Government House briefing announces Text-to-911 launch, tax refunds and Carnival safety measures

Government House said at an April 22, 2025, press briefing that the U.S. Virgin Islands had launched Text-to-911 service, was preparing to distribute more than 3,119 income-tax refunds, and was issuing public-safety guidance ahead of Carnival events.

VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen said Text-to-911 was available territorywide through Viya, Liberty and T-Mobile. He said the service was intended for emergencies when a voice call was not safe or possible.

Jaschen also said businesses classified as essential should submit curfew-pass applications before the June 1, 2025, deadline ahead of hurricane season. Once a storm is named and the U.S. Virgin Islands is in its projected path, curfew passes would no longer be issued, he said.

Communications Director Richard Motta Jr. said more than 3,119 income-tax refunds would be distributed during the week of April 22, 2025, to residents who filed returns by July 28, 2023.

VIPD Deputy Chief Rael Donastorg urged the public to follow parking restrictions and traffic patterns during Carnival, monitor unaccompanied minors, and avoid bringing glass bottles into the Carnival Village. He said drone patrols would assist officers with crowd monitoring and public safety.

At the start of the briefing, Motta offered condolences on the death of Pope Francis on behalf of Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. The briefing also recognized St. Croix athlete Michelle Smith for winning gold in the 400-meter hurdles at the CARIFTA Games in Trinidad and Tobago.

Official source: https://www.vi.gov/government-house-weekly-briefing-highlights-key-updates-honors-pope-francis-and-celebrates-local-athletes-gold-medal-victory/