Bryan Seeks Exemption on Mail Packages; Declares Permits Valid for STJ Marina Project; Signals USS Iwo Jima Departure

M.A. Dworkin

USVI - Governor Albert Bryan Jr. led a Territorial coalition to meet with senior leaders at the U.S. Department of the Interior last week to address Executive Order 14324, which suspends duty-free treatment for shipments valued at $800 or less. In the meeting, Gov. Bryan requested an exemption for shipments to and from the U.S. Territories and set in motion a coordinated Territorial response. 

The Governor will follow with a formal letter to the Secretary of the Interior and the President of the United States seeking an exemption for the U.S. Virgin Islands and the other insular Territories. He has organized a coalition of Territorial Governors to co-sign the request, so the case is made with one voice and a clear remedy. 

“Families, students, seniors, and small businesses in the Virgin Islands rely on small packages the way most communities rely on a corner store,” the Gov. said. “They carry essentials, tools, and hope in a box. A targeted exemption recognizes that the same rule can weigh differently on an island. We can meet national enforcement goals without making everyday life harder for people who already pay more for distance.”

The Governor emphasized that questions have been raised about whether the Virgin Islands belongs inside or outside the U.S. Customs zone. He made clear that this is not a matter within his authority as Governor of the Virgin Islands. The customs status of the Virgin Islands is determined by Congress through federal law and administered by federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the Department of Homeland Security, and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The governing framework was established in the Tariff Act of 1930 and related statues, and only Congress has the power to change it. 

Gov. Bryan noted that a distinct customs framework lets the Territory calibrate costs for residents, support local small businesses that depend on parts and supplies, and coordinate enforcement closely with federal partners. “This is a practical fix with human stakes,” he said. “It keeps the shelves stocked, the classrooms supplied and the wheels of our local economy turning.”

The Governor will transmit the formal request this week and continue direct engagement with the Department of the Interior, and Congressional partners. He is leading the Territorial coalition, so the proposal reflects the realities of island life and delivers relief without undercutting national policy.

Permit Valid for Summer’s End Marina 

Gov. Bryan announced that, according to a legal opinion issued by V.I. Attorney General Gordon C. Rhea, on October 2, 2025, the permit for the $130 million 

Summer’s End Marina Project in Coral Bay, St. John, remains valid under Virgin Islands law.   

The Attorney General concluded that the 12-month commencement deadline in 12 V.I.C. 910(d)(7) does not begin until all required federal approvals are received. Under the opinion, a coastal zone permit that is contingent on federal approvals pursuant to 12 V.I.C. 819(g) and 911(e) is not considered an approved permit for purposes of the statutory deadline until agencies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issues the necessary approvals. As a result, the Summer’s End permit has not lapsed or expired and remains in effect while federal review is pending. 

Governor Bryan said the opinion resolves questions that have caused public debate and ensures government agencies act in line with the law. 

“The Attorney General’s opinion is the controlling legal interpretation, and it provides clarity for the public and for our federal partners,” the Gov. stated. 

He emphasized that his role is not to take sides on individual developments but to ensure the integrity of the permitting process.

“Our duty is to uphold the law and administer it consistently. This opinion makes the statute clear and provides the guidance that executive agencies will follow,” he concluded. 

The Governor also noted that the opinion does not authorize construction, does not grant federal approvals, and does not judge the merits of the project. It only establishes when the statutory 12 month clock begins to run. 

“With this clarification, residents, developers, and federal partners can have confidence that coastal zone permitting in the Virgin Islands is being administered according to the law, not politics,” Gov. Bryan said.

Bryan Statement on USS Iwo Jima

Gov. Bryan extended his appreciation to the people of the Virgin Islands, government agencies, and private sector partners for their warm hospitality and support during the visit of the USS Iwo Jima and its crew who were docked at the Austin “Babe” Monsanto Marine Terminal in Crown Bay, St. Thomas, for Rest & Relaxation (R&R) over the past few days.  

The USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) landing helicopter dock is a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship of the United States Navy. The ship was named for the Battle of Iwo Jima of World War II. It was commissioned in 2001, and currently based at the world’s largest naval station, Naval Station Norfolk, on the Virginia coast.    

The ship is carrying thousands of personnel and a number of fighter jets and helicopters. It is currently operating in the Caribbean as part of the Trump Administration’s effort to wipe out the Venezuelan drug cartels. 

“As the USS Iwo Jima departs our shores today, I want to express my sincere gratitude to all who helped make their stay in the Virgin Islands safe, enjoyable and memorable,” Governor Bryan said. “From our local businesses and hospitality workers to the various government agencies that provided coordination and support, and most importantly, to the people of the Virgin Islands who welcomed these service members with open arms - you have once again shown the best of our island spirit.”

The Governor added, “We are honored to have hosted the brave men and women of the United States Navy and Marine Corps, whose service and sacrifice protect the freedoms we cherish. We wish them safe travels as they continue their mission.”