Bryan Signs 2026 Budget; $35K Salary Increase Intact

M.A. Dworkin

USVI - Governor Albert Bryan Jr. signed the FY 2026 budget that will keep core services funded, renew group health coverage for public employees and retirees which  prevents any gap in health care, along with ratifying a coastal zone permit to support responsible marine commerce. The Governor also signed into law a bill that clears the way for a raise in government employee salaries from $27,040 to $35,000 annually.

Bill No. 36-0053, which allows for the salary increases, was sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Senator Kurt Vialet, and was enacted over the Governor’s veto, a contentious issue which had gone through  months of heated debate between members of the 36th Legislature and the Governor. But with the Governor’s signing of the bill, the main question - which highlighted the debate - of how to fund the increases, will now shift to the practical task of how quickly the raises can be implemented. The raises are mandated to take effect October 1, 2025.

“Our employees cannot afford unnecessary delays,” stated Sen. Vialet. “The Legislature acted to bring relief through this salary adjustment, and it is now the responsibility of agencies to ensure that the data is provided to Personnel so the increases are reflected for the fiscal year.” 

What the FY 2026 Budget means for residents:

• Government services are funded through FY 2026. From Oct. 1, 2025 to Sept. 30, 2026. The budget supports teachers, nurses, first responders, sanitation and road work, licensing and consumer protection, elections administration, and daily Territorial operations.

• Health coverage continues without interruption. Renewals with Cigna and amendments with United Healthcare keep medical, dental and voluntary benefits in place while the Administration pursues longer term cost controls.

• Schools receive targeted support. Funding is in place for special education eligibility evaluations and for school repairs and maintenance through the School Construction, Maintenance and Capital Fund. 

• Roads, transportation and waste management remain on track. The Department of Public Works, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and the Waste Management Authority receive operating support, along with capital improvement funds for St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John. 

“Budgets are promises, not wish lists,” Governor Bryan said. “I signed what keeps classrooms open, clinics running, and communities safe. I vetoed what weakened checks and balances or risks to the General Fund. That is smart, responsible stewardship.”