Bryan cabinet reviewed FY 2020 budget and government finances at May 29 meeting

Members of Gov. Albert Bryan Jr.'s Cabinet met at Government House on St. Croix on May 29, 2019, to review the administration's fiscal year 2020 budget and policy priorities.

At the meeting, Bryan said stabilizing government finances was a priority and pointed to a proposal to use a $39 million Medicaid reimbursement to pay outstanding debts at the territory's two hospitals, including more than $20 million owed to the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority.

Office of Management and Budget Director designee Jenifer O'Neal presented the FY 2020 executive budget ahead of the May 30, 2019, deadline for submission to the Legislature.

According to Government House, the budget included increased funding for the Virgin Islands Fire Service tied to the transfer of Emergency Medical Service personnel from the Department of Health, $22 million each for Schneider Regional Medical Center and Gov. Juan F. Luis Hospital, and an increase for the Department of Sports, Parks, and Recreation for youth programs.

Bryan also said the administration was setting aside $75 million in the budget to pay income tax refunds.

Territorial ADA Coordinator Julien Henley briefed Cabinet members on Americans with Disabilities Act compliance and staff training. Office of Collective Bargaining designee Joss Springette discussed labor relations, and Office of Disaster Recovery Director Adrienne Williams-Octalien gave an update on recovery and rebuilding work.

Official source: https://www.vi.gov/fy-2020-budget-government-stability-the-focus-of-bryan-roach-administrations-second-cabinet-meeting/