the Virgin Islands who were present for the briefing. I look forward to continuing our work on behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4355", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES $32 MILLION IN FUNDING FOR THE REPAIR OF THE JOSEPH SIBILLY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN ST. THOMAS", "2023-08-09", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nAugust 4, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT ANNOUNCES $32 MILLION IN FUNDING FOR THE REPAIR OF THE JOSEPH SIBILLY ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN ST. THOMAS\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing a $32 million grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to the Virgin Islands Department of Education:\n\n\u201cI am very pleased to announce that FEMA has awarded a grant totalling $32,049,717.28 to the Virgin Islands Department of Education for damages to five (5) buildings and the grounds of the Joseph Sibilly Elementary School because of Hurricanes Irma and Maria. This award will allow our community to continue our path towards preparedness and resiliency against natural disasters as we build back to 21st century standards.\n\n\u201cFEMA can make repairs and replace infrastructure in the Virgin Islands to incorporate resilient design and features regardless of pre-disaster condition (the standard that otherwise applies), for the duration of the recovery from Hurricanes Irma and Maria because of provisions I secured in the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018. As a result, we can rebuild our critical infrastructure, including schools, to the latest industry standards notwithstanding the condition of the damaged facility prior to the storms.\n\n\u201cThere is still more work to be done, but this project marks another important step in our rebuilding. I am proud of the work being done in the Virgin Islands and look forward to working with the Office of Disaster Recovery and the Virgin Islands Department of Education to ensure the funds are fully utilized.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4353", "PLASKETT INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO DESIGNATE ST. CROIX POST OFFICE IN HONOR OF VIRGIN ISLANDER, LT. GENERAL SAMUEL E. EBBESEN", "2023-08-03", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nAugust 3, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO DESIGNATE ST. CROIX POST OFFICE IN HONOR OF VIRGIN ISLANDER, LT. GENERAL SAMUEL E. EBBESEN\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Last week, Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett introduced legislation (H.R. 5034) to designate the St. Croix Post Office located at 2119 Market Square in Christiansted, St. Croix, as the \u201cLieutenant General Samuel E. Ebbesen Post Office\u201d:\n\n\u201cA native of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, Lt. General (Ret.) Samuel E. Ebbesen has had a distinguished career in the military, business, community, and public service. Mr. Ebbesen received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the City College of New York, a Master\u2019s degree in public administration from Auburn University and attended the program for senior managers in government at Harvard University. Mr. Ebbesen retired from the United States Army as a three-star general in January 1997. During his tenure, he held a variety of key command and staff positions including Operations Officer, 7th Infantry Division, Ft. Ord, CA; Chief of Staff, I Corp, Ft. Lewis, WA; and Deputy Chief Legislative Liaison, Office of the Secretary of the Army.\n\n\u201cAs a young man at City College he became great friends with former Secretary of State Colin Powell who became his professional mentor. As two Caribbean men in New York they became fast friends and supported each other\u2019s military careers\u2014General Ebbesen had the honor of being one of few people who spoke at the funeral service of Secretary Powell. He is married to Lillian Yordan, and they have two children, Christopher and Candice, along with three grandchildren.\u201d\n\nLt. General Ebbesen commanded at every level to include the First Brigade, 101st Airborne (Air Assault) Division, Ft. Campbell, KY; 6th Infantry Division, Ft. Wainwright, AK and the Second U.S. Army, Ft. Gillam, GA where he was responsible for all training and deployment readiness for Reserve units in the eight southern states, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. Early in this assignment, he was selected to command the Department of Defense Joint Task Force charged with leading the rescue and recovery operations from the devastation of the category 5 Hurricane Andrew in south Florida.\n\nVivian Ebbesen-Fludd (daughter of George A. and Enid M. Ebbesen), local businesswoman and cousin of Mr. Ebbesen shared, \u201cLt. General (Ret.) Samuel E. Ebbesen is a highly respected and decorated Veteran, but most importantly from our family circle perspective, he has been and remains a very humble, down to earth, and caring family member, friend, and son of the soil of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, with an unwavering and huge heart. In his career he has served and represented his country, this community and territory on many fronts, and has always maintained and shared love, care and concern for his family and his beloved U.S. Virgin Islands. \u2018Sam\u2019, as we affectionately know him, is most deserving of this honor in his lifetime, for his remarkable commitment, distinguished service and accomplishments in the military, business and public service. As members of the Ebbesen family, we are ecstatic that when successful, this designation of the United States Post Office located in Christiansted Market Square will be prominently bestowed upon Lt. General Ebbesen in his island home and town, where his life, legacy and ancestral roots run deep. We extend our gratitude to Congresswoman Plaskett for her efforts and seeing it fit to bestow upon Lt. General Samuel E. Ebbesen such honor and distinction that is well deserved.\u201d\n\nReginald Vigilant, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Omni Systems, Inc. and friend of Mr. Ebbesen shared, \u201cThe proposed renaming of the St. Croix post office in honor of Lt. General Ebbesen symbolizes the profound gratitude for his unwavering commitment to our nation. May this act serve as a constant reminder of the selfless dedication of our military heroes and inspire us all to strive for excellence in service and leadership.\u201d\n\nLt. General Ebbesen shared, \u201cI am deeply honored to be considered to have the Market Square Post Office in Christiansted, St. Croix to be named after me. As a proud Virgin Islander, I am humbled by this effort and fully support the proposed legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is always an honor to recognize and pay homage to great Virgin Islanders. Lt. General Ebbesen has led an exceptional career and continues to make an impact,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cI\u2019m so happy we can do this during General Ebbesen\u2019s lifetime. Giving him his flowers now. His legacy will now be enshrined in Virgin Islands history and our community through the naming of the Market Square Post Office on St. Croix in honor of his many accomplishments. Virgin Islanders have served throughout this country\u2019s history and having a federal building recognize that service by this naming is important.\u201d\n\nThis legislation, if passed out of the House Oversight Committee, would proceed to the House floor for a full vote. If passed there, would need to be voted on in the Senate. If passed in the House and the Senate, it would then be sent to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\u201d\n\nThe bill can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4347", "PLASKETT, COLLEAGUES LEAD LEGISLATION TO ENHANCE U.S. TRADE PROMOTION PROGRAM FOR HAITI", "2023-07-31", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJuly 31, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT, COLLEAGUES LEAD LEGISLATION TO ENHANCE U.S. TRADE PROMOTION PROGRAM FOR HAITI\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett shared the following statement on the introduction of the HOPE for Haitian Prosperity Act of 2023 (H.R. 5035):\n\n\u201cI am pleased to introduce this timely legislation with my fellow Democratic colleagues, Ways & Means Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) and Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL). This bill will extend the U.S. preferential duty treatment program provided for Haiti under the Caribbean Basin Economic Recovery Act (CBERA) of 1983 for an additional ten years, through 2035. The bill also authorizes new technical assistance and capacity building in Haiti and contains additional authorities for enforcement of internationally recognized labor standards and the labor standards of Haiti.\u201d\n\nHaiti is experiencing a humanitarian, political and economic crisis and needs both economic and political stability. Haitian production and jobs would be benefited by receiving the certainty of longer-term trading access to the United States.\n\n\u201cA secure and prosperous Haiti benefits us all,\u201d said Congressman Blumenauer (D-OR), Ranking Member of the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee. \u201cThis legislation injects stability to the region, supports workers on the ground, and meets our nations\u2019 shared goals.\u201d\n\nThe HOPE for Haitian Prosperity Act would extend the period during which imports of certain Haitian-manufactured textile and apparel, and other goods produced in Haiti are eligible for duty-free treatment from 2025 to 2035 and contains provisions to authorize additional technical assistance and capacity building in Haiti to close utilization gaps in the program found by the International Trade Commission.\n\n\u201cI am proud to support the HOPE for Haitian Prosperity Act of 2023, which will reauthorize and modernize our trade preference programs with Haiti,\u201d said Rep. Sewell. \u201cAs Haiti faces a deteriorating humanitarian crisis, we must use all the tools at our disposal to promote stability and economic opportunity. By reauthorizing and strengthening our trade preference programs with Haiti, America can demonstrate that we are committed to the long-term prosperity of the Haitian people. I would also like to thank my friend and colleague Rep. Stacey Plaskett for her leadership on this important legislation.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett also shared, \u201cI continue to emphasize the great importance of U.S. trade engagement in the Caribbean region. The United States has a responsibility to support its Caribbean neighbors and, while the Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement Act (HOPE Act) and the Haiti Economic Lift Program Act (HELP Act) have helped create support for the Haitian economy, this legislation seeks to establish more comprehensive and diverse trade engagement between the U.S. and Haiti, including by uplifting Haitian workers with high labor standards.\n\n\u201cIt is my hope that this legislation creates the foundation for stronger bilateral economic ties, greater certainty for investors that these benefits will be there for Haiti over the long term, and the economic security that is needed for Haiti to rebuild from the ground up and emerge more prosperous and resilient.\n\n\u201cI would like to thank Reps. Terri Sewell and Earl Blumenauer for their support in co-leading this important bill. This legislation, if passed out of the Ways and Means Committee, would proceed to the House floor for a full vote. If passed there, would need to be voted on in the Senate. If passed in the House and the Senate, it would then be sent to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4348", "PLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON CANEEL BAY REDEVELOPMENT ANNOUNCEMENT FROM NATIONAL PARK SERVICE", "2023-07-28", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJuly 28, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON CANEEL BAY REDEVELOPMENT ANNOUNCEMENT FROM NATIONAL PARK SERVICE\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett shared the following statement on the National Park Service\u2019s decision to redevelop Caneel Bay and its Finding of No Significant Impact for the Caneel Bay Area Redevelopment and Management Environmental Assessment:\n\n\u201cThe National Park Service (NPS) announced today that it will use a competitive commercial services process to select a future developer for the redevelopment of the Caneel Bay property. The NPS analyzed two alternatives in the Caneel Bay Area Redevelopment and Management Environmental Assessment: redevelopment and no redevelopment. The Finding of No Significant Impact provides the selected alternative, redevelopment, and the programmatic approach of the NPS. The NPS will issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ), and those that successfully respond and meet the criteria will be eligible to respond to the Request for Proposals (RFP) as part of the Caneel Bay developer and lease-holder procurement process.\n\n\u201cThe Caneel Bay property plays a vital role in the Virgin Islands\u2019 ability to compete with our Caribbean neighbors. I am hopeful the Caneel Bay redevelopment can accommodate a world-class resort that satisfies the needs of the local workforce and economy. I have urged, and will continue to urge, the NPS to use a transparent, open process that comprehensively considers Virgin Islanders\u2019 voices.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4349", "PLASKETT\u2019S DIASPORA LINK LEGISLATION RECEIVES UNANIMOUS SUPPORT IN HOUSE COMMITTEE PASSAGE", "2023-07-27", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJuly 27, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT\u2019S DIASPORA LINK LEGISLATION RECEIVES UNANIMOUS SUPPORT IN HOUSE COMMITTEE PASSAGE\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett shared the following statement on the progress of H.R. 3385, the DiasporaLink Act, through the House Energy & Commerce Committee:\n\n\u201cI am tremendously pleased that my legislation progressed through the House Energy & Commerce Committee, passing with unanimous bipartisan support. The bill will establish a feasibility study on the development of a Trans-Atlantic submarine fiber optic cable which will connect the east coast of the United States, via the United Stated Virgin Islands with Nigeria and Ghana, further establishing the United Stated Virgin Islands as a global telecommunications hub. I am grateful for the vision of the Virgin Islands Next Generation Network (viNGN) in developing this idea through the work of Stephan Adams, the CEO and his incredible team. We believe that the economic, defensive, communication, and national security interests, along with other factors that will be evident in a feasibility study will lead to the next step, which is appropriation of funds by the federal government for building the fiber optic cable between the three crucial points.\n\n\u201cPresently, there is no direct fiber optic link between the U.S. and the continent of Africa. Africa is increasingly an area that presents dynamic economic opportunity for our country as well as national security challenges that must be addressed. U.S. reliance on other foreign and commercial entities to connect to Africa is a compromising position for the United States. The Trans-Atlantic submarine fiber optic cable network\u2019s strategic location makes DiasporaLink a \u201cDigital Safe Harbor\u201d under the U.S. flag. This service, if achieved, will provide African and Caribbean submarine operators and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) a clear channel to U.S. financial and business centers. The DiasporaLink Act, if enacted will provide a strong medium via a feasibility study, which could clear the path for establishing this Digital Safe Harbor in our territory.\n\n\u201cFurthermore, having the hub in the U.S. Virgin Islands is a significant 21stcentury paradigm shift; it allows our islands\u2019 advantages, many of which have been used for the benefit of other world powers (i.e. the VI\u2019s geostrategic location), to be utilized for the benefit of our people. DiasporaLink in the USVI will facilitate our islands as a hub for commerce in the global digital economy and will stimulate high tech job opportunities for Virgin Islanders and attract digital users to the territory. While Virgin Islanders have long recognized the importance of GlobalCrossing, which some time ago used St. Croix as a point to bury its undersea cable between South and North America, that is a private cable which has been sold several times and is now owned by Lumen. What is not well known is that all cables (undersea or above ground) have a fixed lifespan; all cables connected in St Croix are near or past their end of life. Having such a link developed and maintained by the federal government creates a tremendous level of certainty for companies coming to the Virgin Islands to take advantage of such a linkage.\n\n\u201cI would like to thank Energy & Commerce Ranking Member Frank Pallone of the great state of New Jersey, Republican Chairwoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers and my colleagues on the Energy & Commerce Committee for their support. I especially thank Congressman Russ Fulcher (Republican \u2013 Idaho) for recognizing the pressing need for this legislation and for working with me in a profoundly bipartisan way to move it forward.\n\n\u201cThis legislation will now be sent to the House floor for a full vote, then if passed in the House, will head to the Senate, and if passed there, sent to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4320", "CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ANNOUNCES VIRGIN ISLANDS\u2019 INCLUSION IN MONTHLY AND SEASONAL OPERATIONAL DROUGHT OUTLOOKS", "2023-07-24", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJuly 24, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nCONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ANNOUNCES VIRGIN ISLANDS\u2019 INCLUSION IN MONTHLY AND SEASONAL OPERATIONAL DROUGHT OUTLOOKS\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett shared the following statement on the inclusion of the Virgin Islands in the Climate Prediction Center Operational Drought Outlooks:\n\n\u201cI am pleased to share that the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) Climate Prediction Center (CPC) will begin including the U.S. Virgin Islands in its operational Monthly and Seasonal Drought Outlooks, beginning in August of 2023.\n\n\u201cMy office successfully worked with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to include the Virgin Islands in the U.S. Drought Monitor in 2019, which provides a general summary of current drought conditions and provides access to permanent disaster relief programs related to drought. As a result of the new inclusion in the CPC Drought Outlooks, our farmers will now have access to additional resources that can assist with their planning and preparation for adverse conditions, as well as their maximization of expected favorable conditions. The Virgin Islands Department of Agriculture, the Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources, and the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency alongside environmental monitoring volunteers, the farming community, the University of the Virgin Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands Drought Coordinator, Christina Chanes, worked in partnership to collect, compile, and analyze data on precipitation and particulate matter. This community-wide effort played an instrumental role in the Climate Prediction Center\u2019s decision to include the U.S. Virgin Islands in the Operational Drought Outlooks.\n\n\u201cGiven the immense impact of weather on agriculture, skillful weather forecasts provided by CPC Drought Outlooks are of tremendous importance to farmers for effective decision making on critical matters, including which crops are most likely to flourish in the predicted growing season, how much of each crop to grow, whether to irrigate, the timing of planting and harvesting and whether to purchase crop insurance.\n\n\u201cThis is a critical and timely development for the agricultural community in our territory. It is my hope that the data and resources provided by the Drought Outlooks will be a well-utilized resource by our local farmers and those in the Virgin Islands agriculture sector.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4319", "PLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT TO PROVIDE CLARITY ON FEDERAL ENGAGEMENT CONCERNING THE PROPOSED ST. JOHN LAND EXCHANGE", "2023-07-18", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJuly 18, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT TO PROVIDE CLARITY ON FEDERAL ENGAGEMENT CONCERNING THE PROPOSED ST. JOHN LAND EXCHANGE\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett shared the following statement on the proposed St. John land exchange:\n\n\u201cI recognize that our local government faces the difficult task of determining how to move forward with the proposed Government of the Virgin Islands \u2013 National Park Service (NPS) St. John Land Exchange for the construction of a Kindergarten through 12th grade school on St. John. The proposed land exchange is rightly of high interest in our community (particularly since we now have funding in place for the building of the facility), and I want to provide Virgin Islanders clarity from a federal perspective about the role of my office and share accurate information about legislation mentioned by the Virgin Islands Legislature, the Government of the Virgin Islands, and local media.\n\n\u201cThe proposed land exchange is an agreement between the Government of the Virgin Islands and the NPS. While my office can and does advocate for the people of the Virgin Islands, we are not a party of the agreement. This year, my office has hosted community meetings to ensure that Virgin Islanders\u2019 voices, not just written comments, were received by the Department of the Interior, the NPS, and the Government of the Virgin Islands. During one of the community meetings, my office learned of difficulties submitting comments during the final public comment period and successfully advocated for an extension of approximately one month.\n\n\u201cA popular topic recently is legislation introduced by my predecessor, Congresswoman Donna Christensen, almost 20 years ago in the 110thCongress. That legislation, the Virgin Islands National Park Lease Act, H.R. 53, would have authorized the Secretary of the Interior to lease land on St. John to the Government of the U.S. Virgin Islands for up to 99 years to establish a school. While H.R. 53 passed in the House of Representatives, it did not make it out of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. For legislation to become law, it must pass both chambers of Congress and make it to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cCongresswoman Christensen did not re-introduce this legislation during her tenure, and while my office researched this legislation as on option, I have not taken it up again because not only does the NPS oppose such legislation, it has been made clear to our office that it will not be supported nor pass in the U.S. Senate. The same applies to calls for Congress to direct the Department of the Interior to convey land to the Government of the Virgin Islands. Therefore, neither are viable options.\n\n\u201cFurthermore, there have been false equivalencies between the proposed St. John land exchange and the Acadia National Park. In 1986, the NPS was directed to convey land out of its ownership to establish a solid waste transfer station in Acadia. However, the station was never established. Nearly 40 years later, Maine\u2019s legislators successfully included, with the support of the National Park Service, a provision in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, to permit the development of this parcel for NPS workforce and affordable housing.\n\n\u201cIt is imperative that we do not put out half-truths or inaccuracies. Our approach must be pragmatic, and our focus must remain on developing and implementing specific, achievable goals.\n\n\u201cI appreciate the active engagement of the Virgin Islands community and particularly the residents of St. John regarding the proposed land exchange, which has been invaluable to the process. The Virgin Islands is quickly approaching its deadline for using federal funding to rebuild schools. As we all know, NPS processes take time, and that is a luxury which we \u2013 and the children of the Virgin Islands \u2013 cannot afford.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4303", "PLASKETT AND CARL RE-INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO HELP SMALL PORTS ACCESS BROADBAND GRANTS AND LOANS", "2023-06-30", "2023", "2023-06", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJune 30, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT AND CARL RE-INTRODUCE LEGISLATION TO HELP SMALL PORTS ACCESS BROADBAND GRANTS AND LOANS\n\n\u201cThis bipartisan legislation will increase internet service in rural coastal communities nationwide,\u201d stated Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement after re-introducing the Broadband Internet for Small Ports Act (H.R.4351) with co-sponsor Congressman Jerry L. Carl (R-AL):\n\n\u201cThe Broadband Internet for Small Ports Act recognizes the importance of small ports to their rural economies as hubs for commerce, tourism and community development. In rural, coastal areas, people congregate near inland and small ports. These harbors act as key economic engines for not just their local communities but their broader regions. . . This bill helps small ports nationwide get federal grants and loans and improve their broadband internet coverage, enabling working-waterfronts to keep pace with the needs of 21st century trade, improve workplace safety, give small ports a better chance to compete in an ever-changing marketplace and better serve the communities that depend on them,\u201d stated Congresswoman Plaskett.\n\nCongressman Carl (AL-01) shared the following statement: \u201cAlabama is blessed with an abundance of navigable waters for recreation and commerce. Rural ports are found along those waters and are the hubs of economic activity for their communities, so it\u2019s critical those ports have access to broadband to further expand their operations, provide jobs, and improve public safety. I\u2019m proud to work with Congresswoman Plaskett to re-introduce bipartisan legislation to help small ports across Alabama and the nation access federal loans and grants to improve their broadband capabilities.\u201d\n\nThe Broadband Internet for Small Ports Act helps small ports nationwide by raising their priority for federal grants and loans for work to improve broadband coverage.\n\nThis legislation has to be voted on in the House and the Senate, and if passed, will be sent to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:08:25Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4304", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES $27 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR BROADBAND IN THE VIRGIN ISLANDS", "2023-06-30", "2023", "2023-06", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJune 30, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT ANNOUNCES $27 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDING FOR BROADBAND IN THE VIRGIN ISLANDS\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing $27 million in federal grant funding for broadband in the VI through the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program:\n\n\u201cI am proud to see the results of so many of Congressional Democrats\u2019 successes, the BEAD program is a product of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that I worked on extensively with my colleagues in the House of Representatives last year. This funding will be used for broadband deployment, mapping, and adoption projects that will help us better connect our communities and understand our land. The program prioritizes providing broadband to unserved, rural areas like the Virgin Islands. These much-needed resources will go to support planning efforts including building capacity in our territory\u2019s broadband offices and outreach and coordination with local communities.\u201d\n\nIn order to participate in BEAD, States, Territories, and DC will be required to submit a Letter of Intent and then may request up to $5M ($1.25M for Territories) to support planning efforts including building capacity in state broadband offices and outreach and coordination with local communities. If States, Territories, and DC elect to receive the initial planning funds, they will be required to submit a 5-year broadband action plan, which shall be informed by collaboration with local and regional entities. Once the final allocation is determined, States, Territories, and DC will be required to submit an Initial Proposal and a Final Proposal (both of which need to be approved by NTIA) that outlines the intended use of their funding allocation.\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett also shared, \u201cThis $27 million allocation is the first of numerous sources of funding for broadband equity and access in the Virgin Islands. Please stay tuned for follow-up announcements from my office on additional funding.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:08:25Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4301", "PLASKETT CLARIFIES STATEMENT ON NATIONAL NEWS NETWORK REGARDING FORMER PRESIDENT TRUMP", "2023-06-20", "2023", "2023-06", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJune 20, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT CLARIFIES STATEMENT ON NATIONAL NEWS NETWORK REGARDING FORMER PRESIDENT TRUMP\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Following her appearance on MSNBC\u2019s Sunday Show with Jonathan Capehart, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett issued the following statement to address inaccuracies currently being circulated regarding her thoughts on former President Trump:\n\n\u201cIt is unfortunate that conservative media has taken an instance where I misspoke and misrepresented it as though I advocate for violence--I unequivocally do not. I wish former President Trump no ill will or harm, only that justice be served in his case as with every other American who must face penalties for wrongdoing. I do believe and did intend to say that he must be \u2018stopped.\u2019\n\n\u201cI do not advocate for anyone to shoot former President Trump. I do not encourage or condone political violence nor behavior that goes against democratic principles at any time.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:08:25Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4300", "OFFICE OF CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT TEMPORARILY CLOSED ON ST. CROIX DUE TO ELECTRICAL ISSUES", "2023-06-12", "2023", "2023-06", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJune 12, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nOFFICE OF CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT TEMPORARILY CLOSED ON ST. CROIX DUE TO ELECTRICAL ISSUES\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 The office of Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett on St. Croix has been temporarily closed since last week due to the ongoing repair of an underground electrical issue by the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA). We appreciate WAPA\u2019s diligence in addressing the issue that has caused power interruptions for numerous properties on King Street and look forward to a speedy resolution.\n\nIf you need to contact the office of Congresswoman Plaskett, please call 340-778-5900 or 340-774-4408.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:08:25Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4299", "PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON SUPREME COURT DECISION ON VOTING RIGHTS IN ALLEN V. MILLIGAN", "2023-06-08", "2023", "2023-06", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJune 8, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON SUPREME COURT DECISION ON VOTING RIGHTS IN ALLEN V. MILLIGAN\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett shared the following statement on the U.S. Supreme Court\u2019s decision today in Allen V. Milligan:\n\n\u201cI applaud the Supreme Court\u2019s decision to uphold the lower court\u2019s determination that the newly adopted Alabama congressional maps violate the Voting Rights Act. Despite continued efforts by groups intent on removing fundamental voting rights protections, the Supreme Court ruled in a way that preserves the principle that in the United States, all eligible voters must be able to exercise their constitutional right to vote free from discrimination based on their race. So many have fought to advance and uphold voting rights and we thank them for that fight. On a day like today, I know my colleague, John Lewis, may he rest in peace is doing his \u201chappy\u201d dance. I especially want to thank Congresswoman Terri Sewell for her relentless fight.\n\n\u201cI and my office continue to advocate for equity in voting rights and representation for Virgin Islanders in our nation. It is my hope and fervent prayer that the Virgin Islands and all U.S. territories will also receive our just due in our voting rights during this lifetime.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:08:25Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4298", "PLASKETT INTRODUCES U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS TRANS-ATLANTIC SUBMARINE FIBER OPTIC CABLE LEGISLATION", "2023-05-29", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nMay 29, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT INTRODUCES U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS TRANS-ATLANTIC SUBMARINE FIBER OPTIC CABLE LEGISLATION\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett shared the following statement on the introduction of U.S. Virgin Islands Trans-Atlantic Submarine Fiber Optic Cable Legislation, H.R. 3385:\n\n\u201cI am pleased to introduce legislation to request an assessment of the value, cost, and feasibility of developing a Trans-Atlantic submarine fiber optic cable which will connect New York and Virginia Beach, Virginia; with Lagos, Nigeria and Accra, Ghana. The DiasporaLink Act represents an opportunity to establish high-speed Internet connection to Africa and throughout the Caribbean from American soil, which will enhance America\u2019s national security data and communication interests in the regions. In the legislation, this Trans-Atlantic submarine fiber optic cable will intersect in the U.S. Virgin Islands.\n\n\u201cPresently, there is no direct fiber optic link between the US and the continent of Africa. Africa is increasingly an area that presents dynamic economic opportunity for our country as well as national security challenges that must be addressed. The Virgin Islands is strategically positioned in the transit zones to fight transnational crime and protect U.S. national and regional security in the Caribbean as well as be a safe hub for optic between the 2 continents. The Trans-Atlantic submarine fiber optic cable network\u2019s strategic location makes DiasporaLink a \u201cDigital Safe Harbor\u201d under the U.S. flag. This service will provide African and Caribbean submarine operators and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) a clear channel to U.S. financial and business centers. In addition, undersea cables have significant strategic importance and an estimated 400 of them carry approximately 98 percent of international internet data as well as telephone traffic around the world. Many are owned and operated by U.S. companies \u2014 helping reinforce U.S. dominance over the internet while giving a sense of security to the U.S. and its allies that may be concerned about sabotage or surveillance. Having the hub in the U.S. Virgin Islands is a significant 21st century paradigm shift; it allows our islands\u2019 advantages, many of which have been used for the benefit of other world powers (i.e. the VI\u2019s geostrategic location), to be utilized for the benefit of our people. DiasporaLink in the USVI will make it a hub for commerce in the global digital economy and will stimulate high tech job opportunities for Virgin Islanders and attract digital users to the territory.\n\n\u201cThe DiasporaLink Act is envisioned as both a national security instrument and a digital commerce expressway to boost America\u2019s global, political, economic, and military advantages and influences. This act will ensure the region is not forgotten as it confronts increasing regional political instability and transnational criminal activity.\n\n\u201cI look forward to this legislation (H.R. 3385) to be the first that directly connects the African continent with the North American one. This legislation has to be voted on in the House and the Senate, and if passed, will be sent to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4297", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES $834 MILLION DOLLARS IN FEDERAL GRANT FUNDING FOR REBUILD OF JUAN F. LUIS HOSPITAL", "2023-05-26", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nMay 26, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT ANNOUNCES $834 MILLION DOLLARS IN FEDERAL GRANT FUNDING FOR REBUILD OF JUAN F. LUIS HOSPITAL\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing $834 million in federal grant funding to the Juan F. Luis Hospital (JFL):\n\n\u201cI am tremendously pleased to announce that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded the Juan F. Luis Hospital a grant in the amount of $834,471,422.15. JFL sustained significant damages as a result of Hurricane Maria and has been in disrepair for numerous years prior to the storms of 2017.\n\n\u201cThis award is for the prudent replacement standard which will be integral for improving our preparedness and resiliency against natural disasters. As with much of the funding released to our territory for the territory\u2019s rebuild, I and my team worked diligently to change the provisions of the Stafford Act which is used for rebuilding after U.S. disasters. My office made the convincing argument that the level of disaster in the Virgin Islands was exacerbated by the lack of federal funding investment in our critical infrastructure prior to the storms, which made the effect of the hurricanes more profound.\n\n\u201cThe changes in law I was able to obtain allow FEMA, for the duration of the recovery from Hurricanes Irma and Maria in the Virgin Islands, is to rebuild critical infrastructure like JFL to incorporate resilient design and features, up to the latest industry building standards and notwithstanding pre-disaster conditions in the Virgin Islands (the standard that normally applies). This standard was markedly different than the standard for the mainland. In this instance, JFL was evaluated for prudent replacement and found to be eligible. Work to be completed therefore includes the demolition of the existing 231,655 square feet (SF) hospital facility and replacement of a 426,609 SF facility that will incorporate current building codes and standards.\n\n\u201cI want to congratulate the Governor and his team for holding fast and presenting the necessary case to ensure that the award incorporated all the needs of the community along with the true damages from the storm. We continue to be proud of the work of the Office of Disaster Recovery obtaining the funding and look forward to working with them to ensure the funds are fully utilized.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4294", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES HISTORIC $11 BILLION INVESTMENT TO ADVANCE CLEAN ENERGY ACROSS RURAL AMERICA", "2023-05-24", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett shared the following statement on the Biden-Harris Administration\u2019s historic $11 billion investment to advance clean energy across rural America:\n\n\u201cThe Biden-Harris Administration is committed to the Investing in America Agenda to help rural energy and utility providers bring affordable, reliable clean energy to their communities across the country. This represents the single largest investment in rural electrification since President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Rural Electrification Act into law in 1936.\n\n\u201cFunding is available through two programs under President Biden\u2019s Inflation Reduction Act, which makes the nation\u2019s largest-ever investment in combatting the climate crisis. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will be opening a Letter of Interest process for the Powering Affordable Clean Energy (PACE) program, which makes $1 billion available in partially forgivable loans to renewable-energy developers and electric service providers, including municipals, cooperatives, and investor-owned and Tribal utilities to help finance large-scale solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, hydropower projects and energy storage in support of renewable energy systems. In addition to the PACE program, USDA will be opening a Letter of Interest process for the Empowering Rural America (\u201cNew ERA\u201d) program, which makes $9.7 billion available to eligible rural electric cooperatives to deploy renewable energy systems, zero-emission, and carbon capture systems.\n\n\u201cI am pleased that the Biden-Harris Administration Investing in America agenda is investing in rural electrification to transform systems in a way that promotes resilient, reliable, and affordable energy to rural America. I look forward to our territory taking advantage of this funding to uplift our community and create cross-sector economic opportunities.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4295", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES $74 MILLION FUNDING FOR THE ALEXANDER HENDERSON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ON ST. CROIX", "2023-05-24", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing $74,155,208.06 in federal funding to the Virgin Islands Department of Education on St. Croix for the replacement of the Alexander Henderson Elementary School:\n\n\u201cI am very pleased that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continues to award grants to our local agencies to help with the resources needed to rebuild. This award to the V.I. Department of Education on St. Croix is to replace the Alexander Henderson Elementary School which was destroyed during Hurricane Irma and Maria. This award is for replacement to a standard that will be integral for improving our preparedness and resiliency against natural disasters moving forward.\n\n\u201cI was pleased to secure provisions into U.S. law that allow FEMA, for the duration of the recovery from Hurricanes Irma and Maria in the Virgin Islands, to rebuild critical infrastructure like schools to incorporate resilient design and features, up to the latest industry building standards and notwithstanding pre-disaster conditions in the Virgin Islands (the standard that normally applies). This project is eligible for this additional assistance. The existing 67,500 square feet facility will be demolished and replaced with a 79,800 square feet facility that will incorporate current building codes and standards.\n\n\u201cI am pleased that the appropriated funds will go toward the prudent replacement of these institutions, especially our schools, but there is still more work to be done. We are proud of the work of the Office of Disaster Recovery and the V.I. Department of Education for obtaining the funding and look forward to working with them to ensure the funds are fully utilized.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4458", "PLASKETT HOSTS NATIONAL POLICE WEEK RECEPTION HONORING FALLEN VI HEROES", "2023-05-14", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 This week, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett hosted a reception in honor of National Police Week honoring two fallen heroes from the U.S. Virgin Islands\u2014 Detective Delbert Phipps, Jr. and Patrolman Lionel E. Issac. Both VIPD officers lost their lives in the line of duty and will be added to the National Law Enforcements Officers Memorial Wall.\n\n\u201cTheir names will be forever engraved, and their integrity forever maintained,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cOur men and women of the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) give their full measure of devotion, their bravery, resilience, and dedication, to perform their duties faithfully, and make the ultimate sacrifice.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett was joined by VIPD Commissioner Martinez, VIPD officers, and the family of Detective Phipps, Jr. for the reception.\n\n\u201cWhile today is a solemn time for us, today is a good time to see my officers smiling and celebrate the lives of Detective Phipps and Patrolman Issac,\u201d said Virgin Islands Police Department Commissioner, Ray Martinez. \u201cThis provides us and the Phipps family the opportunity to know that we are not alone. As much as it pains us for our loss, they will not be forgotten. Standing as a police commissioner I couldn\u2019t be more proud to be here, and pay homage to our brothers in arms.\u201d\n\n\u201cI lost my son Detective Phipps on July 4, 2023. One of the worst days of my life,\u201d said Denise Phipps, mother of fallen hero Detective Delbert Phipps, Jr. \u201cI am honored, and it feels a bit bittersweet as they remember and honor my son. What a joy and sadness to see that his name is there.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4457", "PLASKETT HOSTS NATIONAL POLICE WEEK RECEPTION HONORING FALLEN VI HEROES", "2023-05-13", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 This week, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett hosted a reception in honor of National Police Week honoring two fallen heroes from the U.S. Virgin Islands\u2014 Detective Delbert Phipps, Jr. and Patrolman Lionel E. Issac. Both VIPD officers lost their lives in the line of duty and will be added to the National Law Enforcements Officers Memorial Wall.\n\n\u201cTheir names will be forever engraved, and their integrity forever maintained,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cOur men and women of the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) give their full measure of devotion, their bravery, resilience, and dedication, to perform their duties faithfully, and make the ultimate sacrifice.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett was joined by VIPD Commissioner Martinez, VIPD officers, and the family of Detective Phipps, Jr. for the reception.\n\n\u201cWhile today is a solemn time for us, today is a good time to see my officers smiling and celebrate the lives of Detective Phipps and Patrolman Issac,\u201d said Virgin Islands Police Department Commissioner, Ray Martinez. \u201cThis provides us and the Phipps family the opportunity to know that we are not alone. As much as it pains us for our loss, they will not be forgotten. Standing as a police commissioner I couldn\u2019t be more proud to be here, and pay homage to our brothers in arms.\u201d\n\n\u201cI lost my son Detective Phipps on July 4, 2023. One of the worst days of my life,\u201d said Denise Phipps, mother of fallen hero Detective Delbert Phipps, Jr. \u201cI am honored, and it feels a bit bittersweet as they remember and honor my son. What a joy and sadness to see that his name is there.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4465", "PLASKETT HOSTS NATIONAL POLICE WEEK RECEPTION HONORING FALLEN VI HEROES", "2023-05-13", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 This week, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett hosted a reception in honor of National Police Week honoring two fallen heroes from the U.S. Virgin Islands\u2014 Detective Delbert Phipps, Jr. and Patrolman Lionel E. Issac. Both VIPD officers lost their lives in the line of duty and will be added to the National Law Enforcements Officers Memorial Wall.\n\n\u201cTheir names will be forever engraved, and their integrity forever maintained,\u201d said Congresswoman Plaskett. \u201cOur men and women of the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) give their full measure of devotion, their bravery, resilience, and dedication, to perform their duties faithfully, and make the ultimate sacrifice.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett was joined by VIPD Commissioner Martinez, VIPD officers, and the family of Detective Phipps, Jr. for the reception.\n\n\u201cWhile today is a solemn time for us, today is a good time to see my officers smiling and celebrate the lives of Detective Phipps and Patrolman Issac,\u201d said Virgin Islands Police Department Commissioner, Ray Martinez. \u201cThis provides us and the Phipps family the opportunity to know that we are not alone. As much as it pains us for our loss, they will not be forgotten. Standing as a police commissioner I couldn\u2019t be more proud to be here, and pay homage to our brothers in arms.\u201d\n\n\u201cI lost my son Detective Phipps on July 4, 2023. One of the worst days of my life,\u201d said Denise Phipps, mother of fallen hero Detective Delbert Phipps, Jr. \u201cI am honored, and it feels a bit bittersweet as they remember and honor my son. What a joy and sadness to see that his name is there.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4292", "PLASKETT TRAVELS TO MIDDLE EAST ON DELEGATION  OF CONGRESSIONAL INTELLIGENCE COMMITTEE MEMBERS", "2023-05-12", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement after traveling to Jordan, Israel, Egypt on a Congressional Delegation with other members of the prestigious House Intelligence Committee:\n\n\u201cLast week, I traveled with House Intelligence Committee colleagues to the Middle East to conduct oversight on intelligence operations and international cooperation in the region. Primary focal points of this trip were the counter-terrorism missions and an increased role for the U.S. as we assess the influence of China in the region.\n\n\u201cThroughout this trip, Members of the House Intelligence Committee met with Senior Egyptian, Israeli and Jordanian political leaders to reaffirm the U.S. commitment to regional stability.\n\n\u201cOur delegation, comprised of House Democratic and Republican leaders, had the opportunity to discuss the implications of malign activities of actors such as Iran, Russia and others in the region, as well as the Intelligence Committee\u2019s commitment to operate in a bipartisan manner. I look forward to continue our work on closer engagement on all fronts.\n\n\u201cI am privileged to have had the opportunity to be a part of the Intelligence Committee\u2019s delegation as the first Member from a U.S. territory to serve on this selective and very important committee. I look forward to continuing the work of improving our nation\u2019s national security and strengthening the ties between the U.S. and our allies.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4293", "PLASKETT INTRODUCES RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE 175th ANNIVERSARY OF VIRGIN ISLANDS EMANCIPATION", "2023-05-08", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nMay 8th, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT INTRODUCES RESOLUTION TO RECOGNIZE THE 175th ANNIVERSARY OF VIRGIN ISLANDS EMANCIPATION\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement regarding the introduction of legislation to recognize the 175th Emancipation Day (H. Res. 368) in the House of Representatives:\n\n\u201cLast week, I introduced the 175th Emancipation Day Resolution to encourage all Americans to recognize the historical significance of the emancipation of enslaved peoples of the Danish West Indies. The 175th Emancipation Day, July 3, 2023, provides an opportunity acknowledge the enormous strength and resilience of enslaved peoples in the Virgin Islands, as well as the cultural, economic, and social contributions of Virgin Islanders to the United States.\n\n\u201cThis legislation provides an opportunity to reflect on the blessing of our present freedoms and serves as a reminder of the continued struggles for equity and justice, both in the territory and globally. I am pleased to introduce this resolution and support the continued celebration of Emancipation Day for the American people to learn more about the past, better understand the experiences that have shaped the United States and maintain an unwavering commitment preserve, protect, and defend human rights.\n\n\u201cThe end of slavery is important to the history and heritage of the United States, and indeed around the world. I thank my colleague, Congressman Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) for his support and serving as an original co-sponsor and look forward to this resolution advancing through the legislative process.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4291", "PLASKETT INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO ADOPT THE REVISED ORGANIC ACT AND ITS AMENDMENTS AS THE VIRGIN ISLANDS CONSTITUTION", "2023-05-03", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nMay 3, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPRESS RELEASE\n\nPLASKETT INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO ADOPT THE REVISED ORGANIC ACT AND ITS AMENDMENTS AS THE VIRGIN ISLANDS CONSTITUTION\n\nWashington, D.C. - This week, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett shared the following statement on the introduction of legislation to adopt the Revised Organic Act of the Virgin Islands, and its amendments as the Constitution of the Virgin Islands, H.R. 3026:\n\n\u201cI am pleased to introduce legislation to adopt the Revised Organic Act of the Virgin Islands and its amendments, as the constitution of the Virgin Islands of the United States. My legislation provides for the adoption of the Revised Organic Act, as it has been approved by Congress, signed into law, and amended, as the constitution of our territory. While the Revised Organic Act presently serves as the main governing document of the Virgin Islands, we are unable to enact changes on a territorial level. If the Revised Organic Act and its amendments are adopted as the constitution by federal law, it would then free the Virgin Islands to make further amendments without congressional engagement or approval. As such, my legislation includes an amendment process to allow the Virgin Islands to revise the constitution once adopted.\n\n\u201cThe Virgin Islands has held five constitutional conventions \u2013 two locally authorized in 1964 and 1971 and three authorized by Public Law 94-584 (on Oct. 21st, 1976), in 1978, 1980, and 2007-2010. In May of 2020, the Virgin Islands Legislature passed Bill 33-0292, which included a referendum on the general election ballot on calling a constitutional convention to adopt the Revised Organic Act of 1954 as the local constitution. This proposal was approved by 72% of people voting on this measure.\n\n\u201cThere is a clear public preference for the adoption of a constitution for the Virgin Islands. My legislation enables a base constitution to be enacted (one that we have been practicably using for many years) and a local process for self-determination, and a level of autonomy in our constitutional maturation. My legislation provides three avenues to amend the constitution; through the Legislature of the Virgin Islands, ballot initiatives proposed by voters, or a constitutional convention.\u201d\n\nPlaskett has constituted with and sought advice from many national legal scholars, as well as local Virgin Islands scholars. One for whom the Congresswoman has great respect is Mr. Gerard Emanuel, who stated:\n\n\u201cAdopting the Revised Organic Act and its amendments as the first draft of a local constitution for the USVI is a wise decision for two dispositive reasons:\n\n1. We have failed to approve every constitutional draft since 1977.\n\n2. Based on the increasing diversity of our population, almost anything placed in a constitution will be opposed by some segment of the voters. A simple solution is the following: After Congress approves the ROA and its amendments as a template, permit voters to vote \u201cYes\u201d for the articles they want adopted and \u201cNo\u201d for the ones they do not want. If this becomes the case, we would approve a document that includes only the articles that receive the most yes votes. This is the normal procedure for approving amendments, but it can work for voting on the entire document.\u201d\n\nAdditionally, the Congresswoman is grateful for the encouragement of Dr. Malik Sekou who stated in part:\n\n\u201cI support your bill H.R. 3026 to adopt the Revised Organic Act of 1954 (Amended). As I have suggested to Senate President Novelle Francis and other stakeholders, the current commemoration of the 175th Anniversary of our ancestors\u2019 emancipation would be meaningful if we take a positive step forward to successfully ratify a new constitution\u2026\n\n\u201cIt is now appropriate that your Office ensure that we make a positive step forward. Congress ought to provide funding to allow public awareness campaigns to ensure that all residents and even the diaspora become informed of this issue after H.R. 3026 is successfully passed by Congress. We make history when we make wise decisions.\u201d\n\nEducator Verdel Petersen also expounded on the matter and stated:\n\n\u201cAccording to Public Law 94-584, Congress has the authority to approve, modify or amend any constitutional draft that has been adopted by a constitutional convention. Since the Virgin Islands of the United States (USVI) has unofficially adopted the Revised Organic Act of 1954 (Amended) for almost seven decades, this is a clear indication that the majority of USVI electorate would not object to it becoming our constitution. This is the will of the People\u2026Therefore, I urge Congress to act on behalf of the People of the USVI and allow us to ratify the Revised Organic Act of 1954(Amended).\n\nThe Congresswoman stated in closing: \u201cI look forward to my legislation, H.R. 3026, to adopt the Revised Organic Act of the Virgin Islands and its amendments, as the Constitution of the Virgin Islands, moving through the legislative process, including votes on the House Floor and the Senate and transmission to the President to be signed into law. I am hoping for the support of Virgin Islands residents and our legislature to advocate on its behalf and for members of our diaspora living in the mainland to lobby their current congressional and Senate representatives for support.\u201d\n\n##", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4290", "PLASKETT INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO PREVENT FURTHER GROWTH OF THE VIRGIN ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK ON ST. JOHN", "2023-05-02", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett shared the following statement on the introduction of legislation to prevent the expansion of the Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, H.R. 3025:\n\n\u201cThis past week, I introduced legislation to prohibit the net increase of federally owned land in the Virgin Islands National Park Service on St. John. The Virgin Islands National Park boundary encompasses nearly two-thirds of St. John. Within the Park boundary, there is both federally owned and privately-owned land. There is a finite amount of land for the residents of St. John, who are already confronting housing shortages. This legislation takes the necessary steps to prevent an increase of land owned by the Park.\n\n\u201cThis legislation prevents any net increase of federally owned land in the Park. Individuals and entities would still be able to donate or exchange land with the Park; but if the Virgin Islands National Park acquires any land, an equal acreage of land must be conveyed out of federal ownership through a sale, exchange, or donation. The legislation includes stringent guidelines to ensure the Park does not utilize bureaucratic processes to cause excessive delays. When the Park elects to sell federal land to avoid an increase in net acreage, it must offer the land for sale within a year at fair market value. Six months after the land is first offered for sale, if it is not under contract or sold, the price is reduced by 10% each month. If the Park participates in a land exchange and the value of the federal land is lower than the non-federal land, the Park Service must equalize the transfer with a cash payment.\n\n\u201cThis legislation addresses the concerns I hear consistently from Virgin Islanders about the ever-expanding presence of the Park on St. John. The Park has a responsibility as stewards and also as partners of the Virgin Islands; but that has not always been the case. It is not in the interest of the Virgin Islands, and is not the mandate of the Park, to be an ever expanding behemoth in a place with a finite area - effectively crowding out the native people in furtherance of neo-colonial Bourgeois wildlife ideals (albeit sometimes well intentioned). As we look at the history and the future of the Virgin Islands National Park, our decisions must be intentional to support St. John, and the entire Virgin Islands - land, people, history, culture, and our future. I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance this legislation.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4289", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL EXTENSION FOR ST. JOHN LAND EXCHANGE PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD", "2023-05-01", "2023", "2023-05", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett shared the following statement on the additional extension of the St. John Land Exchange public comment period:\n\n\u201cOn April 27, 2023, the National Park Service released responses to the 400 comments received during the January 8, 2023, through March 15, 2023, public comment period on the proposed St. John Land Exchange Notice of Realty Action. Given the engagement of the community, the National Park Service announced an additional 45-day public comment period on the proposed St. John Land Exchange, which will be open through June 9, 2023.\n\n\u201cI appreciate the active engagement of the Virgin Islands community and particularly the residents of St. John, which has been invaluable to the process. I highly encourage individuals who have not previously submitted comments to do so. Those who submitted comments previously are not being asked to resubmit, as those comments have been heard and considered.\n\n\u201cI look forward to the additional comments, suggestions, and concerns during this public comment period.\u201d\n\nIndividuals interested in submitting a comment on the proposed St. John Land Exchange Federal Register Notice of Realty Action may do so here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:55:44Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4288", "PLASKETT MOURNS PASSING OF FIRST FEMALE V.I. SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE, EILEEN PETERSEN", "2023-04-26", "2023", "2023-04", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement expressing her condolences to the family, friends and the countless individuals impacted by the Honorable Judge Eileen Petersen:\n\n\u201cIt is with tremendous sadness that I share my condolences to the family, loved ones and friends of the Judge Eileen Petersen. Eileen was the first woman to hold a judgeship in the territory and has been a timeless inspiration to many women such as myself. As 1 of only 4 women in her law school class, I long admired her diligence and her commitment to excellence in everything she set her mind to do. Not only was she a trailblazer in the field of law and judicial matters in our territory, but she was also a tremendous and tireless advocate for both young people and women alike.\n\n\u201cIt is my hope that we will continue to honor the legacy that she has left with her work in our community, not just by our actions today, but in the decisions we make in the future.\n\n\u201cI pray for God\u2019s peace and comfort for her family and loved ones during this time.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:44:29Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4287", "PLASKETT TRAVELS TO GHANA AND ISRAEL FOR CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION WITH LEADER JEFFRIES", "2023-04-25", "2023", "2023-04", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement after traveling to Ghana and Israel on Leader Hakeem Jeffries\u2019 first Congressional Delegation trips (CODEL) as House Democratic Leader:\n\n\u201cThis past weekend, I was privileged to travel with several of my Congressional colleagues to two of America\u2019s closest allies - in West Africa, Ghana, and in the Middle East, Israel. The primary focus of this trip was to explore advancing our shared interests and strengthen our bilateral engagement and partnership. In Ghana we were able to build on the recent visit to the democratic stalwart nation by Vice President Kamala Harris. Our delegation comprised of House Democratic leaders had the opportunity to visit a number of Ghanaian sites related to the transatlantic slave trade to recognize the inextricable and painful history that binds the people of our countries together. We were also able to meet with the President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo, members of his government, the African American and Caribbean expert community, and U.S. diplomatic and military officials.\n\n\u201cIn addition, we traveled to Israel as part of the 75th anniversary of Israel\u2019s Independence, Yom HaAtzmaut. While in Israel, we met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, members of the Knesset, as well as a number of stakeholders on a range of topics including Israel\u2019s unique position within the region and discussed U.S. efforts to maintain and strengthen the special bond between our nations.\n\n\u201cI am honored to have had the opportunity to be a part of Leader Jeffries\u2019 delegation as we work on closer engagement in these two countries. It was great to explore transatlantic, national security and economic opportunity between the U.S. and these countries.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:44:29Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4273", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES $189 MILLION IN FUNDING FOR V.I. WATER AND POWER AUTHORITY", "2023-04-05", "2023", "2023-04", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing $189 million in funding for V.I. Water and Power Authority from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).\n\n\u201cI am pleased to announce $189 million in funding for V.I. Water and Power Authority for repairs as a result of Hurricane Maria. This funding was authorized under Section 428 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. Hurricane Maria made landfall throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands, including St. Croix and as a result, the Virgin Island Water and Power Authority suffered damages to their electrical distribution system. This funding will without fail help improve the resilience of our electrical distribution system.\n\n\u201cThose appropriated funds will help bolster our infrastructure, increase the resiliency and independence of our energy grid, investing in the economic wellbeing and prosperity of all Virgin Islanders.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:44:29Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4270", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES $9 MILLION FUNDING FOR V.I. FIRE SERVICE ON ST JOHN", "2023-04-04", "2023", "2023-04", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing $9,612,345.56 in federal funding to the Virgin Islands Fire Service on St. John:\n\n\u201cI am very pleased that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continues to award grants to our local agencies to help with the resources needed to rebuild. This award to the V.I. Fire Service on St. John is for replacement of building destroyed as a direct result Hurricane Maria. This funding is authorized under Section 428 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.\n\n\u201cThese fundings will allow us to continue to build resiliency and economic prosperity.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:44:29Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4272", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES MILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN GRANT FUNDING FOR V.I. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION AND THE BUREAU OF CORRECTIONS", "2023-04-04", "2023", "2023-04", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing grant funding from U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to the V.I. Department of Education and the Virgin Islands Bureau of Corrections on St. Croix:\n\n\u201cI am pleased to announce that FEMA has awarded grants to two local government agencies:\n\nV.I. Department of Education (DOE) a grant totaling $11,344,143.73. This funding will go toward building repairs and equipment to remediate damages that occurred as a direct result of Hurricane Maria.\n\nV.I. Bureau of Corrections (BOC) a grant totaling $24,343,392.20. This funding will go toward repairs of extensive damages to the Golden Grove Adult Correction facility which include damages to the roof, ceiling, interior walls, floor tiles and carpets, electrical, mechanical (HVAC), and plumbing systems resulting from Hurricane Maria.\n\n\u201cWe must be prepared and continue to build our resiliency against disaster. The funding provided by FEMA will provide these two agencies with the resources they need to rebuild more resiliently.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:44:29Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4267", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES $66 MILLION IN FCC FUNDING FOR AFFORDABLE CONNECTIVITY PROGRAM", "2023-03-23", "2023", "2023-03", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing $66 million in Federal Communications Commission funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program, which the Virgin Islands will have the opportunity to vie for.\n\n\u201cThe Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, that I was in strong support of, appropriated $14.2 billion for the FCC\u2019s Affordable Connectivity Grant Program. The Biden-Harris Administration created the blueprint to invest in America by growing the economy from the bottom up and middle out, investing in manufacturing, research, and innovation, lowering costs for Asmerican families, and making the wealthy and corporations pay their fair share. The Affordable Connectivity Program will provide subsidies to help underserved areas and rural areas expand broadband connectivity, helping 16 million American households save $500 million per month on high-speed internet.\n\n\u201cThe Affordable Connectivity Program benefit provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers.\n\n\u201cPresident Biden is building an economy that works for working people and I am proud to continue to put Virgin Islanders at the forefront of his agenda.\u201d\n\nClick here to check eligibility and how to apply!\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:30:02Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4268", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY FUNDING FOR INDUSTRIAL DECARBONIZATION PROJECTS", "2023-03-21", "2023", "2023-03", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing a federal funding opportunity for projects that will decarbonize the highest-emitting industries.\n\n\u201cI am very pleased that the Biden-Harris Administration works to deliver on generational investments and through working alongside elected officials and community leaders to showcase how historic laws are positively impacting the American experience for people of all backgrounds. The multi-billion dollar funding opportunity is a direct result of the Inflation Reduction Act and the Virgin Islands is eligible to receive equal funding as the mainland. This funding opportunities will create space for projects that will decarbonize the highest-emitting industries that can have the greatest impact on our planet, make the United States a leader in clean manufacturing, and help meet our climate goals.\n\n\u201cThe U.S. Department of Energy Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations announced approximately $6 billion in funding to accelerate decarbonization projects in energy-intensive industries and provide American manufacturers a competitive advantage in the emerging global clean energy economy. This program seeks to demonstrate the technical and commercial viability of industrial decarbonization approaches to promote widespread technology implementation and help the U.S. lead in low- and net-zero carbon manufacturing. Eligible applicants include for-profit organizations and owners or operators of a domestic, non-federal non-power industrial or manufacturing facility engaged in energy intensive industrial processes, as stated in the Inflation Reduction Act. Funding could be used for industrial energy efficiency technologies; equipment to electrify industrial processes; equipment to utilize low- or zero-carbon fuels and energy sources; low- or zero-carbon process heat systems; or carbon capture, transport, utilization and storage systems. Assistance may be provided as grants, rebates, direct loans, or cooperative agreements.\n\n\u201cAs the Representative to Congress for the Virgin Islands, I am pleased that the appropriated funds will help bolster our industrial infrastructure and provide investments and the resources needed to protect our economic prosperity.\n\nClick here to check eligibility and how to apply!\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:30:02Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4269", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES VISIT BY UNDER SECRETARY XOCHITL TORRES SMALL TO ST. CROIX, USVI", "2023-03-21", "2023", "2023-03", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing United State Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Under Secretary Xochitl Torres Small\u2019s visit to St. Croix:\n\n\u201cToday, I was joined by Under Secretary Torres Small for a roundtable discussion with local agencies and stakeholders about USDA Rural Development programs that can help advance the Virgin Islands. We discussed the programs available to build and improve housing, funding challenges and opportunities, provide renewable energy development assistance and make energy efficiency improvements, and financing for telephone and broadband services. USDA Rural Development has invested millions in the U.S. Virgin Islands \u2013 over $15 million in just the last fiscal year with an investment of over $5 million in single family housing, $5.7 million in multifamily housing, as well as over $100 thousand in water and environmental programs.\n\nFollowing the roundtable, we toured BMR Energy\u2019s Solar Farm, which previously received $3.2 million through the Rural Energy for America Program. The BMR Energy facility contains 16,000 solar panels and 9 inverters, which has reduced carbon emissions by 7,200 tons of carbon dioxide per year and increased energy stability for St. Croix. Additionally, Under Secretary Torres Small and I met with local entities involved in the economic development and broadband resiliency of the Virgin Islands.\n\n\u201cThe Biden-Harris Administration and USDA are committed to ensuring that people from all backgrounds have every opportunity to succeed \u2013 and that they can find those opportunities close to home,\u201d Under Secretary Torres Small said. \u201cWe\u2019re proud to partner with leaders like Congresswoman Plaskett to provide access to affordable housing, clean energy and critical telecommunications infrastructure to create those opportunities across the Virgin Islands.\u201d\n\n\u201cI thank Under Secretary Torres Small for visiting St. Croix to see firsthand the opportunities \u2013 and challenges \u2013 facing the US Virgin Islands. I look forward to continuing our collaboration to promote a better future and a better Virgin Islands.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:30:02Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4266", "PLASKETT MEETS WITH COAST GUARD COMMANDANT IN WASHINGTON, D.C. OFFICE", "2023-03-15", "2023", "2023-03", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 In the last week, Congresswoman Plaskett met with the Admiral Linda Fagan, Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, to discuss the Coast Guard Boat Forces Detachment (BFD) at St. Croix and the broader Coast Guard Presence in the Virgin Islands. The Coast Guard had previously intended to draw down their boat forces on St. Croix, leaving only a land based Resident Inspection Station (RIO). The Coast Guard initially justified its planned draw down by suggesting the closure of Lime Tree Bay resulted in a lack of demand for dangerous cargo escort operations, the primary mission of BFD St. Croix.\n\n\u201cAs we know the HOVENSA refinery closed over 10 years ago, and more recently, the Limetree Bay refinery was shut down over a little over a year ago and is working with the EPA, with the help of my office, to take steps towards re-opening. During my conversation with Coast Guard Commandant Fagan, the Commandant agreed that the Coast Guard\u2019s decision to draw down BFD St. Croix was not made with the appropriate consideration and process, and it will be paused.\u201d Said Congresswoman Plaskett\n\nPlaskett continued: \u201cIn the face of the ever-expanding threat of drug traffickers, people smugglers and other transnational criminal outfits, Commandant Fagan committed to me that the Coast Guard will reevaluate the priority of BFD St. Croix. St. Croix is the southernmost island of Virgin Islands, with superior access to the southern Caribbean. To protect the Caribbean corridor, St. Croix must remain a pillar of Coast Guard Force Laydown. BFD St. Croix will continue to operate Security Zone Enforcement, escorts of High-Capacity Passenger Vessels (HCPV) and escorts of vessels carrying Select Certain Dangerous Cargos (SCDC) in bulk for the foreseeable future. I will continue working with Commandant Fagan and Coast Guard Command to secure a robust future for the Coast Guard in the Virgin Islands.\u201d\n\nAppointed by President Biden, Admiral Fagan is the first female Commandant of the Coast Guard. Her prior flag assignments include Commander, Pacific Area, and Commander, Coast Guard Defense Force West; Deputy Commandant for Operations, Policy, and Capability; Commander, First Coast Guard District; and a joint assignment as Deputy Director of Operations for Headquarters, United States Northern Command.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:30:02Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4255", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES $18 MILLION FOR V.I. PUBLIC BROADCASTING ON ST. THOMAS", "2023-03-07", "2023", "2023-03", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing $18 million in grant funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to the V.I. Public Broadcasting System in St. Thomas:\n\n\u201cI am very pleased to announce that FEMA has awarded a grant totaling $18,040,342.93 to the V.I. Public Broadcasting System in St. Thomas. This award is for permanent repairs to buildings and damaged infrastructure, including hazard mitigation measures, that will be integral for improving our preparedness and resiliency against natural disasters. I was pleased to secure provisions into U.S. law that allow FEMA, for the duration of the recovery from Hurricanes Irma and Maria in the Virgin Islands, to rebuild critical infrastructure like communications infrastructure to incorporate resilient design and features, up to the latest industry building standards and notwithstanding pre-disaster conditions in the Virgin Islands (the standard that normally applies). This project is eligible for this additional assistance. It was evaluated for prudent replacement and found to be eligible.\n\n\u201cI commend the Office of Disaster Recovery and the V.I. Public Broadcasting System for securing this funding and look forward to working with them to ensure the funds are fully utilized.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:30:02Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4253", "PLASKETT INTRODUCES BIPARTISAN BILL TO INCREASE DEVELOPMENT OF COASTLINES AND FISHERIES", "2023-02-28", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 This week, Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett shared the following statement on the introduction of the Don Young Restoration Grants for Coastlines and Fisheries Act of 2023 (H.R.1196):\n\n\u201cLast week, Congresswoman Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL) and I introduced the bipartisan Don Young Restoration Grants for Coastlines and Fisheries Act, which would authorize $10 billion over the next 10 fiscal years for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to implement projects that restore and protect coastline economies in the U.S., including projects that employ fishermen in the U.S. Projects to remove marine debris (including derelict vessels and abandoned, lost, and discarded fishing gear), bolster ecological infrastructure and marine fisheries, and increase U.S. coastal resiliency and adaptation to climate change are all important to protecting our coastline communities.\n\n\u201cIn the 117th Congress, I introduced the Shovel-Ready Restoration Grants for Coastlines and Fisheries Act with the late Congressman Don Young of Alaska, who was a key advocate of the provisions in this bill. Given his strong support, the bill in the 118th Congress is titled the Don Young Restoration Grants for Coastlines and Fisheries Act of 2023.\n\n\u201cDuring the last major recession, the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) provided $167 million through NOAA for coastal resilience projects that created jobs. At the time, however, NOAA received more than $3 billion in proposals for eligible projects. The ARRA grants were highly successful, making significant strides in coastal and marine restoration and stimulating coastline economies. The program created 17 new Americans jobs for every million dollars spent and generated $15 dollars in net economic benefits for every dollar invested.\n\n\u201cThe Don Young Restoration Grants for Coastlines and Fisheries Act mirrors and expands the 2009 program for NOAA to carry out shovel-ready projects that restore or improve coastal habitats, resiliency, and economies.\n\n\u201cWe must do more to protect our coastlines, improve fisheries, and restore our coral reefs,\u201d said Congresswoman Salazar. \u201cI am honored to join Congresswoman Plaskett in introducing the Don Young Restoration Grants for Coastlines and Fisheries Act, named after a true House titan who vigorously defended fisheries and coastlines.\u201d\n\n\u201cI am thankful for the support of Congresswoman Salazar, and additional lead co-sponsors, Congresswomen Mary Sattler Peltola (D-AK) and Jenniffer Gonz\u00e1lez-Col\u00f3n (R-PR). I urge my colleagues to join me this Congress to pursue supporting coastal resilience projects to remove marine debris, bolster ecological infrastructure and marine fisheries, and increase U.S. coastal resiliency. This program would provide important investments to our coastal communities and the resources needed to protect our shorelines.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4254", "PLASKETT ENCOURAGES CANEEL BAY AREA ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT COMMENT SUBMISSION", "2023-02-28", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett shared the following statement on the Caneel Bay Area Redevelopment and Management Environmental Assessment (EA) public comment period:\n\n\u201cThe Caneel Bay Area Redevelopment and Management Environmental Assessment (EA) public comment period is open until March 6th, 2023. While this was initially a 30-day public comment period, NPS received and honored a request for a two-week extension. I encourage individuals and organizations to visit the Planning, Environment & Public Comment (PEPC) website to submit comments or visit the Virgin Islands National Park Services\u2019 Caneel Corner, located at the Cruz Bay Visitor Center. The EA public comment period is an important process that provides an avenue for public involvement and engagement to ensure the voices of Virgin Islanders are heard as NPS analyzes the potential impacts of an alternative for redevelopment and an alternative for no redevelopment.\n\n\u201cThe path forward for Caneel Bay must weigh the socioeconomic as well as environmental impacts on the Virgin Islands. Caneel Bay contains some of the most pristine beaches in the world and to not utilize this property as a world-class, five-star resort that should provide well-paying careers for local Virgin Islanders will put the Virgin Islands at a tourism disadvantage with the Caribbean region. The continued closure of the Caneel Bay resort will be cataclysmic to the Virgin Islands economy. I encourage all Virgin Islanders to take note of the integral role the Caneel Bay resort plays in the Virgin Islands\u2019 ability to compete with our Caribbean neighbors.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4252", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES EXTENSION OF ST. JOHN LAND EXCHANGE PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD", "2023-02-21", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett shared the following statement on the extension of the St. John Land Exchange public comment period:\n\n\u201cThe National Park Service is extending the Public Comment Period on the Land Exchange Notice of Realty Action from today, February 21st, until March 15th. This is related to the land exchange between the Government of the Virgin Islands and the National Park Service for the construction of a K-12 school on St. John. This is the result of the advocacy of my office following a community meeting yesterday when we received notice of difficulties submitting comments. We appreciate the active engagement of the Virgin Islands community and particularly the residents of St. John, which has been invaluable to the process.\n\n\u201cWe look forward to welcoming their comments, suggestions, and concerns.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4250", "PLASKETT CO-LEADS BILL TO ADDRESS NARCOTICS TRAFFICKING IN THE CARIBBEAN", "2023-02-17", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett recently joined her colleague Rep. Jennifer Gonz\u00e1lez-Col\u00f3n (PR) to introduce The Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy Act, along with Senators Rick Scott and Alex Padilla who introduced the bill on the Senate side.\n\nThe Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy Act is designed to stop the illegal trafficking of deadly drugs in the Caribbean, specifically between Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Florida. This bill builds off prior appropriations report language requiring that a Caribbean Border Counternarcotic Strategy is published by the White House Office of National Drug Policy along with the National Drug Control Strategy, the Southwest Border Counternarcotics Strategy, and the Northern Border Counternarcotics Strategy.\n\nRepresentative Stacey Plaskett shared, \u201cWith a keen awareness that the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, along with the remainder of the Caribbean and South America are gateways for international drug trafficking, my team and I worked to combat this issue, including our work on a 2020 NDAA amendment (which was included in the final bill) that would require the Coast Guard to report to Congress on drug interdiction in the Caribbean basin. The Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy Act is the natural next step in our country\u2019s efforts to understand and effectively combat the ongoing threat of Caribbean drug trafficking. I am honored to join my fellow colleagues in leading this bill to bring both the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico fully into the vital work of drug interdiction in our region.\u201d\n\nSenator Rick Scott said, \u201cEvery day that passes with a wide open border, deadly drugs like fentanyl are pouring into our country and killing our fellow Americans. President Biden\u2019s border crisis extends far beyond the Southwest border triggering violence across all communities. To truly combat the threats it poses, we must attack it at every source. I am proud to join with colleagues, Senator Alex Padilla and Representative Jenniffer Gonz\u00e1lez-Col\u00f3n, to introduce the Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy Act, which is critical legislation to combat illegal narcotics operations, like the fentanyl trafficking, which are destroying lives in Florida, Puerto Rico and across the United States. American families, especially those who have lost loved ones to fentanyl and other deadly drugs deserve to know that the government is working on a plan to combat this crisis and hold traffickers accountable. I urge our colleagues in the House and Senate to do the same and support this commonsense bill.\u201d\n\nSenator Alex Padilla said, \u201cDrug overdoses have reached an all-time high in the United States, and it is incumbent on Congress to find solutions to address this epidemic. Drug trafficking puts countless lives at risk, contributing to drug abuse and overdoses. Our bill would require the Office of National Drug Control Policy to publish a strategy to combat illicit drug trafficking in the Caribbean, which would save thousands of lives.\u201d\n\nRepresentative Jenniffer Gonz\u00e1lez-Col\u00f3n said, \u201cDrug trafficking in the Caribbean represents a major security threat to the United States. Nowhere is this risk more apparent than in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, where the illicit activities of drug smugglers operating in the region fuel most of the violent crime we see in our streets and communities. That\u2019s why I\u2019ve long advocated for the federal government to prioritize and allocate the necessary resources to address this threat. To ensure we have a comprehensive strategy in place to stop the flow of illegal drugs coming into our nation through the Caribbean, and tackle drug-related violent crime in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, I\u2019m partnering with Senator Rick Scott to introduce the Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy Act. This bipartisan and bicameral legislation would codify into law the requirement for the Office of National Drug Control Policy to issue a Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy\u2014just as Congress has previously codified in statute the requirement for both a Northern Border and a Southwest Border Counternarcotics Strategy.\u201d\n\nThe Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy Act would:\n\nEnsure the Federal government has a strategy in place to prevent the flow of illicit drugs through the Caribbean region and into the United States by codifying in statute the requirement for ONDCP to issue a Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy\u2014just as Congress has codified the requirement for the Southwest Border and the Northern Border Counternarcotics Strategies.\n\nRequire the Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy to include measures to combat drug trafficking and drug-related violent crime in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as recommendations for additional assistance and authorities needed by Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies.\n\nAdd a definition for \u201cState\u201d and \u201cUnited States\u201d in ONDCP\u2019s authorization to clarify the inclusion of the U.S. territories.\n\nAmend the definition of \u201csupply reduction\u201d in ONDCP\u2019s authorization to ensure the National Drug Control Strategy and its supplemental border strategies include efforts to tackle the financial networks of drug trafficking organizations.\n\nRead the Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy Act HERE.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4251", "PLASKETT SHARES HER LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES TO IMPROVE ECONOMIC CONDITIONS IN THE VIRGIN ISLANDS", "2023-02-17", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 This week, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett reintroduced her legislative priorities to improve economic conditions in the territory for the 118th Congress:\n\n\u201cThe introduction of these new bills is part of our legislative strategy toward improving the economy of the U.S. Virgin Islands. These bills, along with others to come, will improve the Virgin Islands\u2019 economic development authorities under the Internal Revenue Code. Aside from improving economic development in the Virgin Islands by attracting more businesses and visitors, this legislative package addresses transportation and infrastructure needs, as well as the need for greater access to education and healthcare for Virgin Islands residents,\u201d Plaskett said.\n\n\u201cCreating a special visa waiver program for the Virgin Islands will open up more opportunities for us to host more participants in regional sporting activities like the \u2018Rolex Regatta,\u2019 and the St. Croix International Triathlon, as well as opportunities to open our medical facilities to patients in the Caribbean region. All of these bills, if passed, will protect jobs and the livelihood of our small business owners and increase the amount of revenue generated in the Virgin Islands,\u201d Plaskett added.\n\n\u201cFor the 118th Congress, I was appointed by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries as the Ranking Member of the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government and as a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. This is the first time a Member from a U.S. territory has been appointed to these posts. I look forward to leveraging my national profile to advocate for the equity of all Virgin Islanders. The U.S. territories and their residents are equally American.\n\nThe legislation reintroduced by Congresswoman Plaskett for the 118th Congress includes:\n\n\u201cFull Rum Cover Over - This bill repeals the limit on the amount of distilled spirits excise taxes rebated to the treasuries of the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.\n\n\u201cTerritorial Economic Recovery Act - This bill would restore favorable tax treatment of investment in U.S. territories, including the Virgin Islands. It would treat such investment as domestic rather than foreign investment and require investors to have an active trade or business in a U.S. territory with a certain percentage of income derived from such territory.\n\n\u201cTerritorial Tax Parity Act -This bill modifies the income source rules that apply with respect to the taxation of resident businesses in U.S. territories. This would make the Virgin Islands more attractive to businesses and investment and would create more jobs in the territory.\n\n\u201cTerritorial Tax Equity and Economic Growth Act -This bill modifies the residence and income source rules involving U.S. territories to provide for economic recovery in the territories.\n\n\u201cTerritorial Tax Parity and Fairness Act - This bill would amend the Internal Revenue Code to apply the exemption that currently exists for U.S. territory residents from the law\u2019s definition of a United States shareholder to include bona fide residents of the Virgin Islands, like the existing treatment for bona fide residents of Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories. This will bring tax parity to investments in the Virgin Islands.\n\n\u201cTerritorial Tax Parity and Clarification Act - The bill would specifically create parity between the way capital gains income in the Virgin Islands is treated and the way that it is treated in Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories.\n\n\u201cFuel Tax Cover Over Bill -This bill would amend the Internal Revenue Code to cover over (pay) to the Virgin Islands revenue from U.S. excise taxes on fuel produced in the Virgin Islands and transported to the United States mainland from the Virgin Islands, like the existing cover over program that exists for distilled spirits and other articles of manufacture.\n\n\u201cVirgin Islands Visa Waiver Act - This bill authorizes a nonimmigrant visitor visa waiver program for nationals of certain countries to enter the U.S. Virgin Islands for up to 45 days (as currently provided to other U.S. territories). Under this visitor tourism program, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) may provide a waiver admitting a nonimmigrant visitor from a DHS-approved country into the Virgin Islands for up to 45 days.\n\n\u201cInsular Areas College Access Act -This bill would establish a college access grant program for students in the small U.S. territories. The program would be administered by the Department of Education to cover the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition for students who attend a public institution of higher education elsewhere in the United States.\n\n\u201cResiliency Enhancement Act -This bill extends the special provision of disaster assistance enacted under the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018 for infrastructure providing critical services to also include solid waste management, stormwater management, public housing, transportation infrastructure, and medical care infrastructure. Such assistance would be extended to capture any major disaster declared in Puerto Rico or the Virgin Islands after Hurricane Irma or Hurricane Maria and before September 30, 2022.\n\n\u201cTerritories Health Equity Act - This bill provides equitable federal funding and treatment under Medicaid, Medicare, and other federal health programs for Americans living in U.S. territories.\n\n\u201cExtend Basic Allowance for Housing to servicemembers in the Virgin Islands -This bill authorizes the basic allowance for housing for members of the uniformed services in the Virgin Islands (instead of the overseas housing allowance).\n\n\u201cDictionary Act amendment to define Territories as a State in Federal programs -This bill creates a rule of construction in the U.S. Code to include U.S. territories in the definition of the term \u201cState\u201d for purposes of federal programs (except where special treatment has been explicitly provided).\n\n\u201cTrade Adjustment Assistance Parity -This bill extends the trade adjustment assistance for workers program to the U.S. territories of Guam, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands.\n\n\u201cI look forward to continue working with my Democratic colleagues to put people over politics, work to lower costs, create better paying jobs, and make our communities safer by working with whomever to support and advocate for everyday Americans.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4249", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL COMMITTEE RANKING MEMBER APPOINTMENT FOR 118TH CONGRESS", "2023-02-10", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett shared the following statement on her appointment as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on National Intelligence Enterprise for the 118th Congress:\n\n\u201cI am thankful for the opportunity to serve as the lead Democrat and Ranking Member on the House Intelligence Subcommittee on National Intelligence Enterprise and as a member of the Subcommittee on Defense Intelligence and Overhead Architecture.\n\n\u201cThe Intelligence Committee is charged with oversight of the Intelligence Community of the U.S. Government as well as the Military Intelligence Program. The committee serves a vital function for our nation as the eyes and ears of the Congress and in monitoring and overseeing the activities of the Intelligence Community to properly maintain our national security. The Subcommittee on National Intelligence Enterprise, on which I will serve as Democratic Ranking Member, has legislative and oversight responsibilities over programs and policies of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, and the intelligence components of non-military federal agencies including the Department of Justice, the Department of Energy, the Department of State, and the Department of Homeland Security.\n\nSelection of Members to serve on the Intelligence Committee is made by Leader Hakeem Jeffries and the Speaker of the House, Kevin McCarthy can disapprove. Members on the Intelligence Committee serve for 2 congressional terms and have the ability to serve 2 additional terms. Presently, there are 11 Democratic Members on the Intelligence Committee. Congresswoman Plaskett is the first Member of a territory to sit on the Committee and is also the only African-American woman on the Committee during this term of Congress.\n\n\u201cCongratulations to my democratic colleagues on their subcommittee assignments,\u201d said Ranking Member Jim Himes. \u201cWith an expansive array of backgrounds and experience, the members of this committee are thoughtful, diverse, and dedicated leaders with a deep commitment to the oversight of the National Intelligence Community. I look forward to working alongside this talented group over the next two years.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett also shared, \u201cI continue to be honored by Leader Jeffries\u2019 confidence in me. I look forward to working with him and my Democratic colleagues to put people over politics, work to lower costs, create better paying jobs, and make our communities safer by working with whomever to support and advocate for everyday Americans.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4247", "PLASKETT CONGRATULATES KWESI HOWARD ON HIS APPOINTMENT AS U.S. MARSHAL", "2023-02-09", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement congratulating Kwesi Howard for his swearing in as Acting U.S. Marshal of the Virgin Islands:\n\n\u201cI would like to commend and applaud Kwesi Howard for his long deserved and hard-earned appointment to Acting U.S. Marshal. For over 6 years Mr. Howard has dedicated himself to serving the people of the Virgin Islands as he has held the position of Judicial Security Inspector, Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal, and most recently as Chief Deputy U.S. Marshal. I am pleased that after my forwarding his name for appointment to U.S. Marshal, he has been recognized for his unwavering dedication and continued excellence. I have full faith that U.S. Marshal Howard will continue to execute his duties with honor and integrity.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4248", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES CONSIDERABLE INCREASE FOR CHILD NUTRITION FUNDING PROGRAMS FOR THE VIRGIN ISLANDS", "2023-02-09", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing significant child nutrition program funding increases for the Virgin Islands:\n\n\u201cI am very pleased with the announcement that USDA\u2019s Food and Nutrition Service will increase the rates of federal funding for all child nutrition programs in the Virgin Islands to 30% above existing reimbursement rates for the contiguous United States (from 17%). This announcement follows an FNS analysis of existing data on the cost of operating child nutrition programs. This increase in the federal reimbursement rate will support more nutritious meals for students in the Virgin Islands. The rate increases will take effect July 1, 2023, for school meals and the Child and Adult Care Food Program, and on January 1, 2024, for the Summer Food Service Program.\n\n\u201cOften the Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDOE) has had to struggle to meet the needs of our students, given local budgetary constraints. I will continue to implore the U.S. Department of Agriculture to work with the VIDOE to meet our children\u2019s nutrition needs. This increase is amazing news for families of school aged children of the Virgin Islands.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4244", "CONGRESSWOMAN STACEY PLASKETT RELEASES STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT BIDEN\u2019S STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS", "2023-02-08", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett, a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, released the following statement regarding President Biden\u2019s 2nd State of the Union Address:\n\n\u201cLast night, in his State of the Union Address, President Biden delivered a message of progress and the sound economic plan he has to grow the economy from the bottom up and middle out, helping those in the middle class and our most needy. He highlighted how his agenda is generating a manufacturing boom in clean energy, infrastructure, and other areas, as well as the need to finish what we as Democrats have begun.\n\n\u201cWhile we all recognize all the progress that has been made in the last 2 years, President Biden also understands that all Americans have not felt in their pocketbook and in their lives the progress that has been made. The Democrats are committed to supporting President Biden and his administration to bring the incredible laws passed on the ground to people and to work hard for all Americans, including Virgin islanders, on police reform, lowering the cost of drugs\u2014particularly insulin, improving healthcare, and bettering the quality of life in our nation and territories.\n\n\u201cI and my team will continue to work with President Biden and his administration to Build a Better Virgin Islands and America.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4246", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES $75 MILLION IN FUNDING TO REBUILD JANE TUITT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL", "2023-02-08", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing a $75 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to the V.I. Department of Education (VIDE) in St Thomas to rebuild the Jane Tuitt Elementary School:\n\n\u201cI am very pleased to announce that FEMA has awarded a grant totaling $75,565,781.07 in federal funding to the V.I. Department of Education (VIDE) - Jane Tuitt Elementary School replacement as a result of the damages done by Hurricane Maria. This funding is authorized under Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. I fought to make sure that for the first time FEMA would utilize the prudent replacement standard for Virgin Islands hurricane recovery projects, meaning that this school will be built back not as it was before the storm but in a resilient manner with current industry standards. The Prudent Replacement Standard (from the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018) includes a specific provision requiring FEMA to use \u201cprudence\u201d instead of its standard 50% Rule to approve replacement of badly damaged facilities in the BBA critical services sectors.\n\n\u201cDespite issuing a BBA Implementation Policy on September 11, 2020, which includes the following Prudent Replacement guidance, FEMA has only completed a Prudent Replacement Evaluation of 1 (one) facility \u2013 Arthur A. Richards Junior High School (AAJHS) \u2013 in the past 15-months and zero (0) in the last eight months since the approval of AAJHS in April of 2020. As of mid-December 2020, FEMA has a backlog of more than 60 additional Prudent Replacements under consideration, including schools, hospitals and homes for the aged.\n\n\u201cI am pleased that the appropriated funds will go toward the rebuilding of these institutions, especially our schools, but there is still more work to be done. We are proud of the work of the Office of Disaster Recovery and the V.I. Department of Education for obtaining the funding and look forward to working with them to ensure the funds are fully utilized.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4242", "CONGRESSWOMAN STACEY E. PLASKETT MEETS WITH GOVERNOR ALBERT BRYAN AND HIS TEAM IN WASHINGTON, D.C.", "2023-02-07", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement after meeting with Governor Albert Bryan and his team:\n\n\u201cI am pleased to have had meetings with Governor Bryan and his staff while he is here in Washington to attend the National Governors Association Winter meeting. We had several robust discussions on Virgin Islands issues including healthcare, our post-hurricane recovery process, taxes, and effective utilization of federal funding on the ground. I am always grateful when we as elected officials can work together to focus on the issues that are important to the Virgin Islands. I stand ready to work collaboratively with the Governor whenever possible to advance the interests of Virgin Islanders.\n\n\u201cI am dedicated to the continuation of our joint efforts to reimagine and rebuild the Virgin Islands so that its people may prosper.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4243", "PLASKETT ANNOUNCES $16 MILLION IN FUNDING FOR THE V.I. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION IN ST. THOMAS", "2023-02-07", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement announcing a $16 million grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to the V.I. Department of Education on St. Thomas:\n\n\u201cI am very pleased to announce that FEMA has awarded a grant totaling $16,257,001.41 to the V.I. Department of Education for the Evelyn Marcelli and Jarvis Annexes on St Thomas which were both Elementary Schools prior to being damaged by Hurricane Maria. These funds will go toward permanent repairs to the buildings at the above-stated locations and will be integral for developing our preparedness and resiliency against natural disasters. We are proud of the work of the Office of Disaster Recovery and the VI Department of Education for obtaining the funding and look forward to working with them to ensure the funds are fully utilized.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4241", "PLASKETT MEETS WITH ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY REGIONAL ADMINISTRATOR", "2023-02-06", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement after meeting with the Environmental Protection Agency Regional Administrator Lisa Garcia:\n\n\u201cLast week, I was happy to welcome to my Washington, D.C. Office, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 2 Administrator, Lisa Garcia, to discuss energy issues, funding to support water and wastewater systems, and the St. Croix refinery.\n\n\u201cRegional Administrator Garcia and I discussed the opportunities associated with the Biden-Harris Administration\u2019s commitment to clean energy. As a community, we need to think about the long-term future and prosperity of the Virgin Islands and utilize interagency cooperation at the federal level to reimagine the future of the South Shore of St. Croix. Utilizing those relationships and the mandate of the Biden Administration could establish the Virgin Islands as an example for the rest of the Caribbean to transition to clean energy.\n\n\u201cWe also discussed matters relating to local agencies and the implementation of funding provided to the territory through previous legislation. It is of the utmost importance that local agencies have the capacity to ensure federal appropriated funding is used expeditiously to improve the health, safety, and economic wellbeing of Virgin Islanders.\n\n\u201cI look forward to future engagement with the Environmental Protection Agency, particularly with the roll-out of programs in the Inflation Reduction Act and appreciate the partnership of Regional Administrator Garcia and her team.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4239", "PLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON GOP SUBPOENAS TO DOJ, FBI AND DOE", "2023-02-03", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nFebruary 3, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT ISSUES STATEMENT ON GOP SUBPOENAS TO DOJ, FBI AND DOE\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 House Select Committee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government Ranking Member, Stacey Plaskett (D-Virgin Islands) today issued the following statement in response to subpoenas issued to the Department of Justice, Department of Education, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation:\n\n\u201cWe are nearly a month into this new Congress and House Republicans have issued more partisan subpoenas than passed bills to create jobs, fight inflation or lower costs for American families. The conspiracy theories underpinning today\u2019s subpoenas have been debunked with facts time and time again, but Republicans do not want to be bothered by this inconvenient truth. There is no amount of documents that will satisfy the MAGA obsession with conspiracies.\n\n\u201cThe Department of Justice has been working with Chairman Jordan and his staff in good faith to be responsive where they can (unlike Republican members who ignore subpoenas). It seems clear however, that Mr. Jordan is not interested in working cooperatively and has instead resorted to publicity-seeking stunts. While I am disappointed that Republicans have resorted to this type of aggressive arm-twisting and performative politics, I am confident that what they have asked for will once again disprove this tired right-wing theory. I and the Democratic members of the Subcommittee are ready to work on evidence-based inquiries, not wild conspiracy theories.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4240", "PLASKETT HIGHLIGHTS FUNDING IN DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY HOME ENERGY REBATE PROGRAMS", "2023-02-03", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement on the Department of Energy Home Energy Rebate Programs:\n\n\u201cRecently, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) issued a Request for Information (RFI) for new Home Energy Rebate Programs. This program received nearly $9 billion through the Inflation Reduction Act and will help Americans cut energy bills, implement residential energy improvements, attract, and retain a workforce, reduce indoor and outdoor air pollution, and lower reliance on fossil fuels.\n\n\u201cHome Energy Rebate Program funds are not yet available as DOE is conducting stakehoder outreach, developing program guidance, and hosting listening sessions with key stakeholders. Individuals and organizations interested in submitting comments to the DOE may do so by clicking here.\n\n\u201cLater this year, DOE will make funds available to State Energy Offices, including the Virgin Islands Energy Office for the Home Energy Rebate Programs. This funding will be used to develop, implement, and subsidize residential energy efficiency and electrification projects in U.S. households. It will provide rebates to households, contractors, and others; dedicate a portion of funds for low- and moderate-income households; streamline rebate processing for households; and help households bundle funds and financing to reduce upfront costs.\n\n\u201cThese programs align with President Biden\u2019s Justice40 Initiative, ensuring that 40 percent of the overall benefits of clean energy investments make a difference in communities that are energy burdened and historically underserved. I am extremely pleased with the Biden-Harris Administration\u2019s commitment to transition from fossil fuels to clean energy. Through this plan majority-minority communities facing energy insecurity will highly benefit from this historic investment.\u201d\n\nFor more information, please visit the EECBG Program or the Home Energy Rebate Programs websites.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4237", "PLASKETT APPOINTED AS RANKING MEMBER TO HOUSE SELECT SUBCOMMITTEE ON WEAPONIZATION OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT", "2023-02-02", "2023", "2023-02", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nFebruary 2, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nPLASKETT APPOINTED AS RANKING MEMBER TO HOUSE SELECT SUBCOMMITTEE ON WEAPONIZATION OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT\n\nWashington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement on her appointment as Ranking Member on the Select Subcommittee on Weaponization of the Federal Government:\n\n\u201cI am thankful for this opportunity to serve our country and protect the integrity and soundness of our democracy as the Ranking Member of the Select Subcommittee on Weaponization of the Federal Government. The Republican's attempt to derail the federal government\u2019s obligation to investigate and conduct due process on actions, organizations and individuals that threaten our republic and create an anti-democratic environment will be met with strong resistance by myself and my Democratic colleagues on the subcommittee. I am committed to doing the difficult, but necessary work of the committee with the collaboration of a stellar group of Democratic Members. We are grateful for the ex-officio support and guidance of Representative Jerry Nadler (NY-12) who has steered the ship so well on the Judiciary Committee.\n\n\u201cAdditionally, I am pleased to share that I have been selected to sit on the House Intelligence Committee, which is a tremendous responsibility. The Intelligence Committee is charged with oversight of the United States Intelligence Community of the US Government as well as the Military Intelligence Program. I am honored to be a member of the Democratic Caucus which recognizes that ability and positive outcomes come through the American strength of our diversity.\n\n\u201cMy appointment as the Ranking Member of the Select Subcommittee on Weaponization as well as my assignment to the House Intelligence Committee represent the first time a Member from a U.S. territory will occupy these posts.\n\n\u201cI would like to express my sincere gratitude to Leader Hakeem Jeffries for his confidence in me. As he has so eloquently stated, his appointments to the select committee, \u2018reflect the tremendous experience, background and ability of the House Democratic Caucus, and authentically represent the gorgeous mosaic of the American people.\u2019\n\n\u201cIt is an honor to hold such a strategic position and I am eager to start the integral work of the Committees to which I have been assigned for the 118th Congress.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:18:08Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4235", "PLASKETT BRINGS CLARITY ON POST OFFICE BOX RATE INCREASE FOR VETERANS ANNEX STATION ON ST. THOMAS", "2023-01-30", "2023", "2023-01", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement on the recent increase in post office box fees at the Veterans Annex Post Office on St. Thomas, USVI:\n\n\u201cMany constituents have contacted my office concerned with astronomical increases to the local post office box fees advertised at the Veterans Annex post office in St. Thomas. My district team worked swiftly to address the issue with the USPS regional office in Puerto Rico and with our local postmasters. Local USPS management has advised us that revised rate sheets are displayed in the Veterans Drive post office station and that individuals who were awaiting clarity on the rate increase will not incur late fees.\u201d\n\nClick here for an accurate list of current post office box rates. Please contact your local post office for more specific information on which rates apply to your station.\n\nFor assistance with contacting the post offices on St. Croix, click here. For contact information on St. Thomas click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:08:17Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4234", "PLASKETT HIGHLIGHTS THE RESPONSIBILITIES AND REQUIREMENTS FOR NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA ACT IN ST CROIX", "2023-01-27", "2023", "2023-01", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett released the following statement on her outreach to the Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources on the Requirements and Responsibilities for the National Heritage Area Act in St Croix: as the Virgin Islands State Historic Preservation office becomes the local coordinating entity.\n\n\u201cThe National Heritage Area Act, which President Biden signed into law this month, includes the designation of St. Croix as a National Heritage Area (NHA). Included in that designation are the responsibilities and requirements of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources as well as the Virgin Islands State Historic Preservation Office (VISHPO) as the local coordinating entity (LCE).\n\n\u201cThe St Croix\u2019s NHA designation is the culmination of nearly 20 years of advocacy and efforts coming to fruition and as such, DPNR and VISHPO must act in a timely, intentional, and transparent manner for St. Croix to reap the benefits of the designation. It holds the potential for both long and short-term benefits. NHAs average $5.50 for every $1 of federal investment and as we reimagine the future of St. Croix, DPNR can leverage federal funds to create jobs, generate revenue for the Government of the Virgin Islands, and sustain our community through revitalization and heritage tourism.\n\n\u201cIn order to ensure a seamless transition on the roll out of NHA projects, the local coordinating entity, the Virgin Islands State Historic Preservation Office, must submit to the Secretary of the Interior a proposed management plan no later than 3 years of the enactment of the Act (January 5, 2023) for approval. The National Park Service (NPS) will aid with the development of the management plan to ensure compliance with all Federal requirements. NHA management plans include long-range policies, goals, strategies, and actions; an implementation plan with short, mid, and long-range actions and performance goals; a business plan for the heritage area coordinating entity; and an interpretive plan.\n\n\u201cWe have strongly suggested that DPNR engage local organizations and thought leaders in the development of the management plan and execution of the goals and actions of that plan. I look forward to the completion of NHA projects as they have the potential to improve St. Croix\u2019s air and water quality through restoration projects, which is a tremendous boon for our beautiful, culturally rich home and an honor to our ancestors.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:08:17Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4233", "CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT SHARES RESPONSE TO GOVERNOR BRYAN\u2019S 5TH STATE OF THE TERRITORY ADDRESS", "2023-01-25", "2023", "2023-01", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (USVI), released the following statement regarding Governor Albert Bryan Jr.\u2019s 5th State of the Territory address:\n\n\u201cEarlier this week Governor Bryan gave his 5th State of the Territory address and detailed numerous projects, proposals, and clear objectives on how he intends to expand growth and prosperity for the territory. I and my team are prepared to continue working with his office to partner with shared goals that will support a brighter present and future for all Virgin Islanders.\n\n\u201cI am proud that my team and I have been able to work to advance the interests of the Virgin Islands in Congress and it is gratifying when those interests align with Governor Bryan\u2019s initiatives for our territory. We will continuously lead the way in championing the interests of the Virgin Islands through bipartisan support during the 118th Congress to provide federal legislation and funding that have been foundational for so many advances in the past few years. From the permanent increase in Medicaid funding, to the hundreds of millions of dollars secured through the American Rescue Plan Act for education, childcare, and the reimbursement of the Earned Income Tax Credit, to the historic acquisition of National Heritage Area status for St. Croix, the legislative wins we secure are a direct representation of my advocacy to ensure Virgin Islanders remain at the forefront of economic parity and equity and equal representation.\n\n\u201cIt has been a privilege to collaborate with the governor, his office, and the people of the Virgin Islands. I am dedicated to the continuation of our joint efforts to reimagine and rebuild the Virgin Islands so that its people may prosper.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:08:17Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4232", "CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT SWORN-IN TO U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES", "2023-01-07", "2023", "2023-01", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland\n\nJanuary 7, 2023 340-201-6453\n\nPress Release\n\nCONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT SWORN-IN TO U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES\n\nCommits to Putting People Over Politics, Delivering for All U.S. Virgin Islanders\n\n\u201cI am honored to represent the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands in the 118th Congress for a 5th term. My Democratic colleagues and I in Congress look forward to putting people over politics, working to lower costs, create better paying jobs, and make our communities safer,\u201d stated Congresswoman Plaskett.\n\nIn a dramatic 15th vote earlier today, after an intense four days and 14 failed ballots\u2014the longest the chamber has gone leaderless in a century\u2014Rep. Kevin McCarthy clinched the election to become the 55th person to serve as Speaker of the House. After making numerous concessions to win support from far-right Republicans, four GOP members instead joined their party by voting \u201cpresent\u201d. Voting present helped him secure the gavel by reducing the number of votes he needed to get to a majority. He won with 216 out of 428 possible votes.\n\nCongresswoman Plaskett also shared, \u201cAs always, I am willing to work with whomever will support my constituent\u2019s interest and like in the past, I will work with both parties to craft legislation, advocate for everyday Americans, and create opportunities.\n\n\u201cI would also like to congratulate the Governor and Lieutenant Governor once again on their inauguration to another term and the members of the 35th legislature of the Virgin Islands. I look forward to a productive and congenial next 2 years.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:08:17Z"], ["https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4231", "PLASKETT LAUDS PRESIDENT BIDEN'S SIGNATURE OF THE NATIONAL HERITAGE AREA ACT INTO LAW", "2023-01-06", "2023", "2023-01", "Democrat", "House", "VI", "Stacey E. Plaskett", "P000610", "plaskett.house.gov", "plaskett", "https://plaskett.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congresswoman Plaskett, a Member of the House Ways and Means, Budget and Agriculture Committees, released the following statement on President Biden\u2019s signature of the National Heritage Area Act into law:\n\n\u201cIn the 117th Congress, I introduced legislation to designate St. Croix as a National Heritage Area. My legislation previously passed the House as part of broader public lands legislation. My office was able to gain the support and engagement of Senator Angus King, who introduced S. 4222, the Senate companion bill of my legislation, H.R.1424, and held a hearing on September 21, 2022 on this impactful legislation. S. 4222 was eventually passed by both Houses of Congress in December.\n\n\u201cI am tremendously pleased to announce that President Biden signed S.1942, the National Heritage Area Act , which includes the designation of St. Croix as a National Heritage Area, into law on January 5th, 2023. The effort to achieve this designation started with former Congresswoman Donna M. Christensen in 2003 with a bill to authorize a feasibility study for the NHA designation on St. Croix.\n\n\u201cThe Virgin Islands State Historic Preservation Office is the local coordinating entity and will oversee and develop programs and projects that recognize, protect, and enhance important resource values in the Heritage Area. The National Heritage Area designation provides funding to develop recreational and educational opportunities to inform and engage our youth on the heritage of St. Croix.\n\n\u201cBefore signing this legislation there were only 21 areas in the United States designated as National Heritage Areas. This is a tremendous boon for our beautiful, culturally rich home and an honor to our ancestors.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-07T23:08:17Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 82, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"state\" = :p0 and \"year\" = :p1 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "VI", "p1": "2023"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=VI&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 82, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=VI&year=2023&party=Democrat", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=VI&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 82, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=VI&year=2023&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=VI&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "VI", "label": "VI", "count": 82, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?year=2023", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?state=VI&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "2023", "label": "2023", "count": 82, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=VI", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": null, "next_url": null, "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 43.74866699799895, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}