Amended Public Assistance Act takes effect

The government has announced that it has officially brought the Public Assistance (Amendment) Act, 2024, into force, creating a stronger system to support vulnerable people.

The law took effect on September 1 following its publication in the Virgin Islands Gazette.

The act introduces reforms to improve efficiency, fairness and accessibility in the public assistance programme. Health Minister Vincent Wheatley said the changes reflect the government’s push to modernise social protection.

“This Act represents a significant step toward ensuring that assistance reaches those who need it most in a timely and transparent manner. It modernises our approach to social protection, making sure the system is more responsive to today’s realities and more accountable to the people we serve,” Wheatley stated.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Social Development Tasha Bertie explained that the reforms also focus on the client experience.

“With these amendments, we are moving toward a more streamlined, people-centred system,” Bertie said. “Applicants will benefit from clearer processes, stronger safeguards, and greater support as they navigate the programme. Our aim is to build a safety net that is both compassionate and effective.”

The ministry will publish further details on eligibility thresholds, categories of support and the appeals process to guide applicants. The reforms follow years of scrutiny of public assistance in the territory, including concerns raised during the Commission of Inquiry about how support was managed and distributed.

Earlier this year, the government also increased the value of grants under the programme. Single-person grants rose from $200 to $320, while support for families of five moved from $375 to $1,000. Assistance for seniors and people with disabilities was also raised. Officials said the increases aimed to better reflect the cost of living.

The new law expands the types of assistance offered. It introduces basic income grants for seniors, people with disabilities and caregivers, as well as hardship allowances for emergencies such as medical care or domestic abuse.

Shock response grants will provide relief during disasters. Non-financial support such as counselling, vocational training, job placement and temporary housing is also included.

The ministry said it remains committed to strengthening the social safety net and will keep the public updated as the reforms are rolled out.